What happens when you convert MKV to WAV
| Result | Only the soundtrack, encoded as WAV (lossless) |
|---|---|
| File size | About 10.6 MB per minute of audio |
| Speed | Fast: the video track is skipped, so only audio is processed |
| Opens in | every computer and audio editor; too large for most messaging apps |
Sizes are typical values; your files will vary with content and settings.
MKV Matroska Video
MKV is an open container that can hold almost any codec plus multiple audio tracks and subtitles. It is popular for archived films and series.
MKV converterWAV Waveform Audio File
WAV stores uncompressed PCM audio. It is the working format for audio editing and the format many DAWs, transcription services and phone systems require.
WAV converterHow to use the MKV to WAV Converter
- 1
Choose a MKV file or drop it onto the page.
- 2
Review the audio options. The defaults suit most files.
- 3
Click Convert and download your WAV when processing finishes.
Why convert MKV to WAV?
MKV is common for films, TV episodes and OBS recordings, because one file can hold several audio and subtitle tracks. iPhones, browsers and most social networks will not play MKV files. Choose WAV to edit the audio or upload it to a service that requires uncompressed audio.
Audio extraction options
Only the audio track of the MKV is processed, so this is much faster than a video conversion. Choose the bitrate or quality, optionally trim to a start and end time, and download the WAV.
Frequently asked questions
Will the WAV lose quality?
WAV is lossless, so the conversion keeps every pixel or sample that is in your MKV file. It cannot bring back detail that MKV compression already removed, and the WAV file will usually be larger.
How big will the WAV file be?
About 10.6 MB per minute of audio, because WAV is lossless, so a 10-minute MKV gives roughly 106 MB. The size of the video track does not matter, because only the sound is kept.
Questions about privacy, file-size limits or conversion speed are answered in the general FAQ.