OPUS File Extension

What is OPUS file?

Files with the OPUS extension contain sound of music tracks or human speech, compressed with a lossy method. For purpose of compression, both the SILK algorithm and an algorithm based on the MDCT CELT are used, thus providing a high level of flexibility and low complexity, which enables to use the format to encode sound recorded in real-time, ale using some of the relatively slower processors.

A unique feature of sounds stored within OPUS files is the fact, that their parameters such as:

• Bitrate - from 6 kbps up to 510 kbps,
• Bandwidth,
• Complexity,
• Type of algorithm

… can differ in each fragment (so-called „frame”, covering 20ms by default).

Additional information

OPUS file format is open source and standardised by the ITEF - Internet Engineering Task Force. It was created by the Xiph.Org organisation in colaboration with Skype Technologies, currently Microsoft. Reference implementation is contained within libopus, available on the New BSD license. Sound in this format can stored in one of five sampling frequencies of different bands, and also in 255 channels maximum. It was designed in order to be used within file containers, such as OGG.

Programs which support OPUS file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with OPUS files, divided into 3 categories based on operating system on which they are available. OPUS files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 09/02/2019

How to open file with OPUS extension?

Problems with accessing OPUS may be due to various reasons. Fortunately, most common problems with OPUS files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Install VLC media player software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening OPUS files is that no program that can handle OPUS files is installed on user’s system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing VLC media player or different compatible program, such as Winamp, AIMP, Opus-tools. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. The safest method of downloading VLC media player installed is by going to developer’s website (VideoLAN Project Team) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Update VLC media player to the latest version

If you already have VLC media player installed on your systems and OPUS files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. The reason that VLC media player cannot handle files with OPUS may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of VLC media player should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Opus Audio Format files with VLC media player

If you have the latest version of VLC media player installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage OPUS on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Right-click the OPUS file and choose Open with option
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where VLC media player is installed, check the Always use this app to open OPUS files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• Right-click the OPUS file and select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with OPUS extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Ensure that the OPUS file is complete and free of errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the OPUS file is valid. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. The OPUS may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

Should it happed that the OPUS is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. OPUS file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Verify that the OPUS file’s structure is intact

If you obtained the problematic OPUS file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. When downloading the file with OPUS extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Opus Audio Format file.

4. Check whether your system can handle VLC media player

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with OPUS extension. In this case close the other applications.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Opus Audio Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle OPUS files.

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