Rhapsody
- Intuitive interface
- Good catalog of songs
- Powerful search utility
- Free Rhapsody To Go app for iPhone/iPod Touch
- Only available in the U.S.
- Some software bugs
- No cross-fading or gapless playback
Rhapsody is a music download service with a solid reputation among reviewers. Its collection has grown to equal that of Napster (Discontinued) or iTunes (*Est. $0.69 to $1.29 per track), and is broad enough to please most music lovers. The Rhapsody website also has a large selection of free radio stations, covering different genres, that you can stream on your computer. Reviewers like the subscription option, which allows for unlimited downloads during the subscription period, though you can't keep that music if you unsubscribe. Songs purchased from the MP3 store are compatible with all devices, including iPods.
PCMag.com has a high-quality review that tests out new features and compares the service to other sites with DRM-free offerings. There are also helpful overviews at TopTenReviews.com and About.com.
Our Sources
1. TopTenReviews.com
The editors at TopTenReviews.com rank Rhapsody as number four out of 14 music download sites. They like the flexibility of the subscription and pay-per-song options, and the intuitive search features on the site. The review offers a thorough rundown of Rhapsody's features and includes some helpful screen shots.
Review: Rhapsody Review, Editors of TopTenReviews.com
2. PCMag.com
PCMag.com gives Rhapsody another look after the company announces "pay-per-song DRM-free downloads from all four major labels" and partners with Verizon Wireless for a mobile service. Reviewers Segan and Lendino appreciate that Rhapsody lets users preview entire songs before purchasing them, but note that albums are more expensive here than at AmazonMP3. The review focuses mostly on new features noting that the "Verizon integration, though unique, isn't yet what it could be."
Review: Rhapsody (Summer 2008), Jamie Lendino and Sascha Segan, June 2008
3. About.com
Digital music guide Mark Harris posts some useful music download site reviews. The write-up on Rhapsody covers music selection, interface, availability and service limitations, though it doesn't mention newer features, like the Verizon partnership. (Note: ConsumerSearch is owned by About.com, but the two don't share an editorial affiliation.)
Review: RealNetworks Rhapsody: A Review of the Rhapsody Music Service, Mark Harris
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