M4A File: What Is It and How to Open M4A Files

If you regularly download music online, then you’ll be familiar with an MPEG-4 audio file, or an M4A file as it’s commonly known. The M4A format is a multimedia container that supports audio only. This article takes a quick look at how to open this type of file and also how to use video converters to best convert them.

So, what is an M4A file? By definition, an M4A file is a type of file extension for an audio file that is saved in a specific format. Since this type of file is usually encoded with advanced audio coding, it’s important to note that they only contain audio.

Keep in mind that these files on an M4A are similar to those of an MP4, they differ in the sense that M4A files are compressed using the “ACC” lossy, which essentially creates a smaller file size. The M4A format is most commonly used for downloading audio files from the ever-popular Apple iTunes Store. Typically, this content includes music files encoded using AAC compression. The purpose of this is to reduce the file size, making it more compatible with most devices.

Let’s start with a quick comparison of M4A and MP3 files to highlight the key differences.

Since an M4A file is an MPEG-4 audio file type, it can easily be opened with iTunes or Windows Media Player. Just about every device you’re using will have a preinstalled app that will open the M4A file. Alternatively, to open this type of file on your mobile device, you can install a compatible app from the App Store or Google Play.

Here are some apps you can use to open and play M4A audio files: 

• VLC (Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android) 
• QuickTime Player (Windows and macOS)
• Elmedia Player (macOS)
• Rhythmbox (Linux)

There are different ways to change the format of your files, which makes it easy for users to find the best solution for the device and OS they’re using. A few of the more common methods include using iTunes, Windows Media Player, and choosing from a host of different free applications. When choosing the best program for the device you’re using, always opt for a solution that’s a safe media converter and is 100% compatible with your device. This will ensure that you don’t encounter any glitches when you’re trying to play your audio files.

One of the more effective ways to perform high-speed multimedia conversions is with Movavi Video Converter. In addition to supporting 180+ formats, this converter also boasts ready-made presets for lots of mobile devices. Another huge plus is the in-built editing tools such as trimming, rotating, and cropping within the actual software.

This means you can easily and quickly trim any unwanted parts, make adjustments, and also add titles and new effects. Movavi Video Converter is a common software choice for users who prefer a simplified editing process to convert video and audio quickly and efficiently.

Movavi Video Converter works exceptionally well and boasts a super clear, fast interface. Since it supports all popular audio and video formats such as M4A, MP4, MOV, 3GP, FLV, MKV, WMV, MP3, and WAV. Users can also convert files at considerably higher speeds without risking any quality loss, making this an ideal solution for larger video files.

Below, you’ll find step-by-step instructions to help you use the Movavi converter and teach you how to play your music files on all your devices.

M4A files are typically found in the Apple iTunes as the format of song downloads. The most significant benefit of this file type is that the audio data can easily be downsized without compromising audio quality. Using the right software, like Movavi Video Converter, will ensure that you can open and convert your M4A files quickly and simply, no matter what device you’re using!