Convert MP3 Files on Mac
MP3 (MPEG Audio Layer III) is an audio format using the .mp3 extension. Consul converts MP3 files to 11 other formats, and 25 formats to MP3. Rename a file's extension in Finder and Consul handles the conversion automatically.
What is MP3?
MP3 (MPEG-1 Audio Layer III) is the lossy audio format that popularized digital music in the late 1990s. Developed largely at Germany's Fraunhofer Institute and standardized by MPEG in 1991-1993, it discards inaudible detail to shrink files dramatically. It remains the most widely compatible audio format across devices and software.
MP3 uses lossy compression: encoders permanently discard some detail to keep files small. Converting to a lossless format later preserves the file exactly as it is now, but that discarded detail doesn't come back. Files can carry ID3 metadata.
MP3 was developed by the Fraunhofer Society / MPEG.
Opening MP3 files on a Mac
Quick Look previews MP3 files. Select one in Finder and press Space.
Opens in the Music app by default; QuickTime Player and Quick Look play it too. afconvert can convert MP3 from Terminal, e.g. to AAC or Apple Lossless.
Consul supports 36 conversions for MP3
Consul is the easiest way to convert MP3 files on your Mac, or to turn other files into MP3. Rename file.mp3 to change its extension, and Consul converts it automatically.