What is M4A?
M4A is Apple's audio container format, typically containing AAC or ALAC audio. When you download music from iTunes or rip CDs in Apple Music, you get M4A files. The format offers excellent quality with efficient compression.
M4A files can contain either lossy AAC audio (most common) or lossless ALAC audio. Both use the same .m4a extension, but ALAC preserves perfect audio quality like FLAC.
Why Convert M4A Files?
M4A works great in Apple ecosystem but may need conversion for:
- Non-Apple devices – Some players prefer MP3 format
- Older equipment – Legacy devices may not recognize M4A
- Editing software – Some audio editors prefer WAV
- Universal sharing – MP3 is guaranteed to work everywhere
Convert M4A to Other Formats
M4A to MP3
Universal compatibility for all devices and players. MP3 works everywhere, making it ideal for sharing and older equipment.
M4A to WAV
Uncompressed audio for editing. WAV files work in every audio editor and DAW without codec concerns.
M4A to FLAC
Cross-platform lossless format. If your M4A contains ALAC, converting to FLAC maintains lossless quality in a more widely supported format.
M4A to OGG
Open-source alternative for applications using royalty-free formats.
Convert Other Formats to M4A
Create M4A files for Apple devices:
MP3 to M4A
Upgrade for Apple ecosystem. M4A (AAC) handles audio more efficiently than MP3 at equivalent bitrates.
WAV to M4A
Compress for iTunes library. Reduce file sizes dramatically while maintaining excellent quality.
FLAC to M4A
Convert lossless to Apple format. Use ALAC encoding for lossless, AAC for smaller lossy files.
M4A Technical Specifications
- Full name: MPEG-4 Audio
- Developer: Apple / ISO
- File extension: .m4a
- Audio codecs: AAC (lossy) or ALAC (lossless)
- Bitrate range: 16-320 kbps (AAC), variable (ALAC)
- Container: MPEG-4 Part 14
M4A vs MP3
Key differences between the formats:
- Quality: M4A (AAC) sounds better than MP3 at the same bitrate
- Compatibility: MP3 works everywhere; M4A needs Apple-aware players
- File size: Similar at equivalent quality settings
- Features: M4A supports album art and metadata better
How to Convert M4A Files
- Upload your M4A file – Select your audio file
- Choose your output format – MP3, WAV, FLAC, OGG, and more
- Download converted file – Get your audio in the new format
Works on Any Device
Convert M4A files in your browser:
- Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook
- Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge
- iPhone, iPad, Android