RA File Extension
Real Audio Format
- File Type ra
- Developer RealNetworks
- Popularity
- Application RealPlayer
- Category Audio Files
- Format Binary
What is a RA file?
The RA file extension is linked to Real Audio Format and belongs to the Audio Files category, which includes 667 files.
The Real Audio Format (RA) was created by RealNetworks, a company that developed file format and produced 3 programs for their use.
RA file support extends to various operating systems, including Windows, Linux and Mac OS. If you need to play a RA file, you can use one of 11 programs, such as RealPlayer, Xine and VLC media player.
MIME types
- audio/vnd.rn-realaudio
- audio/x-realaudio
- audio/x-pn-realaudio-plugin
- audio/x-pn-realaudio
File Signature
HEX code: 2E 52 4D 46 00 00 00 12 00. ASCII code: .RMF.
Programs that support RA files
How to open a RA file?
If you’re having difficulty opening a RA file, it is often due to not having the correct software. To solve the problem, choose a compatible program from the list. Then follow the link to the official developer site, download the software, and install it on your device.
When it comes to opening and working with RA files, RealPlayer, Xine and VLC media player are the top choices for users. To install the updated version of RealPlayer, simply go to the RealNetworks site and download the installer compatible with all major platforms.
After installing, your OS should instantly open RA files with RealPlayer.
Set RealPlayer as the default RA program
Changing Default Programs in Windows
- Right-click your RA file, then navigate to the "Open With" option and click "Choose Another Application" to continue;
- In the pop-up window, select the RealPlayer application;
- Check the "Always use this application" checkbox, and then click "OK" to apply the selected application as the default for opening RA files.
Change Default Program on Mac
- Right click or Control + left click on the desired RA file;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- Look towards the bottom of the window, where you will find the "Enable" menu. "Recommended programs" will be the default selection;
- Choose "All Programs" in this menu and search for RealPlayer. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to set it as the default option.
Solve problems with RA files
Problematic RA files can usually be resolved by making small changes in your software. See the tips below to help fix common issues.
Why does RealPlayer stop responding or crash intermittently?
RealPlayer crashes can occur due to outdated software versions. To mitigate this, install the latest updates for RealNetworks products.
Restarting your computer will solve many common problems, which is why it’s the first thing you should do before changing any settings related to the software.
What are the best practices for repairing a RA file that has gone bad?
Open the damaged RA file with a recovery program, and then select the "Repair" menu item to start the repair process. Then wait for the recovery process to complete, which allows you to automatically repair corrupted audio files.
What are the telltale signs of a corrupt RA file?
Common indications of damaged RA audio files are:
- Unexplained increase in RA file size;
- File hangs or crashes in RealPlayer or other programs;
- The file does not open or opens with errors;
- While working with the file, error messages appear;