How to Make an MP3 File Smaller in iTunes

The size of an MP3 file determines how many total MP3s can be placed on an MP3 player. Making an MP3 file smaller will let you store more of MP3s on the MP3 player. Making an MP3 file smaller can be done using the freely distributed iTunes software, which works in a similar fashion on both Macintosh and Windows-based computers. The procedure for making a MP3 file smaller is automated in iTunes once a few settings have been adjusted.

Instructions

1. Download and install the Mac or Windows version of the free iTunes software to the computer's hard drive.

2. Run iTunes. Go to "iTunes" and select "Preferences" from the drop-down menu. Click on the "General" tab at the top of the window that appears. Click on the "Import Settings" button at the middle of the window to bring up a new window.

3. Click on "MP3 Encoder" in the drop-down menu next to the "Import Using" tab in the window that has appeared.

4. Choose a smaller file size for the file that is to be converted in iTunes by clicking on "Good Quality" in the drop-down menu below "MP3 Encoder."

5. Close the window by clicking the "OK" button at the bottom of the window. Close the "Preferences" window by clicking the "OK" button at the bottom of the window.

6. Drag an MP3 file into the iTunes icon that is on the desktop or in the dock at the left or bottom of the screen. ITunes now makes a smaller-sized copy of the MP3 file and saves it to the "iTunes Music" folder. Quit iTunes after the smaller MP3 file has been saved.

Tips & Warnings

• Try different settings to adjust the size of the MP3 file that iTunes will make.

• Don't run other programs at the same time iTunes is making a smaller copy of the MP3 file.

References

• iTunes: Converting to MP3

Resources

• iTunes