12/24/2550

The Ipod Generations

The Ipod Generations
Submitted By: Roberto Sedycias

[Word Count: 717 words] [Viewed: 65 time(s)] [Don't forget to rate this article] [Report this article]


The original iPod (mp3 mp4 player) introduced on 23 October 2001 marked the first iPod generation, and the latest iPod introduced on 12 October 2005 marked the fifth iPod generation, which was subsequently revised with a revision iPod model on September 2006, often referred to as generation 5.5. Note that the generations are referred with reference to the model name and not with reference to the date of release.
For a better understanding about iPod generations, check the following:
On October 23, 2001, the first generation of iPod was released. The model name was iPod and had the storage capacity of 5 to 10 gb. It used FireWire connection to computers and it had a mechanical scroll wheel.
On July 17, 2002, the second generation of iPod was released. It had the storage capacity of 10, 20 gb. It used FireWire connection to computers and it had a touch-sensitive wheel. The Hold switch was revised. The FireWire port had a cover.
On April 28, 2003, the third generation of iPod was released. It had the storage capacity of 10, 15, 20, 30, 40 gb. It used FireWire connection to computers (USB for syncing only), and it had a central row of touch sensitive buttons. New backlit screen was introduced. Dock connector port was introduced.
On January 6, 2004, the first generation of iPod mini was released. It had the storage capacity of 4 gb. It used FireWire or USB connection to computers, and it introduced the "Click Wheel", which was later adopted by the fourth generation iPod. It was available in 5 colors.
On July 19, 2004, the fourth generation of iPod was released. It had the storage capacity of 20, 30, 40, 60 gb. It used FireWire or USB connection to computers, and buttons were integrated to form "Click Wheel". The monochrome model was replaced in June 2005 by the color display with photo viewer, which was introduced in October 2004.
On January 11, 2005, the first generation of iPod shuffle was released. It had the storage capacity of 512 mb, 1gb. It used USB connection to computers, and it had no screen, no click wheel. It used flash memory instead of hard drive storage.
On February 22, 2005, the second generation of iPod mini was released. It had the storage capacity of 4, 6 gb. It used FireWire or USB connection to computers , and it had longer battery life, and brighter color variants. Gold model discontinued. No AC adapter. The body color matched the click wheel lettering.
On September 7, 2005, the first generation of iPod nano was released. It had the storage capacity of 1, 2, 4 gb. It used USB connection to computers (FireWire for charging only), and it was the successor of iPod mini. Slimmer design, flash memory, color screen and lyrics support.
On October 12, 2005, the fifth generation of iPod was released. It had the storage capacity of 30, 60, 80 gb. It used USB connection to computers (FireWire for charging only), and it had large screen with video player and lyrics support. No AC adapter, Universal Dock, or A/V cables were included. It had black and white color variants. This model was revised in September 2006 (often called as generation 5.5) had a brighter display, a music search function, and a longer video battery life.
On September 12, 2006, the second generation of iPod shuffle was released. It had the storage capacity of 1 gb. It used USB (via dock only), and it had the aluminum case with smaller form factor. Built-in clip. Later multi-colored models were also released.
On September 12, 2006, the second generation of iPod nano was released. It had the storage capacity of 2, 4, 8 gb It used USB connection to computers (FireWire for charging only), and it had the anodized Aluminum case in 6 colors. Music search function, longer battery life, and brighter screen.
When more refinements are carried out with respect to features, size, weight and etc., a new generation is announced of the respective model. The distinguishing landmarks were the replacement of the mechanical scroll wheel by touch-sensitive click wheel, the replacement of the hard disk by the flash memory, and the replacement of the monochrome display with color displays. Earlier generations are usually discontinued in favor of newer generations. Earlier generations had bundled software compatible with Macintosh only, while later iPod (mp3 mp4 player) generations have both Macintosh and Windows compatible versions.
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The True Value Of The Ipod

The True Value Of The Ipod
Submitted By:
Mauro

[Word Count: 513 words] [Viewed: 73 time(s)] [
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“If music be the food of love, play on.” Ah, that William Shakespeare – he really nailed it with that line when it comes to the world’s love affair with music. We need it, as it is the essence of our very survival, and we, as humans, can never get enough of it. Our appetite and desire for music will never be satisfied, so why bother fighting the urge? Give us more, and we will ingest and enjoy it gleefully.
Now, when Shakespeare coined that phrase, he was probably referring to someone playing a lute, and not listening to ye old iPod. However, if there is a common thread between Shakespeare’s declaration that we all require music and the world’s favorite portable MP3 player, it is that the iPod, because of its incredibly convenient design, can constantly feed the world of its hunger for tunes.
Anyone who is on a quest for new and excellent music knows how valuable the iPod is for reaching that goal. Download something you’ve always wanted to hear onto your iPod, and an instant discovery has been made. A new band that you’ve always wanted to check out is now in your iPod and waiting for you. To link it back to the opening line of this article, if you find it pleasing, you ask for, and seek out more. And if you find the taste of that particular band unpalatable, you simply reject it and move on to the next item on the music buffet line. Either way, the hunger is always there, and the iPod is always ready, willing and more than able to attempt to satisfy it.
More than just feeding from the computer, the iPod also shares its music goodies through community. If you are an iPod owner, and you locate another iPod owner, chances are, if you ask that iPod owner for a listen of what’s on his or her iPod, that iPod owner would be more than happy to share his audio bounty with you. There is a common bond between iPod users that directs them to share their music with other iPod users. Now, while contained in a local neighborhood, the selection of songs my be stale, the international and universal appeal of the iPod presents an unlimited feast for the ears and the soul. If you ever find yourself in another country with your iPod and locate a local with their iPod, ask to exchange songs. They may be more than willing to do so, and you will enjoy an instant sampling of the local music cuisine!
Shakespeare was dead-on (as usual), about his definition of our need for music. Eating the same food over and over again, while providing the necessities of life, does not deliver the joys of it. Listening to the same music over and over again will eventually tire out the soul and the ears. We need to try, and listen to new things, and the iPod is the perfect international restaurant located on our computers to go for a sampling!

New iPod Games

New iPod Games
Submitted By:
Alex Rich

[Word Count: 683 words] [Viewed: 62 time(s)] [
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I can’t say for sure when I know I was bitten but I have the date on my receipts (11/15/06). I guess I was late to the iPod party but I’ve not missed a step since I got involved with “Buck,” my iPod.
I’ve got 3 now, one just for movies, and another for music and one for data and I’m negotiating with a contact in China for 5 more.
iPod is the brain child of Steven Jobs, Apple guru and all around genius. More than 22 million ipods have been sold to US adults, which amounts to approximately 11% of the population (according to the non-profit Pew Internet & American Life Project). I became a fan and user and my addiction continues to grow stronger.
Now I spend my days learning about new applications and my nights surfing for clearance sales, closeouts, underground sources for discounts on accessories. For example, last week I found a site that sells what they call an iPod Converter.
This unit allows for unlimited downloads of movies and music and games and software and provides a lifetime membership in their download club. As a full blown movie nut this little handful of technology is gobbling up my free time by the hour.
Talk about addiction, I was rummaging through some magazines in the basement of the library at midnight (don’t ask) and found this underground techie magazine. There was a story about an MP3 converter that took me a few minutes to realize was the iPod converter I heard about last week.
The techie manual indicated this is better than Blockbuster and NetFlicks all rolled into one very user friendly palm-sized unit. I’ll share the link here anyone who is interested can read all about it.
As I continue to learn about all-things-iPod I’ve just discovered about iPod hacks. This reference startled me at first as it is not in my nature to destroy other’s enjoyment in any manner, especially when it comes to something like PCs and iPods.
What I learned is the term hacks when it refers to iPod is another way of saying accessories, except that the modification most likely will void your iPod’s warrantee. In any case the lists I found were nothing less than fascinating.
For instance, according to howstuffworks.com, the range of accessories includes downloadable iPod games and programs that convert DVDs to iPod-friendly video files.
There are also programs that convert PDA files your PowerPoint presentations into files that work with your iPod-compatible.
The howstuffworks website also provided a reference to a list of some current applications:
“iPod hackers are publishing all sorts of programs that alter the way an iPod works -- some of the software is free, and some of it is for purchase. Some currently available hacks let you:
• Make an iPod work with Linux machines and run Linux applications.
• Remove volume caps (iPods sold in Europe cap the volume at 100 decibels; uncapped iPods can reach more than 115 decibels.)
• Turn your iPod into a universal remote.
• Attach an external hard drive to your iPod to increase the storage capacity.
• Change your iPod's font and graphics.
• Watch movies on your iPod in full-screen mode.
• Plug your iPod into any computer (even without iTunes) and listen to music from the hard drive.
• Transfer photos to iPod without using iTunes.
• Replace iTunes all together as the iPod's main jukebox.
• Use an iPod with a Windows 98 machine.
While I am fascinated with the expansion this provides I am too cautious and protective of Buck to try anything other than factory sealed products from Apple. I can be patient until they ramp up to the accessory list I peeked at in an underground publication.
The upcoming Apple list is robust and will blow away the hacker’s meager offerings. Meanwhile, I’ll stick to my movie and music downloading which keeps me rather busy and satisfied.
However if you hear any buzz about an auto-pilot for long cross-country drives that’s compatible with a 2006 STS, please pass it on. I might just let Buck give it a try.

What To Do When Your IPod Gets Waterlogged

What To Do When Your IPod Gets Waterlogged
Submitted By: Beverly Kane

[Word Count: 494 words] [Viewed: 67 time(s)] [Don't forget to rate this article] [Report this article]


The MacIntosh iPod has become a very important accessory to many music and video lovers around the world. They are so small and so portable that you can take them anywhere you want and everyone in all age groups love them. The iPod can hold 15,000 song downloads, 150 video hours and 25,000 pictures. This makes it convenient to hear all your favorite music anytime and anywhere you want. You can also end up dropping it in many unwanted places due to its small size.
Many iPod users have found themselves in the, not so nice position, of dropping it in or near water. It can be dropped when brushing teeth, washing up or at the pool. It unfortunately gets dropped in puddles and all sorts of strange places. The biggest concern for most people in this situation is if it can be repaired. The answer to that in many cases is yes, unless of course it was extreme damage. All it takes is a couple of easy parts or repairs to your waterlogged iPod.
Of course the first move would be to get the iPod out of the water immediately, and turn it off. You can get shocked so make sure it’s off. Then you would want it to become completely dry. This will take some time and wrapping it up in a towel or something to help it dry. Then put it in a nice moderately warm place or room, even on a window sill would be fine. Then it’s best to wait at least 48 hours or longer is even better, before you try to repair. After the required amount of time try switching it on, if you get the folder or sad face don’t get worried yet, it is recommended that you restore and erase the iPod.
To do this step you will need:
- To go to My Computer, then select desktop.- Next you will click on iPod.- Right click and select format.- Next select FAT 32 and- Then reboot.
The restore and erase should work for you if the hard drive was damaged. If this does not work, you may be facing a more difficult situation of having to replace some parts or getting professional repair.
There are waterproof products to go along with your iPod, that’s always a wise decision so you won’t need to face this again. Otterbox has many accessories to help keep your iPod dry. They can hook you up with waterproof cases so you can even take your iPod in the shower or other places around the water. People seem to love their products and they seem to work well. RazorReef also has a collection of tools for you, even swim belts and headphones. Now there will be no worries when you are on the beach or anywhere else.
If your iPod is totally unable to be repaired you can always recycle it and get a ten percent discount.

Selecting The Right Ipod

Selecting The Right Ipod
Submitted By:
Claire J Rottenberg

[Word Count: 836 words] [Viewed: 35 time(s)] [
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Apple currently offers three iPods - the Shuffle, Nano and iPod (video) - and one is probably just right for you. Although there are certainly aesthetic reasons for buying an iPod (who can resist the beauty of design of a Nano), in this article I'll describe some of the more logical reasons for selecting an iPod.
• iPod Shuffle The iPod Shuffle is the smallest and least expensive of the current iPod models. It's also the newest model, officially shipping just days ago, although it was first announced and previewed by Steve Jobs in mid-September.
The Shuffle's amazingly small size, virtual weightlessness and good battery life (Apple reports up to 12 hours of use from one battery charge) make it ideal for long trips or walks. The built-in clip makes wearing the Shuffle easy and secure and it eliminates the need for or cost of an extra case. Clip it anywhere and start walking or jogging.
The main disadvantage to a Shuffle is the limited storage space for music (1 GB). Some people complain that it lacks a screen, but I find a screen is unnecessary on a Shuffle since you can arrange music on it in the order you want to hear the songs using iTunes and changing the volume and moving back and forth through your songs requires no visual effort. For those who must have a screen on a lightweight MP3 player, Apple makes the iPod Nano.
• iPod NanoLike the Shuffle, the new Nano is almost weightless and, with the right case, it can be worn around your neck or on your arm. The battery life of a Nano for audio playback is extremely long (according to Apple, up to 24 hours of use from one battery charge), especially if you use the screen and backlight minimally.
The storage capacities for a Nano are 2 GB, 4 GB and 8 GB. If you have a small to medium size music collection, and you like the idea of carrying all your music with you in as small an MP3 player as possible, the Nano might be perfect for you. The addition of a screen lets you select just the songs you want to hear while still providing you with a lightweight option you can wear around your neck, carry in your pocket or wear on your arm. You can also store and view photos on a Nano but the storage space of the smaller Nano models might be limiting for a photo enthusiast.
The major disadvantage to the Nano is the cost of the 4 GB and 8 GB models. The 8 GB model is the same price as a 30 GB iPod (video) and the 4 GB model is only $50 less than the 30 GB iPod. Also, none of the models come with accessories except a cable to connect them to your computer or a charger, so you need to figure in the cost of at least a cover to protect the screen of a new Nano. But the Nano is small and lightweight and has a screen, and it may be the perfect iPod for users with smaller music collections.
• iPod (video)The largest iPod is Apple's "video" iPod, although Apple refers to it as just the iPod. The battery life for video viewing is good - up to 3-1/2 hours of use from one battery charge. The excellent resolution (320 x 240) and brightness of the screen of the iPod make viewing videos a delight.
The latest iPod comes in two sizes - 30 GB and 80 GB - and, like all iPods (including the Shuffle), it can be used for storing data as well as audio files, photos and videos. Storing your complete iTunes library on the iPod is very easy. Just connect your iPod to your computer, set iTunes to copy your complete library to the iPod and iTunes will do the rest. Every time you update your iTunes library and then connect your iPod, your music and videos will also be updated on your iPod.
One of the advantages of the large storage capacity of the iPod is the ability to add podcasts to your music library. You can find a large variety of free podcasts through the iTunes Store (the easiest way to add podcasts) and iTunes lets you easily update the podcasts automatically or manually. You can also visit podcast websites (for example, Podcast Net or Podcast Alley) for more podcasts, including video podcasts.
The iPod is, naturally, larger and heavier than a Nano, but it's still small enough and lightweight enough to carry in your pocket or purse. If you need the extra storage space and/or want video capabilities, the iPod (video) might be the right iPod for you.
As you can see, whether your needs are for a simple, no-frills, very small, easy-to-use music player (Shuffle), for a full-featured music and video player (iPod) or for something in-between (Nano), there is an iPod that is right for you. To help in making a choice, you can view a comparison chart of the three current iPod models at Apple's website.

Which iPod Is Right For Your Lifestyle?

Which iPod Is Right For Your Lifestyle?
Submitted By: Fred Harvey

[Word Count: 439 words] [Viewed: 83 time(s)] [Don't forget to rate this article] [Report this article]


Before you go out and spend a chunk of your hard earned cash on an ipod you need to take the time to think about what it is that you really need in yours. I mean, there are so many different kinds out there now, it is not the same selection that you had a few years ago. Back then there was only the and sure you had a few options as far as how many songs it would hold, but that was it. Now our options are vast, each kind of ipod comes with different song capacities and this will affect not only how many of your cds will fit on it but also how much you have to pay for your new ipod.
When it comes to buying an ipod for your kids you need to look at a couple of different things. First of all, consider where the kid is going to be packing this new handy dandy toy. If they are going to be walking all over the world with it you may want to stick with the cheaper ipod shuffle. It is a rough world out there and thousands and tens of thousands of kids have been robbed for their ipods probably this year alone. If, on the other hand, your son or daughter is a very responsible child and they know when to take it with them and when not to then you may want to upgrade your purchase to one of the other more expensive models of ipod. You know your child best of all, just take the time to think about your decision before you spend the money.
If your ipod shopping is all about you and what you need out of this player then you want to look at some of the same things and some different things as well. Kids are not the only ones who get robbed for their ipods you know, so you will need to be careful too. If you just like to have some tunes to accompany you on the way to work on the subway or the bus then an is probably a perfectly fine way to go. If you would like to use your ipod to catch up on the latest TV shows that you missed, then you are going to have to go with the classic ipod. This is the only one that has video capabilities.
When it comes right down to it all of the ipods are amazing, and they are all worth every penny that they cost. It is just a matter of choosing the one that suits you best.

A Look At iPod Accessories

A Look At iPod Accessories
Submitted By: John H. Rogers

[Word Count: 411 words] [Viewed: 65 time(s)] [Don't forget to rate this article] [Report this article]


With the increasing popularity of the iPod, it only stands to reason that the accessories market is growing right along with it. Often referred to as the iPod ecosystem, the large number of available iPod accessories are designed to work directly with the iPod and are manufactured by a variety of different companies. Well known industry music leaders Bose and Kennsington are among the companies to create iPod speakers, which use the iPod’s third pin dock connector. Various other companies create add-ons that permit the iPod to record sound, recharge, experience playback music on the radio and create wireless capability for the iPod to be operated with the use of a remote control.
In addition to technological iPod accessories, there are also a number of protective carrying cases designed to tote the iPod safely. While maintaining their equipment’s safety, iPod users are also making a fashion statement with their trendy carrying cases.
Industry experts are amazed at just how far iPod accessories have come. For instance, an iPod control is now available on selected jacket sleeves or backpack straps made available by an apparel company specializing in the snowboarding industry. The theory behind this placement is that it will allow individuals with additional convenience for operating their iPod outdoors and on the go. Now that’s iPod accessories at their best.
There are more common iPod accessories, including a headphone connector that allows for private listening of your favorite tunes. An iPod Hi-Fi speaker is also available for use in an electrical outlet or by battery operation.
With radio being a popular pastime for automobile operators, iPod accessories quickly made their way into car integration. BMW was the first to release an iPod interface, which allowed operators to control their iPod through built-in steering wheel controls. By January 2005, Volo, Nissan, Mercedes-Benz and Ferrari would offer similar systems. Later that year, Acura, Honda, Volkswagen and Audi confirmed their plans to integrate iPod accessories into their car stereos as well.
With it’s ability to customize music playback, the iPod is growing with each passing day. As it’s popularity increases, additional iPod accessories will be manufactured to make the convenience of customized music-on-the-go even better. With auto manufacturers jumping on board with their plans to incorporate iPod accessories into their newest creations, it’s clear to automakers and to the world that iPod is here to stay. And, where there is an iPod, there are iPod accessories not far behind.

New iPod Design For iPod Lovers

New iPod Design For iPod Lovers
Submitted By: Davids Smith

[Word Count: 486 words] [Viewed: 119 time(s)] [Don't forget to rate this article] [Report this article]


Apple recently updated its popular iPod music players making them thinner and adding great new features that make it worth considering an upgrade for old iPod users.
There are three iPod models -- 10, 15 and 30GB. The 15 and 30GB iPods $299 and include software for use with Windows or Macintosh systems.
The new iPods are about half as thick as the older ones, and there is a dock for the 15GB and 30GB models. Instead of connecting via a Firewire cable to charge the battery or download music, the new iPod slides easily into its rectangular dock, which is connected to a power source or to the computer.
The new controls are backlit and touch sensitive, which means there's no longer a spinning wheel that collects dirt. There's also a great new feature called the On-The-Go playlist. Previously, if you wanted to listen to a particular group of songs on the iPod, you had to make a playlist in the MusicMatch for Windows or iTunes for Macintosh software provided with the device. With the new On-The-Go feature, you can click on a song in the iPod and add it to the playlist without having to hook the iPod to a computer. The playlist is cleared when the iPod is connected to the computer.
The new iPod includes an alarm clock function, and new external sound means the alarm sounds even if the iPod isn't hooked to a stereo or headphones.
There are a lot of extras on the iPod. The equalizer is back with more presets to bring out details of your music. A calendar is available, and the notes feature lets you drag text notes and messages to the iPod when it's used by the computer as a hard drive. Contacts can also be added to the iPod using vcard-formatted contact information. There are new games to play, including solitaire.
The new iPod comes with features found on old iPods, such as earbud headphones that offer great sound and a sliding button on top that locks the controls. This keeps the iPod from accidentally being turned on.
As for the battery, the built-in device charges quickly and drains slowly. On average, I got about 6-7 hours of use out of the device on a single charge.
To complement the iPod, Apple has introduced the Music Store. The store offers songs for 99 cents each and some albums from several music genres. The only downside to the Music Store is its limited audience. For now, it's only available to Macintosh users with iTunes 4.
While there's room for slight improvement, the new design is impressive overall. The backlit control is great to have, even the On-The-Go playlist. The device offers great sound, whether through headphones or a full stereo system. The Music Store complements the iPods nicely, though it would be nice if Windows users could take advantage of the online song database. But at least Windows users have iPods.

A Look At iPod & iPod Accessories

A Look At iPod & iPod Accessories
Submitted By: Dennis Conner

[Word Count: 448 words] [Viewed: 103 time(s)] [Don't forget to rate this article] [Report this article]


Gone are the days when a song was something that you listened to using a cassette player and headphones. Today, music can be found on the internet or a little device called an iPod. With a higher quality in sound and less skipping, the iPod is quickly becoming the norm in popular and portable music players.
The iPod, which connects to computers via the USB port, can receive downloaded tunes and stores them for later playback. Because of the increasing demand for iPod, some of the biggest names in audio have worked to create an impressive line of iPod accessories. Among them, Bose and Kennsington are well known for their iPod speakers while other manufacturers are responsible for the creation of accessories that allow the iPod to record audio, recharge, listen to audio playback on the radio and create wireless capability that will allow the iPod to operate with the use of a remote control.
As is the case with all electronics, one of the most important accessories for an iPod is the carrying case. These iPod accessories offer more than just your average plain case, however, as they are often designed to make a statement in fashion and trends. This allows the owner to transport their iPod safely while maintaining a certain style.
As the use of iPods continued to increase, car manufacturers began to take notice. The first to release an iPod interface was BMW, which was responsible for creating a way for automobile owners to control their iPod through convenient controls that were built in to the steering wheels. By 2005, even more automobile manufacturers began to integrate the iPod technology into their newest automotive releases.
When choosing an iPod, consumers should confirm that the product has all of the features that they desire. Basic models, which will have fewer features than more advanced units, will be the most affordable and are very common among iPod owners. A quick read of the product specifications on the outside packaging will reveal the iPod’s capabilities and storage capacity.
Although not a traditional accessory in the way that many people would use the word, a product warranty is arguably one of the best accessories that any iPod owner could have. When purchasing an iPod, it’s important to note that warranties are usually only available on brand new units. Most secondhand products will not feature any type of coverage. If a warranty is offered on an iPod, consumers should keep their original sales receipt and follow the instructions on the warranty card included with their purchase. Protecting your investment is the best way to ensure that your iPod will be singing a happy tune for years to come.

12/04/2550

iPods

Free Legal Music Downloads For iPods
eMusic is a major player in the iPod music downloads business. They are one of the pioneers and rank second only to iTunes. They have a diverse catalogue of primarily independent music labels. All their music is in MP3 format and works on any platform. They also have very extensive editorial content, archived shows and events.
eMusic’s Advantages
One of their greatest advantages is all their music downloads are in MP3 format and DRM free! That means, unlike Apple.com iTunes, Yahoo Music and so many others, you not only own your music, but it continues to play when you discontinue your membership with eMusic. And you can play your tunes on any portable PDA or your computer.
The sad fact about copy protecting music with DRM is the version varies from one company to the next. For instance, you can only play your DRM protected iTunes on your iPod, iPhone or your desktop with the iTunes player installed.
According to The New York Times:
“A major difference between eMusic's service and other online music stores is that the tracks are delivered in the unprotected MP3 format, which means… that the songs will play on all portable music players, including the Apple iPod®”Another advantage of eMusic is the music is totally legal to download, unlike the prevalent P2P file sharing sites. Don’t get me wrong, many of the top unlimited music download sites are definitely legal, to a certain respect.
One of the things I really like about eMusic is they let you download 25 songs free before you have to pay the minimum $9.99 per month for 30 songs. So the 25 free ones is almost like a month’s worth of downloads for nothing.Not to mention the 33 cents per song blows away MSN and iTunes 99 cents per song. And it’s even less with the other levels with 50 and 75 songs per month at $14.99 and $19.99 respectively!
One slight disadvantage with eMusic is although they offer millions of music tracks; they’re primarily "indie" or independent artists. But, all their music is legitimately licensed from independent record labels so you don’t have to be concerned about downloading illegal files.
They do have some major labels like Johnny Cash, The White Stripes, The Prodigy and Mobi. And they’re continually increasing them regularly as the DRM free movement is spreading. America is behind the Europeans in that regard.
eMusic’s Interface
So like I mentioned, eMusic only has MP3s, encoded at a variable bit rate (VBR). So you won’t have a problem transferring your tunes to your iPod, your CD burner or any portable player. All the tunes are accessed through your Web browser or with the free Download Manager.
One note of caution is if you download from your Web browser you’ll need to disable eMusic’s Download Manager from your account preferences. Then you’ll have to change the file extensions to .mp3 because the file will be downloaded with an unknown file extension. That’s easy to do, just right click the file and choose “Rename” and change the extension to mp3.
Summary
On the eMusic site, you can search for tunes by the artist’s name, album, track, label, or composer. Their 12 genres include Alternative, Punk, Country, Folk, Electronic and Jazz. As previously mentioned, the bulk of their tunes are from independent artists but you’ll find quite a few from the major record labels.
They have around 2.8 million high quality MP3 files from over 13,00 independent music labels. And you won’t find a lot of them on competing download sites or music stores.
eMusic’s online interface is ridiculously easy to use. It allows you to download entire albums at a time. There is a review section and a star rating for each file. Their FAQs are well written and they respond very quickly to emails for support.
They offer a 2 week trial allowing you to download 25 tunes for starters before you have to pay the tiny monthly fee. One tip though when you start your membership, is to be sure you download ALL your allotted songs for the month because you can’t carry them over to the next month!