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How to convert .cda files back to mp3 format

Anonymous
2014-04-13T02:01:25+00:00

Original Title: how are .cda files still in existence???

I have a one of a kind track that I can't replace that was in .mp3 format before I upgraded to 8.1. But now it's in .cda and I can't for the life of me figure out how to get it converted back. It's the standard 44 bytes that every .cda shows as, it's in my file explorer but I can't find a file converter that will recognize it. It won't play with iTunes or Windows Media( as is expected) but it WILL play with VLC Media Player. If there are any suggestions I'd love to hear them.

Windows for home | Previous Windows versions | Files, folders, and storage

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  1. Anonymous
    2014-04-27T10:49:58+00:00

    Hi,

    CDA is a file extension for a CD Audio shortcut file format. Used by Microsoft Windows to refer to audio tracks on a CD, a CDA file doesn’t contain audio but is simply a shortcut to the tracks on an audio disc.

    CDA files are files created by the computer's CD drivers which point to the location of a track. MP3 is a file type which uses compression to save space. To convert CDA file to MP3 first make space for your files. You require a folder for the music to go into as well as enough space to store all of the music you wish to copy through the process of 'ripping.' Choose a software program such as  Windows Media Player. Double-check your setting. You will need to look for settings to let you specify the place you wish to save the files and in what format. Finally copy the files.

    Please feel free to reply if you face any issues with Windows in future

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  1. Anonymous
    2017-10-04T19:34:12+00:00

    Just right click on the Audio CD on the right habd side and select Rip CD from the menu. It will save to the location specified in "options" under the "rip" tab.

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  2. Anonymous
    2017-06-07T16:30:55+00:00

    I have this same problem. I have a .cda file of a conversion from audio tape from the 1970's and the company I used created only a .cda file. I can't convert to MP3 to save my life! Frustrating!

    1 person found this answer helpful.
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  3. Anonymous
    2016-12-03T17:08:56+00:00

    Hi,

    CDA is a file extension for a CD Audio shortcut file format. Used by Microsoft Windows to refer to audio tracks on a CD, a CDA file doesn’t contain audio but is simply a shortcut to the tracks on an audio disc.

    CDA files are files created by the computer's CD drivers which point to the location of a track. MP3 is a file type which uses compression to save space. To convert CDA file to MP3 first make space for your files. You require a folder for the music to go into as well as enough space to store all of the music you wish to copy through the process of 'ripping.' Choose a software program such as  Windows Media Player. Double-check your setting. You will need to look for settings to let you specify the place you wish to save the files and in what format. Finally copy the files.

    Please feel free to reply if you face any issues with Windows in future

    Hello, when I go to Windows Media Player, there is no Rip selection, only Burn and Sync.  Any suggestions?

    Thank you.

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  4. Anonymous
    2014-12-24T07:53:26+00:00

    Hi Christer,

    Welcome to Microsoft Community forum and sorry for delayed response.

    As you have mentioned that everything was working fine before updating your computer to Windows 8.1 then there might  be chance that some updates need to be installed or drivers need some updation. So, I would suggest you to install all of the Windows updates (Recommended and Optional). Please check that is there any updates related to CD/DVD is available, if available please install it.

    For issues related to Windows Update you may refer to the link provided below.

    **Windows Update: Frequently Asked Questions**

    If still issue persist after installing the updates then try to update the drivers from the manufacturer's website.

    DELL Drivers.

    **Note:**I would request you to create new thread if you are facing similar/same issues, this would provide us better opportunity to help you as new thread gets more priority and it also prevents confusion.

    Do keep us updated about the issue.

    Regards,

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