SoundCloud supports a wide range of audio file formats and automatically optimizes your uploads for streaming. This guide explains which files you can upload, what formats are recommended, and how to avoid common upload issues.

Supported audio file formats

SoundCloud supports a variety of audio codecs and containers.

Currently supported formats include:

WAV, FLAC, AIFF, ALAC, MP3, AAC, Ogg / Vorbis, MP4, MP2, M4A, 3GP, 3G2, MJ2, WMA, and AMR

Recommended file formats (best quality)

For the best audio quality, upload in a lossless format such as:

• WAV

• FLAC

• AIFF

• ALAC

Lossless files preserve all audio data and give the best results after SoundCloud’s transcoding process.

Best audio settings for upload

For optimal results:

• Use lossless stereo files

• Recommended: 16-bit / 44.1 kHz (or higher-quality source files)

• Leave –0.5 to –1 dBFS headroom to avoid clipping during transcoding

When you upload, SoundCloud processes your audio into streaming formats optimized for playback (for example, high-quality AAC). Uploading lossless files ensures the best possible final stream.

If you enable downloads on a track, listeners receive the original file format you uploaded, without additional transcoding.

File size and duration limits

• Maximum file size: 4 GB (uncompressed)

• Maximum track length: 24 hours per upload

If your file exceeds either limit, split it into multiple uploads.

Upload limits by subscription

Upload allowance depends on your plan:

• Basic (Free): up to 2 hours total upload time

• Artist: up to 3 hours total upload time

• Artist Pro: unlimited uploads

You can view the remaining upload time from your Tracks page.

High-quality streaming availability

If you upload a stereo track in a lossless format, SoundCloud will transcode it into a high-quality streaming version optimized for listeners. Uploading lossless originals gives the best playback quality across devices.