Preserving quality in some file types means that you can't compress the data much. This means you have to live with a large file size. That in turn means that if you want a good sound, you have to be prepared to move files around very slowly. MP3 is a way of compressing music which usually gives relatively small files, with minimal loss of quality. 

It's a method which seems to have struck a good compromise. MP3s can move quickly over the internet because they are small. This has led to them becoming a very popular way of transmitting music and lots of music is now purchased 'virtually' online.

The fact that MP3s have become so popular is very convenient for music lovers. If they get their music on this flexible format, the vast majority of computers, CD players, car stereos and even DVD players can play it back with ease. Close

To play MP3s on your computer you will need a piece of software which contains an MP3 player. Most computers come with a media player - like Windows Media Player, i-Tunes or QuickTime - and no media player worth its socks will refuse to play MP3s.

Normally, double clicking an MP3 will automatically fire up the default media or MP3 player on the system. 

Most media players allow you to create playlists - pieces of music collected together under a name and ordered by you. Making playlists with your downloaded accompaniments means that you can easily rehearse and refine the order of your set list for a performance.  

When you listen to the accompaniments as you browse our catalogue, you are playing MP3s using something called a Flash player. The file doesn't come to your computer, but the sound does. Close

Using Windows XP: www.geeks2rent.co.uk/mp3tocd

Using Windows Media Player
Some helpful instructions from Microsoft: www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/knowledgecenter/mediaadvice/0053.mspx

Using iTunes
A useful online tutorial: http://www.apple.com/support/ilife/tutorials/itunes/it4-2.htmlClose

Some help from the geeks: www.geeks2rent.co.uk/mp3toaudio

Most CD players bought in the last 5 years should recognise, and be able to play, MP3 CDs. If yours is a little older or does not recognise the format, you will need to create an audio CD.Close

With storage space increasing and price getting lower all the time, they are the perfect way to immerse yourself in a piece whilst watching the world go by. In the run up to a performance or an exam, listening to your accompaniments at all available moments is the ideal way to ensure you know every single note. They are robust devices which present far fewer problems to joggers than portable CD players.Close

i-Pods
If you have been bitten by the i-Pod bug, we're sure you've got the hang of it by now, but in case you are looking for support:

1 Download i-Tunes, which is free and available for Mac and PC.

2 Follow the instructions to install it.

3 Plug the i-Pod into an available USB2 port using the cable or fitting provided.

4 You should see a picture of your device in the menu on the left and you may be asked to assign a name to your device.

5 Depending on your type of i-Pod, you may need to drag tracks from your library on to your device. Some i-Pods have such a large capacity that they can easily contain the average music collection a few times over, so you don't need to drag songs in, because it just searches your computer for all compatible music and media files and synchronise them to the i-Pod. That way you always have all of your music with you.