On the Local Digital Music Scene

In an effort to prove they are still relevant, Real Networks has released a new version of their Rhapsody service. This service labeled Rhapsody to Go allows for a monthly fee users with compatible MP3 players to load as much music as they want onto their portable devices. If this seems similar to the rent-to-listen model of Napster To Go, you would be right, since to our discerning eye, they are exactly the same.(By the way, who works in the Real marketing department? Did they come up with the name of their new service by doing a find and replace in MS Word?) We have not tried their new service, since it works only on Windows and is not compatible with the 500lb gorilla of mp3 players, the iPod, but if the idea of Napster To Go appeals to you and if you want to support a local company, give Rhapsody to Go a try.

If you are looking for music free of the DRM, we once again recommend the free downloads page on Amazon.com where we just snagged some new Aimee Mann and Depeche Mode, since we are feeling both sensitive and European today.