How to Create MP3 Files in Windows Media Player
By James Highland
The birth of MP3 player technology has made it possible to carry hundreds of CD albums on one small handheld device. However the CDs must be transferred into the digital MP3 audio format for them to be stored on an MP3 player. This process is called "ripping" and Windows Media Player is a good free application that makes this possible. It is installed by default on all versions of Windows and provides the features necessary to create MP3s without the need for additional software.
Step 1
Place the CD that you wish to turn into MP3 files into the computer's CD drive. If the computer automatically begins playing the music on the CD, close the program.
Step 2
Open Windows Media Player. There may be a link on the computer's Desktop for this program. If not, you can always load all software from the "Start" menu and "Programs" folder.
Step 3
Click the "Rip" button in Windows Media Player. A menu will appear.
Step 4
Select the "Format" sub-menu in the "Rip" menu and then click "MP3." Windows Media Player does not create digital audio files in the MP3 format by default.
Step 5
Choose which tracks from the CD that you wish to convert to MP3 files. The CD's contents will be displayed in the Windows Media Player window with a checkbox next to each track. Place a check next to those you wish to rip. To rip them all, click the topmost checkbox above the track listing to select all tracks.
Step 6
Click the "Rip" button and choose the first option in the menu. The process begins that will create the MP3s. The duration of this process varies depending on the number of songs selected, the length of each song and the speed of the CD drive.
Step 7
Visit the "My Music" folder on your computer after the process is complete. Your new MP3 files will be located there. This folder is in the "My Documents" folder and may be accessed from the "Start" menu.
Warnings
- Converting copyrighted content into MP3 files can be illegal if these files are shared with other individuals. Only create MP3 files from music that you own and do not distribute them to others.
Writer Bio
James Highland started writing professionally in 1998. He has written for the New York Institute of Finance and Chron.com. He has an extensive background in financial investing and has taught computer programming courses for two New York companies. He has a Bachelor of Arts in film production from Indiana University.