FLAC to WAV: nothing lost, nothing gained
A rare conversion with no downside
Most conversions cost you something. FLAC to WAV does not, because FLAC is lossless. The WAV contains the same samples the FLAC does, so the result sounds identical and can be re-compressed to FLAC later with the same outcome.
When it is useful
Some software refuses FLAC. That includes older video editors, certain DAW plug-ins, hardware samplers and some CD-burning workflows. WAV works with practically all of them.
Space and tags
The WAV is about double the size of the FLAC and does not store tags and artwork well. Treat it as a working copy and keep your FLAC library as the main version.
Sample rate and bit depth
The WAV keeps your track’s sample rate. If you plan to burn an audio CD, programs convert to 44.1 kHz, 16-bit for you, which does reduce high-resolution tracks.
Editing tip
Edit the WAV, then convert your finished version back to FLAC for storage.
Editing a FLAC? Work on the WAV, then convert the finished version back to FLAC.