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BWF File - What is a .bwf file and how do I open it?
Learn about .BWF files and view a list of programs that open them.
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Overview
What is a BWF file? A BWF file is an audio file saved in the Broadcast Wave Format (BWF), which is an extension of the standard WAVE audio format and designed for professional audio production and broadcasting. It stores audio data similarly to a .WAV file but includes metadata in its header, such as timestamps, description tags, and other technical details. By storing this extra information, the format helps with synchronization, editing, and cataloging, making BWF files useful in radio, television, and film production.
More Information The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) developed the BWF format in 1997 to improve standard WAV files by adding metadata for better organization and time synchronization. This feature made BWF a standard among sound engineers, editors, and archivists who required precise synchronization, detailed metadata, and seamless integration within professional workflows.
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.BWF File Extension
Broadcast Wave File
| Developer | EBU |
| Popularity |
3.0 | 1 Vote |
What is a BWF file?
A BWF file is an audio file saved in the Broadcast Wave Format (BWF), which is an extension of the standard WAVE audio format and designed for professional audio production and broadcasting. It stores audio data similarly to a .WAV file but includes metadata in its header, such as timestamps, description tags, and other technical details. By storing this extra information, the format helps with synchronization, editing, and cataloging, making BWF files useful in radio, television, and film production.
More Information
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) developed the BWF format in 1997 to improve standard WAV files by adding metadata for better organization and time synchronization. This feature made BWF a standard among sound engineers, editors, and archivists who required precise synchronization, detailed metadata, and seamless integration within professional workflows.
How to open a BWF file
You can open BWF files with various digital audio workstations ( DAWs ) and professional recording systems, including Adobe Audition and Cakewalk SONAR . To open a BWF file with Audition, select File → Open .
How to convert a BWF file
Several applications, including Adobe Audition and Cakewalk SONAR, can convert BWF files to other file types.
For example, Audition can convert BWF files to various formats, including the following:
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Programs that open BWF files
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Windows
Adobe Audition 2023
Free Trial
Cakewalk SONAR X3
Free Trial
Avid Pro Tools
Free Trial
Mac
Adobe Audition 2023
Free Trial
Apple Logic Pro
Paid
Apple Final Cut Pro
Paid
Avid Pro Tools
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Category: Audio Files
Updated: March 6, 2025