Considering Downloading Music? Check Out These Tips First!
Are you interesting in finding out all you can about music downloads. Music downloads are now the most popular way to build a music library. There are many advantages over purchasing music CDs. But, you need to know how to approach it in the right way. Keep reading to learn more.
Check your file size when downloading music. Most music files are about two to five megabytes. If you find that a file is much smaller, it might be a text file disguised as a music download. By downloading it, you could be putting your computer at risk of viruses, jeopardizing your personal information.
When you are looking for websites for music downloads, be sure that you are downloading from a reputable distributor. There have been instances when users have downloaded malware along with the song tracks. This will not happen at established digital music distributors with a good reputation. Keep this mind before you click on the download button.
Consider joining an online forum of music enthusiasts. Many will share their downloads for free. This allows you to explore different genres of music or the latest cd from a known artist without committing a lot of time or money to the task, making it easier to build your library with an eclectic blend of tunes.
If you download a bunch of music, consider using an online music subscription service. Look at Rdio or Spotify, where you can get montly access to literally millions of tracks for a low price. You can even download the music for offline play, just like you would a purchased download. This will help you to save a lot of money.
Before you open a music file, look at the size of the file. It's way too easy to download something unexpected. The wrong file may hurt your computer. Be sure you're working with a file that's the right size. Any individual file that is obviously not the size of a standard MP3 needs to be thrown away unopened.
Not all free music is illegal music. Major online retailers of mp3 files routinely put out free samplers for you to enjoy. Older music performed by many artists might fall into public domain. Some artists even release tracks for free sheerly for the promotional benefits they get out of it.
Safety is key when it comes to downloading music. That means you shouldn't download any music for free if it isn't offered directly by the artist, production company or some other promotional company. If you do, it is illegal and you can face major fines if you are caught.
If you download music from a peer-to-peer service, take the time to clean up the metadata of the files you get. The metadata is the who, what, and where of the file. Things like the artist name, the album name, the track title, and the genre. A little clean up can go a long way to your digital player being able to deliver the best experience for you.
Stay away from any music downloads that require a peer to peer client, also known as p2p software. No matter how slickly designed such sites are, they are probably just an access point for music pirates and torrent users. Avoid these, as almost all torrent activity is a legal risk.
To avoid getting ripped off when downloading music, choose a website that is popular such as Amazon, Rhapsody or iTunes. These popular download services are generally more secure than lesser known ones since they have to maintain their reputation. Therefore, you don't have to worry as much about having your personal information stolen.
Do some research on a potential download site before you make a go of downloading there. Read other people's reviews of the site and even scour online forums for posts related to the site. You want to know how reputable and safe this website really is. Others have likely experienced it, so benefit from their knowledge.
If there are certain songs that you always listen to, create an offline playlist of your music downloads instead of streaming them from the cloud. This is especially important if you're on a cellular data plan. These cloud files can eat up a lot of your monthly data plan. But if the songs are saved right on the device, it uses none of that data bucket at all.
When looking for a website to download music, look for one that offers discounts. Many music download sites offer discounts which are specific to the type of music you listen to. To find these types of promotions, sign up to receive the website's promotional newsletter or search the name of the website and coupons.
While free music downloading sites should be avoided, there are free streaming sites that allow you to build playlists. As for downloading music, avoid any site that has not been established for a significant amount of time, whether paid or free. Go with one you know you can trust so that you can be rest assured your music will always be available to you.
Be wary of any music download provider that doesn't charge per track. Websites that offer a multitude of songs for a flat fee or monthly fee might block your access to your music when you stop paying. Sites that offer mp3 files for free might just be fronts for pirating and torrenting, which are usually illegal.
When choosing to download music, be wary of giving out your credit card. Only do so if you know right away how much the service is going to charge. Some companies are sneaky and charge you a monthly fee, but end up limiting your downloads. The most reputable companies will charge you per track or album, so your credit card is safe.
If you like how live music sounds, even when recorded, then check out the Live Music Archive. This site allows you to access artist tracks from The Grateful Dead and other popular bands, without worrying about breaking the law. This site offers a unique experience, as these are all concert tracks.
When funny videos you found a music file that you want to download, be sure to check the file size. Most music files are between two to five megabytes in size. If you see a file size under 250K, it is likely that it is a text file with malware. Do not download these.
You have now begun building a great music library from downloads. Use these tips to ensure you do it right. Take a look around, have a great time and hear the music you love.