NEWSGROUP AND BITTORRENT GUIDES

Many of the best-known file-sharing programs are unappealing now. Kazaa installs so much adware/spyware that it can only be described as a threat. Some of the other peer-to-peer programs are free of adware, but the programs are frustrating to use, especially if you...

DRM OUTRAGE

Here’s an article asking a reasonable question – how long will it take for consumers to become angry at the limitations and cost of downloaded music encumbered by “digital rights management” restrictions? Songs downloaded from iTunes can only...

FILE SHARING HEADED FOR SUPREME COURT

The US Supreme Court will hear arguments on March 29 in MGM v. Grokster, potentially leading to a ruling that could stifle new Internet-based services that have nothing to do with sharing music and movies. Here’s an article about the issues at stake. Although...

NAPSTER AND THE FUTURE OF ENTERTAINMENT

Napster has been reborn as a subscription service. Here’s an article about the new Napster. It might not be quite the right service at the right time but you are seeing a glimpse of the future, where our relationship to our music and movies will change...

MEDIA HUBS

A followup to my notes on moving music around the house. The Netgear MP101 fit my needs, but knowing that doesn’t simplify your shopping. I wanted something (1) dirt cheap, (2) wireless, (3) music only, (4) no TV display required, and (5) able to work with my...

XMAS FRUSTRATION FOLLOWUP

The Linksys WMLS11B Wireless Music System has been boxed up and returned after a few more fruitless hours of testing. The replacement is the Netgear MP101 Wireless Digital Music Player. There’s no built-in speakers but powered speakers are cheap and easy to come...