Free online BWF to CAF converter
Convert BWF broadcast audio to Apple CAF format with desktop tools or 101convert.com.
Convert BWF to CAF online - free
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How to convert bwf to caf file
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Source format: BWF
BWF stands for Broadcast Wave Format, a professional audio file format based on the standard WAV container. It is widely used in broadcasting, film, television, and audio post-production because it can store high-quality uncompressed audio together with extra metadata such as timecode, originator information, and production notes. BWF files are commonly created by field recorders, studio equipment, and editing systems that need reliable interchange between platforms.
Target format: CAF
CAF means Core Audio Format, an Apple audio container designed for macOS and iOS workflows. It supports very large files, long recordings, and a wide range of audio encodings, including uncompressed PCM and compressed formats. CAF is useful in Apple-based production environments, especially when working with long-form audio, multichannel material, or projects that need a flexible container beyond the limits of older formats.
How to perform the conversion
The most reliable way to convert BWF to CAF is with a desktop audio tool that can read BWF/WAV and export CAF. A good option is FFmpeg, which is free, widely available, and preserves audio quality when you choose an uncompressed output.
- Install FFmpeg on your computer.
- Open a terminal or command prompt.
- Run a command such as
ffmpeg -i input.bwf -c:a pcm_s16le output.caffor 16-bit PCM audio, or usepcm_s24lefor 24-bit audio if needed. - Check the resulting
output.caffile in your audio player or editor.
If you prefer a graphical workflow, use an audio editor or converter that supports both formats. In many editors, the process is similar: open the BWF file, then choose File → Save As or File → Export, select CAF as the output format, and save the file. You can also convert the file on 101convert.com for free, without installing any software.
Notes on quality, compatibility, or limitations
BWF to CAF conversion is usually straightforward because both formats can store high-quality audio. If the source BWF is uncompressed PCM, the conversion can be lossless when exported to CAF with the same sample rate, bit depth, and channel count. However, some BWF metadata such as broadcast-specific fields, timecode, or production notes may not transfer perfectly depending on the software used. Also, CAF is best supported in Apple software; if you need broad compatibility with non-Apple systems, WAV may remain the safer interchange format.
Note: This bwf to caf conversion record is incomplete, must be verified, and may contain inaccuracies. Please vote below whether you found this information helpful or not.
BWF vs CAF: format comparison
How the BWF and CAF formats compare on the properties that matter most for this conversion.
| Property | .BWF Broadcast Wave Format | .CAF Core Audio Format |
|---|---|---|
| Compression | Uncompressed | Both |
| Audio quality | Lossless | High |
| Audio channels | — | Multichannel |
| Metadata support | Extensive | Extensive |
| Streaming | No | Partial |
| DRM protection | No DRM | — |
| Opens in a web browser | No | No |
| Typical file size | Large | Medium |
| Open standard | Yes | Partly open |
| Best used for | Professional production | Professional production |
| Introduced | 1997 | 2005 |
| Developer | European Broadcasting Union (EBU) | Apple Inc. |
| MIME type | audio/vnd.wave | audio/x-caf |
Frequently asked questions
Is the BWF to CAF converter free?
Yes, converting BWF to CAF on 101convert.com is completely free. No registration, email address or installation is required.
How large can my BWF file be?
You can upload BWF files up to 1000 MB and convert up to 100 files at once in a single batch.
What happens to my uploaded files?
Files are processed automatically and deleted from our servers within a few minutes after conversion. We never view or share your files.
Do I need to install any software to convert BWF to CAF?
No. The BWF to CAF conversion runs entirely online in your browser and works on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android and iPhone.
Did the conversion fail?
In most cases, the cause is an incorrect file format. Please upload a valid BWF file for this BWF to CAF conversion. Occasionally, the issue may be on our side. We analyze recurring conversion failures and disable or fix the converter if we detect a defect.