How to Convert Apple Music to M4A: 2024 Comprehensive Guide

Part 1: What is M4A?

M4A, or MPEG-4 Audio, is a digital audio format developed by Apple, commonly used for music, audiobooks, and podcasts. It typically employs Advanced Audio Coding (AAC) for lossy compression, which reduces file size while preserving good audio quality. While AAC refers to the compression method, M4A is the file extension indicating the audio format, often represented as AAC(.m4a). M4A files are highly compatible across various platforms, including Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS, making them a popular choice for music distribution, especially via the iTunes Store.

MP3 vs. M4A vs. MP4, which is Better?

Features	MP3	M4A	MP4
Type	Audio format	Audio format (typically AAC)	Multimedia container format
Compression	Lossy compression	Lossy (usually AAC)	Can be lossy (H.264, AAC) or lossless
Audio Quality	Good, but can lose detail	Better quality at similar bit rates	High quality, supports various codecs
File Size	Generally larger for similar quality	Generally smaller for similar quality	Varies based on content and codecs used
Compatibility	Highly compatible with most devices and software	Compatible with many devices, especially Apple products	Widely supported across devices and platforms
Metadata Support	Basic support	Better support for album art and detailed metadata	Extensive metadata support
Licensing	No licensing fees	May have licensing fees for certain codecs (like AAC)	May have licensing fees: H.264 for video and AAC for audio
Use Cases	Music, podcasts, audiobooks	Music, especially in Apple ecosystems	Videos, music videos, and multimedia content

MP3: Primarily an audio format known for its wide compatibility and decent quality.

M4A: An audio format that offers better quality than MP3, often used in Apple environments.

MP4: A versatile multimedia container that can hold video, audio, subtitles, and more, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.

Part 2: Can I Get M4A from Apple Music?

Yes, you can obtain M4A files from Apple Music, but there are specific conditions to understand. Apple Music primarily operates as a streaming service, allowing users to listen to a vast library of songs. When you download music for offline listening, the files are stored in a protected format that is not directly accessible as standalone M4A files.

Downloading:

Apple Music allows users to download songs for offline listening. However, these downloaded tracks are encrypted and can only be played within the Apple Music app. They are not saved as traditional M4A files that you can freely move or share.

Purchasing Music:

If you want M4A files that you can keep and use without restrictions, purchasing music from the iTunes Store is the best option. Songs bought from the iTunes Store are typically available in M4A format and are DRM-free, meaning you can download and use them on any compatible device without limitations.

Importing Your Own M4A Files:

If you have your own M4A files, such as music you created or recordings, you can easily import them into the Apple Music app on your Mac or iOS device. This feature allows you to play your personal M4A files alongside the music available through your Apple Music subscription.

While you cannot directly download M4A files from Apple Music for unrestricted use, you can purchase music from the iTunes Store or import your own M4A files into the app. To get M4A files, you can use an audio conversion tool to convert existing files to M4A format and use iTunes to convert files in other formats to M4A. In the following section, we will discuss how to get M4A files.

Part 3: How to Convert Apple Music to M4A?

Converting Apple Music tracks to M4A format can be a useful way to create accessible audio files that you can keep and use freely. However, due to the restrictions on Apple Music downloads, you will need to use specific methods to convert these files.

3.1 Apple Music to M4A Software Options

Several software options can help you convert Apple Music tracks to M4A format. Here are some popular choices:

🟣 NoteCable Apple Music Converter -- Recommended !

NoteCable Apple Music Converter is a top tool for downloading Apple Music songs as local audio files in various formats, including MP3, AAC (.m4a), ALAC, AIFF (.m4a), WAV, and FLAC. It not only functions as an efficient downloader but also allows users to easily convert downloaded songs to their preferred format. With a 10x faster conversion speed, it eliminates long waiting times and ensures lossless audio quality, letting you enjoy your music in the best possible sound.

How to Use NoteCable to Download Apple Music to M4A:

Please follow the step-by-step tutorial below to learn how to save Apple Music songs to your computer in plain audio formats.

Step 1Install and Run the NoteCable Atunes Music Converter and Choose Conversion Mode

If you don't see the "Choose Conversion Mode" option in Step 1, simply move on to Step 2.

Launch the NoteCable Atunes Music Converter on your computer. And then you can choose App Mode or Webplayer Mode as your conversion mode.

Step 2Sign into Your Apple Music Account

You ought to enter the necessary information to access your Apple Music content with Webplayer Mode.

Step 3Choose the Output Settings

Default settings will output all the Apple Music to the original AAC 320kbps. If you want to change it and suit your own needs, you can go to the Settings part on the left panel. You can set up the output format, output sound quality, output folder, and output file name to meet your personal needs. For M4A files, you have two options: AAC (.m4a) and ALAC (.m4a).

Step 4Add Apple Music Playlists to Convert

Now, pick a playlist of the songs that you want to get them to get downloaded. By clicking on the feature Click to add, NoteCable will read the current playlist and put it in the conversion panel. You then can select the songs to convert.

A brilliant 10X conversion speed will cut off the costs of the time spent waiting.

Step 5 Check Out Complete Apple Music

Finally, you can move to the Converted section on the left bar. And by tapping the Folder icon after the songs, you can reach out to the local place.

Once the conversion is done, you can play Apple Music on any device you like, without the restrictions from network and devices.

🟣 Sidify Apple Music Converter

Sidify Apple Music Converter is specifically designed to download songs from Apple Music while maintaining the original sound quality. It features a user-friendly interface that allows you to easily locate Apple Music tracks and initiate the download process in just a few steps. The software supports batch conversion, enabling you to download multiple Apple Music songs and playlists simultaneously. Additionally, Sidify is compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems, making it accessible to a wide range of users.

How to Use Sidify to Download Apple Music to M4A:

Step 1Launch Sidify Apple Music Converter, select Webplayer Mode, and enter the converter's homepage. When the Apple web player window opens, log in to your Apple Music account to access your content.

Step 2From the Apple Music web player, find the playlist and click the "Click to add" button to add it to the converter.

Step 3Click the "Settings" icon in the left panel to select the output format (MP3, AAC, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, ALAC), quality, and output path. You can also customize the naming and organization of converted files. Like NoteCable, if you want to output M4A, you can choose AAC(.m4a) and ALAC(.m4a).

Step 4Click the "Convert" button to start converting Apple Music to M4A. Once finished, click the "Converted" tab to view all successfully converted songs. You can find the downloaded M4As in the output folder set earlier.

🟣 All-In-One Music Converter

Sidify All-in-One Converter is a versatile software tool designed for downloading and converting music from various streaming services, including Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Prime Music, Amazon Music Unlimited, Tidal, Deezer, YouTube Music, Pandora, Line Music, Audible AA/AAX audiobooks, YouTube and more. It allows users to convert songs into multiple formats like MP3, AAC, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, and ALAC while maintaining high audio quality.

How to Use All-In-One to Download Apple Music to M4A:

Step 1Run Sidify All-In-One on your computer. Within the supportive streaming platforms, choose Apple Music.

Step 2After the main interface window shows up, the Apple Music web player window follows. Simply log in with your Apple Music account information.

Step 3Then locate the specific track or playlist on Apple Music that you want to download and click the "Click to Add" button to load the songs on the conversion panel. Then you can add the songs individually to convert.

Step 4In the "Settings" menu, you can customize the Apple Music output format to M4A, adjust the output quality, and set the output folder for storing the downloaded M4A files on your computer. Once customization is done, press the "Convert" button to start the Apple Music to M4A downloading process.

Step 5Once all Apple Music songs are downloaded, go to the Converted section to find them. Click the folder icon next to the songs to view the locally saved files on your computer.

3.2 Apple Music to M4A Online Converters

If you prefer not to install software, online converters can be a convenient option for converting Apple Music tracks to M4A format. However, keep in mind that these services may have limitations regarding file size and the number of conversions.

🟠 Online Audio Converter

This web-based tool allows you to convert audio files to various formats, including M4A. While it may not directly convert Apple Music tracks due to DRM, you can use it for other audio files.

Step 1Visit the website: https://online-audio-converter.com/

Step 2Click on "Open files" to upload your Apple Music files.

Step 3Choose M4A as the output format. Optionally, adjust the audio quality and other settings.

Step 4Click the "Convert" button to start the conversion. Once the conversion is complete, download the M4A files to your device.

🟠 Zamzar

Zamzar is another online converter that supports a wide range of audio formats, including M4A. Similar to other online converters, it may not work with protected files.

Step 1Go to the Zamzar website.

Step 2Click on "Add Files" to upload your Apple Music files.

Step 3Choose M4A as the desired output format, and click the "Convert Now" button to start the conversion process.

Step 4Once the conversion is complete, the M4A files have been download to your device.

The Comparison between Software and Online Converter

Feature	Software Converters	Online Converter
Speed	Generally faster, especially for large files	May be slower due to upload/download times
Audio Quality	Typically higher quality	Potential loss in quality
Features	More advanced features (batch processing, editing)	Limited features and customization
Accessibility	Limited to the device it's installed on	Accessible from any device with internet
System Resources	May consume more resources and storage	Minimal resource usage

Part 4: FAQs about Converting Apple Music to M4A?

Q1: Is it legal to convert Apple Music tracks to M4A?

The legality of converting Apple Music tracks depends on your local copyright laws and Apple’s terms of service. It is generally advised to use converted files for personal use only.

Q2: Can I get Apple Music's M4A files on my mobiles?

If you use software to convert Apple Music, you can't directly save M4A files to your mobile device; you'll need to transfer them via USB Flash Drive or cable. In contrast, online converters allow you to download M4A files directly from your browser, making it easy to save them to your mobile device without extra steps.

Related: How to Download Apple Music Songs to USB Flash Drive?

Q3: Will converting Apple Music to M4A affect audio quality?

The audio quality may vary depending on the converter used and the settings chosen. Using high-quality settings can help maintain better sound quality.

Q4: How do I choose the best converter for my needs?

Consider factors like speed, audio quality, user reviews, ease of use, and whether it meets your specific requirements (e.g., batch processing).

Summary

In conclusion, M4A is a versatile audio format favored for its high-quality sound, making it a popular choice among users. While Apple Music primarily streams songs in a protected format, you can obtain M4A files through various conversion methods. By using dedicated software or online converters, such as Converter, you can easily convert Apple Music tracks to M4A format.

NoteCable Apple Music Converter allows you to download and convert Apple Music to MP3, AAC, WAV, AIFF, ALAC, or FLAC formats at 10X speed, without needing the Apple Music or iTunes app. This enables greater flexibility and accessibility for your music library.