How to Convert M4A to MP3 without or with iTunes?

M4A is Apple’s proprietary file format, primarily used for music purchased in the iTunes Store. Meanwhile, it is the default format for exporting audio files from most Apple programs. M4A is considered as the successor to MP3 with higher compression at the same level of video quality. However, when it comes to compatibility, M4A vs MP3, the ubiquitous MP3 undoubtedly wins the battle. Therefore, many people like to convert M4A to MP3 before or after they have transferred music files from iTunes to computers or other devices. iTunes offers audio conversion feature, through which you can directly convert M4A to MP3 with iTunes. But if you have transferred the M4A files to your desktop and don’t want to do the conversion in iTunes, there are also many third-party audio converters for your selection.
On basis of the two scenarios, here is how to convert M4A to MP3 with or without iTunes on Windows computers. Let's first check out how to convert M4A to MP3 without iTunes.

The audio converter we use to demonstrate the conversion process is WonderFox HD Video Converter Factory Pro. It is a professional conversion program for Windows, marked by fast speed, easy operation, and high output quality. It can effortlessly fulfill all common video and audio conversion demands for you. This converter also allows you to convert multiple M4A files to MP3 in batches while keeping the quality. Moreover, it lets you flexibly modify audio settings, such as bit rate, sample rate, channels, and volume.

Free download Free download the software and see how to convert M4A to MP3 without iTunes in simple steps.

Also Read: Convert M4A to MP3 in Audacity | Best Video to MP3 Converter | Rip Audio from DVD to MP3

Step 1. Add M4A Files into iTunes

If you have not yet copied M4A files into iTunes, click File on the top menu bar, select Add Files to Library or Add Folder to Library to import the files, and click Open.

Step 2. Modify the Preferences settings

Still, on the top menu bar, go to Edit > Preferences. Then click Import Settings on the Preferences window, change the Import Using option as MP3 Encoder. You can optionally customize MP3 bit rate. Click OK to save the change.

Step 3. Convert M4a to MP3 in iTunes

Go to Library in iTunes and select M4A tracks. Next, go to File > Convert > Create MP3 Version.

Make sure to select the tracks on the lower right section instead of the big cover in the upper portion of the Library window, otherwise you may meet the “None of the selected files were converted because it could not be found” error message.

The converted MP3 will be stored in the iTunes Media folder. You can check out the detailed path or change it under Advanced tab on the Preferences window.  

Now you can choose the more suitable tool to carry out the conversion. Generally, a dedicated video converter is more recommended as it can promise smoother conversion and always comes with flexible settings for more purposes. Besides, if you’re looking forward to hassle-free and easy conversion process, an audio converter like WonderFox HD Video Converter Factory Pro is a better option. And for more features of the recommended converter program, you can download it to explore the details by yourself.