Browser FFmpeg recipe

Create Audio Waveform Online with FFmpeg

Create a 1280 by 240 waveform image from an audio file.

Command

Run this FFmpeg command

ffmpeg -i audio.mp3 -filter_complex showwavespic=s=1280x240:colors=0x1169e8 -frames:v 1 waveform.png

When to use it

  • podcast artwork
  • audio previews
  • visual sound checks

How it works

  1. Upload the audio file.
  2. Adjust waveform size or color if needed.
  3. Run FFmpeg and download the waveform image.

Option reference

OptionWhat it does
showwavespicDraws the waveform as an image.
s=1280x240Sets the output image size.
-frames:v 1Writes one image frame.

Practical notes

  • Change the color value to match your brand or background.
  • Long audio files may take longer to analyze in the browser.

FAQ

Can I make the waveform taller?

Yes. Change the size value, for example s=1280x480.

Can I use video input?

Yes, if the video has audio, FFmpeg can draw a waveform from it.