How to Play WMA on Mac: A Comprehensive Guide
WMA (Windows Media Audio) is a popular audio file format developed by Microsoft. While it is widely supported on Windows devices, Mac users might encounter difficulties when trying to play WMA files on their systems. In this article, we will guide you through the process of playing WMA on Mac, along with some frequently asked questions related to WMA compatibility on Mac.
Part 1: Converting WMA to Mac-compatible Formats
Although Mac does not natively support WMA, there are several methods to convert WMA files to formats like MP3 or AAC, which are readily playable on Mac machines. Here are three popular options:
1. Using Online Conversion Tools: There are numerous websites, such as Online Audio Converter and Zamzar, that allow you to convert WMA files to different formats online. Simply upload your WMA file, select the desired output format, and let the website handle the conversion. Once done, download the converted file and play it on your Mac.
2. Using iTunes: If you prefer an offline method, you can utilize iTunes for converting WMA files. Firstly, open iTunes and go to “Preferences.” Under the “General” tab, click on “Import Settings.” In the “Import Using” drop-down menu, select either MP3 or AAC. Then, go to your library, right-click on the WMA file, and choose “Create MP3/AAC Version.” iTunes will create a copy of the file in the selected format, which you can now play on your Mac.
3. Using Third-Party Software: There are several third-party software options available for converting WMA files on Mac, such as VLC Media Player and Switch Audio File Converter. These tools offer more customization options, including bitrate control and file size reduction. Simply install the software, import your WMA file, select the desired output format, and convert the file.
Part 2: Playing WMA Files on Mac
After converting your WMA files to a Mac-compatible format, you can easily play them using various media players available for Mac. Here are three popular options:
1. VLC Media Player: VLC is a versatile media player that supports a wide range of audio and video formats, including WMA. It is free to download and easy to use. Simply open VLC, go to “File” and select “Open File.” Browse and locate your converted WMA file, then click “Open” to start playing the file.
2. QuickTime Player: QuickTime Player is the default media player on Mac. While it doesn’t natively support WMA, you can play WMA files by installing the Flip4Mac plugin. Once installed, simply double-click on the WMA file, and it will automatically open in QuickTime Player.
3. Elmedia Player: Elmedia Player is another popular media player for Mac that supports WMA files. It offers additional features like streaming online videos and downloading content from the web. To play a WMA file, open Elmedia Player, click on “File” and select “Open.” Locate your converted WMA file and click “Open” to start playback.
FAQs:
Q1. Can I play WMA files on my Mac without converting them?
Unfortunately, Mac does not natively support WMA files. However, you can convert them to a compatible format using the methods mentioned in Part 1 of this article.
Q2. Are there any other media players for Mac that support WMA files?
Apart from VLC, QuickTime, and Elmedia Player, you can also try other media players like Vox, Cisdem Video Player, or 5KPlayer, which support WMA files on Mac.
Q3. Can I convert multiple WMA files simultaneously?
Yes, both online conversion tools and third-party software mentioned in Part 1 allow you to convert multiple WMA files at once, saving you time and effort.
Q4. Do I need to keep the original WMA files after converting them?
Once you have successfully converted your WMA files to a Mac-compatible format, you can choose to keep or delete the original files, depending on your storage requirements.
In conclusion, playing WMA files on Mac might require converting them to a compatible format like MP3 or AAC. With the methods mentioned in this article and the availability of various media players, Mac users can now enjoy their favorite WMA audio files hassle-free.