How to Convert FLAC to AAC
Converting FLAC to AAC transforms lossless audio into a space-efficient lossy format. Upload your FLAC file and select your desired bitrate. The converter decodes to PCM, then encodes using AAC. File size reduces dramatically - a 30 MB FLAC becomes 3-5 MB at 256 kbps.
Metadata including artist, album, and artwork is preserved. Modern AAC encoders optimize quality through variable bitrate encoding. At 256 kbps, AAC produces transparent quality for most listeners. Converted files work great on smartphones and tablets.
Why Convert FLAC to AAC
The primary motivation is storage optimization for mobile devices. A 128 GB device holds about 20,000 AAC songs versus 2,000 FLAC files. AAC's 85-90% size reduction makes extensive music libraries portable. No large storage investments or streaming subscriptions needed.
AAC enables seamless integration with Apple's ecosystem. Converting to AAC (M4A) ensures iTunes and Apple Music compatibility. Apple devices don't natively support FLAC playback. AAC works across streaming platforms, car systems, and smart speakers.
Audio Quality Considerations
FLAC to AAC moves from lossless to lossy compression. Some audio information is permanently discarded. At 256 kbps, this loss is imperceptible to most listeners. Only audiophiles with reference equipment may detect subtle differences.
For optimal results, use AAC bitrates of 192 kbps or higher. Lower bitrates work for podcasts but sacrifice musical detail. Variable bitrate encoding provides better quality-to-size ratios. Starting from FLAC quality results in superior output versus lossy sources.
Common Use Cases
- iPhone and iPad music libraries: Converting FLAC collections to AAC for playback on Apple devices that lack native FLAC support
- Mobile storage optimization: Reducing file sizes by 85-90% to fit large music libraries on smartphones and tablets with limited storage capacity
- iTunes library integration: Preparing FLAC files for import into iTunes or Apple Music with proper metadata and artwork preservation
- Streaming service preparation: Converting high-quality FLAC masters to AAC for upload to music distribution platforms that require lossy formats
- Automotive audio systems: Creating AAC versions of FLAC archives for USB playback in car stereos with limited codec support
Format Comparison: FLAC vs AAC
FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec) preserves 100% of original audio quality. It reduces file sizes by 40-60% versus WAV. FLAC supports high-resolution audio up to 32-bit/192 kHz. It's ideal for archival but lacks native Apple support.
AAC (Advanced Audio Coding) achieves 85-90% file size reduction versus FLAC. Files at 256 kbps are 10x smaller than equivalent FLAC. AAC delivers transparent quality at high bitrates. It's universally supported on iOS, Android, and streaming platforms.