Convert an M4A file to MP3 on Mac

Use the Apple Music app or the GarageBand app on your Mac to convert an M4A file to MP3.

Use the Apple Music app to convert an M4A file to MP3

1. In the menu bar of Apple Music, choose Music > Settings.

2. Click the Files tab, then click Import Settings.

3. Choose MP3 Encoder from the Import Using pop-up menu, then click OK.

4. If the M4A file isn't in your music library, drag the file from the Finder into Apple Music.

5. Select the M4A file in Apple Music that you want to convert. If you're having trouble finding the file, click Recently Added in the sidebar to find the file.

6. Choose File > Convert > Create MP3 Version. The new MP3 file appears in your library next to the original M4A file.

7. To access the converted file, select the converted file in Apple Music, then choose File > Show in Finder.

Use GarageBand to convert an M4A file to MP3

1. In the menu bar of GarageBand, choose File > New, select Empty Project, then click Choose.

2. Click New Project in the sidebar of the window, select Empty Project, then click Choose.

3. In the Create New Track window, select Mic or Line.

4. Drag the M4A file from the Finder into the Tracks area of GarageBand.

5. Click the Metronome button to turn off the metronome.

   

6. Select the file in the Tracks area, then choose Share > Export Song to Disk.

7. In the Export Song to Disk window:

   

   • Select MP3.

   • Choose the quality setting for the file from the Quality pop-up menu.

   • Select “Export cycle area, or length of selected regions (if Cycle is turned off).”

   • Choose a location and name for the file.

   • Click Export.

8. To add the converted file to Apple Music, locate the file, then drag it into Apple Music.