What is Napster

Napster is a software application that allows users to easily search and share MP3 files over the Internet without having to hassle with broken links and inappropriate web sites. In addition, the user can chat, play MP3 files within Napster and keep track of their favorite MP3 listings. 

The music industry was upset with the amount of songs being traded over Napster and concerned of piracy issues. Therefore, Napster and the music industry, after several months in court, are no longer allowing Napster to trade free music. Later, Napster and some of the music industries combined to help distribute music at a cost. Upset with the music industry, many users are looking for Napster alternatives.

Are MP3s Legal?

MP3s can be legally owned, providing the following: you encode songs off of your own CDs and keep them for yourself, obtain written permission from the copyright holder of the music, or the music is available with the copyright owner's consent. It is Illegal to encode or listen to, download, and/or share MP3 files with any other entity unless you have written permission of the copyright holder of the music.

How do I listen to MP3 files once I have downloaded some?

You need to have a Mpeg player that can understand and play MP3 files; we recommend that you use WinAmp.

How do I make my own MP3s?

Before you can create your own MP3 files you must download an encoder as well as a Riper application; see the below files for some of our recommendations of encoders.

I'm having issues with WinAmp, where can I find help?

We would recommend that you first look at our Winamp section of our web site.

What sound card do I need to listen to MP3s?

Any new sound card should be able to play MP3s as long as the system is meeting the system requirements for the MP3 Player. MP3s require no special hardware to play.

What are some Napster alternatives?

Audio Galaxy = http://www.audiogalaxy.com/
Edonkey2000 = http://www.edonkey2000.com/
Filetopia = http://www.filetopia.com/
Filerouge = http://www.filerogue.com/
Gnute = http://www.gnute.com/
iMesh = http://www.imesh.com/
KaZaA = http://www.kazaa.com/
MojoNation = http://www.mojonation.net/
MyNapster = http://www.mynapster.com/
Napigator = http://www.napigator.com
NetBrilliant = http://www.netbrilliant.com/
Newtella = http://www.newtella.com/
Ohaha = http://www.ohaha.com/
Riffshare = http://www.riffshare.com/
Scour = http://www.scour.com/
Song Spy = http://www.songspy.com/
Swapoo = http://www.swapoo.com/
WebNAP = http://webnap.sourceforge.net/