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RF64 is a file format designed to store audio data in a way that can accommodate very large files, beyond the limitations of the standard WAV format. It was developed by the EBU (European Broadcasting Union) and the AES (Audio Engineering Society) to address the growing need for high-resolution audio recording and broadcasting. RF64 stands for "RIFF 64-bit," referring to the use of 64-bit addressing in the Resource Interchange File Format (RIFF), which is the underlying structure of the WAV format.

The primary advantage of RF64 is its ability to handle files larger than 4 GB, which is a limitation of the standard WAV format. This is achieved by using 64-bit addressing, allowing for much larger file sizes. RF64 files can be up to 16 exabytes in size, making them suitable for long-form recordings, such as those used in film and television production.

RF64 files are compatible with standard WAV players and editors, as they use the same basic structure. However, some older software may not support RF64, so it's important to check compatibility before using this format. The RF64 specification also includes guidelines for metadata, ensuring that important information about the audio file is preserved.

In summary, RF64 is a versatile and future-proof file format for high-resolution audio recording and broadcasting. Its ability to handle very large files makes it an ideal choice for long-form recordings, and its compatibility with standard WAV players and editors ensures widespread adoption.