Many people are unsure about exactly how to download music. Often, the web is a good place to start. This article discusses the basics you need to know about music downloads.
Before you download, install virus protection. It’s always best to make sure you’re covered now, rather than finding out too late you’ve ruined your computer. Always use caution and download files safely. This is definitely true if you use P2P sites. Never open any file that you have not ran through a scanning program. You don’t want to end up with a virus!
Keep track of songs you already own when shopping for music. You certainly don’t want to pay twice and download something you’ve already purchased before. You can check out your purchase history on different services.
If you download lots of songs, you may be better off with a subscription service. Services such as these include Rdio and Spotify, and you pay a low subscription fee each month in exchange for access to a seemingly infinite number of songs. Yet another benefit is that the service allows you to download the music you listen to. It could be an inexpensive solution to building up your music library.
Make sure you have broadband internet connection if you download music online. If you have a dial-up connection, the download will be much slower and the files will take forever to transfer. So if you want to enjoy your music right away, a broadband connection is the way to go.
Use free radio programs like Pandora to find new music. Shop around and sample songs before you buy. Customizable radio programs and sites like YouTube can help you find new music that you actually like. Always try to listen before you buy. Don’t waste money on music that you won’t enjoy.
Do not download music illegally through file-sharing websites. What seems like a good idea to get free music can come back to bite you. Many internet service providers are now working with publishing companies to find and prosecute online pirates, and you do not want to be one of the unlucky ones.
Be sure to check the file format before downloading any music. You’ve got to be sure that the file you get is compatible with whatever system you are using. If unsure, a good bet is to stick with MP3 files. This file extension is about as universal as they come.
One way to get a low quality version of a song is to view the music video on YouTube and rip it using software. That said, this method is illegal and you can be charged if you are ever caught. Keep this in mind if you are considering this process.
To increase your free music download opportunities, look for companies that are sponsoring free music download campaigns and events. Companies from Apple to Starbucks give away music as part of their overall brand promotions. It’s an easy way to add new music to your library without paying a dime.
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.
Do your research when it comes to which subscription service you use. Downloading songs that are legal one at a time can cost you quite a bit. Many online stores that sell music also offer subscription services. As you evaluate offers, look closely at any download limits or limits on how you can store the music.
Check out mainstream MP3 stores and look for their free music section. Often this is populated with songs from up and coming artists which are worth checking out. For example, MP3.com has a whole category dedicated to free songs. You can sample each and then download those that sound great.
Make sure that the sites that you get your music downloads from are secure and safe. Even sites that are legal paid downloads could allow malicious software to enter your computer. You should avoid music websites that have a ton of pop-up ads. Some may contain viruses, spyware, adware, and the like.
Purchase music downloads only from sites that let you work directly instead of using additional software. The exception is if the music service is reputable and safe, like iTunes. For sites out there that haven’t been around for a while, you need to be careful. Free services often result in a download of harmful software.
Don’t use music downloading sites that require multiple downloads of strange applications. Unfortunately, sites that aren’t familiar to the masses may have viruses or trackers included in these installations. The computer performance will be worse when you download software. The worst case would be getting hacked.
One great way to get free music online without illegal downloads is using a converter. If there’s a song available on YouTube, there are several converter sites that will turn it into a mp3 file. This way, you can enjoy hundreds of thousands of songs without risking any legal trouble.
If you don’t like the idea of downloading music illegally, check out the Amazon Marketplace for great music absolutely free. There are several downloads available at no cost, allowing you to download mp3s without getting in legal trouble. Best of all, you can search by genre to find music you like.
Are you wanting to download some music files but you want to make sure it is a quality track? Try to find a website where you can preview the music track before purchase so you know the quality of the file. No one wants to spend their hard-earned money on a choppy, distorted, low-volume track.
Now, you know some of the things experts already know about obtaining fabulous music online. You must use what you’ve just learned when downloading songs. You will be happy with your music collection for many years to come.
