How to Set the Import Format in iTunes

The ability to set the import format in iTunes enables you to manage the quality and size of the music files stored on your computer. The easiest way to build your iTunes library is to fill it with tracks from your own CD collection. iTunes offers several importing formats and options to help you fill your library with quality and yet reasonably sized music files.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Locate the Edit menu. When you have opened iTunes, locate and open the Edit menu found at the upper left hand section of the screen. Click on Preferences, found at the bottom of the Edit menu list.

2. Locate the word Advanced at the top of the Preferences screen. It is a tab that you can click to open a particular set of advanced options. After clicking the Advanced tab, locate the Importing tab which appears to the right of the General tab.

3. Set the audio format. The Importing screen that appears will give you a few basic importing options. You can set the audio format that you prefer. Music files can be formatted to take up less space by sacrificing varying levels of sound quality.

4. Change the encoder settings. After choosing an audio encoder format, you can change the encoder’s settings. Increasing the sample rate (kHz) and the bit rate (bkps) increases the size and sound quality of the music files.

5. Apply the changes. When you have completed your modifications click OK to apply the changes and close the importing options screen. You also have the option of clicking the Cancel button which will exit the screen without applying any of the changes. You can also click the “Use Default Settings” button to restore iTunes to its original import settings.

Tips & Warnings

• Finding the right audio format is a balancing act between wanting smaller files but not at the risk of diminished sound quality.
• On the bottom of the Importing tab screen, you can checkmark an option to play songs while importing.
• Do not choose the lowest audio format based only on the desire to shrink the size of your music library without taking into consideration the effect it will have on your sound quality. You are better off finding middle ground between sound quality and file size.