What is OMA File Format? How to Open and Convert It?

Before iPods took over the portable music scene, Sony Walkmans were the undisputed leaders of the industry. If you ever owned a Sony Walkman or some other Sony devices from that era, you likely have in your possession OMA files that you don't know what to do with. They're a relic from the past and don't have much support in the present. So, you may have a hard time opening them or enjoying the content on them. That's why we've created this guide to help you understand what they are and how you can convert them into a more usable format.

Part 1: What is OMA File Format?

The OMA (Open Mobile Alliance) file format is an audio container format for Sony's proprietary ATRAC (Adaptive Transform Acoustic Coding) audio streams. Sony primarily used them for distributing DRM-protected music through its Connect Music Store. The proprietary format was originally supported only on Sony hardware and software.

For these reasons, OMA files could not be transferred to or played on other devices. In fact, DRM-protected OMA files cannot be opened by third-party media players either. As the years passed, the support for OMA files has further shrunk, making it harder to play them on a device of your choice. Ideally, if you wish to preserve or play the contents of your OMA files, you must first convert them to MP3 format, which is more versatile and universally compatible.

However, remember that OMA files have DRM protection, preventing them from being converted to another format. Therefore, the first step is to remove the DRM protection from these files. Whichever tool you use for this task, remember that removing DRM protection may be illegal where you live. So check the applicable laws.

Once you've removed DRM protection, it's time to convert the OMA files to MP3. We've scoured the internet to find the best tools that still support the OMA file format and let you convert OMA files into MP3 format.

Part 2: 4 Easy Tools to Convert OMA to MP3

1. SonicStage (For Windows PC)

SonicStage is not exactly a file converting tool. It is a legacy software for managing Sony's portable devices when paired with Windows PCs. It can pull information on your music purchases directly and let you manage the music files effortlessly from within the app.

One of the built-in features on SonicStage is CD burning. The software lets you burn your music onto a CD, from where you can rip music in MP3 format. This only works if you purchased the OMA file from Sony or Sony's service.

For ripping the CDs, you can use various tools like Foobar2000, NCH Express Rip, etc.

2. VLC Media Player (For Windows, macOS, and Linux Desktops)

The immensely popular VLC Media Player supports a vast range of media file formats, including OMA. You can play OMA files natively on VLC, but what's more interesting about VLC is that it can convert your OMA files to MP3, too. It features a built-in file conversion feature. Although not the most robust file converter, VLC can do a pretty good job of it, even offering reasonable customization options. However, VLC does not have DRM protection removal capabilities. So, you can only convert OMA files that do not have DRM protection on them.

3. FileHelper.com (For All Desktop and Phone Platforms)

FileHelper is a file identifier and file converter combined into one seamless online tool. It can be accessed from any browser-compatible device. Just visit the FileHelper website and upload your OMA file. The tool automatically identifies the file format and explains it to you. It also offers conversion options to help you convert your OMA file to another suitable format. Convert the file into MP3 and download it. There are no hoops to jump through. It's a clean, straightforward interface.

4. Audacity + FFmpeg (For Windows, Mac, and Linux)

Audacity is a powerful audio editor for professionals. It features built-in support for a vast variety of audio files and can convert file formats effortlessly. However, you'll need the FFmpeg plugin to give it the capability to convert OMA files to MP3 format. However, the problem with Audacity is the same as with most other tools that can perform OMA to MP3 conversion-it lacks DRM protection removal feature.

Bonus: Convert Any Audio and Video Between Various Formats

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FAQs about OMA Files

Conclusion

The OMA file format may be outdated, but you can still enjoy its contents. While DRM protection can pose a challenge, several tools are available to help you overcome this and convert your OMA files to the more versatile and universally compatible MP3 format. For fast and easy file conversions, use HitPaw Univd. It is a powerful media conversion and editing tool that offers a host of features to make your conversion process seamless and efficient. HitPaw Univd even lets you remove DRM protection from your files. Try it today.