Zoom H4essential Operation Manual page 9

32-bit float WAV file overview
32-bit float WAV files have the following advantages over conventional 16/24-bit WAV files.
Due to these advantages, the audio quality of recording can be maintained afterward when editing in a
DAW or other software.
Resolution advantage
32-bit float WAV files have the advantage of being able to maintain high resolution even at low volumes. As
a result, quiet sounds can be made louder when editing after recording without degrading their quality.
■ 16/24-bit WAV
■ 32-bit float WAV
Clipping advantage
If a waveform sounds clipped when output from the H4essential or in a DAW, it can be edited after
recording to lower its volume and restore an unclipped waveform because the data in the 32-bit float WAV
file itself is not clipped.
■ 16/24-bit WAV
Clipped recording
■ 32-bit float WAV
Clipped recording
Volume raised
Volume raised
Volume lowered
Volume lowered
Still clipped
Not clipped
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Resolution is low
Resolution is high