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Downloading Music
Which Digital Formats are Available on Amoeba.com? What are Their Differences?
We offer MP3, M4A (ALAC – Apple Lossless Format), and WAV digital formats.
MP3 (MPEG-1 or MPEG-2 Audio Layer III) is a universal form of lossy data compression. The typical MP3 has been compressed to 1/3 the resolution of a CD which means you have a much smaller digital file, but it still sounds like a faithful reproduction of the original uncompressed audio. MP3 files are compatible with nearly all devices.
M4A (ALAC – Apple Lossless Format) is a high quality audio file that offers audio compression without any loss in sound information. It is a smaller file than WAV but with similar sound quality. It is a much larger file than MP3 and has superior sound quality. ALAC is compatible with all Apple iPods, iPads and iOS devices, and will play on most devices.
WAV (or Waveform Audio File Format) is a high quality, uncompressed audio file. It keeps all of the samples found in an audio track and is considered the highest quality format for audio files.
Do You Have a Download Manager?
No, not at this time.
Can I Purchase Downloads on Amoeba.com from Outside the United States?
It depends. We have individual agreements with each label that determine whether a territory is covered by our license. Some downloads will be available only in the US while others will be available in certain international territories based on our agreement with that label.
How Do I Tell if a Track/Album has Explicit Language?
When provided by our label partner, this will be clearly labeled on each item’s detail page.
Will Amoeba.com Allow Me to Download the Same Track More Than Once?
Yes, you can within the first 24 hours of initial download.
I Want to Purchase a Track/Album by _______. Why Don't You Have It?
We are actively working on new label agreements to grow the download catalog on Amoeba.com. Check back often for new additions.
Which Formats Are Compatible With My Device?
MP3 tracks are compatible with all devices and operating systems.
M4A (ALAC – Apple Lossless) tracks are compatible with all Apple devices (iPods, iPads, iPhones) and software, including iTunes on Windows. M4A tracks are not compatible with Android phones unless using a third party application.
WAV tracks are compatible with most devices (Apple, Microsoft, Android), however they don’t include metadata (artwork, genre tagging, etc) so are best geared for professional use (DJs).
Why are M4A (ALAC - Apple Lossless Format) Files More Expensive Than MP3s?
M4A (ALAC - Apple Lossless) files are high quality audio files that are true to the fidelity of a CD. No sound or information is removed from the file as happens with MP3.
What is the Bit Rate for each Digital Format?
MP3: 320kbps
M4A (ALAC - Apple Lossless): near 750kbps (variable bit rate, usually between 600kbps - 1000kbps)
WAV: 1,411kbps
WAV (Vinyl Vaults): 1536kbps*
*Songs in mono will be half this bit rate.
Is Album Artwork Available For My Purchased Download?
Yes, with very few exceptions, the album art shown in an item’s detail page is the accompanying cover art. Exceptions will be noted as “No Image Available.”
Can I Save Tracks/Albums to Purchase Later?
Yes, these tracks can be saved to “My Wish List.”
Look for this icon
to add items to your wish list.
How Do I Download the Files I've Purchased?
After your purchase is confirmed click the My Downloads link. You will then see a list of your purchased downloads. Click each track to begin downloading.
My Download Didn't Download. What Should I Do?
You have 24 hours to re-download a track that may not have downloaded correctly. You can contact us at [email protected] for additional help.
My Download Won't Play. What Should I Do?
Please contact us at [email protected].