Click Add Your Media and upload your M4A file.
Make sure that the output format is set to FLAC.
Click Convert.
Popular converters:
You can also convert your files with our powerful desktop app.
If you need to convert multiple files or your file is too large for the online converter, try the desktop alternative. The Movavi converter is a versatile audio, video, and image format changer. It deals with over 180 file formats, can convert files in bulk quickly, with high output quality and resolution. Its SuperSpeed mode gives you the fastest conversion speed and no quality loss. It has versions for both Windows PC and Mac and is really lightweight, allowing you to process photos, movies, and music files even on a weak computer.
How to convert M4A to FLAC fast and easy? Read the guide below to find out!
Step 1. Download and install the Movavi converter
How to use a file converter? First, download the version of the software for Microsoft Windows or Macintosh, launch it, and proceed following the on-screen instructions. When the app is installed to your computer, it will run automatically.
Locate the M4A files you want to convert and drag-and-drop them into the program’s window. The application can convert big batches of files – there’s no limit to how many files you can transfer at once.
In the Formats menu, select the file type you want to turn your media into and choose the target format for the files. Also, you can change the conversion settings: choose a different bitrate, resolution (including HD, Ultra HD, and even 4K), codec, etc. Pay attention to the SuperSpeed label: it indicates that the conversion will be performed with a very high speed and without losing quality.
To specify the output folder, click the Save to button. Hit the Convert button to launch the process. When the converting is done, the new media files will be saved to the chosen folder.
Now you know how to change the file format using the Movavi converter. WIth this tool, you can also reduce the file size, cut out clips from videos, crop pictures, and create animations from your favorite movies. Get the free trial version and test it out!
If you're looking for a method on how to convert M4A to FLAC online for free, consider using Movavi's Online Video Converter. This versatile tool provides a simple and cost-free way to transform your audio files from one format to another.
M4A and FLAC are two widely used audio formats, each serving distinct purposes and possessing unique characteristics. M4A, short for MPEG-4 Audio, is a lossy audio format developed by Apple. It offers decent sound quality while maintaining relatively compact file sizes, making it well-suited for streaming and portable devices. In contrast, FLAC, which stands for Free Lossless Audio Codec, is a lossless audio format that preserves the complete audio quality without any data loss. Audiophiles and music enthusiasts who prioritize the highest fidelity often prefer this format.
So, why might you want to convert M4A to FLAC for free? The primary motivation is to attain the utmost audio quality. If you possess high-quality M4A files and wish to safeguard every subtle nuance and detail, converting them to FLAC guarantees that no audio quality is sacrificed during the conversion process. Additionally, FLAC files are ideal for archiving your music collection in a format that guarantees future playback with pristine quality.
Utilizing Movavi's Online Video Converter makes this conversion process hassle-free, granting you the freedom to relish your music in the highest attainable quality. Whether you identify as an audiophile or simply appreciate superior sound, converting M4A to FLAC represents a stride toward audio excellence.
What is M4A?
Full name
MPEG-4 Audio Layer
Format type
Audio
Developed by
The International Organization for Standardization
Description
M4A is described in the MPEG-4 Part 14 standard created by the International Organization for Standardization. While MP4 files can contain audio and video, M4A is designed for audio only. This file type can be used to store music, podcasts, or audiobooks. Apple devices and programs support M4A natively, and it is the most common format in iTunes. On Windows, you might need to install an additional codec pack to open and play an M4A file.
File extension
.m4a
Technical details
In the M4A format specification, you might see one of two codecs: AAC or ALAC. ALAC provides lossless compression, so these files might be relatively large compared to those compressed with AAC, which offers lossy compression. If you’re wondering how to choose between these codecs when converting files to M4A, think about the audio playback. Lossless compression means better quality.
Associated programs
Windows Media Player 12 (older versions will require additional codecs), iTunes, QuickTime, and VLC
What is FLAC?
Full name
Free Lossless Audio Codec
Format type
Audio
Developed by
Xiph.Org Foundation; Josh Coalson and Erik de Castro Lopo
Description
FLAC is short for Free Lossless Audio Codec. It was created in 2001 by the Xiph.Org Foundation but didn’t have a stable release until 2019. FLAC is useful when you want to compress audio without losing quality. But, like other high-quality formats, files with FLAC specifications can be huge. If your device doesn’t have much storage space, you might have problems maintaining a collection of FLAC files. Despite its popularity, media players like iTunes and QuickTime still don’t support audio playback of the FLAC format, and many mobile apps cannot decode it. You may want to consider converting your FLAC files to the more widely supported MP3 format to be on the safe side. Check the table below if you want to know how to open FLAC audio tracks and which programs can play them.
File extension
.flac
Technical details
Although FLAC files are compressed, they are of the same quality as the source audio. The audio files in lossy formats like MP3 or AAC have slightly worse sound quality than those of lossless formats. However, the difference may be almost undetectable if the lossy file has a high bitrate. Another feature of the FLAC file type is that it uses IDv1 and IDv3 tags. This allows the user to arrange their audio collection according to taste, changing the original track metadata.
Associated programs
Windows Media Player, RealPlayer, VLC, and others
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