Max review
A capable free Mac converter for format changes, CD ripping, and library cleanup.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Max is a free, open-source macOS application for converting audio files and extracting audio from compact discs. It suits Mac users managing a mixed-format music library, archiving CDs, or preparing files for different playback and storage needs. Supported formats include MP3, Ogg Vorbis, FLAC, Ogg FLAC, AAC, Apple Lossless, Monkey’s Audio, WavPack, Speex, AIFF, and WAVE, with support extending beyond those listed formats. The GNU General Public License and availability as a binary or source build also make it relevant to users who value open-source software.
Its strongest area is control over conversion and disc workflows. Max provides encoder parameter and thread controls, configurable output locations and filenames, and conversion between compressed and uncompressed formats. CD ripping includes comparison and error-correction options for pristine or damaged discs. Cue-sheet splitting can turn a cue-based source into multiple tracks, while metadata transfer and MusicBrainz lookup help organize converted or ripped files. Optional iTunes playlist export adds a practical route into an existing Apple music library. These features give Max more scope than a basic file-format converter, particularly for users who care about preserving quality and structure.
The main trade-off is platform coverage: Max runs on macOS only, so it is not a fit for Windows or Linux workflows. It also operates as a local application rather than a cloud conversion service, which suits users who want desktop processing but not those seeking browser-based conversion. Choose Max for free Mac-based conversion, CD extraction, metadata handling, and detailed encoder controls. Consider an alternative if cross-platform availability or cloud conversion is central to the workflow.
Max pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Supports more than 20 compressed and uncompressed audio formats
- CD ripping includes comparison and error-correction options
- Offers metadata lookup, cue splitting, and encoder controls
- Where it doesn't
- Runs on macOS only
- Does not provide cloud conversion
- iTunes playlist export is optional rather than central
Max fact sheet, pricing and score →
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