How to Locate and Link FFmpeg in Audacity

Audacity requires the optional FFmpeg library to import and export extended audio formats such as M4A (AAC), AC3, AMR, and WMA. While Audacity often detects FFmpeg automatically after installation, system changes or custom install paths may require manual configuration. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to locate and manually link the FFmpeg library inside Audacity's preferences across Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Step 1: Open Audacity Preferences

Launch Audacity and open the Preferences menu using the appropriate method for your operating system:

• Windows / Linux: Click on Edit in the top menu bar and select Preferences, or press Ctrl + P.
• macOS: Click on Audacity in the top menu bar and select Preferences, or press Cmd + ,.

Step 2: Navigate to the Libraries Section

In the Preferences window, look at the sidebar on the left side of the screen. Click on Libraries to open the library configuration panel.

Step 3: Check the FFmpeg Status

Locate the section labeled FFmpeg Import/Export Library:

• If a version number is displayed next to FFmpeg Library Version, Audacity is already linked and ready to use.
• If it displays FFmpeg library not found, click the Locate... button on the right.

Step 4: Manually Locate the FFmpeg File

A dialog box titled "Locate FFmpeg" will appear.

1. Click the Browse... button.
2. Navigate to the directory where FFmpeg was installed and select the core library file:
   • Windows: Look for avformat-*.dll (typically located in C:\Program Files\FFmpeg for Audacity\ or C:\Program Files (x86)\FFmpeg for Audacity\).
   • macOS: Look for libavformat.*.dylib (typically located in /Library/Application Support/audacity/libs/).
   • Linux: Look for libavformat.so.* (typically located in /usr/lib/ or /usr/local/lib/).
3. Select the file and click Open.

Step 5: Save and Verify

1. Click OK in the "Locate FFmpeg" dialog window.
2. Verify that the FFmpeg Library Version line now displays a valid version number instead of the "not found" message.
3. Click OK at the bottom of the main Preferences window to save your settings.

Audacity is now linked to FFmpeg and ready to handle additional audio formats.