Apple Music offers a huge catalog of songs for streaming, but there's a catch: most of the music you download is locked by something called Digital Rights Management (DRM). This means that you can't play your downloaded tracks on just any device, like an MP3 player, or easily convert them into a different format like MP3. Apple Music uses a special file format called M4P for downloaded songs, and you can't convert it to MP3 using iTunes or the Music app.
However, songs you purchase directly from the iTunes Store don't carry this DRM protection. These tracks come in a format called AAC (Advanced Audio Coding), which is excellent but not as widely supported as MP3.
Apple realizes that this can be inconvenient for users who want more flexibility with their music. That's why there are tools available to help you convert Apple Music to MP3, so you can play your songs anywhere.
I've been using Apple Music for a while now, and since I figured out how to convert my music to MP3, it's made things so much easier. If you want to enjoy your music on different devices, or just want a backup, converting to MP3 is the way to go. Let's dive into how you can do it.
Best Tools to Convert Apple Music to MP3
Converting Apple Music to MP3 requires the right tool, depending on your needs and preferences. Tools like ViWizard Apple Music Converter offer a comprehensive solution with advanced features, working seamlessly with Apple Music, podcasts, and audiobooks. However, options like Apple Music MP3 Encoder offer a simpler interface but may lack the ability to convert streaming music from an Apple Music subscription. Below, I've broken down some of the most popular options to help you find the best fit.
Feature | Advantages | Disadvantages | Best For |
---|---|---|---|
ViWizard Apple Music Converter | Easy to use, fast conversion, high-quality output, supports various audio sources | Requires installation, paid software | Users looking for a seamless solution with advanced customization options |
Apple Music MP3 Encoder | Free, built-in on both Windows and macOS | Only works with iTunes purchases and local files, no DRM removal | Those wanting a quick, no-cost option for converting iTunes purchases |
ViWizard Audio Capture | Real-time recording, customizable, can capture multiple tracks at once | No DRM removal, requires installation | Users needing to record audio in real-time or capture multiple tracks |
Audacity | Advanced editing, supports VST plugins and detailed audio manipulation | Steep learning curve, complex interface for beginners | Audio enthusiasts needing deep editing capabilities |
APPL Apple Music Downloader | Online platform, no installation needed, quick MP3 conversion | Uncertain music source, quality verification may be necessary | Users needing quick MP3 conversion without installing software |
Are you still searching for a good Apple Music downloader? Here we've collected the top 5 Apple Music downloaders that can download Apple Music to a plain format without much effort.
Method 1. Convert Apple Music to MP3 [ViWizard Apple Music Converter]
Best DRM-Removal, Various Contents and Formats Support
ViWizard Apple Music Converter makes converting Apple Music to MP3 easy and hassle-free. It removes DRM protection from your tracks, allowing you to convert them into MP3 format. Unlike iTunes or the Music app, which don't support MP3 conversion for streaming content, ViWizard offers a simple solution.
What's great about ViWizard is its seamless integration with iTunes. You can access your entire iTunes library directly within the app, making it easy to convert not just Apple Music, but also iTunes purchases, podcasts, audiobooks, and even your own audio files.
ViWizard also lets you customize your output. You can choose from several formats, including MP3, AAC, WAV, or FLAC, and adjust settings like bit rate and sample rate to suit your preferences. Whether you're optimizing for quality or device compatibility, ViWizard has you covered.
Speed is another plus. ViWizard converts files up to 30 times faster than many other tools, which means you can quickly convert entire albums or playlists without waiting around. Unlike real-time recording options like Audacity, ViWizard maintains high audio quality and preserves your ID3 tags.
However, keep in mind that ViWizard is for personal use only. Make sure you respect copyright laws and avoid using the downloaded tracks for commercial purposes.
Key Features of ViWizard Audio Converter
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- Convert songs, albums, and playlists from Apple Music to MP3
- Remove DRM protection from Apple Music, iTunes, and Audible
- Save the converted audios with the original quality and ID3 tags
- Support the conversion of up to 100 audio formats to others
BASIC INFO:
Converting and Downloading Apple Music to MP3 Using ViWizard Apple Music Converter:
- Open ViWizard Audio Converter on your computer.
- Click "Add Files" or drag your downloaded Apple Music songs into the program.
- After importing, go to the "Format" option at the bottom.
- Choose MP3 as the output format.
- Adjust music quality settings if needed (codec, channel, bit rate, sample rate).
- Click "Convert" on the ViWizard interface to begin the conversion process.
- Wait for the conversion to finish.
- Access the converted MP3 tracks in the "Converted" section at the top.
Method 2. Convert Apple Music to MP3 [Apple Music MP3 Encoder]
Simple and Fast, No Software Installation Required
Yes, you can convert Apple Music to MP3 directly within iTunes, and it's a straightforward, cost-free option. Available for both Windows and Mac users, this built-in tool makes it easy to convert DRM-free tracks from iTunes or the Music app, such as your iTunes purchases and any audio files you've uploaded to iTunes.
A key advantage of using this MP3 encoder is that the MP3 version of your tracks is saved alongside the original files, giving you the flexibility to keep both versions or replace the originals with the converted ones. However, it's important to note that this method doesn't work for streaming tracks from Apple Music that are protected by DRM. If you're looking to convert DRM-protected Apple Music songs or need more control over the conversion process, ViWizard is the better option.
Wanna convert iTunes Library to MP3? Cannot convert protected files in iTunes? Don't worry. In this tutorial, we'll help you to convert all music (including Apple Music songs) from your iTunes Library to MP3.
BASIC INFO:
- Recommendation: ★★★★★
- Devices: Windows, macOS (Catalina and later)
- Content Supported: iTunes purchases and locally stored files
- Output Formats: MP3, AAC, WAV, AIFF, Apple Lossless
- Speed: Depended on system specifications
- Quality: Maintain original quality
- DRM Removal: ×
- User-Friendly: √
Converting and Exporting Apple Music to MP3 Using iTunes' MP3 Encoder:
- Launch the iTunes application on your computer.
- Purchase or import the Apple Music tracks you want to convert. To purchase Apple Music tracks, use the search bar in the upper-right corner of the iTunes Store to find and select the songs you wish to purchase. If you decide to purchase it, click the price next to the songs.
- To import Apple Music tracks, click "File" and selecting "Add File to Library" or "Add Folder to Library." Alternatively, you can drag and drop the files directly into your iTunes library.
- In iTunes, go to "Edit" (on Windows) or "iTunes" (on Mac) and select "Preferences."
- In the Preferences window, navigate to the "General" tab and click on "Import Settings."
- Choose "MP3 Encoder" as the import format.
- In your iTunes library, select the AAC songs or local files you want to convert to MP3.
- Right-click on the selected tracks, and from the context menu, choose "Create MP3 version." iTunes will convert the selected tracks to MP3 format.
- You can find the newly created MP3 versions in your iTunes library alongside the original Apple Music tracks.
Method 3. Convert Apple Music to MP3 [ViWizard Apple Music Recorder]
Real-Time Recording, Customizable and Seamless MP3 Conversion
ViWizard Apple Music Recorder is a simple and effective tool for recording Apple Music tracks directly to MP3. Unlike standard converters, it records music in real time, allowing you to save your favorite songs from Apple Music, iTunes, or the Music app as they play. It's easy to use on both Windows and Mac, making it a great option for most users.
It also offers customization features like trimming, merging, and removing parts of your recordings, making it ideal for those who want a personalized experience. ViWizard can even record multiple tracks simultaneously, automatically splitting them between songs without any manual adjustments - something other recorders, like Audacity, require you to do. It's perfect for building your personal library and creating options like ringtones from those MP3 tracks, all without worrying about DRM protection.
Key Features of ViWizard Audio Capture
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- Lossless Apple Music recording software on computer
- Support multi-track audio recording
- Cut, trim and merge recordings flexibly
- Keep and fix ID3 tags of Apple Music music
- Capture any other sound play on computer
BASIC INFO:
- Recommendation: ★★★★★
- Devices: Windows, macOS
- Content Supported: Streaming services and local media players
- Output Formats: MP3, AAC, WAV, FLAC, M4A, M4B
- Speed: Real-time recording
- Quality: Maintain original quality
- DRM Removal: ×
- User-Friendly: √
Capturing and Saving Apple Music to MP3 Using ViWizard Audio Capture:
- Download and install ViWizard Audio Capture on your computer (available for both Windows and Mac).
- Launch the software.
- In the ViWizard Audio Capture interface, you'll see a list of programs or web browsers. Find and enable the program or browser where you'll play your Apple Music.
- Click the "Format" tab and select "MP3" as the output format. Adjust other settings like bit rate and sample rate according to your preferences.
- Play the Apple Music track you want to record from your chosen source.
- ViWizard will start capturing the audio in real-time. You'll see a recording progress bar.
- Once the track is finished playing, ViWizard will stop recording, and you can find the recorded MP3 in the specified output folder.
This user guide is here to show you the easy steps to record any audio played on your computer via web or media players or other programs with ViWizard Audio Capture.
Method 4. Convert Apple Music to MP3 [Audacity]
Versatile Audio Editing, Ideal for Advanced Customization
If you're looking for a versatile, open-source solution to convert Apple Music to MP3, Audacity is a solid choice. Audacity allows you to record Apple Music tracks in real time as they play on your computer. It's free to use and works on both Windows and Mac, making it accessible for most users.
While Audacity isn't specifically designed for Apple Music, it's a great option for those who want to capture tracks from any audio source. After recording, you can easily export your files as MP3s. Audacity also has a rich set of editing tools, which makes it ideal for users who want to get creative with their recordings, like adding effects or fine-tuning the audio. However, this may be more than what some users need. For a simpler, more straightforward conversion, tools like ViWizard Apple Music Converter may be a better fit, as they offer a user-friendly interface and faster results.
BASIC INFO:
- Recommendation: ★★★★★
- Devices: Windows, macOS, Linux
- Content Supported: Device's soundcard or external sources
- Output Formats: MP3, WAV, and AIFF
- Speed: Real-time recording
- Quality: Maintain high quality
- DRM Removal: ×
- User-Friendly: √ (with a learning curve)
Recording and Exporting Apple Music to MP3 Using Audacity:
- Download and install Audacity on your computer (available for Windows, macOS, and Linux).
- Launch Audacity.
- In Audacity, navigate to "Edit" and select "Preferences."
- In the Preferences window, go to the "Devices" section. Choose the appropriate audio recording device (typically the system's soundcard) under "Recording."
- Play the Apple Music track you want to record on your computer.
- Click the "Record" button in Audacity to start recording the audio as it plays in real-time.
- When the track has finished playing, click the "Stop" button in Audacity to end the recording.
- Edit the recorded audio if necessary, applying effects or making adjustments.
- Export the project as an MP3 file by going to "File" and selecting "Export" > "Export as MP3."
- Customize the MP3 export settings and save the file in your desired location.
For the best recording and exporting of Apple Music to MP3, consider exploring the following recording software options:
Method 5. Convert Apple Music to MP3 [APPL Music Downloader]
Free, Web-Based, No Software Installation Needed
APPLmusicdownloader is a free and simple online tool that lets you download Apple Music songs, albums, and playlists as MP3 files in 320Kbps. It works directly in your browser, so there's no need to install any extra software. It's compatible with browsers like Google Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Opera, and others.
A great feature is its bulk downloader, which lets you download entire Apple Music playlists with just one click. It's fast and convenient if you want to download a lot of music at once.
While APPLMusicDownloader is easy to use and free, it doesn't offer as much customization as tools like ViWizard Apple Music Converter. If you're looking for more control and better conversion options, ViWizard would be a better fit.
BASIC INFO:
- Recommendation: ★★★★★
- Devices: Windows, macOS, and Mobile Devices (with a web-based tool)
- Content Supported: Apple Music
- Output Formats: MP3 only
- Speed: Depended on internet speed
- Quality: Maintain high quality
- DRM Removal: ×
- User-Friendly: √
Downloading Apple Music to MP3 using Soundloaders Apple Music Downloader:
- Visit the APPLMusicDownloader website at APPLMusicDownloader.com.
- On the homepage, you can either use the online downloader directly or download the APPLMusicDownloader app for Windows or Mac. Choose the option that suits you.
- If you're using the online version, no installation is needed. If you prefer the app, install it by following the instructions after the download completes.
- Open APPLMusicDownloader (either the website or the app) on your computer.
- To find the music you want, go to Apple Music (either the app or web player) and locate the song, album, or playlist.
- Once you've found the content, click the three dots menu (ellipsis) next to the music, then select Share and Copy Link to copy the URL.
- Go back to APPLMusicDownloader and paste the copied URL into the input field at the top of the page.
- Click Search, and once the results load, APPLMusicDownloader will automatically redirect you to the download page.
- On the download page, you'll see the available download options. For individual songs or playlists, click the Download button next to the track or Download All Songs if you want to save an entire playlist.
- The MP3 files will begin downloading directly to your device.
Converting Apple Music to MP3 FAQ:
Is It Legal to Convert Apple Music to MP3?
It depends on where you live and how you plan to use the converted files. Apple Music tracks are protected by DRM, and removing this protection might break copyright laws like the DMCA in the U.S. or Apple's Terms of Service. In some places, converting music for personal use is allowed, but it's still legally risky. Always check your local laws to be sure.
Will My Apple Music Tracks Still Work After Conversion?
No, Apple Music tracks are tied to your subscription. Once you cancel, you'll lose access to them. However, if you convert the songs to MP3, you can keep them. Just remember, this goes against Apple's rules and might have legal consequences.
Does Converting Apple Music Lower the Sound Quality?
Yes, converting from Apple's AAC format to MP3 can reduce sound quality because of double compression. To keep the quality as high as possible, use a higher bitrate like 320 kbps during conversion. While it won't match the original, the difference may not be noticeable to most listeners.
What Tools Can I Use to Convert Apple Music, and Are They Safe?
Tools like ViWizard, Tunelf, and Noteburner can remove DRM and convert Apple Music to MP3 or other formats. These tools are generally safe, but using them could violate Apple's terms. If you stick to personal use and don't share the files, the risk is lower, but caution is still needed.
Can Apple Tell If I Convert Apple Music to MP3?
Apple doesn't actively monitor for DRM removal, but sharing the converted files could lead to penalties. To stay safe, keep the MP3 files for personal use only and avoid uploading or distributing them.
Conclusion
To wrap it up, all the ways are great options to convert Apple Music to MP3 effortlessly. But if you want to convert protected Apple Music files, you need to use a professional Apple Music to MP3 converter like ViWizard Audio Converter or an audio recorder like ViWizard Audio Capture. And if you are caring much about the output music quality, you are recommended to go for ViWizard Audio Converter instead of other solutions, as ViWizard Audio Converter can keep highly quality while converting Apple Music files to MP3.
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