How to Convert Files Using VLC for Media Player

By Nick Grimes

Updated September 28, 2017

Items you will need

  • Computer running VLC

  • Media file

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VLC Media Player is one of the most versatile media players available for Mac or Windows. The open-source player is not as flashy as iTunes or Windows Media Player, but it is known for accepting files many other players will not touch. VLC Media Player also incorporates file conversion and streaming functions that can be used to convert between file formats. One such use is preparing a file for use in Windows Media Player.

Open VLC Media Player. If you do not have VLC installed on your computer, it can be downloaded from the site in the Downloads section. Open the file you want to convert in VLC.

Stop the file playing and go to VLC's File menu. In the "Wizard" section, select "Transcode/Save to File." In the selection pane, select the file you want to convert.

Select the type of file you want to convert to. The idea is to convert to a format that maximizes compatibility with Windows Media Player. For video files, select WMV; audio files can be converted to MP3 or the Microsoft format of WMA. When you are happy with your selection, click "Next."

Accept the Audacity default options. When asked to choose an "Encapsulation format", choose the Microsoft-compatible ASF format. Click "Next" and select the directory where you are saving the file. Select a convenient directory and type the file name to be used, making sure to add .WMV to the end of movie files and .MP3 or .WMA to audio files, depending on the format you have chosen.

Click "Finish" and wait for your file to convert. Import the file into Windows Media Player and check the results.

Tips

If you are not happy with the converted file, try changing to a higher bit rate and converting the file again.

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