File extension .AC3
Full Name | Developer | Category |
---|---|---|
Dolby Digital Sound Format | N/A | Audio Files |
The AC3 ( .AC3) file extension is an audio file format created by Dolby Labs for Dolby Digital audio. The AC3 file format is also known as Audio Coding 3. The AC3 format was designed for digital video and eMedia applications. The AC3 file specification defines a data structure containing sub-streams of sound including up to 6 mono or 5.1 channel surround sound.
It is primarily used to store compressed audio streams for digital audio/video programs, such as DVD, Blu-ray, HD TV broadcasts and streaming video services. As with other Dolby Digital-compatible files, AC3 files support a range of sample rates from 32kHz to 48kHz and variable or constant bitrates from 32Kbps up to 640 Kbps.
Similar file extensions
The AC3 file format is closely related to other audio file formats, such as .AC2, .AC4 and .A52. All of these formats are based on the same principles as Dolby Digital / AC3 and can be used together with compatible applications such as Encore, Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, Avid Media Composer, ProTools, etc.:
Programs for WINDOWS system
Windows Media Player
QuickTime Player
Nero
Winamp
PowerDVD
MPlayer
KMPlayer
Adobe Premiere Pro
Adobe Media Encoder
Agree MP3 to Ringtone Converter
ALLPlayer
VLC media player
xrecode
MediaCoder
Freemake Video Converter
Freemake Audio Converter
TAudioConverter Audio Converter
SUPER
Aimersoft DRM Media Converter
ImTOO DPG Converter
Xilisoft Video Converter
Ultimate Video Converter
DVD Ripper+Video Converter Ultimate
iPad Video Converter Factory Pro
WinX Video Converter
Programs for MAC system
Programs for Android system
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .AC3) with the new application. If this does not happen, we can help the system a bit by selecting the software for it, which it should always use to open files with the .AC3 extension.
When choosing the software we can select the system to use this software every time.
Remember!
Using it for the first time it is good to check whether the .AC3 file opened in the application can be read by us and opens in a way that allows us to use it. If everything is in order, select this option the next time you open a file with the .AC3 extension. However, if the file has not opened correctly, we have to look for a different software, with which we can open files with the .AC3 extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .AC3 file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .AC3 file has not meet your expectations, you can try searching other websites. But remember to avoid downloading programs "that can open any file". These applications not only have very limited functionality, but may also expose you to expense tens of dollars when purchasing a license.
In the vast majority of cases you will find the program dedicated to support the .AC3 file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .AC3 file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .AC3 file has no errors
- or if it has been copied (or downloaded by the browser) thoroughly
Author’s guidelines

Mr B. Adam
Author of the guidelines / Founder of FileExtension.info
New technologies enthusiast, helping to solve problems with the files.
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