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How to Convert WAV to M4A Online for Free

Converting WAV to M4A is a smart way to reduce file size while maintaining excellent audio quality. Whether you're optimizing music for streaming, saving storage space, or ensuring compatibility with Apple devices, M4A is a popular choice. This guide will walk you through the best free and online methods to convert WAV to M4A on both Windows and Mac.

wav to m4a

Part 1: How to Convert WAV to M4A on Windows and Mac

HitPaw Univd is an all-in-one multimedia converter that specializes in high-quality audio and video conversions. It supports over 1000 formats, including WAV to M4A, with batch processing, GPU acceleration, and lossless conversion. Its intuitive interface makes it perfect for both beginners and professionals who need fast, reliable conversions without compromising quality.

Step 1. Download and Install

Download HitPaw Univd for free and install it to a Windows or Mac computer.

Step 2. Import WAV Files

Open the program and go to the Converter menu. Click on "Add Audio" to select your WAV files. This program supports adding multiple files at the same time.

add wav file to hitpaw univd
Step 3. Choose M4A from the Output Format List

Click on Convert all to button in the lower left corner to expand all output formats. In the Audio category, you can see M4A. HitPaw Univd provides different quality levels for M4A including 320kbps, 256 kbps and 128 kbps.

convert wav to m4a in hitpaw univd
Step 4. Start WAV to M4A Conversion

Click the Convert All button to convert WAV to M4A in bulk. HitPaw Univd utilizes full GPU acceleration for super-fast conversion.

wav to m4a converting process
Step 5. Access Converted Audio

Once the conversion is complete, you can find your M4A file in the Converted tab.

access converted m4a audio

Key Features of HitPaw Univd:

  • Ultra-fast conversion speed with GPU acceleration
  • Supports 1000 audio and video formats conversion
  • High-quality output with customizable bitrates
  • Batch processing for multiple files
  • User-friendly interface suitable for beginners
  • Available for both Windows and macOS

Part 2: How to Convert WAV to M4A for Free

1. Audacity

Audacity is a free, open-source audio editing software widely used for recording, editing, and converting audio files. While it primarily supports WAV editing, it can export to M4A (AAC format) with the help of the FFmpeg plugin.

How to Use Audacity for WAV to M4A Conversion:
  • Step 1.Download Audactiy from audacityteam.org and install it.
  • Step 2.Follow in-app prompts or visit preferences to install the FFmpeg library for exporting to M4A.
  • Step 3.Drag your .wav file into Audacity or use File > Open.
  • Step 4.Navigate to File > Export > Export Audio, then choose M4A (AAC) as the output format.
audacity wav to m4a free

pros icon Pros

  • 100% free and open-source
  • Supports advanced audio editing
  • Available on Windows, Mac, and Linux

cons icon Cons

  • Requires FFmpeg setup for M4A
  • Interface may be complex for beginners

2. FFmpeg

FFmpeg is a free and ultra-powerful command-line tool for media conversion. It supports virtually every media format imaginable and offers unparalleled control for those comfortable using terminal commands.

How to Convert WAV to M4A with FFmpeg:
  • Step 1.Install FFmpeg from ffmpeg.org.
  • Step 2.Use the Command Below in your terminal:
    ffmpeg -i input.wav -c:a aac -b:a 192k output.m4a

This converts your WAV file to M4A using the AAC codec at 192 kbps.

pros icon Pros

  • Lightweight, fast, and versatile
  • Works on all platforms (Windows, Mac, Linux)
  • Perfect for scripting and batch conversions

cons icon Cons

  • Steep learning curve
  • No graphical user interface

3. QuickTime Player

QuickTime Player isn't just a media player-it also lets you do simple audio extractions. On Mac, you can use it to convert WAV files to M4A quickly without needing third-party apps. It's built-in, secure, and beginner-friendly.

Steps to Convert WAV to M4A:
  • 1.Open your WAV file in QuickTime Player.
  • 2.Click File > Export As > Audio Only.
  • 3.Save the file, which will be automatically exported as an M4A.
export wav to m4a in quicktime

pros Pros:

  • Pre-installed on all Macs
  • No downloads needed
  • Clean and simple interface

cons Cons:

  • Only available for macOS
  • No batch conversion or customization

4. HitPaw Online Audio Converter

HitPaw Online Audio Converter is a web-based tool for quick audio format conversion without installing software. It supports formats like WAV, MP3, M4A, FLAC, and more. Perfect for fast, lightweight jobs.

How to Use:
  • 1.Go to HitPaw Online Audio Converter.
  • 2.Upload your WAV file.
  • 3.Select "M4A" as the output format.
  • 4.Click "Convert" and download the M4A file.
convert wav to m4a online

pros icon Pros

  • 100% free and browser-based
  • No software installation
  • Easy drag-and-drop interface

cons icon Cons

  • Limited to one file at a time
  • Requires internet connection
  • May have file size limitations

Part 3: WAV vs. M4A Comparison

Below is a side-by-side comparison to help you decide which format suits your needs

best:

Feature

WAV

M4A (AAC)

File Size

Large (uncompressed)

Small (compressed)

Audio Quality

Lossless

Lossy (but near CD quality)

Best For

Audio editing, archiving

Streaming, playback, mobile use

Compatibility

Supported on most systems

Optimized for Apple devices

Metadata Support

Basic

Advanced (album, cover art, etc)

Streaming Use

Rarely used

Commonly used

Conclusion

Whether you're an audiophile preserving studio-quality sound or a casual listener optimizing for convenience, converting WAV to M4A is a valuable move. For the best all-in-one experience, HitPaw Univd delivers speed, flexibility, and outstanding audio fidelity.

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