Music download site reviews: FAQs
Can I listen to downloaded music on my computer?
Some sites require you to download software before you can listen to and manage your music. Others sites will automatically use Windows Media Player (if you're using a PC) to play and manage your music. In this case you'll need to locate your downloaded song and click on it to launch Windows Media Player.
The default location for your purchased music will usually be C:\Documents and Setting\All Users\Documents\My Music. You can change this location by going into your accounts settings on the download site.
How do I transfer music to my digital music player?
To transfer songs to your digital music player you need to connect it to your computer and click the Sync or Copy to CD or Device tab within Windows Media Player.
Click Edit playlist and add the tracks that you want to transfer, then Start Sync or Copy. This differs slightly for services such as iTunes or Napster that use their own software.
Apple's iPods work best with iTunes
Can I use iTunes if I don’t have an iPod?
The iTunes store and iPods use the AAC file format which isn’t directly compatible with other brands of digital music player.
I’ve got an iPod, does that mean I have to use iTunes?
Using iTunes is the most straightforward option as it uses the AAC file format that’s compatible with iPods. Most of iTunes' rivals tend to make their music available in the Windows Media Audio (WMA) format.
The WMA format will only play on iPods if a track is DRM-free. Other sites use the MP3 format which is more versatile and will play on most players.
What happens to my music if I cancel my subscription?
In some cases you may lose any music you have downloaded as part of your subscription. However, some sites do allow you keep your music. Check the terms and conditions of individual sites.
