AZX File

What are AZX files and how to open them

Are you having problems opening an AZX file or are you simply curious about its contents? We're here to explain the properties of these files and provide you with software that can open or handle your AZX files.

What is an AZX file?

An .AZX file is a ZX Audio file.

ZX Audio files are digital representations of ZX Spectrum cassette tapes saved as audio. They store exactly what would be played through a tape player's EAR output, including the beeps, tones, and modulated sound the Spectrum uses to load software. These files allow emulators to reproduce the original loading process both in sound and data content. They are especially useful when tapes include custom or non-standard loaders, since those rely on the exact audio waveform.

The format is produced by recording a ZX Spectrum's audio output during tape loading sessions or converting existing tape signals into digital form. It is used by emulators capable of playing back or decoding the cassette audio to read the data as if it were coming from a physical tape. The format preserves timing and signal details so that both standard and non-standard loader formats can function without modification.

Files using this format begin with a distinctive header: at byte offset zero they contain the ASCII signature "ZXAudio!" followed by the byte 0x1A.

How to open AZX files

Important: Different programs may use files with the AZX file extension for different purposes, so unless you are sure which format your AZX file is, you may need to try a few different programs.

We have not yet verified any programs for Windows that work with this specific file format. If you know one, please use the 'Suggest a program' link below. Thanks!

Last updated: August 22, 2026

Help us help others

File.org helps thousands of users every day, and we would love to hear from you if you have additional information about AZX file formats, example files, or compatible programs. Please use the links below or email us at submit@file.org to discuss further.