How to Play FLAC Files on Any iPod Models?

The iPod Touch 7th generation brought a pleasant surprise for FLAC enthusiasts. Unlike its predecessors, this model natively supports FLAC playback, albeit with a twist.

While you cannot play FLAC files directly through the iTunes or Music app, there's a workaround - the "Files" app. This flexibility was introduced with iOS 11. So, if your iPod Touch runs on iOS 11 or newer, you're in luck!

Here's how you can play FLAC on iPod Touch using the "Files" app:

• Transfer FLAC Files to Your iPod Touch: Use iCloud Drive or any other cloud service to upload your FLAC files.

• Access Through Files App: Open the Files app on your iPod Touch.

• Locate Your FLAC Files: Navigate to the folder where your FLAC files are stored.

• Play Your Music: Simply tap on the FLAC file, and enjoy your high-quality music.

iPod-optimized media player apps from the App Store provide another workaround for enjoying FLAC music on iPod Touch!

Most of these players allow you to import FLAC files directly on your device instead of the standard "Sync" feature in iTunes. For instance, VLC for iOS is completely free and open source which enables you to play FLAC files with ease.

Also, there are multiple similar choices for you, such as FLAC Player+, Flacbox, VOX, foobar2000, Onkyo HF Player, Golden Ear, etc. You just open the APP Store, input the corresponding name of FLAC player, install, and have fun.

Older iPod models, including the Classic, Nano, and Shuffle, DO NOT support FLAC natively. This is primarily due to Apple's preference for its own lossless format, ALAC (Apple Lossless Audio Codec). However, there are two ways to circumvent this limitation.

#1. Rockbox: A Gateway to FLAC

Rockbox is an alternative firmware that can be installed on CERTAIN iPod models. This firmware supports a wide range of audio formats, including FLAC. Here's an overview of adding Rockbox support for FLAC on legacy iPods:

• Visit the Rockbox website to check if your iPod model is compatible with Rockbox and the latest installer version.

• Back up your iPod's data and install the Rockbox bootloader using the installer tool. This will allow dual booting.

• Install the Rockbox firmware file after the bootloader setup completes.

• Copy FLAC files to your iPod either via drag-and-drop or a syncing program.

• Boot into the newly installed Rockbox firmware using your player's menu.

• Use the custom music playback apps included with Rockbox to play FLAC files on your now FLAC-friendly iPod!

#2. Surefire Solution: Converting FLAC to iPod-Compatible Formats

If installing alternative firmware seems daunting, converting FLAC files to an iPod-friendly format, which is natively playable in iTunes and the Music app, is a simpler solution. There are numerous software options available for this purpose, both free and paid. Take Free HD Video Converter Factory as an example:

• DownloadDownload Free HD Video Converter Factory on your PC and launch it.

• Open "Converter" and add your FLAC files.

• Open output format library, go to "Audio" category and choose "Apple Lossless (ALAC)", "AAC", or "MP3" profile.

• Designate a save folder and tap the "Run" button to transcode your FLAC music library into iPod-friendly format.

After conversion, sync the files to your iPod using iTunes or any other media management tool compatible with your iPod model.

Q1: How can I transfer FLAC files to my iPod?

A: You can use USB, AirDrop, Finder, iTunes File Sharing or Wi-Fi transfer methods to move FLAC files to a compatible app on your iPod Touch.

Q2: Is Rockbox Safe to Install on my old iPod model?

A: Yes, Rockbox is safe but it replaces the original firmware, so it should be done cautiously and preferably by someone familiar with firmware installations.

Q3: Is there any other FLAC-to-iPod conversion software available for free?

A: Top options include XLD, Audacity, Fre:ac, ffmpeg, Foobar2000 or Switch which work across platforms. Many are free while still providing robust conversion capabilities.

Q4: Is there any loss of quality when converting FLAC files for iPod?

A: ALAC is your best bet which retains the original quality, as both are lossless formats. Converting to AAC or MP3 will result in some quality loss.

Playing FLAC files on the iPod series, particularly on models like the iPod Touch 7th generation, iPod Classic, Nano, and Shuffle, requires specific approaches. While the latest iPod Touch supports FLAC natively via the Files app, older models need workarounds like using Rockbox, converting files, or employing third-party applications.

Each method has its pros and cons, but they all ensure that audiophiles can enjoy high-quality FLAC music on their beloved iPods. Remember, the key is to choose the method that best suits your technical comfort level and iPod model.