Convert Any Type of Audio in Windows Media Player
Windows Media Player (WMP) is an application that comes pre-installed on Windows PCs. WMP is designed to play audio and video files, and even has its own file type (.WMA) that usually doesn’t work in other software. While earlier editions of the player lacked the ability to play anything other than WMA files, the latest version makes it possible for you to listen to virtually any audio type. And, with a few tweaks, it’s even possible to convert those WMA files so you can listen to them anywhere.
Contents
Steps
Playing Any Audio File
- Upgrade Windows Media Player (WMP) to the latest version. Users of Windows 7, 8, 10 and above should be using (at least) WMP 12. Windows XP and Vista users can only update to WMP 11.
- Open WMP and click “Help,” then “Check for Updates.” Older versions of WMP should have a Help menu at the top of the screen, but you may need to first enable the menu bar. If you don’t see a Help menu, click “Organize” then navigate to “Layout.” Put a check next to “Show Menu Bar,” then open the “Help” menu to select “Check for updates.”
- As long as you’re connected to the Internet, WMP will check for a new version. If you see a message that you should install a new version, follow the on-screen instructions, then re-open WMP once the process completes. Windows 7, 8 and 10 users will now have WMP 12, and XP and Vista users should have WMP 11.
- Download a codec pack that includes DirectShow. Microsoft requires specific software (called codecs) to create and play back many file types, such as the Apple AAC format. WMP 11 users must complete this step, but it’s optional for WMP 12 users. WMP 12 users should definitely install this if you want to put music on your iPhone or iPad.
- Go to https://www.mediaplayercodecpack.com in your web browser and click “Click to Download.” Experts recommend this codec pack, as it’s free and simple to use. Select a memorable location to save the file.
- Once the download is complete, double-click the new file on your desktop that has “codec” in the name. When the software loads, select “Detailed installation” and click “Next.”
- Click “I Agree” at the agreement screen, then click “Decline” to the Yahoo! Offer. On the next screen, click “Install.” Once the installation is complete, restart WMP.
- Import music into your library. Your player is now capable of playing many different audio types, such as Mp3, Mp4 and AAC. Import your files by or by adding music to your library.
Ripping Music From CD to Any File Type
- Update Windows Media Player (WMP) to the latest version. Older versions of WMP have fewer audio format options. XP and Vista users can update to WMP 11, while Windows 7 users and later can use WMP 12.
- Click “Organize” then open the “Layout” menu. Choose “Show menu bar.” Click “Help,” then “Check for updates.” If you have the latest version, you’ll see a message that says so. If not, follow the on-screen instructions to install the update.
- If you don’t see an “Organize” menu but see a “Rip CD” menu, click on it and select “Help” there. Check for updates and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Choose the type of audio files to create. Click “Organize,” then “Options.” Go to the “Rip Music” tab and look at the area of the screen beneath “Rip Settings.”
- You’ll see a list of file types in the “Format” menu. As you browse different formats by clicking on them, pay attention to the box near the bottom of the screen that says “Audio Quality.” The higher the bitrate (kbps) and file size (MB), the better the file will sound.
- Mp3 files are known for their portability and great sound within a manageable file size. FLAC files are preferred by audiophiles, but the sizes of the files can be double the size of an Mp3.
- .WMA (Windows Media Audio) files are made to play only on Windows devices. to make them playable on other devices.
- If you plan to use audio files with musical instruments, such as a sampler or synthesizer, choose .WAV for optimal compatibility.
- Set a location for your files to be stored. On the same screen (Rip Music), note of the full path beneath “Rip music to this location.” You can change it to a different folder or drive by clicking “Change” and choosing a new location.
- Click “OK.” This will save your settings. If you ever want to rip music in a different file type, you’ll need to return to that menu to adjust the settings.
- Put the CD into the CD drive. Depending on your settings, you’ll start ripping the CD in one of two ways:
- If a dialog box pops up asking if you’d like to rip the CD, choose “Yes.”
- On the main screen of WMP, click “Rip CD” below the menu bar. Click “Yes” to start the process.
- Remove the CD. Your files have been added to your WMP library so you can play them on your computer.
Using a Third-Party Tool to Convert a Windows Media File
- Find a tool that works with Windows Media files. For example, if you have .WMA (Windows Media Audio) files you’d like to convert to Mp3, you’ll need a tool that supports both file types.
- Freemake is free and incredibly easy to use. Visit their site and click “Free Download.” Choose a location you’ll remember and save the installer. Once the download is complete, double-click the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Audacity is popular and free, but not for beginners. Audacity converts many types of audio for free, but you’ll need to install plugins to convert to and from WMA. Download the installer, the LAME MP3 encoder, and the FFmpeg import/export. Install them in that order.
- Try an online tool. If you’re just working with one or two files, an online audio converter may be all you need. Sites like http://www.media.io and http://www.online-convert.com are free and popular.
- Open the file you want to convert in your conversion software. If you installed software like Freemake or Audacity, open the software and then find the audio file by clicking “Audio” or “File,” then “Open.” If you’re using a web tool, find a button that says something like “upload” or “add file” and select the file.
- Choose a destination audio format. In Audacity, go to “File,” then “Export” to choose a format. In Freemake and most online tools, click the file type in the list (such as .Mp3 or .WMA).
- Convert the file. Click “Convert” or “Export” to begin the conversion. Depending on the speed of your computer and the size of the file, this can take a few minutes. Most tools will ask where you want to save the new file, so select a location. Once the conversion is done, open the file in your desired media player and enjoy.
Tips
- Having Windows doesn’t mean you’re limited to using Windows Media Player. Popular alternatives are VLC Media Player, iTunes and MusicBee.
Warnings
- Never download software without adequate virus and malware protection.
- Converting copyright-protected files may be illegal in your area. Be familiar with the laws in your area before downloading or converting copyrighted files.
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