Sample 32-bit float and 24-bit fixed WAV files

These samples were recorded on a MixPre-3 II to demonstrate the advantage of using 32-bit float WAV files for recording. We split a signal from a MKH40 mic into two MixPre-3 IIs, one recording 24-bit fixed WAVs, and the other 32-bit float WAVs. We then applied too much gain to loud dialogue. Low-cut was set to 80 Hz, and no limiters were active. Both the original 32-bit float and 24-bit fixed file are heavily distorted and unusable.

These files were imported into iZotope RX7, and -30 dB of gain was applied to each file. As you can see and hear, the 32-bit float files scale back perfectly, and the 24-bit files do not.

Included in the download:

32_bit_float.wav: Original file recorded on MixPre-3 II with too much gain.

32_bit_float_30_dB_atten.wav: 32_bit_float.wav file with -30 dB of gain applied by iZotope, and then re-saved. Notice that this file sounds great and is usable.

24_bit_fixed.wav: Original file recorded on MixPre-3 II with too much gain.

24_bit_fixed_30_dB_atten.wav: 24_bit_fixed.wav file with -30 dB of gain applied by iZotope, and then re-saved. Notice that this file is still distorted and unusable.

Products Mentioned

MixPre-10 II

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MixPre-3 II

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MixPre-6 II

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