Many audio tools utilise WAV files for recording sound. Some call recording apps use WAV files, rather than MP3. But WAV files have up more space, and then it makes sense to convert the WAV file to MP3.

But how tin can you lot change a WAV file to MP3? Hither are some methods to do just that.

Why Convert a WAV file to MP3?

WAV (Waveform Audio File Format) files have been around for decades, longer than MP3. They record audio waves, giving a very close digital representation of an analogue phenomenon. While WAV files can store compressed audio, it'due south more usual to find uncompressed audio in a WAV file.

Converting a WAV to MP3 is straightforward but finding the tools to do so might prove tricky. But why would anyone want to convert the files?

  • The WAV file takes upward also much storage space
  • Information technology's easier to edit an MP3 file
  • MP3 files are easier to share

Information technology makes sense to convert WAV files to MP3, peculiarly if it is audio you want to keep long-term.

PC users have three key tools for converting WAV files to other formats:

  1. VLC Media Player
  2. Brazenness
  3. iTunes

For a quick and easy option, especially useful if you lot have a low-spec PC, online converters are available.

VLC Media Player layer is one of the well-nigh popular costless tools across all platforms. Free, open source and cross-platform, it'southward capable of playing, streaming, and converting media. This makes it the ideal tool for converting WAV files to MP3.

Indeed, information technology can convert any media file into another of the same type (for instance Audio A to Audio B, Video A to Video B). In some cases, it can fifty-fifty catechumen from video to audio, by saving the sound track from a video.

Because VLC Media Thespian is open source, you don't demand to pay for a license. However, if yous notice it useful, information technology's worth supporting the project with a donation.

Download: VLC Media Thespian (Costless)

To convert audio files in VLC Media Histrion, launch the app and open Media > Catechumen/Save.

Open files to convert in VLC

In the File tab, click Add together. Browse to the WAV file y'all're converting and select Open. Click Convert/Save and open up the Profile drop-down carte. Here, find the Sound - MP3 pick.

Convert WAV to MP3 in VLC

Select this, then set a filename and destination for the converted file in Destination.

Finally, click Commencement to begin conversion. A few minutes later, the new MP3 file should be ready to open from the destination location.

Convert a WAV to MP3 Using Audacity

Another free and open source tool you tin can install that converts WAV files to MP3s is Audacity. More usually known equally one of the most popular audio editing tools, Audacity is a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW).

Similar VLC Media Actor, Audacity is free and open up source software, supported by donations.

Download: Audacity (Free)

To convert your WAV file to an MP3, first run Brazenness and then File > Open to browse to the WAV file. Once opened, check the file, perhaps cutting unwanted audio or trimming the length. When you're happy, apply the menu control File > Export > Export as MP3 to start the conversion.

Use Audacity to convert WAV files to MP3

Enter a new name when prompted, then Salve. You have the selection of setting tags for your MP3 file.

Information technology'south also possible to export a portion of the WAV file every bit MP3. Offset, select the portion you lot want to export, so File > Export > Export selected sound. Utilise the Salve as type box to select the consign format, so Save and add tags if necessary.

Both options result in the creation of an MP3 file.

Utilize iTunes to Convert a WAV file to MP3

If you don't have iTunes on your PC, you probably don't own an iPhone or iPad. Apple's desktop software synchronizes data from your PC to an iOS device, and vice versa.

However, iTunes also features several useful tools for converting audio file formats. One of these is a WAV to MP3 converter.

Download: iTunes (free)

To use the converter, y'all showtime need to set up the import settings. In iTunes, open Edit > Preferences. On the General tab, find Import Settings and modify the Import Using driblet-downward choice to MP3 Encoder. Adjust the quality setting to meet your requirements, then click OK to confirm, and once again to exit.

You can use iTunes to convert WAV files to MP3

Next, observe the WAV file on your computer, right-click, and select Open with > iTunes. Alternatively, utilise Add File to Library from the File menu in iTunes.

Find the WAV file in iTunes and correct-click. On the context menu, find Create MP3 Version. Alternatively, select the WAV file so open up File > Create New Version > Create MP3 Version.

Convert WAV files to MP3 with iTunes import and conversion tool

It'due south every bit easy equally that.

Best Online WAV to MP3 Converters

If yous're looking for a quick and dirty conversion, various online tools support WAV to MP3 converters.

A simple favorite is Zamzar.com, a tool designed for converting almost any filetype y'all can think of. This includes WAV and MP3 formats.

Start past heading to www.zamzar.com. Find the Add files button and use this to browse your PC for the WAV file. Alternatively, open the relevant directory on your PC and drag the WAV file onto the button. The WAV file will exist identified.

Side by side, click the Convert To drop downward bill of fare and select mp3.

Convert a WAV file to MP3 with Zamzar

When you're ready (and the file has uploaded) click Catechumen At present. Wait while the file converts; when done y'all'll see the Download button to save the MP3 file to your PC.

Every bit the site'south slogan boasts, this is "file conversion made easy." And so long equally you accept a good net connection, this is the ideal solution for depression-spec PCs, mobiles, and Chromebooks. Notation that Zamzar has a file upload and conversion limit---to overcome this, y'all tin sign upward for a subscription.

Don't like Zamzar? Check our listing of the best online file converters for more sites.

Converting WAV Flies to MP3 Is Piece of cake!

Past this stage yous should know how to change a WAV file to MP3. It's possible with online tools (including zamzar.com) as well equally desktop apps.

While Audacity, VLC, and iTunes are all adept at converting a bulky WAV file into a compact MP3, you'll find in many cases that online converters are simpler and more convenient.

Most audio files can exist converted to MP3. It saves space, making it ideal for a depression-storage device like a phone or tablet. Here's how to convert FLAC audio to MP3.

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Christian Cawley (1574 Manufactures Published)

Deputy Editor for Security, Linux, DIY, Programming, and Tech Explained, and Really Useful Podcast producer, with extensive feel in desktop and software support. A contributor to Linux Format mag, Christian is a Raspberry Pi tinkerer, Lego lover and retro gaming fan.

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