mp3

Why use mp3 sound files?	•
How do I play mp3's?	•
How do I make new mp3's?	•
Where do I find mp3's on the Internet?	•

What software is out there, for Mac, Linux, Amiga, and Windows?	•
Give me more technical information on mp3 compression!	•
What's the difference between AIFF, WAV, SND, and SD2 audio files?	•
Is mp3 legal?	••

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mp3 is not a crime! Despite much press to the contrary, there is nothing inherently illegal about creating, possessing, or even selling an mp3 format audio file, either as a physical product or on the internet. What is illegal, and has been since the 1920's, is the pirating of commercial albums and songs. As such, there is nothing "more" illegal about distributing mp3's of the latest Madonna album than selling CD-R burned copies, or selling an analog tape copy of the same. mp3 the audio format makes it much easier to distribute CD-quality audio, since it can be reasonably uploaded and downloaded (most pop songs are 3 1/2 minutes, which in 128 kbps compression mode translates to 3.6Mb).

Many people will take advantage of the free mp3s on the internet to get free what they would pay $12-$18 in a CD store. However, many conscientious people won't! mp3 is a wonderful way to preview an album one is considering buying -- after listening to a few mp3s, head on down to Amoeba (a fabulous SF Bay Area music store) and pick up a copy new. Many artists, seeing the potentials for reaching new audiences, offer many of their songs, legally, for free, to entice new fans to buy their latest album. Support record labels which allow their artists this type of promotion, and support your favorite artists!

Also note -- if you have bought legal copies of commercial CDs, it is NOT illegal to make mp3s of them for your own personal use. All the American and international Copyright acts protect the consumers' right to make copies for their own personal use, as long as they don't distribute or sell the copy. Make your own mp3 compilation CDs -- great for that 10-hour day in the office, all-night parties, or for having the definitive Led Zeppelin compilation CD -- ALL of Led Zeppelin's albums on one CD!