Exporting MP3s in iTunes--alternative apps?

[guitarist]

Since iTunes already has the ability to convert a (GarageBand AIF file, for example) an audio file into an MP3, looking for a Third-Party solution is no longer necessary.

[anonymouse1]

Using iTunes to convert files across formats is a PITA, IMHO.

[Sam3]

I beg to disagree with the statement that since iTunes can encode in mp3 then no other solution is necessary. Lame is considered by far to be the best mp3 encoder out there. Do a search of 'itunes lame' and you'll get lots of reading material, from a downloaded Applescript front-end to LAME, to reviews and discussions regarding the LAME codec. It's easy to use, too. Just take the iTunes-LAME application, drop it in your Library/iTunes/Scripts folder and then select the Applescript "Import with LAME" option. Of course then you can mess around with the LAME settings if you want to.

[guitarist]

Sam--I've done what you described. And I agree that LAME offers a lot of features and power that iTunes doesn't, for those who like tweaking audio files. I simply don't need it. I didn't think it was necessary to qualify my statement by saying since iTunes can encode MP3s, I PERSONALLY find no other solution to be necessary.