Good m4P (iTunes format) to mp3 converter?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around finding effective methods to convert m4P files (iTunes format) to MP3. Participants explore various software options, legal considerations, and alternative approaches to handle protected music files.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about reliable m4P to MP3 converters, expressing frustration with previous attempts using shareware programs.
  • Another suggests using any media player with AAC playback capabilities to convert m4P to WAV, which can then be re-encoded to MP3, mentioning Winamp as a potential tool.
  • A participant shares a discovery of the application JHymn as a possible solution, referencing a forum discussion that highlights its potential effectiveness.
  • Concerns are raised about the legality of removing DRM from purchased music, with one participant suggesting burning tracks to CD and then importing them as MP3s, while noting a potential drop in sound quality.
  • One participant points out that iTunes has a built-in feature for converting to MP3, but another expresses confusion over encountering a message about protected files being unconvertible.
  • A participant questions the rationale behind converting m4P files instead of directly purchasing MP3 versions, suggesting that prices may vary.
  • Another participant recommends dbPoweramp for format conversion, noting the need to download encoding codecs for it to function properly.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a mix of suggestions and concerns regarding the conversion process, with no consensus on the best method or the legality of certain actions. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the most effective and lawful approach to convert m4P files.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention the limitations of certain software and the implications of DRM on conversion options, as well as the potential quality loss when converting formats.

FredGarvin
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Does anyone know of a good m4P (iTunes format) to mp3 converter? I have tried a couple of shareware progs that say they can do it, but I have had no luck. Thanks.
 
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Any media player with AAC playback capability can at the very least convert it to WAV from where you can then reencode into MP3. Winamp has a built-in wav writer in its output plugins. You might even be able to find a direct converter plugin.
 
I'll try that. Thanks for the help.
 
Just thought I'd share...

After Mezarashi's suggestion about WinAmp I did some looking around and came across a forum for Winamp. I found a post that put me onto this application JHymn. I have yet to try it, but it looks promising. I also agree with what the author says about DRM and all.

MODS: If this post is inappropriate, please let me know and I will delete it.
 
Removing the protected tags from purchased music is illegal, but you could burn them on a CD and then import them as MP3 which is not illegal but the quality of the sound will drop.
 
Fred, you can convert to mp3 using iTunes. Just go under help and search for "convert to mp3." The first article that comes up explains how to do it.
 
Really? Damn. I feel even more stupid now. Thanks for the info.

EDIT: I may be missing something here, but I tried converting a tune bought thru iTunes and I get a message that says protected files can not be converted. Harumph.
 
Last edited:
This might be a stupid question, but why don't you just download mp3 copies of the songs you want to convert? In fact, in the future, why not just buy from mp3.com or another site that sells mp3s? Are their prices different?
 
dbPoweramp is v good for converting between formats, cept u need to dl the encoding codecs as well.
 

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