Which files to choose, what the settings mean, and why they matter
Exporting audio from Logic Pro is often treated as a final button press. In reality, it is a translation step. You are converting a working project into a set of fixed audio files that will be listened to, shared, assessed, streamed, or archived.
This article explains how Logic handles exporting, what the key terms actually mean, and how to make sensible decisions without overcomplicating the process.
Bounce and Export are not the same thing
Logic uses two different methods for creating audio files, and they serve different purposes.
Bounce
Bouncing creates a stereo audio file from the main output. It captures everything that passes through the output channel, including automation, plug-ins, and any processing on the stereo bus.
Use Bounce when you want:
- A finished track
- A mastered version
- A file that represents exactly what you hear on playback
If you are delivering a final mix or master, you should be bouncing, not exporting tracks.
Export
Exporting creates audio files from individual tracks, buses, or selected regions. These files are created before the signal reaches the stereo output.
Use Export when you need:
- Stems
- Multitrack files
- Grouped parts without master processing
Export is about components, not finished mixes.
Why this distinction matters
Many problems occur when stems are bounced through a mastering chain or when final masters are exported from individual tracks. Understanding the difference avoids duplicated processing and unpredictable results.
A simple way to remember it:
- Finished track equals Bounce
- Building blocks equal Export
File types and what they mean
WAV and AIFF
WAV and AIFF are uncompressed formats that store PCM audio. PCM stands for Pulse Code Modulation and describes how analogue sound is represented digitally.
There is no sound quality difference between WAV and AIFF if the sample rate and bit depth are the same.
WAV is usually preferred for compatibility with distributors and platforms, while AIFF remains common in macOS-based workflows.
MP3 and AAC
MP3 and AAC are lossy formats. Lossy means that some audio information is removed to reduce file size. This information cannot be restored later.
These formats are useful for:
- Listening copies
- Sharing drafts
- Emailing files
They should not be used as masters or source files for further processing.
Sample rate explained
Sample rate describes how often the audio signal is measured per second. For example, a sample rate of 44.1 kHz means the signal is measured 44,100 times per second.
Common sample rates include:
- 44.1 kHz for music distribution
- 48 kHz for video
- 96 kHz for certain production workflows
Higher sample rates increase file size and processing load. They do not automatically improve audible quality.
In most cases, the best approach is to:
- Set the project sample rate at the start
- Keep it consistent
- Export at the same rate
Bit depth explained
Bit depth controls how precisely each sample is measured. It affects dynamic range, not loudness.
- 16-bit audio is standard for consumer delivery
- 24-bit audio provides more headroom during production
Exporting at 24-bit helps preserve detail and reduces the risk of clipping. Bit depth reduction is usually only needed when preparing final consumer formats.
What dithering actually is
Dithering is one of the most misunderstood export settings.
When reducing bit depth, such as from 24-bit to 16-bit, rounding errors are introduced. Dither adds a very low-level noise signal to randomise these errors and make them less audible.
Important points:
- Dither is only needed when reducing bit depth
- It should be applied once, at the final stage
- If you export at 24-bit, you do not need dither
Dither is not a creative effect. It is a technical safeguard.
Normalisation explained
Normalisation adjusts the level of an audio file so that the highest peak reaches a target value.
In Logic, normalisation is optional during bounce and export.
Normalisation:
- Does not improve dynamics
- Does not replace mixing or mastering
- Can create confusion if used unintentionally
For most workflows, it is better to control levels in the mix and leave normalisation off.
Stems and multitracks explained
Stems
Stems are grouped audio files, such as:
- Drums
- Bass
- Synths
- Vocals
Each stem starts at the same time so they line up when imported into another system.
Stems are useful for:
- Live playback systems
- Remixing
- Assessment evidence
- Collaboration
Multitracks
Multitracks are individual track exports.
They are typically used for:
- Collaboration
- Archiving
- Remix packs
Export multitracks with:
- Normalisation off
- Consistent start points
- Clear naming
Logic export settings that matter
Rather than memorising every option, focus on these:
- Keep sample rate consistent
- Export at 24-bit
- Disable normalisation unless required
- Use Bounce for final mixes
- Use Export for stems and parts
Offline bounce is usually sufficient unless you are using external hardware.
File naming and organisation
Export is also about organisation. Poor file naming creates problems quickly, especially when files leave your system.
Good practice includes:
- Artist and track name
- Version number or descriptor
- Clear labels such as “master”, “stem”, or “reference”
This matters more than it seems.
Common mistakes
- Exporting MP3 instead of WAV
- Applying dither unnecessarily
- Changing sample rate during export
- Bouncing stems through a master chain
- Overcomplicating settings
Most issues come from unnecessary changes rather than missing options.
Final thoughts
Exporting audio is not just a technical step. It is part of the creative and professional process. Clear understanding of formats, settings, and terminology allows you to make decisions confidently and consistently.
This article complements a broader discussion of digital audio formats and streaming. Together, they form a practical foundation for preparing music for release.
Audio Format Glossary
- PCM (Pulse Code Modulation)
- The standard method for representing analogue audio digitally. Most uncompressed formats, including WAV and AIFF, store PCM audio.
- Sample Rate
- How often audio is measured per second, expressed in kHz. Common values include 44.1 kHz for music and 48 kHz for video.
- Bit Depth
- The precision of each audio sample. Higher bit depths increase dynamic range and headroom rather than loudness.
- Lossy Compression
- A method of reducing file size by permanently removing audio information that is less likely to be perceived by the listener.
- Dithering
- A low-level noise added when reducing bit depth, typically from 24-bit to 16-bit, to minimise distortion caused by rounding errors. Dither should only be applied once at the final stage.
