

For what it does offer, this little program functions very well. The conversion process itself is a little sluggish, and the maximum bit-rate of 128 kps for both MP3 and WMA file conversion leaves a bit to be desired.

The interface is relatively clear-cut, providing buttons to select songs, as well as drag and drop file selection. One of the more popular programs available is Applian Technologies Replay Converter (US $29.95) which converts files to and from a variety of audio and video formats. For Windows, there are many applications that will convert WMA files to MP3 (and back). ( NOTE: If you're looking for help converting iTunes music into MP3 format, look here.) Audio Conversion Software Most software and hardware media players incorporate MP3 support, but the problem lies in preparing your WMA files for those applications and devices that simply refuse to cooperate. So is there a cost-effective software solution, that can save time and eliminate the expense of all those throw-away CD's? But this can burn a lot of time, in addition to CDROM disks. So, what's a budding audiophile to do? Well, there's always the tedious method of gathering your incompatible songs and burning a standard audio CD, which will convert the files to PCM audio in the process, and then ripping the music from the CD to MP3 or WMA files. But when it comes to virtually any Microsoft-invented media format, the unfortunate user is out of luck, and the proper course of action may not be apparent.

For example, Apple's celebrated iTunes application and its corresponding iPod portable media player offer support for an array of consumer and professional audio formats.

But two of the top contenders - the ubiquitous MP3 format, and Microsoft's Windows Media Audio (WMA) - both offer good sound quality and portability.Īlthough both formats can be ideal for casual, and even critical listening, not all digital media players are universal in their support for both MP3 and WMA files. With the abundance of digital audio formats available for the mass consumption of music, a clear victor has yet to emerge.
