Free Sample Audio Files Download
Free Sample GSM Files Download

Free Sample GSM Files Download

Download free GSM audio files to explore efficient speech compression with narrowband mono voice recordings encoded using the GSM 06.10 codec, ideal for telephony and low-bandwidth applications.

What Is This Tool?

This resource provides sample GSM audio files that demonstrate the use of the GSM 06.10 speech codec. These samples enable users to test and evaluate low-bandwidth voice recordings, common in telephony and embedded systems.

How to Use This Tool?

  • Download GSM sample files for testing audio applications or telephony systems
  • Use files to analyze speech compression efficiency and quality at narrowband 8 kHz sampling
  • Employ samples for compatibility or archival purposes within legacy telephony solutions

Key Features

  • Utilizes GSM 06.10 speech codec for narrowband mono voice encoding
  • Produces very low bit rate audio (~13 kbps) with compact file sizes
  • Standardized format widely supported by telephony and legacy systems
  • Deterministic decoding with moderate CPU usage

Examples

  • Voicemail and call recordings optimized for low bandwidth
  • PBX call logging audio captured in GSM format
  • Embedded device voice streams encoded using the GSM codec

Common Use Cases

  • Storing and transmitting compressed voicemail messages
  • Logging calls in telephony and PBX systems
  • Compact real-time speech streaming in IoT devices
  • Archiving legacy telephony audio for compatibility testing

Tips & Best Practices

  • Use GSM files primarily for speech rather than music due to narrowband limitations
  • Consider the audible artifacts present in lossy compression when deploying
  • Leverage GSM in environments requiring low CPU decoding and small file sizes
  • For higher quality or multichannel audio, evaluate modern codecs instead

Limitations

  • Restricted to narrowband 8 kHz and mono audio only
  • Compression artifacts can affect clarity on non-speech sounds
  • Not suitable for full-bandwidth audio or stereo applications
  • Largely replaced by advanced codecs offering better quality and metadata support

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary purpose of GSM audio files?
GSM audio files are used for storing and transmitting low-bandwidth voice recordings with efficient compression, mainly in telephony and related systems.

Can GSM files store stereo or wideband audio?
No, GSM files are limited to narrowband mono audio and do not support stereo or wideband sound.

Why might there be audible artifacts in GSM audio?
GSM uses lossy compression which can introduce artifacts, especially noticeable in non-speech content or complex audio.

Key Terminology

GSM
A speech codec standard (ETSI GSM 06.10) used for narrowband mono audio encoding primarily in telephony.
Narrowband
Audio sampled at a limited frequency range, typically 8 kHz, focusing on human speech frequencies.
Lossy Compression
A compression method that reduces file size by discarding some audio data, potentially causing artifacts.

Quick Knowledge Check

What sample rate is used in GSM audio encoding?
Which of the following is a key advantage of GSM audio files?
What is a common use case for GSM files?