LRC
LRC (lyrics format)
A subtitle-like format used for synchronized song lyrics. Plain text with [mm:ss.xx] timestamps before each line.
In depth
LRC (Lyrics) is a synchronized text format developed for music players. Each line of lyrics is preceded by a timestamp in [mm:ss.xx] format. Music players (Spotify, Apple Music, Musixmatch) use LRC under the hood for line-synchronized lyrics. LRC isn't typically used for general subtitles — it's a specialized format for music.
When to use it
Use LRC when authoring synchronized lyrics for a music player or karaoke app. For caption work, prefer SRT/VTT/ASS.
Frequently asked
Can I convert SRT to LRC?+
Yes, programmatically. The timestamp format and line structure are similar. Most subtitle-conversion tools support LRC as a target format.
Does LRC support karaoke timing?+
Enhanced LRC (with per-word timestamps) does. Standard LRC is line-level only. For full karaoke effects, use ASS instead.
The most common subtitle file format. Plain text with numbered cues and HH:MM:SS,mmm timestamps.
A heavily-styled subtitle format used by Aegisub and the anime fansub community. Supports per-cue fonts, colors, positioning, and karaoke timing.
Captions that highlight each word as it's spoken, syncing color or emphasis to the audio in real time.