Error: This is likely caused by a malformed MP3.

Audacity 3 Help Forum macOS
1

Hi all, first message!
I am receiving the error: “This is likely caused by a malformed MP3.” I am using Big Sur and the latest Audacity 3.0.0.

The file plays fine my music app.

2

So you were importing an MP3 file? Does the file import OK?

– Bill

3

No that’s when I get the error - while importing.

4

Which version of Audacity are you using?
If 2.4.2, upgrade to 3.0.0.
If 3.0.0, try this.
Open the file in another app (such as Music or VLC) and convert it to AIF. Then import the AIF into Audacity.
– Bill

5

OK, took a bit of effort as I am no expert. However after downloading the FFmpeg library in I was able to import. The most difficult part was figuring out 'intuitive ’ Apple Music app.

Thanks.

6

downloading the FFmpeg library in I was able to import.

You need FFMpeg to import file types that Audacity can’t handle on its own. Since Audacity is pretty good at opening MP3 files, it’s possible your file is something else. Did you let your Mac hide filename extensions? Right+Click/Control+Click on it and Get-Info.

Koz

7

Got it thanks.