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Best site for independent music
- Compatible with iPod
- Large catalog of independent labels, Sony's back catalog
- Good value
- Requires a subscription
- Library is still light on mainstream artists
- Unused download credits don't roll over
EMusic sets itself apart from other music download services by focusing on independent labels. Reviewers say that makes it an excellent choice if you're into indie music, not major labels and top-40 artists, although eMusic has signed a deal with Sony Entertainment to offer that label's back catalog of songs. If your tastes run more toward top-40, a more pop-music-oriented service is Napster (*Est. $5 per month and up), which has an extensive and up-to-date music library. If you're an iPod user, iTunes (*Est. 69 cents to $1.29 per track) also combines a great music selection, albeit with usage restrictions.
We found the most thorough review of eMusic at PCMag.com. About.com has a fairly short write-up, but it is well balanced and covers all the basics. The owner-written reviews at ReviewCentre.com are worth a look as well.
Our Sources
PCMag.com has detailed review of eMusic. Jamie Lendino is not a fan of eMusic's pricing plan, which has changed a bit since his review, though the site does still require a subscription. All music downloaded from eMusic remains with the user even after the subscription expires or is cancelled.
Review: eMusic Review (Winter 2009), Jamie Lendino, Feb. 12, 2009
2. About.com
Mark Harris, site guide for About.com's digital music mini-site, calls eMusic "an excellent music service that fills a niche in the market and gives subscribers the maximum flexibility on how they can enjoy their music." There's a helpful overview here, touching on features, content, software and plans. (Note: ConsumerSearch is owned by About.com, but the two don't share an editorial affiliation.)
Review: eMusic review: An Indie Music Download Store, Mark Harris
This user-review site, based in the U.K., is somewhat cumbersome to navigate. Most of the posts on eMusic are quite short. About half of contributors give eMusic a recommended rating, and the overall score is just average. Problems cited include limited music choices, technical issues with the website and a dated interface.
Review: Reviews for eMusic, Contributors to ReviewCentre.com
Music Downloads Runners Up:
4 picks including: About.com…
