converting files to mp3

[Rob]

i'm terrible with computers and i was wondering how to convert compressed files into mp3 format?

i'm pretty sure they are just file format and not WAV or any other music form.

thanks

[kukuman]

i'm terrible with computers and i was wondering how to convert compressed files into mp3 format?

If the music is already compressed, there is no point in converting to MP3 as any size reduction will be insignificant and you will lose audio fidelity by compressing it again.

i'm pretty sure they are just file format and not WAV or any other music form.

"File format"? That makes no sense... it has to be in some sort of audio file format. You say it's already compressed so that leads me to believe that it's not in WAV format, so what compression was used?

[Rob]

I'm not sure what they were compressed with, but when I drag the mouse over the file it says (Type: unknown file type)

I can't open the file with any music player like itunes or real player.

[kalcidis]

Where from did you get the files in the first place? Perhaps that can answer us the question of what format they are in.

[Punxsta]

I've converted dodgy files to a playable format using i tunes. Just type 'convert' or 'bit rate' into the help function and it should give you some options. My friend gets me loads of mp3s off his file sharing site and you get the odd one that won't go. But usually, it can be done....

[Rob]

The files were sent to me from a friend through AIM. I think they might need some sort of expansion software?

thanks for all the help, I really apreciate it.

[kukuman]

I'm assuming you're using Windows here... if you're using a Mac I can't help you unfortunately.

In My Computer or Windows Explorer, right click on the file and choose "Properties". Tell us what it says for "Type of file".

[Rob]

Yes I am using windows and when I go into properties it says:

Type of file: File

I know it sounds bizarre, but I know for sure at one point it was a sound file of some sort. I think it was originally compressed to save space and needs to be expanded to mp3 format.

I've tried using stuffit and other sources, but still no luck.

[Survival]

Maybe if u could upload a file, we can take a better look.

[Rob]

If I knew how to upload a file I definitely would.

If it's not too dificult you could try to walk me through the steps...