How to Convert an MP3 Into a Ringtone

Ringtones are a billion-dollar global industry that just keeps getting bigger. Individual ringtones are very inexpensive and typically cost no more than it costs to download one song from the Internet. However, if you're in the habit of buying new ringtones frequently, the cost could add up. Luckily, there's a way to convert music you already own in MP3 format into ringtones for your phone.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• MP3 version of the sound or song
• LAME Library
• Sound-editing software
• Cellphone that supports custom ringtones

Create Your Own MP3 Ringtone

1. Direct your sound-editing software to where the LAME library is located on your computer.

2. Make a duplicate of the MP3 song or sound you are using for the ringtone, and move that copy into a separate file to work on it. This will prevent you from losing your original MP3.

3. Open your MP3 into your sound-editing program, and find the 15 to 25 seconds you would like to use as your ringtone. Crop that section out of the original MP3.

4. Export your new ringtone as an MP3, and save it with an appropriate name.

5. Connect your phone to your computer using a data cable or Bluetooth connection to transfer the ringtone to the phone. Alternatively, you can email the ringtone file to your phone if your phone supports that service.

Download Sound-Editing Software

6. Download free sound-editing software from the Internet. Audacity (available for Mac OX, Windows and Linux) is one of the most popular and widely used versions (see Resources below).

7. Download the LAME compression library for free (see Resources below). Store it on your hard drive where it won't be accidentally deleted.

Tips & Warnings

• Convert your MP3 ringtone into the proper format for your cellphone if your phone doesn't support MP3 ringtones. You can find free software online that will convert it for you.
• Create separate ringtones for different people on your contact list. Choosing their favorite songs or tunes that reminds you of them is a great way to know who is calling without looking.
• Think about how you'll feel when your ringtone rings in different situations before you pick an MP3 to use. What might sound funny and unique at a friend's house could cause you embarrassment should it go off in the doctor's office.

Resources

• Audacity sound-editing software at sourceforge.net.
• LAME compression library at spaghetticode.org.