Windows media audio file

[jackwv]

I have a numark usb turntable with Audacity 1.2.3, and always exported as WAV. I now have 1.2.6 Most of my music is WAV but I have music on CD's and when ripped they go to a Windows Media Audio file that Audacity will not accept. I will, on occasion want to improve the sound, remove portions etc, but unable to do so. Now, for the record I am 79 and not a bright light bulb, but would ask if there is a method, or recommended download that would convert the WMA file to a format Audacity will accept. Like the word "free download' but simple to use is more important.Thanks

[steve]

C-Dex is a free, open source CD ripper that can digitally extract audio from CD in WAV or MP3 http://cdexos.sourceforge.net/
(much better ripper than WMP)
Although it's not obvious, it is actually possible to configure Windows Media Player to rip CDs as WAV, but I'd still go with C-Dex.

Audacity 1.3 can import WMA files if you install ffmpeg.
Unfortunately there is a small bug in Audacity 1.3.10, but you can get 1.3.11 (in which the bug is fixed) from here http://wiki.audacityteam.org/index.php? ... tly_Builds

See here for installing ffmpeg: http://manual.audacityteam.org/index.ph ... tallffmpeg

Even though Audacity 1.3 can import WMA, it is still preferable to rip as WAV because the quality is better.

[jackwv]

Steve thanks I downloaded Cdex 1.51 I am running xp, and will stay xp so long as it is serviced. Had to fight my way thru the process but figured how to convert several to Wav, will accept your comment that you would go with Cdex. I am also staying with Audacity 1.2.6 since familiar with it and fight change. Thanks again

[steve]

I am also staying with Audacity 1.2.6 since familiar with it and fight change.

Understood, but don't fight too hard - there's a lot of big improvements in 1.3 (and some things are a lot easier in 1.3 than in 1.2). Perhaps when Audacity 2.0 comes out will be a good time to upgrade.