eMusic

eMusic is a subscription online music store that differs from many of its competitors in that it offers files in the MP3 format. Files are compatible with all media players and users will encounter fewer restrictions on downloads. eMusic was set up in 1998 and works out of New York. In 2006 eMusic UK and eMusic Europe were launched.

The big appeal of eMusic is that you can access lots of independent music. The site claims to be the largest retailer of independent music. eMusic works with independent record labels to bring cutting edge music to its customers, sometimes before the release date. As well as rock and jazz, you'll find blues, hip hop, country, reggae, folk and world music. There's everything here from the legendary Johnny Cash to Ying Yang Twins. eMusic has recently branched out into audio books. You can download Hamlet read by Sir John Gielgud and Barack Obama reading his own work. Music downloads start from 30p a track. Books from £7.99.

eMusic also has music and book reviews, features and columns. There's plenty here to guide you to the right music for you. The eMusic toolbar allows you one free download a day and helps you search the vast archive.

To see if eMusic is for you, log on and start your free trial. You will get 50 downloads as a little taster.