How to Change an MP4 to an MP3 in iTunes

By Wesley DeBoy

Updated September 22, 2017

iTunes can be used in a variety of ways to import, convert, and play back music. Converting a MP4 formatted audio file to a MP3 formatted audio file is no exception. Within a few simple steps, iTunes can convert a MP4 into a MP3, keeping a copy of the original MP4 file on hand for the user to either archive or discard after the conversion is complete.

Open iTunes.

Click “iTunes” and select “Preferences” on a Mac, or click “Edit” and then click “Preferences” if using a PC.

Click “Import Settings” located next to the “When you insert a CD” box.

Select “MP3 Encoder” in the drop down box next to “Import Using.” Doing so will dictate what format iTunes will default to when importing or converting an audio file.

Click “OK.”

Click “OK” again to exit out of iTunes preferences.

Right-click or control click the song title of the MP4 that you would like to convert into an MP3. Select “Create MP3 Version.” After doing so, iTunes will create an MP3 version of the song directly below the MP4 version.

Tips

To access the converted MP3 file on a Mac, click on the Finder and select “Music.” Double-click on the “iTunes” folder and then double-click on “iTunes Music” folder. To access the converted MP3 file on a PC, click on “Start” and select “Music.” Double-click on the “iTunes” folder and then double-click on the “iTunes Music” folder.

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