MP3

There is a new product that makes recording music and audio files easier than ever – MiCorder. Developed by Olens Technology, MiCorder can record from any radio, computer, stereo, CD player, phonograph/turntable, cassette deck, 8-Track, reel to reel, DAT, or any device with a stereo output to create MP3 audio files -- without using a computer.

MiCorder records from audio sources by simply plugging into the earphone jack, converting the sound into an MP3 file, and then storing it on an SD Card. Yes, there are other products out there that convert music from albums, cassette tapes etc. to MP3 format, but most require a special turntable or computer. Not MiCorder! It converts sound to an MP3 and records directly onto a standard SD Card. Then, simply transfer your music to a computer, iPod, cell phone, MP3 player or car stereo. Read more

The Creative Sound Blaster Wireless for iTunes will wirelessly play iTunes, MP3 and all audio from a PC or Mac through powered speakers up to 100 feet away. The Sound Blaster Wireless for iTunes including a Creative Wireless Receiver is available today at Amazon.com and Creative.com for only $149.99.

Sound Blaster Wireless for iTunes enables speakers to be placed anywhere in the home. Because Sound Blaster Wireless for iTunes is only about the size of a thumb drive, the user can just grab it and plug it into the USB connection on a PC or Mac. Connect a Creative Wireless Receiver to speakers or the great-sounding Creative GigaWorks T20W speakers which contain a built-in wireless receiver and the Sound Blaster Wireless for iTunes is ready to go.

It uses a proprietary wireless technology based on 2.4 GHz designed specifically for audio so the listener doesn’t have to tolerate dropouts or interference, which commonly plague Bluetooth and Wi-Fi systems. Also, it doesn't require a wireless network.

We music aficionados can once again rejoice! Napster users can now spend $5 a month and receive the following benefits:

• Get five MP3s each month to download from Napster's expansive catalog (which has over 7 million songs).
• Purchase additional MP3s at any time from 69 cents to $1.29.
• Listen to any track as long as you want.
• Choose from over 60 commercial-free radio stations and more than 1,400 "expertly" programmed playlists.
• Use personalized recommendation tools to find more artists.
• Enjoy the top hits from over 50 years of Billboard charts.
• Play MP3s on any MP3 player, including iPods and iPhones

Long gone are those short 30 second audio clips. We can listen to the entire song now.

For more information visit www.napster.com

Verizon Wireless announced at last weeks' CTIA trade show that they are now selling MP3's from their online media store. Verizon is the first mobile provider to offer full MP3's (not just ringback tones) from their online store. Customers simply choose from about 5 million titles on the site, preview the music, log in to purchase, download, and then play it on their computers or any MP3 player, including a Verizon Wireless music-capable phone. In case you were wondering (I know I was!), you don't have to be a Verizon subscriber to buy tracks.

• $1.29 for new releases and best-selling releases;
• 99 cents for most major contemporary releases;
• 69 cents for most classic catalog releases.

Visit Verizon's online store at http://mediastore.verizonwireless.com or http://vzw.com/mp3.