MP3 for Dummies? [With CDROM]

This is a comprehensive book encompassing not just the basics of MP3 both other useful information as well. The book is for all levels knowledge; from novice digital music lovers to musicians. Although the author only briefly describes the theory behind sound and digital sound recording, he does a great job of explaining all the digital audio compression terms and other technical buzzwords such as ripping, encoding, Codecs, MIDI, WAV files, WinAmp as well as other terms. After discussing just what an MP3 is and how to use it, the author shows you how to turn you PC into a MP3 based digital work station.Going beyond just describing MP3s, the author also shows you how to set up your home stereo system to play MP3s off of the computer or off of a CD that you just made. He also shows you how to play MP3 files off of the web or how to web cast your music play list. The final chapters are for musicians with some excellent real life stories from several musicians. The author even includes brief discussion on how musician can record, mix, master, distribute and promote their work. All in all a good and comprehensive read that is not too technical (it is a "dummies" book).

The Dummies Guides can be a mixed bag, but this one is very clear and informative. I especially liked the chapters on recording one's own MP3 files, something that some of the other books don't cover in as much detail. Great intro, with enough 'meat' to keep you going for quite a little while.

Andy Rathbone has written a fine book for MP3 devotees, MP3 for Dummies, that provides the very basic of information that people need to get started on this fast booming craze. Rathbone offers his readers an extraordinary amount of information that the average person on the street can make use of. MP3 has become hot news! Websites have opened up for business and offer the latest files, players and programs are being produced, the number of court cases involving copyright infringement are on the rise, one local university has blocked student access to one file distribution site due to bandwidth problems, and yes, some books have been written on the subject. MP3 for Dummies provides detailed information about buying, downloading, creating, sharing, and selling MP3 files. Readers will learn about a number of places where they can buy and download MP3 files and where they can have customized CD's created for distribution. Readers also have the opportunity to create their own CD's provided that they have the right equipment to do so. Speaking of equipment, readers will learn about the latest and the best MP3 players and storage devices on the market. Furthermore, they will be able to choose and use portable MP3 players and learn how to hook them up to home, office, and car stereo equipment for easy listening! Other helpful information in the book includes the debunking of certain MP3 copyright and piracy myths, choosing and using MP3 utilities, finding Websites that distribute MP3 files, learning how to compose your own kind of music, and a variety of tips. The accompanying CD contains Windows, Linux, and Mac shareware versions of popular MP3 players, a bunch of MP3 sample tunes, and live links to Websites that distribute MP3 files! The information in this book is first-rate! The cartoons, humor, and wit are great too! Readers will learn to experience the cool sounds of MP3 and chuckle at the same time! The book will also contribute to their better understanding and appreciation for Web development and computer technology. This is a great beginner book for the MP3 community!

This is the perfect book for an one wondering anything about mp3s. This book will tell you absolutely everything you need to know about mp3s-and then some.

It seems as though a lot of publishers have tried to jump on the MP3 bandwagon this year. Some have given the subject reasonable treatment. "MP3 For Dummies", however, is the first book that really gets it right. Simple enough for a complete beginner, the book covers everything you could possibly want to learn about MP3's. Whether you are an artist who wants to put your songs on the internet, or just someone who wants to learn how to download songs to your computer. This book covers everything. I was especially glad to see that it covered the legal issues surrounding MP3's. This is an important area that many folks are confused about. All in all, a fantastic MP3 handbook!