Say I want to have streaming audio on my site. There is no fancy player on my site: the page simply links directly to the audio file, shifting the burden of streaming onto the user's internet browser.
What audio file format is the best for flexibility across all devices, including computers, tablets, and smartphones? I understand some operating systems are fussy with certain file types, with the stock browser unequipped to play the file, forcing the user to download supplementary extensions or software to stream the audio, so I am trying to avoid this.
Obviously the file will have to be a small size; thus, it will be converted from its original format and compressed. So, for instance, .wav wouldn't work here.
Note: I know very little; don't assume that I am on your level!