Here are some of the main reasons you may want to convert your iTunes music library to MP3:
- Play music on non-Apple devices – The MP3 format is compatible with almost all media players, while AAC has more limited support. Converting to MP3 lets you play iTunes music on Android phones, Windows devices, MP3 players, etc.
- Save storage space – MP3 files are generally smaller in size than AAC files. Converting your iTunes library can save storage when syncing large music collections to devices.
- Use music in other apps – MP3s can be used more flexibly in apps like video editors, music mixing software, etc. AAC files have more compatibility issues.
- Share songs more easily – It’s simpler to share MP3 files through email, cloud storage, hard drives, etc. AAC may not play properly on recipients’ devices.
Table of Contents
Using iTunes to Convert Music
iTunes has a built-in audio converter that allows you to convert unprotected AAC music files from your iTunes library into MP3 format. Here are the steps:
- Open iTunes and go to Edit > Preferences > General > Import Settings.
- For Import Using, select MP3 Encoder.
- Choose encoding quality under Setting. Higher bitrates produce better quality but larger files. 128-256 kbps is recommended for MP3 music.
- In your iTunes library, select the AAC songs you want to convert. You can choose multiple songs/albums.
- Go to File > Convert > Create MP3 Version. iTunes will create MP3 copies.
This produces MP3 versions alongside the original AAC files. However, iTunes cannot directly convert Apple Music streams or older DRM-protected iTunes purchases. Third-party audio converter software is required for those files.
Best Software for Converting iTunes Music
When iTunes itself cannot convert protected music purchases or Apple Music streams, specialized audio converter software is needed. Here are some top options:
1. iSkysoft iMusic
iSkysoft iMusic is an excellent iTunes conversion tool available for Windows and Mac. Key features include:
- Convert DRM-protected iTunes music and Apple Music downloads
- Preserve ID3 tags and metadata
- 30X faster conversion speed
- Batch convert multiple songs or full albums
- Additional audio editing tools
iMusic provides high-quality iTunes to MP3 conversion and works much faster than iTunes’ built-in converter. It can directly download and convert Apple Music streams as well. The intuitive interface makes it easy for beginners to use.
2. NoteBurner iTunes Audio Converter
NoteBurner is another top iTunes audio converter for Windows and Mac. It can fully remove DRM protection and convert all your iTunes media, including:
- iTunes music – M4P, M4A, M4B
- Apple Music streams
- Audiobooks
NoteBurner provides customized output settings so you can fine-tune quality, metadata, filenames, etc. It also works fully automatically so no technical skills are required. The simple interface allows rapid batch conversion.
3. TunesKit Audio Converter
TunesKit is a dedicated iTunes audio converter for Windows and Mac. Highlights include:
- Lossless audio quality conversion
- Preserves all metadata and tags
- Supports latest iTunes 12.10+
- Batch convert music 10X faster
TunesKit is specially designed for iTunes and Apple Music, making it simple for novices to use. It perfectly retains the quality and details of your music library when converting iTunes media to unprotected MP3 files.
Step-by-Step Guide Using iSkysoft iMusic
Here is a walkthrough for using iSkysoft iMusic to convert iTunes music and Apple Music downloads to high-quality MP3 format:
- Download and install iMusic on your computer. Open the program.
- Click the Library icon > Add button and select iTunes Library to import your music. Alternatively, you can add files directly from Apple Music using the Music tab.
- Select the AAC/M4P songs or albums you want to convert. Click the dropdown menu next to Convert and choose MP3 as output format.
- Customize MP3 parameters like bitrate, quality, etc under Settings. Higher bitrates produce better audio quality.
- Click Convert to begin batch conversion to MP3 format. The process runs 30X faster than iTunes.
- When finished, click Converted to access your DRM-free MP3 music files and play them on any compatible device.
The straightfoward interface of iMusic paired with advanced audio conversion technology makes it easy for anyone to convert iTunes purchases, Apple Music downloads, or audiobooks to high-quality MP3 files.
Alternative Free Online Converters
If you only need to occasionally convert iTunes music to MP3, there are also free online audio converter websites you can use:
- Zamzar – Supports wide range of formats. Can convert files up to 100 MB.
- Online Audio Converter – Simple drag and drop interface. Allows batch conversions.
- MediaHuman Audio Converter – No limits on files or lengths. Works fully online.
- FileZigZag – Intuitive site supporting 150 MB files.
These free web-based tools allow quick, one-off iTunes to MP3 conversion. However, they have file size limits for free users. They also cannot convert DRM-protected content like proprietary Apple Music downloads.
Final Tips
- When possible, use original high-quality source files for conversion to avoid quality loss
- Higher MP3 bitrates preserve more detail, but increase file sizes
- ID3 tags with metadata (song details) are usually retained in conversion
- Converting older protected iTunes music purchases requires dedicated DRM removal software
Converting iTunes media to the MP3 format provides much more flexibility in listening to your music library across various platforms and devices. This guide covered multiple methods enabling easy iTunes to MP3 conversion using both software tools and online converter sites. Let us know if you have any other questions!
Citations:
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