WAV files began to be used by Microsoft around 1991. Those “bonk” sounds when you clicked the wrong place were WAVs. WAV files are very large and they were only used for short sounds at the time. They are no used to save audio after editing, as a master file that contains all the information after editing, without any losses.
When you record a file Audacity the application works with a format called AUP3, which is a n Audacity "proprietary" format, sort of, and if you save the project as such without exporting a file to share it will be saved as AUP3 which allows resuming work on that audio in Audacity at a later tim.
Note: A good practice is to save a copy of the original file where it can't be lost, online, and export edited files as (lossless) WAV or AIFF.
Exporting Audio for Audiobook Publishing
MP3 files are the final file format for most audiobooks, being smaller than WAV, and of sufficient quality to not be noticeable, particularly in mobile applications. Since the patent on MP3 has expired, Audacity's latest version can export in MP3 without additional download, making it quite simple
If you require AC3, AMR(NB), M4A, MP4 or WMA, you will install the FFmpeg library download.
If you are recording your own audiobook or doing it for someone else, you have to comply with the recording specifications that are required. Sample from ACX. This is no joke, if you record with substandard audio or the wrong specifications, the recording won’t be used, nor will you make any money.
Whether you are an author and have some one else record, or do it yourself, you stand a chance of having your entire book rejected by the distribution site.
Study the requirements for submitted sudio, and use any tools available.
LIBRIVOX, with free books read by volunteers, has a wealth of information on audio production and standardization for their site, which includes online tools and peer assistance. This is a good place to start by volunteering to read a chapter before comitting.
If you work with ACX, they host the audio files, book cover, and metadata for the audiobook.They also distribute to iTunes.
Overdrive distributes to libraries, which could be a good opportunity to get your audiobook distributed even more widely. However, Overdrive is very selective in choosing which authors to accept, and typically you’re going to need at least a dozen or more audiobooks recorded to even get your foot in the door.
Audiobooks.com is in second place behind ACX in terms of audiobooks sales,
Downpour is another platform that’s right behind Audiobooks.com in sales. while on ACX you can simply upload your book and start selling audiobooks.
