Legal Methods
We focus on permission-based options only: your own uploads, creator-enabled downloads, and tracks under compatible Creative Commons licenses.
SoundCloud to MP3 — Learn the Legal Ways
Educational guidance for permission-based downloads only.
Your uploadsDownload‑enabled tracksCreative CommonsGo+ offline (in‑app)
Legal reminder: This guide covers only authorized, creator‑approved methods. It never instructs on DRM bypass or unauthorized extraction.
Format Basics
Understand MP3, WAV, and bitrates so you pick the right balance of quality and file size.
Quality Tips
Keep metadata intact, credit creators where required, and avoid practices that degrade audio or break terms.
MP3 vs. WAV basics
MP3 is a compressed format great for portability. Choose higher bitrates (e.g., 256–320 kbps) when possible.
WAV is uncompressed/lossless and preserves full quality, but files are larger—useful for editing or archiving.
Quality & metadata tips
- Prefer official downloads when available.
- Keep ID3 tags accurate (title, artist, year, artwork).
- Respect required attribution for Creative Commons tracks.
- Avoid upscaling bitrates—it won’t improve quality.
How to legally obtain audio from SoundCloud
- Confirm your rights. Only proceed if you own the content, the creator enabled downloads, or the license (e.g., CC BY) permits it.
- Use SoundCloud’s Download button. If visible, click it to obtain the file provided by the creator.
- Export your own uploads. Your originals can often be downloaded from your account interface.
- Go+ offline is in‑app only. You may save tracks for offline listening inside the SoundCloud app; do not extract files.
- Attribute when required. Follow the license terms; include creator credit and keep metadata intact.
Is it legal?
Yes—when you have permission. That includes your own uploads, tracks with a visible Download button, and certain Creative Commons licenses. SoundCloud Go+ also allows in‑app offline listening (no file extraction). Unauthorized copying or DRM circumvention is not covered and is against SoundCloud’s Terms.
Learn more on our Legal Use page.
Frequently asked questions
Can I convert any SoundCloud track to MP3?
No. Only when you have rights: your uploads, creator-enabled downloads, or appropriately licensed works. We do not teach DRM bypass or unauthorized copying.
Is SoundCloud Go+ offline allowed?
Yes, but only inside the app. Offline saving does not grant a separate MP3/WAV file or permission to extract one.
What’s the best bitrate for MP3?
For general listening, 256–320 kbps is a good range. For editing, consider WAV when available.
Do I need to credit the artist?
Follow the license. Many Creative Commons tracks require attribution; always check the specific terms.
Are you affiliated with SoundCloud?
No. We are independent. See the trademark note in our footer.