Any good, free apps out there that can convert .m4a to .mp3? I've done some searching but can only seem to find shareware. 🙁 (These are files that were ripped from CDs, not one's bought off the iTunes Store).
Yes, I would first change iTunes preferences so that it does not copy songs when added to library. Then change your importing preferences to MP3 (although I prefer AAC). Drag and drop m4a files on your library. Now, if you select all of those songs and right click on them, there will be an option that says: "convert selection to MP3".