M1-based Mac systems present remarkable advancements in technology with improved performance and energy efficiency. This guide explains how to convert MP4 to MP3 on your M1 Mac. MP4 is a widely accepted video format, while MP3 is preferred for audio. You may encounter situations where you’ll need to extract audio from MP4 videos, creating a smaller size file that is also easier to play and share.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Convert MP4 to MP3
There are several reasons why you might want to convert an MP4 video file to MP3 audio format, some of which include:
1. Improved Compatibility: MP4 files can play on video players as well as audio-playing devices. However, not all music players can handle MP4 files, which makes converting them to MP3s an excellent option to boost compatibility.
2. Reducing File Size: MP4 is a video format and is quite massive due to the presence of both video and audio components. Stripping the audio from the video and converting it to an MP3 file produces a smaller-sized file while maintaining the audio quality.
3. Want Audio Only: Sometimes, you may need to have only the audio of an MP4 file. Converting the file to an MP3 format is useful so that you can listen to it anywhere you want without video.
Method 1: Via Apple’s Default Video App
You can convert MP4 to MP3 on your M1 Mac using the default video app by following these easy steps:
1. Open the Apple Video app
2. Click the file you want to convert and select "File"
3. By default, Apple’s Video app will open a video file. To convert the file to MP3, click on ‘File’ and then select ‘Export Audio’
4. From the menu that appears, select MP3 as the output format and the desired location to save the file
5. Click "Save" to start the conversion process
6. After the conversion is complete, you’ll find your new MP3 file in the location that you selected in step 4.
Pros
– You have the option to choose the output location
– Apple’s default app is pre-installed on your Mac
– Basic method, no complications
Cons
– Limited options to customize settings
– Some users may find the steps are inconvenient
Method 2: Via iTunes
Apple’s iTunes is another excellent option for converting MP4 to MP3 on your M1 Mac.
1. Open iTunes media player on your Mac
2. Add the MP4 file(s) you want to convert by clicking "File" then "Add to Library".
3. Once the files are added, click on "Preferences" from the "iTunes" menu and then select the "General" tab
4. Click on the "Import Settings" button and adjust the settings to "MP3 Encoder"; click OK
5. Highlight the files you wish to convert, then click "File" and select "Convert" > "Create MP3 Version"
6. The files will start to convert at once, and you can find the new converted MP3 files under the same album and song name in the Library.
Pros
– iTunes is a versatile media app with editing tools
– You can customize settings to your specifications
– Your library is organized, which makes searching easy
Cons
– The method is time-consuming
– The app is not as simple as some users might want
Method 3: Via Third-Party App – VideoProc
VideoProc, a third-party app, is an affordable option for converting MP4 to MP3 on M1 Mac with additional features like video editing and batch conversion.
1. Download and install VideoProc from their website.
2. Click on the "+Video" button to import your MP4 file
3. Click on "Audio" to select MP3 as the output format from the bottom right corner
4. Choose the desired output settings; you can also edit the resulting MP3’s quality, bitrate, and more.
5. Begin converting by clicking "RUN" in the bottom right corner
Pros
– Advanced settings for making modifications
– Batch conversion and video editing capabilities
– High-quality audio conversions and customizations
Cons
– Relatively expensive when compared to the first two methods
– Third-party app brings possible system app incompatibilities
What to Do If You Can’t Convert MP4 to MP3?
There are some common reasons why you may not be able to convert MP4 files to MP3 format. Troubleshoot the following issues:
– Unsupported format – Make sure that the software you’re using supports MP4 and MP3 formats. If the format isn’t compatible, then the conversion won’t be successful.
– Corrupt file – If the file has become corrupted, you may not be able to convert it to MP3 format. Try opening the file in a media player to see whether it is playable.
– Broken software – If the conversion software isn’t working as it should, try uninstalling and reinstalling it. Update the software or use a different one if the problem persists.
Bonus Tip: What Else Can VideoProc Do?
VideoProc is more than just a video and audio converter; it has several other features such as:
– Video editing: VideoProc offers a suite of editing tools to trim, crop, add watermarks, effects, subtitles, etc.
– Screen recording: It can record the screen and webcam for creating tutorials, presentations, or videos.
– DVD digitization: VideoProc helps to digitize DVDs to any format of your choice while preserving the high-quality nature of the original.
– Downloading online videos: It supports video downloads from over 1000 websites, including YouTube, Facebook, Vimeo, and Twitter.
5 FAQs on How to Convert MP4 to MP3 on M1 Mac
Q1. Can I Convert MP4 Video to MP3 on My M1 Mac Without Any Software?
A1. Yes, you can use the default video player app to convert MP4 to MP3. Follow the steps as explained in Method 1.
Q2. Can Converted MP3 Files Keep Their Original Audio Quality?
A2. Yes, the audio quality of the converted MP3 files depends on the converter you use. Third-party apps like VideoProc, which offer advanced settings, can help to preserve the original quality of the converted file.
Q3. How Can I Customize Output Settings When Converting MP4 to MP3?
A3. Certain software like iTunes and VideoProc offer an extensive range of settings to customize the output format.
For iTunes, click on "Preferences" from the "iTunes" menu and then select the "General" tab. Click on "Import
Settings" and set your preferred output format to MP3. To customize output settings in VideoProc, go to the
"Output Format" button and define your preferences.
Q4. Is It Possible to Convert MP4 Video Files to MP3 Format for Free?
A4. There are many free online converters out there, but some of them have limitations and may change the output quality. When using free software, it is essential to do your research and check for reviews.
Q5. Can I Convert Multiple MP4 Files to MP3 at Once?
A5. Yes, it is possible to convert multiple MP4 files to MP3 simultaneously. Software like VideoProc has a batch conversion function that enables you to convert multiple files at once.
Final Thoughts
M1 Mac is an excellent machine, and with its high-quality hardware and software, converting MP4 to MP3 has never been easier or more efficient. Converting MP4 to MP3 is very useful, and it can improve compatibility, reduce file size and make sharing easier. We have explained three methods to convert MP4 to MP3 on M1 Mac, depending on your preferences. Choose the most convenient method for you, or go with a third-party app like VideoProc that offers more features but comes at a price. If you experience any issues while converting MP4 to MP3, you can troubleshoot by checking for issues like corrupted files or broken software. Finally, converting MP4 to MP3 is just one feature of VideoProc; you can use the software to digitize DVDs, edit videos, download videos, and record your screen and webcam.