Q: Have you ever received an error message like 'file format not supported' when trying to use AAX files from Audible? This often happens when users attempt to open AAX files on VLC Media Player, burn AAX audiobooks to CDs, or play them on an MP3 player. Why does this restriction exist?
In fact, AAX and AA formats are the default encoding formats for Audible audiobooks on desktop platforms, and they are protected by Digital Rights Management (DRM). While Audible is the world's most popular online audiobook store, offering a huge library for listening and offline downloads, it imposes these restrictions. As a result, users can only play AAX books on a limited number of devices with an authorized Audible account.
To take full control of your Audible books, it's essential to convert AAX to MP3. But how can you do that? This guide will show you how to use 11 effective AAX to MP3 converters, online and free, to convert AAX files on Mac, Linux, and Windows computers.
Part 1. How to Convert AAX to MP3 on Mac/Windows/Linux
The best way to convert AAX files to MP3 on a computer is by using a professional Audible converter. There are many AAX converters available, and here, we will look at three of the best software options for converting .aax to MP3 on Mac, Windows, and Linux computers.
No.1 AudFree Audible Converter (Mac & Windows)
AudFree Audible Converter is a top-rated choice. It can convert AAX to MP3 on Windows 10, Windows 11, and Mac at a lightning-fast 100X speed while preserving the original ID3 tags. You can convert audiobooks directly from your Audible Library through the Audible web player. Additionally, it allows you to manually customize ID3 tags and includes a built-in splitting feature to divide large AAX files into chapters, so you can convert your AAX file to MP3 with chapters.
After the conversion is complete, you will be able to play your Audible AAX/AA files on any popular device, burn them to discs, and enjoy them without any limitations.
AudFree Audible Converter
- The best Audible .aax to MP3 converter for Mac and Windows users
- Convert Audible AAX files to M4B, MP3, M4A, FLAC, etc. at 100X speed
- Keep original ID3 tags and chapters info with the output audio
- Split large audiobook files into small segments by chapters
How to Convert AAX to MP3 with Chapters Info on Mac/Windows 10/Windows 11
To begin, simply install the free trial version of AudFree Audible Converter on your macOS or Windows computer. Then, follow the steps below to start converting your Audible AAX files to MP3 with chapters in just a few clicks. Once the conversion is complete, you'll be able to keep your Audible books even if you cancel the Audible subscription.
- Step 1Add Audible Audiobooks to AudFree Audible Converter
- We'll use the Windows version of this Audible converter as an example. First, launch the AudFree program on your PC and log in. You can then search for the title you want to convert and click the green '+' button to add it to the conversion list. Alternatively, you can go to your Audible Library and directly add all your titles to the program.
- Step 2Set MP3 as the Output Format
- Once the audiobooks are imported, click the 'Menu' icon and navigate to 'Preferences' > 'Conversion'. Here, you can select MP3 as the output format for your .aax files. You can also adjust further parameters like bitrate, sample rate, and audio channel. After saving your settings, you can customize the ID3 tags and split your audiobook into small clips by chapter or time duration by clicking the 'Split' icon on the Conversion List.
- Step 3Start A Conversion from Audible AAX Files to MP3
- Finally, click the 'Convert' button to begin the process. AudFree Audible Converter will start removing the restrictions from your Audible audiobooks and converting the protected AAX/AA files to MP3 at 100X speed. Once finished, click the 'Converted' icon next to the 'Converting' button to locate the MP3 audiobooks on your computer, from where you can transfer them to any device for offline listening. Besides, you can edit the ID3 tags of the converted .aax files by clicking 'i' icon.
🌟 Pros and Cons of AudFree Audible Audiobook Converter
| Pros |
✔ Convert Audible audiobooks to MP3, M4B, etc. ✔ Retain 100% original audio quality of Audible AAX files ✔ Support to save and edit ID3 tags of Audible audiobooks ✔ Remove restrictions from Audible audiobooks ✔ Support to listen to Audible files on any device and platforms offline ✔ Has a built-in player to play converted MP3 files ✔ Support to split Audible audiobooks by chapters or time duration |
| Cons | ❌ The free trial version has length limitations ❌ Only works on Windows and Mac computers |
No.2 OpenAudible (Linux/Mac/Windows)
OpenAudible is a cross-platform AAX to MP3 converter and manager. It's compatible with not only Mac and Windows computers but also Linux computers. Although it's an open-source tool on GitHub, it costs $21.95/year to get the full functions. Besides, to use it to convert Audible files to MP3, or split large audiobooks by chapters, you need to authorize your Audible account. By the way, it supports MP3, M4B, and M4A output audio formats.
How to Convert AAX Files to MP3 Linux/Windows/Mac via OpenAudible on GitHub
Step 1. Install and open your OpenAudible on your computer. Then please update your preferences by clicking the 'Setting' icon in the upper-right corner. Please check the mark before the MP3 option under the 'Audio Output Format' section.
Step 2. Choose the 'Controls' > 'Connect to Audible' option. You will need to log in to your Audible name and password.
Step 3. It will pop up a new window to ask whether you'd like to start a 'Full Audible Library Sync' to get a list of your books. Please click the 'Yes' button to load Audible AAX files to OpenAudible. It will start to automatically download and convert AAX to MP3 on Linux, Windows, or macOS computer. To find Audible MP3 files, please right-click the 'Show MP3' option.
🌟 Pros and Cons of OpenAudible
| Pros |
✔ Works on Linux, Windows and Mac ✔ Support to split or merge books by chapters ✔ Support to output .aax to MP3, M4B and M4A |
| Cons | ❌ Need to log in to your Audible and iTunes account to process the conversion ❌ Fewer output audio formats ❌ Not free |
No.3 Audials One 2025 (Windows Only)
In reality, Audials One 2025 is using audio recording technology to help you record and convert protected streaming music and audiobooks. In turn, you can download and convert .aax file to MP3 with freedom for use anywhere.
This AAX to MP3 converter records the protected audiobook streams from Audible and saves the recordings as MP3 files with full ID3 tags without commercials. Once the recording is complete, you are able to enjoy all Audible MP3 books on popular MP3 players with no limit.
Aside from recording Audible AAX audiobooks and other audio, Audials One 2025 can also be used to record video streams online, e.g., YouTube, in high quality. Moreover, it has an attractive interface and good configuration options that make using the program very convenient.
How to Save AAX Files to MP3 Windows 10/Windows 11 via Audials One 2025
Step 1. Install Audials One 2025 on your computer running Windows 10 or Windows 11 operating system. Click the 'Convert' option from the left toolbar. Then choose the 'Audiobook' option to import Audible AAX and AA files from local computer or iTunes library.
Step 2. Now, please hit the 'Output Format' option to define MP3 as the target one so that it will save Audible files as MP3. If MP3 is the default format, you can skip this step.
Step 3. The last step you have to do is to simply press the green 'Start' button. Later, your AAX audiobooks will be converted to MP3 quickly.
🌟 Pros and Cons of Audials One 2025
| Pros |
✔ Support files from Audible, iTunes, etc. ✔ Keep audio files with full ID3 tags |
| Cons | ❌ Works on Windows only ❌ Only supports MP3 output audio format |
Comparison Table of AAX to MP3 Converter Windows/Mac/Linux
Here you can take a look at the detailed comparison of these three professional AAX to MP3 converters on Windows, Mac and Linux computers.
| Features | AudFree Audible Converter | OpenAudible | Audials One 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supported System | Windows and Mac | Linux, Windows and Mac | Windows |
| Easy to Use | ✔ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Authorize Audible Account | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Output Quality | Lossless | Low | High |
| Output Format | MP3, FLAC, M4A, M4B, WAV, AIFF, LOSSLESS | MP3, M4A, M4B | MP3 |
| Conversion Speed | 100X | Fast | Middle |
| Highlight Features | 100X speed at the best quality; Customize ID3 tags; Splitting function; Multiple output formats, etc. |
Support Linux operating system | Support many streaming music services |
| Price | $69.95 for lifetime | $21.95/year | $39.90/year |
| Recommendation Rate | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
Part 2. How to Convert AAX to MP3 Online Free
Apart from the above converters, there are still many other online freeware that can do it. If you don't want to download and install extra apps on your desktop, you can choose an AAX to MP3 converter online free to get MP3 files from audiobooks.
No.1 Online Audio Converter
Online Audio Converter is an all-in-one tool that not only functions as an AAX converter but also handles a wide range of other audio file types. It supports converting to popular formats like MP3, WAV, M4A, FLAC, and OGG. The converter also allows you to adjust the output quality of your AAX audiobooks by changing the bitrate, sample rate, and audio channels. Additionally, it enables you to convert large AAX files to MP3 in a batch, saving you time.
How to Convert AAX File to MP3 Online for Free
Step 1. Visit the official Online Audio Converter website. Set the output format to MP3 and customize the audio quality using four preset levels: Economy, Standard, Good, and Best. The highest quality option is 320kbps.
Step 2. Click the "Open files" button to upload your Audible AAX files. You can then edit the ID3 tags under the "Edit track info" section. Finally, tap the "Convert" button to convert your .aax files to MP3 and save them to your computer.
🌟 Pros and Cons of Online Audio Converter
| Pros |
✔ Support lots of output audio formats like MP3, FLAC, M4A, etc. ✔ Support customizing output audio parameters, like bitrate, etc. ✔ Support editing ID3 tag of AAX files ✔ Support converting .aax to MP3 in batch |
| Cons | ❌ Output quality may be lossy ❌ Cannot split audiobook by chapter ❌ Slow conversion rate ❌ With pop-up ads and sticky ads |
No.2 Apowersoft Free Online Audio Recorder
For those who prefer a solution that doesn't require software installation, Apowersoft offers a browser-based recording tool. It can capture audio directly from your web browser in real time.
How to Use the AAX to MP3 Converter Online
Step 1. Open your web browser and first visit Audible.com to log in. Then, open a new tab and navigate to the official Apowersoft Online Audio Recorder website.
Step 2. Click 'Start Recording' and select 'System Sound'. A pop-up window will appear, providing a warning about the one-hour recording limitation of the online version.
Step 3. Next, click 'Continue recording' and choose the Audible web player as your audio source. You must then play the audiobook you want to record, and Apowersoft will begin recording it in real time. Once the recording is finished, click the 'Stop Sharing' button at the top of your screen, return to the Apowersoft page, and click 'Save'. The recorded audio will be downloaded to your PC as an MP3 file.
🌟 Pros and Cons of Apowersoft Free Online Audio Recorder
| Pros | ✔ Clean and simple user interface ✔ Easy to use |
| Cons |
❌ Output lossy audio quality ❌ Require real-time recording, which can be time-consuming ❌ No more output audio settings |
No.3 Convertio [Outdated]
Convertio is an online converter that provides a different approach. Unlike desktop software, it allows you to convert AAX to MP3 without having to install any additional tools on your computer. You simply upload your Audible AAX audiobooks and convert them to MP3 online.
Note: This method is now outdated and no longer works for converting AAX files to MP3 due to recent updates from Audible.
How to Convert an AAX File to MP3 Online Free via Convertio
Step 1. Open any web browser and navigate to Convertio official website.
Step 2. Hit the folder icon and add AAX files from your computer. Choose the input format as AAX and the output format as MP3.
Step 3. Press the 'Convert' icon to start the format conversion. This software will convert .aax to MP3 online in batch. Find all MP3 audiobooks by clicking the 'Download' icon.
🌟 Pros and Cons of Convertio
| Pros |
✔ Convert audio files online for free ✔ No need to install an extra program on your device ✔ Easy to use for any user |
| Cons | ❌ Lossy output audio quality ❌ Only outputs MP3 audio format |
Comparison Table of Converting AAX File to MP3 Online
Now, check the comparison table here to learn more about the online AAX to MP3 converters in detail.
| Features | Convertio | Online Audio Converter | Apowersoft Free Online Audio Recorder |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supported System | Online | Online | Online |
| Easy to Use | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Authorize Audible Account | ❌ | ❌ | ✔ |
| Output Quality | Low | High | Low |
| Output Format | MP3 | MP3, WAV, M4A, FLAC, OGG, etc. | MP3 |
| Conversion Speed | Middle | Middle | Low |
| Highlight Features | Convert a wide variety of audio and video files | Support converting .aax to MP3 and a lot of other audio formats as well; Multiple output formats; Set audiobooks as iPhone ringtone; Customize output quality and edit ID3 tags |
Very easy to use |
| Recommendation Rate | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️ |
Part 3. How to Convert AAX to MP3 Free
If you are looking for a free and effective tool to convert AAX files to MP3, you've come to the right place. In this section, we will introduce four of the best third-party AAX to MP3 converters available at no cost, allowing you to enjoy a better user experience for free.
No.1 Libation [Windows/Mac/Linux]
Libation is a free and open-source Audible converter available on GitHub for Windows, macOS, and Linux. Its main advantage is the ability to directly access and convert your Audible library, eliminating the need to download files beforehand, and download .aax to MP3 directly. The tool automatically preserves original ID3 tags and allows for customization, including splitting audiobooks into separate chapter files.
How to Convert AAX to MP3 via Libation for Free
Step 1. Download and install the program from GitHub.
Step 2. Log in with your Audible account to automatically sync your library under the 'Import' tab.
Step 3. Adjust the output settings for format (e.g., MP3) and enable chapter splitting if desired. To do this, follow 'Settings' > 'Settings...' > 'Audio File Options'.
Step 4. Select the titles you want to convert, and Libation will download and convert them to your chosen folder under 'Import Settings'.
View also: Libation Audible Converter Review
🌟 Pros and Cons of Libation
| Pros |
✔ Free and open-source ✔ Support Linux, Windows and Mac system ✔ Support download .aax to MP3 with full ID3 tags ✔ Support split audiobook into chapters |
| Cons | ❌ Need an authorize Audible account ❌ Can't support batch conversion |
No.2 Audacity [Windows/Mac/Linux]
Audacity is an open-source tool to convert Audible AAX/AA files to MP3 for free on Mac, Windows, and Linux computers. Besides, it is actually an audio editor and recorder. With the traditional recording technology, it can record AAX audiobooks playing on a computer and save them as MP3. Now, follow the user guide on how to convert AAX to MP3 for free with Audacity.
View also: Top 5 Audacity Alternative
How to Use Audacity AAX to MP3 Converter for Free
Step 1. Fire up Audacity from your computer. Then please select the 'Windows WASAPI' option under the "Audio Host" section.
Step 2. There is a list of the recording devices, please choose your computer's speaker as the target one. Sometimes, you might need to click the 'Loopback' icon.
Step 3. Create a new track to record AAX files. After that, please play AAX audiobooks. Then it will start to record.
Step 4. After recording, tap the 'File' > 'Export' > 'Export as MP3' option to save AAX files to MP3 for free.
🌟 Pros and Cons of Audacity
| Pros |
✔ 100% Free ✔ Support Linux, Windows and Mac computers ✔ Support many output audio formats ✔ Record any sound from the computer |
| Cons | ❌ Can't split audiobook into chapters ❌ Can't keep ID3 tags ❌ Can't support batch conversion |
No.3 Open-Source Free AAX Converter on SourceForge [Windows]
This Audible AAX to MP3 free converter was brought by aaxman on SourceForge website. I have tried this tool and the conversion speed is fast. In general, it depends on computer power. No need to install the iTunes app, you can effectively get MP3 files for free with SourceForge converter.
How to Convert .aax to MP3 for Free on SourceForge
Step 1. Download and install the Audible Manager from SourceForge website on your computer. Then select an audiobook to open.
Step 2. Log in to your Audible account in the Audible Manager app. Then launch the free AAXToMP3 converter from your computer desktop.
Step 3. Choose AAX audiobooks that you'd like to convert to MP3. After that, please click the 'Convert' button to convert AAX files to MP3 for free. All MP3 files can be located in the same folder as the AAX file.
🌟 Pros and Cons of Open-Source Free AAX Converter on SourceForge
| Pros |
✔ Easy to use ✔ Output high-quality audio files ✔ Convert audio files at a fast speed ✔ No need to work with iTunes app |
| Cons | ❌ Only German user interface ❌ Conversion is not stable ❌ Need to install Audible Manager to use it |
No.4 inAudible [Windows]
inAudible is another smart and powerful third-party converter. This free tool can convert AAX files not only to MP3 but also to AAC, M4B, and WAV formats. It's designed to preserve all original ID3 tags, such as the cover art and title, in the converted MP3 files. Additionally, it offers a splitting feature that allows you to separate large audiobooks in various ways, including by deleting moments of silence.
View also: inAudible Software Review and Best Alternative
Since it doesn't have an official website, there is no direct download link to install it. You need to search for it on Google and find a possible website to do that, like GitHub.
How to Convert AAX Files into MP3 Free via inAudible
Step 1. Find the InAudible for Mac or Windows on Google. Then install and launch it from your computer desktop without paying a penny.
Step 2. Click the 'Input' icon on Mac or 'File' > 'Open & Audible/M4B' on Windows to load AAX files.
Step 3. Choose the output destination folder, output format, and other audio settings. Then, please click the 'Begin Conversion' button to start the AAX file to MP3 conversion process without paying a dime.
🌟 Pros and Cons of inAudible
| Pros |
✔ Retain full and original ID3 tags ✔ Allow to customize output audio parameters ✔ Support to convert audio files in batches ✔ Support to split audio files |
| Cons | ❌ Not easy to use ❌ Not support macOS Catalina or above ❌ Sometimes it won't work |
No.5 AAXAudioConverter [Windows]
AAXAudioConverter is a free and open-source tool that you can find and install on GitHub. It is compatible with Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, and Windows 11. To use this software, you should draw support from Book Lib Connect, Audible Manager, or a personal activation code to download audiobooks from Audible in advance.
You are bound to rely on this free AAX converter to convert Audible .aax and aa. files to MP3, M4A, and M4B. The audio conversion, including DRM handling, is carried out by FFmpeg. It's also given the option to output audiobooks into multiple chapters or split them into shorter tracks of roughly equal length.
How to Convert AAX to MP3 for Free via AAXAudioConverter
Step 1. Download and open this AAXAudioConverter on your Windows computer. Then click the 'Add' button to open and select AAX audiobooks.
Step 2. Choose MP3 as the output format to export Audible files. If you'd like to divide audiobooks, simply hit on the 'More' section to customize it.
Step 3. You can also choose a favorite output folder. Then, tap the 'Convert' button to start the conversion.
🌟 Pros and Cons of AAXAudioConverter
| Pros |
✔ Convert AAX to MP3, M4B and M4A for free ✔ Save ID3 tags of audio files ✔ Allow to split audio files into small chapters |
| Cons | ❌ Not work on Mac computer ❌ Can't reset output audio quality ❌ Need to install Framework to use it |
Comparison Table of Free AAX to MP3 Converter
Check the table below to see the differences between these tools to convert AAX to MP3 for free.
| Features | AAX to MP3 on SourceForge | inAudible | Libation | Audacity | AAXAudioConverter |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supported System | Windows | Windows | Linux, Windows and Mac | Linux, Windows and Mac | Windows |
| Easy to Use | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Authorize Audible Account | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Output Quality | Low | Low | Low | High | Low |
| Output Format | MP3 | MP3, M4B, AAC, WAV |
MP3 | WAV, AIFF, MP3, M4A, Ogg Vorbis, FLAC, MP2 | MP3, M4A, M4B |
| Conversion Speed | Fast | Low | Low | Real time | Middle |
| Highlight Features | Require no iTunes; Fast conversion speed |
Keep ID3 tags; Splitting feature |
Retain full ID3 tags of Audible AAX files; Support Mac/Windows/Linux OS; Split .aax file to small clips by chapter |
Support Mac/Windows/Linux OS; Many output formats; Recording audio from computer |
Divide audiobooks by chapter; Adjust inaccurate chapter marks; Keep or rename ID3 tags |
| Recommendation Rate | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
Part 4. FAQs about Converting AAX to MP3
Q1: What Is an Audible AA/AAX Files?
A: Both AA and AAX are proprietary file formats used for Audible audiobooks, protected by a special codec. This protection limits their use to a certain number of devices per account. The AAX format, also known as 'Enhanced', is a higher-quality encrypted M4B file that uses AAC. It offers better sound quality for spoken works than the older AA format.
Q2: How Can I Batch Convert Multiple AAX Files to MP3?
A: If you have a large Audible library, batch conversion is the fastest way to manage your audiobooks. Most free online tools only allow single file conversion, which can be time-consuming. To batch convert AAX to MP3, you'll need a professional desktop program such as AudFree Audible Converter. It supports bulk importing of AAX files and converts them to MP3 simultaneously while retaining chapters and metadata. This makes it much easier to organize and enjoy your entire Audible collection offline.
Q3: Can VLC Convert AAX to MP3?
A: No, VLC Media Player cannot directly convert Audible's AAX files to MP3. While VLC has a built-in conversion feature, it is unable to handle the DRM protection that is applied to all Audible audiobooks. To convert AAX files, you must first remove the DRM using a dedicated third-party tool like AudFree Audible Converter, which then allows the file to be converted to MP3.
Q4: What is the Best Software to Convert AAX to MP3 on Mac/Windows/Linux?
A: The best software depends on your operating system. For Mac and Windows, AudFree Audible Converter is highly recommended because it removes Audible DRM and converts AAX files to MP3, M4A, WAV, or FLAC with lossless quality. If you're using Linux, tools like OpenAudible or Libation (open-source) can also handle the task, though they require some technical knowledge. Overall, AudFree Audible Converter provides the most user-friendly and reliable solution across platforms.
Q5: Can You Convert AAX/AA to MP3 with iTunes?
A: No, you cannot. To use iTunes to convert Audible files, you must first remove the DRM protection, which iTunes cannot do on its own. You'll need a third-party tool, such as AudFree Audible Converter, to accomplish this.
Q6: Why Converting AAX File to MP3?
A: Audible AAX files are restricted to playback on official devices, which can be a major inconvenience. In contrast, MP3 is a universal file format that is compatible with virtually all devices and players. MP3 files are also smaller in size, making them easier to back up and manage. Converting AAX to MP3 is the best way to gain full control and freedom over your Audible audiobooks for offline enjoyment.
Q7: How do I Convert AAX to MP3 Without Losing Audio Quality?
A: To preserve the original sound quality of your Audible audiobooks, it's essential to use a tool that supports lossless AAX to MP3 conversion. Many online converters compress the file, which reduces audio clarity. Instead, use a professional tool like AudFree Audible Converter, which maintains 100% of the original audio quality, including chapters, ID3 tags, and variable bitrates.
Q8: How to Convert AAX to MP3 on Android?
A: There isn't a direct AAX to MP3 converter for Android. However, you can use one of the desktop tools mentioned above to convert and save the MP3 files on your computer. After that, you can easily transfer the Audible MP3 files to your Android device using a USB cable or Wi-Fi connection.
Part 5. In Conclusion
Converting AAX files to MP3 gives you the flexibility to enjoy Audible audiobooks on any device without restriction. As shown above, there are both paid and free solutions available, each with its own advantages. For users who want a straightforward, reliable, and high-quality conversion on Mac and Windows, AudFree Audible Converter stands out. It delivers fast batch conversion, keeps original ID3 tags and chapters, and ensures lossless audio quality, making it one of the most comprehensive choices for everyday listeners.
On the other hand, if you prefer an open-source and free option, Libation is a practical alternative. It supports Windows, Mac, and Linux, allows direct access to your Audible library, and preserves essential metadata. While it may require more manual setup and does not support batch conversion, it remains a valuable tool for users comfortable with open-source solutions.
Ultimately, the best method depends on your needs - whether you prioritize convenience, speed, and professional features with AudFree Audible Converter, or you favor a free, community-driven approach with Libation. Either way, converting Audible AAX to MP3 ensures your audiobooks can be backed up, managed, and played across all your preferred devices.
View also:
Ivan Scott
Staff Editor
