What Is 32-Bit Float Recording?

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Introduction

Definition: 32-bit float recording uses two ADCs (Analog-to-Digital Converters) working in tandem to create a single audio file, optimizing for both high and low-level audio.
Dynamic Range: 32-bit float audio can capture an extremely wide dynamic range, far exceeding the 144.5 dB range of 24-bit audio.
No Need for Gain Adjustment: Unlike traditional recording formats, 32-bit float recording eliminates the need to set gain levels during recording, allowing for adjustments in Post-Production without added noise or distortion.
File Size: 32-bit float files are larger, consuming 32 bits of space per sample, which is about 33% more than 24-bit files.
Applications: Ideal for scenarios with unpredictable audio levels, such as live events, film sets, and field recordings, where it captures everything from whispers to explosions without clipping.

Dual ADCs: Utilizes two ADCs, one optimized for high-level audio and the other for low-level audio.
Scientific Notation: Stores numbers in a floating-point format using scientific notation, allowing for a vast range of values.
No Gain Knob: Eliminates the need for a gain knob, simplifying the recording process.
Post-Production Flexibility: Allows for significant adjustments in post-production without introducing noise or distortion.

Wide Dynamic Range: Captures a dynamic range far exceeding that of 24-bit audio.
No Clipping: Prevents audio clipping, even with extremely loud sounds.
Post-Production Adjustments: Allows for extensive adjustments in post-production without added noise.
Simplified Setup: Eliminates the need for setting gain levels during recording.
Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of recording scenarios, from quiet whispers to loud explosions.

File Size: 32-bit float files are larger, requiring more storage space.
Post-Production Requirement: Requires remapping to 24-bit for most post-production workflows.
Precision: While it offers a wide dynamic range, the precision is comparable to 24-bit audio.
Compatibility: Not all audio equipment and software support 32-bit float files.

Dynamic Range: 24-bit audio captures up to 144.5 dB, while 32-bit float can capture up to 1528 dB.
Headroom: 32-bit float offers significantly more headroom, preventing clipping.
File Size: 32-bit float files are about 33% larger than 24-bit files.
Gain Adjustment: 24-bit requires gain adjustment during recording, while 32-bit float does not.
Post-Production: 32-bit float allows for more extensive post-production adjustments without added noise.

Film Sets: Ideal for capturing dynamic dialogue without clipping.
Live Events: Useful for unpredictable audio levels, such as concerts.
Field Recording: Captures a wide range of sounds, from quiet to loud, without distortion.
Studio Recording: Simplifies the recording process by eliminating the need for gain adjustment.
Sound Design: Allows for capturing detailed sound effects without worrying about clipping.

Zoom F2 / F2-BT: Compact field recorder with lavalier mic.
Zoom F3: Handheld field recorder.
Zoom F6: Multi-track field recorder.
Zoom F8n Pro: High-end field recorder.
Rde Wireless PRO: Wireless microphone system with 32-bit float recording.
Sound Devices MixPre-10 II: Professional audio recorder with 32-bit float capability.
TASCAM Portacapture X8: Portable audio recorder with 32-bit float recording.