Whether you’re a big music fan or looking for a great gift for someone, one of the questions that come to mind is where to download music online. Of course, buying music CDs from a physical store may not be the best alternative available today. Millions of people have found a cheaper, faster and easier way to update their music collections.
So where do you download the music from? In fact, there are so many websites out there that you can be overwhelmed with endless big promises and tempting offers and miss out entirely. From completely free options to options like the price of a good CD, the options are never too many. However, all online resources can be divided into three main groups:
P2P file sharing site
These sites are usually free as music files are shared between users. In most cases, you will need to install some software to access the music database. While these sites attract many users (mainly because the idea of free content is irresistibly tempting), the many dangers of uncontrolled file sharing need to be rethought. Not only the music files, but also the software itself can harm your computer and your privacy. So, when deciding where to download new mp3 song, don’t always assume that the best is free.
Paid music services
With iTunes on top, the site offers a wide variety of music, from your favorites to the latest hits. As for the files, you don’t have to worry about the quality and compatibility with the player. However, pay-per-download modes or monthly subscriptions offer little or no savings compared to traditional CDs. Also, if you want to move your downloaded files to a CD or another computer, digital rights management limits your options and can even prevent all files from playing when your subscription expires.
Sites that give you lifetime access to unlimited music downloads
This option only allows you to pay once, but you can get as many songs as you want without any restrictions. What you pay for is basically a lifetime membership with no recurring fees at any stage. You become the sole owner of all downloaded files; burn your own CDs, transfer songs to another computer and more. The real advantage of this alternative is that you can pay less than $50 in most cases. Cheap for everyone.
If you look at more music download options, you’ll find websites that combine download and subscription payment modes, but they don’t easily fall into the cheap category. Unless you only need a few songs, the unlimited lifetime subscription variant is by far the most advantageous. Legal, safe and surprisingly inexpensive.
Now you can easily put hundreds of your favorite songs on your mp3 player, iPod or Zune without burning your pockets or infecting your computer. Decide where to download your music and worry no more. The best option is in front of you!
