M4A, which is MPEG 4 Audio, is a file extension for an audio file encoded with advanced audio coding (AAC), a lossy compression. Not only designed for audio only but was layer III in a MPEG 1 or 2 video files. In this tutorial, we will be explaining what an M4A file is and everything you need to know.
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How To Open An M4A File
In VLC, iTunes, QuickTime, and Windows Media Player require the K-Lite Codec Pack, Media Player Classic, Winamp, etc., before it can play it.
While Android tablets and phones, plus Apple’s iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, etc., can play M4A files directly from an email or website without needing a special app, whether the File uses AAC or ALAC.
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How To Convert An M4A File
You can convert an M4A file with iTunes if the song is already in your iTunes library or a free file converter.
On iTunes
To save an M4A to MP3, change the program’s import settings and use the Convert menu option.
- Go to Edit
- On the General tab, select Import Settings.
- Choose MP3 Encoder from the drop-down menu.

- Select OK and then OK again on the General Preferences window.
- Select the M4A file you want to convert.
- Go to File> Convert > Create MP3 Version.




On Free Converter
Free Converters such as Freemake Audio and media human audio converter, and others can save the File to not only MP3 but others like WAV, M4R, WMA, AIFF, and AC3.
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