How to Extract Audio from Video Using VLC?

Extracting the audio track from a video file is a quick and straightforward process when using the free, open-source VLC Media Player. By utilizing VLC’s built-in conversion feature, you can strip the audio from virtually any video format (such as MP4, MKV, or AVI) and save it as a standalone audio file like an MP3 or FLAC. This guide walks you through the step-by-step process to successfully convert your video into audio using VLC on both Windows and Mac operating systems.

Step-by-Step Guide to Audio Extraction

To get started, make sure you have the latest version of VLC Media Player installed on your computer. Once the software is open, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Media Menu: Click on the Media tab in the top menu bar (on a Mac, click File) and select Convert / Save from the dropdown menu. Alternatively, you can use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + R on Windows or Cmd + Shift + S on Mac.
  2. Add Your Video File: In the Open Media window that appears, click the Add… button under the File tab. Browse your computer, select the video file you want to extract audio from, and click Open.
  3. Proceed to Convert: Click the Convert / Save button at the bottom of the window.
  4. Choose Your Audio Profile: In the Convert window, look for the Settings section. Next to Profile, click the dropdown menu and select your desired audio format. Audio - MP3 is the most common choice for universal compatibility, though you can choose Audio - FLAC for lossless quality or Audio - CD if needed.
  5. Select the Destination: Click the Browse button next to the Destination file box. Choose the folder where you want to save your new audio file. Crucial Step: Type a name for your file and ensure the file extension matches your chosen profile (for example, change the ending to .mp3 if you chose the MP3 profile). Click Save.
  6. Start the Extraction: Click the Start button. The VLC timeline position indicator will move rapidly across the screen as it processes the file. Do not close the player until the progress bar reaches the end.

Customizing Audio Quality (Optional)

If you want a higher bitrate or need to adjust specific audio channels before extracting, you can fine-tune the settings right before saving. Next to the profile dropdown menu, click the wrench icon (Edit selected profile).

From there, navigate to the Audio codec tab. Here, you can change the codec, increase the Bitrate (such as bumping it up to 320 kbps for clearer MP3 audio), and adjust the Channels from mono to stereo. Once your adjustments are made, click Save and proceed with the standard extraction steps.