Top Ten Download Resolutions for 2005

2005 will go down in history as the year when online music hits a crossroads. No longer the file-sharing enemy of recording artists, downloading now transitions into a viable medium for labels, musicians and online music services alike. New pop acts make Web-only debuts-- and old pros like U2 now have their entire catalogs available by the download - as CDs slowly go the way of vinyl. To mark the occasion, certain online consumers surfing for tracks need to change their ways in 2005. You know who you are! Below are some New Year's Resolutions for music downloaders, for both early and late adopters, to live by (courtesy of NetMusic.com):

1. Don't Share. While downloading from unpaid illegal sites, and file sharing, still seem to be the secret norm, the risk for catching something from Internet promiscuity is getting higher and higher. Downloading from legal programs is safe, easy and still tends to be much cheaper than buying a CD.

2. Test drive - Try before you buy. Most of the sites offer free song demos to check out before you download. Never sign up with a service before browsing their catalogue. Any legit site will show you their stuff upfront.

3. Child Proof. Parents can now easily put restrictions on the type of music that is downloaded from a legal provider. For instance, songs with profanities or racial slurs can be automatically omitted from searches, or parents can access edited version of songs.

4. The Need For Speed. If you're still living in the Ice Age, and using dial-up, time is running out. Literally. Like most of the Internet, music downloading sites are engineered for high-speed capabilities more and more. Get DSL, or a connection through cable, and you'll be able to hear a song sans the two hour wait.

5. Arr-Matey! - Pirate's booty is still out there. Beware of sites offering downloads of movies that are still in theatrical release. This is a clear indication that the site is illegal, much like buying a pirated DVD off the street.

6. Find Your Mate. If you have a portable MP3 player, make sure that it is compatible with your chosen download site. You can do so by checking with your MP3's directions or calling the manufacturer.

7. Size Does Matter. Download songs between 128kbs and 196kbs for CD quality. The smaller the kbs, the more degradation of quality.

8. Check the Label. Make sure you are downloading the exact song you are looking for. Often the labeling on tracks can be tricky. To be sure, always listen to a demo clip before putting your card down.

9. Freebies! Go ahead. As long as it's legal, download as many as you want. Many sites now offer free songs by new unsigned artists they are promoting.

10. Pick and Choose. On average, people tend to only like a track or two out of an entire album. You can save money online by purchasing just the songs you want.

More information is available on www.netmusic.com.