GMG Classical Music Forum

The Music Room => General Classical Music Discussion => Topic started by: Mark on June 03, 2007, 02:04:37 PM

Title: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 03, 2007, 02:04:37 PM
Like it or not, the music industry is focusing its efforts more and more on the distribution and sale of digitally compressed (and, in some cases, uncompressed) music. Or ‘downloads’, to use common parlance. As broadband speeds increase and computer hard drives become larger - and as familiarity with new technologies becomes steadily more demographically widespread – we’re entering a new musical age: one that will undoubtedly benefit the classical music industry in particular.

This thread is intended as a place to discuss downloads, the technologies involved, and where to get the best or most interesting deals. What follows is a brief summary of this thread (now eight pages long), including links that will help new and experienced users of downloads to get more out of this new way of buying and enjoying music.

PLACES TO BUY DOWNLOADS

iTunes Music Store (http://www.apple.com/itunes/store/)

For iPod users who have the iTunes software installed on their computers, iTunes Music Store is a seamless and simple way to buy and download music from a selection of tracks that runs into the millions. Be advised, however, that you MUST own an iPod if you want to transfer the music bought at iTunes onto a portable device. Music downloaded from this site comes in AAC and Apple Lossless formats, both of which place restrictions on what you can do subsequently with the tracks you’ve bought.

eMusic (http://www.emusic.com/genre/279.html)

eMusic is fast-becoming the biggest challenger to iTunes Music Store is terms of sales and popularity. All music downloaded from this site is in the universally accepted MP3 format, contains NO Digital Rights Management (DRM) – so you can do what you like with the tracks you buy – and is of high enough quality for PC or portable device listening purposes. Be advised that you need to sign up for a subscription package to use this site, but you can cancel this at any time.

eClassical (http://eclassical.com/)

This classical-only download store also sells tracks in MP3 Format, but works with just four independent labels. However, buying from here is extremely simple, particularly if you have PayPal: you can purchase and download music without a subscription, and you don’t even have to register.

TO BE CONTINUED … ;)


EDIT: June 18th - I'm in the process of revising the start of this thread to make it more useful to those unfamiliar with the business of downloading and its attendent technologies.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Bonehelm on June 03, 2007, 06:03:17 PM
You do know it can cost you as little as nothing when you're downloading music online right  ;D

ask MahlerTitan or Manuel, those two are the gods of free music downloading.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 03, 2007, 06:13:29 PM
Mark,

I just finished listening to that Bax Naxos Disk. The quality was consistently excellent across the symphonies. Do you reccomend anymore Bax Naxos disks?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: techniquest on June 03, 2007, 10:25:53 PM
I have downloaded a load of not-released-on-CD music and performances by joining 'Classical Music Archives'. It's been great - I have discovered music I have never heard before, even if some of the live recordings are a little unpolished.
http://www.classicalarchives.com/
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on June 03, 2007, 10:32:58 PM
i don't think i can post all the music i downloaded, people might get too jealous....
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Harry on June 03, 2007, 10:40:23 PM
Quote from: Steve on June 03, 2007, 06:13:29 PM
Mark,

I just finished listening to that Bax Naxos Disk. The quality was consistently excellent across the symphonies. Do you reccomend anymore Bax Naxos disks?

Steve, since Mark is caring for his wife, let me fill you in on the Bax.
I have them all, and the quality is high, infact they are must haves. :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 04, 2007, 04:24:02 PM
Quote from: Harry on June 03, 2007, 10:40:23 PM
Steve, since Mark is caring for his wife, let me fill you in on the Bax.
I have them all, and the quality is high, infact they are must haves. :)

That's all I needed Harry. Thanks.  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: orbital on June 04, 2007, 06:40:51 PM
From what I read, Amazon will start offering downloads this summer, and the pilot program will start with their classical selection. They already have deals with EMI (and I think Universal). It remains to be seen if OOP catalogues will be released digitially as well  ::)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mozart on June 05, 2007, 07:24:57 PM
I downloaded a Mozart PC set, the soloist is Ashkenazy. It is terrible. Right now I'm downloading some of Bachs organ works, but it could take all night.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Scriptavolant on June 05, 2007, 07:32:53 PM
Download music? What a shame, I would never do that!









(http://www.vocinelweb.it/faccine/ammiccanti/14.gif)


I've downloaded enough to fill up seven/eight 5GB Cds. And something from iTunes too (Malipiero symphonies, something else).
And I won't talk about my 40-50 DVD downloaded as well. And books, a lot of books. And softwares sometimes, but not very often.


Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on June 05, 2007, 07:35:17 PM
Quote from: Mozart on June 05, 2007, 07:24:57 PM
I downloaded a Mozart PC set, the soloist is Ashkenazy. It is terrible.

You get what you pay for.  :P
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mozart on June 05, 2007, 09:10:24 PM
Quote from: George on June 05, 2007, 07:35:17 PM
You get what you pay for.  :P
Thats one of those statements that people say that just isn't true like "you are what you eat". Im not sure do I look like farfalle with Florentine spinach pasta sauce and a gallon of water? If I do then Its not wonder why the girls aren't crazy for me. Too many calories...
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on June 06, 2007, 05:41:29 AM
Quote from: Mozart on June 05, 2007, 09:10:24 PM
Thats one of those statements that people say that just isn't true like "you are what you eat".

So you are what you don't eat?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mozart on June 06, 2007, 04:35:19 PM
Quote from: George on June 06, 2007, 05:41:29 AM
So you are what you don't eat?

Now, you aren't food. Your mainly water :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on June 06, 2007, 07:11:22 PM
Quote from: Mozart on June 06, 2007, 04:35:19 PM
Now, you aren't food. Your mainly water :)

True. That's why I drink the best water I can get.  8)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: marvinbrown on June 07, 2007, 03:09:33 AM
Quote from: Mark on June 03, 2007, 02:04:37 PM
We devote a lot of time on this forum to discussing CD releases - and sometimes, classics from the LP era. So how about a thread devoted to downloads? Yes, okay: most downloads are also available as CDs. That's not the point. Some of us are now buying as many (perhaps more?) downloads as/than CDs. This can be the place to discuss those purchases, and the sites from where they were bought.

I'll get things started by posting a selection of 'covers' from 'discs' I've downloaded from www.emusic.com since September last year. These are the highlights of my virtual collection so far ... my own ripped CDs notwithstanding.

  Mark...your advice would be appreciated here.... what do you play this downloaded music on- an ipod?.  I bought (downloaded) some cds from itunes onto my sister's ipod (she has an ipod photo 20GB) recently and I can hear gaps between the tracks.  Then I tried "burning" the downloaded music onto a cd and I could still hear gaps between the tracks when I played it on my cd player.  I must be doing something wrong??  With symphonies and operas these gaps at the end of tracks are so irritating I gave up and went back to buying cds.  Where did I go wrong?

  marvin
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 07, 2007, 03:15:38 AM
Quote from: marvinbrown on June 07, 2007, 03:09:33 AM
  Mark...your advice would be appreciated here.... what do you play this downloaded music on- an ipod?.  I bought (downloaded) some cds from itunes onto my sister's ipod (she has an ipod photo 20GB) recently and I can hear gaps between the tracks.  Then I tried "burning" the downloaded music onto a cd and I could still hear gaps between the tracks when I played it on my cd player.  I must be doing something wrong??  With symphonies and operas these gaps at the end of tracks are so irritating I gave up and went back to buying cds.  Where did I go wrong?

  marvin

Everything you need to know, Marvin, is right here: Gapless playback (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gapless_playback)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mozart on June 07, 2007, 03:18:11 AM
Quote from: marvinbrown on June 07, 2007, 03:09:33 AM
  Mark...your advice would be appreciated here.... what do you play this downloaded music on- an ipod?.  I bought (downloaded) some cds from itunes onto my sister's ipod (she has an ipod photo 20GB) recently and I can hear gaps between the tracks.  Then I tried "burning" the downloaded music onto a cd and I could still hear gaps between the tracks when I played it on my cd player.  I must be doing something wrong??  With symphonies and operas these gaps at the end of tracks are so irritating I gave up and went back to buying cds.  Where did I go wrong?

  marvin

Old men and technology, its a fun mix! Hehe Well I'm embarrassed to say I burned 3 cds with those gaps myself until I fixed the problem, a simple setting.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: The Mad Hatter on June 07, 2007, 03:19:47 AM
Quote from: Mark on June 07, 2007, 03:15:38 AM
Everything you need to know, Marvin, is right here: Gapless playback (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gapless_playback)

Well, I'm glad they're doing something to remedy the problem.

Though if I have music that I need to run together, I just splice it together before I listen.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 07, 2007, 03:21:00 AM
We've put men on the moon (allegedly ... ;D), but we can't be arsed to implement gapless playback of MP3s as standard.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: marvinbrown on June 07, 2007, 03:26:02 AM
Quote from: Mark on June 07, 2007, 03:15:38 AM
Everything you need to know, Marvin, is right here: Gapless playback (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gapless_playback)

  Thanks Mark.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: oyasumi on June 07, 2007, 09:44:03 AM
Quote from: MahlerTitan on June 03, 2007, 10:32:58 PM
i don't think i can post all the music i downloaded, people might get too jealous....

How many gigs?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on June 07, 2007, 11:09:55 AM
Quote from: oyasumi on June 07, 2007, 09:44:03 AM
How many gigs?

40 gigs on my main desktop
20 gigs on my laptop

none of the music in my collection (quality wise) is lower than 320 kbps.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on June 07, 2007, 12:15:47 PM
Anyone know where I can download the live version of Maybe I'm Amazed?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on June 07, 2007, 12:17:52 PM
Quote from: Mark on June 07, 2007, 03:21:00 AM
We've put men on the moon (allegedly ... ;D), but we can't be arsed to implement gapless playback of MP3s as standard.

I think it has something to do with the fact that Britney Spears has not released a concept album, where all the songs run into each other. Perhaps when that happens, it will become a priority...

;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on June 07, 2007, 12:18:48 PM
Quote from: George on June 07, 2007, 12:15:47 PM
Anyone know where I can download the live version of Maybe I'm Amazed?
http://www.demonoid.com/files/?category=0&subcategory=All&quality=All&seeded=0&external=2&query=Maybe+I%27m+Amazed&uid=0&sort=
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on June 07, 2007, 12:21:25 PM
Quote from: MahlerTitan on June 07, 2007, 12:18:48 PM
http://www.demonoid.com/files/?category=0&subcategory=All&quality=All&seeded=0&external=2&query=Maybe+I%27m+Amazed&uid=0&sort=

Mahler I'm Amazed at how fast you were! However, what do I do from there? I have no experience with torrents.  :(
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on June 07, 2007, 12:46:44 PM
Quote from: George on June 07, 2007, 12:21:25 PM
Mahler I'm Amazed at how fast you were! However, what do I do from there? I have no experience with torrents.  :(

well, you are going to need a torrent client, may i suggest utorrent (if you are using PC).
here:
http://www.utorrent.com/
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on June 07, 2007, 12:56:18 PM
Quote from: MahlerTitan on June 07, 2007, 12:46:44 PM
well, you are going to need a torrent client, may i suggest utorrent (if you are using PC).
here:
http://www.utorrent.com/

Sorry to be a pain, but I've got a Mac.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 07, 2007, 12:57:45 PM
Quote from: George on June 07, 2007, 12:56:18 PM
Sorry to be a pain, but I've got a Mac.

Another Mac user!  :)

You can use Azureus. It's Java based, and therefore, works on all platforms.

I'm curious , George, what kind of Mac do you have? What browser do you use?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on June 07, 2007, 01:00:58 PM
Quote from: Steve on June 07, 2007, 12:57:45 PM
Another Mac user!  :)

You can use Azureus. It's Java based, and therefore, works on all platforms.

I'm curious George, what kind of Mac do you have? What browser do you use?

Power Book G4 (It's my girlfriend's)

I use Safari, cause I like the buttons at the top. I have one for "GMG, show new replies." I click it like a Pavlovian dog. 
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: beclemund on June 07, 2007, 01:01:46 PM
Quote from: marvinbrown on June 07, 2007, 03:09:33 AMMark...your advice would be appreciated here.... what do you play this downloaded music on- an ipod?.  I bought (downloaded) some cds from itunes onto my sister's ipod (she has an ipod photo 20GB) recently and I can hear gaps between the tracks.  Then I tried "burning" the downloaded music onto a cd and I could still hear gaps between the tracks when I played it on my cd player.  I must be doing something wrong??  With symphonies and operas these gaps at the end of tracks are so irritating I gave up and went back to buying cds.  Where did I go wrong?

The wiki that Mark pointed you to gives a good overview of gapless playback. Specific to your issue of gapless playback on an iPod, however, you will want to insure that you have the latest firmware release (it can be downloaded from Apple's website (http://www.apple.com/ipod/download/)) for your iPod... Gapless support on iPod is a relatively new feature. You'll also want to upgrade to the latest version of iTunes (7.2 is the current release); versions from 7.0 and up support gapless playback. You can set albums for gapless playback from your iTunes library.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 07, 2007, 01:02:43 PM
Quote from: George on June 07, 2007, 01:00:58 PM
Power Book G4 (It's my girlfriend's)

I use Safari, cause I like the buttons at the top. I have one for "GMG, show new replies." I click it like a Pavlovian dog. 

Great machine. Yeah, Safari generally works for me too. Did you find Azureus's site?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on June 07, 2007, 01:04:19 PM
Quote from: Steve on June 07, 2007, 01:02:43 PM
Great machine. Yeah, Safari generally works for me too. Did you find Azureus's site?

I would actually be happier to just buy the one track that I want. Is there a place other than itunes where a Mac user can buy individual tracks?

BTW, check PM.  ;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 07, 2007, 01:09:09 PM
George, check PM  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: beclemund on June 07, 2007, 01:12:10 PM
As for downloaded music, I use emusic almost exclusively. They are a great service for purchasing legal downloads at a great price and at higher quality than most of the competitors.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 07, 2007, 01:13:45 PM
Quote from: beclemund on June 07, 2007, 01:12:10 PM
As for downloaded music, I use emusic almost exclusively. They are a great service for purchasing legal downloads at a great price and at higher quality than most of the competitors.

I'm planning on joining. Just trying to figure out which plan to buy.  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 07, 2007, 01:18:07 PM
Quote from: beclemund on June 07, 2007, 01:01:46 PM
The wiki that Mark pointed you to gives a good overview of gapless playback. Specific to your issue of gapless playback on an iPod, however, you will want to insure that you have the latest firmware release (it can be downloaded from Apple's website (http://www.apple.com/ipod/download/)) for your iPod... Gapless support on iPod is a relatively new feature. You'll also want to upgrade to the latest version of iTunes (7.2 is the current release); versions from 7.0 and up support gapless playback. You can set albums for gapless playback from your iTunes library.

Does that gapless playback setting work for MP3s already ripped, or only those ripped after you activate that setting? I ask, because with Sony's SonicStage/ATRAC system, you MUST do a complete rip of adjoining tracks to ensure gapless playback. Decide to re-rip one track without its adjoining track, and gapless playback can't happen. Also, the Sony system NEEDS the original CD - purchased tracks are NEVER gapless. I imagine something similar happens with the iPod/iTunes?

Quote from: beclemund on June 07, 2007, 01:12:10 PM
As for downloaded music, I use emusic almost exclusively. They are a great service for purchasing legal downloads at a great price and at higher quality than most of the competitors.

Heartily seconded. A totally problem-free, hassle-free download site. :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: beclemund on June 07, 2007, 01:26:22 PM
Quote from: Mark on June 07, 2007, 01:18:07 PMDoes that gapless playback setting work for MP3s already ripped, or only those ripped after you activate that setting? I ask, because with Sony's SonicStage/ATRAC system, you MUST do a complete rip of adjoining tracks to ensure gapless playback. Decide to re-rip one track without its adjoining track, and gapless playback can't happen. Also, the Sony system NEEDS the original CD - purchased tracks are NEVER gapless. I imagine something similar happens with the iPod/iTunes?

I'm not entirely certain how iTunes makes them gapless. Some discussions suggest that iTunes shoe-horns in a Lame-MP3 header (the Lame MP3 encoder already supported gapless) into the track information for gapless playback, so you wouldn't need to re-rip tracks.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 07, 2007, 01:27:05 PM
Quote from: beclemund on June 07, 2007, 01:26:22 PM
I'm not entirely certain how iTunes makes them gapless. Some discussions suggest that iTunes shoe-horns in a Lame-MP3 header (the Lame MP3 encoder already supported gapless) into the track information for gapless playback, so you wouldn't need to re-rip tracks.

Try it out. I bet it doesn't work. :(
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: The Mad Hatter on June 07, 2007, 01:33:52 PM
Quote from: beclemund on June 07, 2007, 01:12:10 PM
As for downloaded music, I use emusic almost exclusively. They are a great service for purchasing legal downloads at a great price and at higher quality than most of the competitors.

I used them a bit, but found that they didn't generally have what I was looking for. Also, I dislike subscription services...

Quote from: Steve on June 07, 2007, 12:57:45 PMI'm curious George

Heh. The importance of commas...
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mozart on June 08, 2007, 12:11:10 AM
QuoteI'm curious George

Heh. The importance of commas...

;D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 08, 2007, 12:33:22 AM
Quote from: The Mad Hatter on June 07, 2007, 01:33:52 PM
I used them a bit, but found that they didn't generally have what I was looking for. Also, I dislike subscription services...

Heh. The importance of commas...

Nicely done, sir.  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: beclemund on June 08, 2007, 11:15:35 AM
Quote from: Mark on June 07, 2007, 01:27:05 PMTry it out. I bet it doesn't work. :(

I store my rips in FLAC (lossless formats are gapless) then convert them to Lame-MP3 to place on the iPod. Since iPod added firmware for "real" gapless (previously they used an awful cross-fading technique), my tracks have played gaplessly without a need to re-rip. Before my iPod, I used a Rio Karma which supported gapless out of the box, so my digital collection has been fairly stable from the start. I don't buy downloads in other proprietary formats--only DRM free MP3, so I have not had an issue similar to yours with ATRAC.

I use a program called dBpoweramp (http://www.dbpoweramp.com/) to rip music and one of the options is to remove silence from the beginning and end of a track, so that may be what iTunes uses to determine if a track is gapless or not. You can also use it to convert one format to another and perform the same function.

From Apple's site, however, it looks like the iPod photo does not support gapless (http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=304362) playback, so there may not be an easy solution to Marvin's problem with his sister's iPod. The other option is to rip multiple tracks as one or join tracks. An app like Audacity (http://audacity.sourceforge.net/) can help with that in some cases after the fact. iTunes allows you to join tracks on import and dBpoweramp has a "rip as one" option.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: marvinbrown on June 08, 2007, 06:50:15 PM
Quote from: beclemund on June 08, 2007, 11:15:35 AM
From Apple's site, however, it looks like the iPod photo does not support gapless (http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=304362) playback, so there may not be an easy solution to Marvin's problem with his sister's iPod. The other option is to rip multiple tracks as one or join tracks. An app like Audacity (http://audacity.sourceforge.net/) can help with that in some cases after the fact. iTunes allows you to join tracks on import and dBpoweramp has a "rip as one" option.

   Thanks for the link beclemund.  After reading up on the apple ipod it seems that the ipod photo my sister has is not suited for my needs...unless I merge all tracks from a cd before importing, in which case  I do not have the option of buying operas on-line.  Those gaps are completely unacceptable for operas (especially for Wagner and Verdi)......  but since my sister is not into classical music its  not an issue to her. I guess my Sony cd player will have to do for now and unfortunately I won't be downloading any music in the near future.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: orbital on June 08, 2007, 06:55:29 PM
Isn't there a website that offers cdimages and the cues as downloads? That would solve big part of the problem
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mozart on June 08, 2007, 07:00:50 PM
Quote from: orbital on June 08, 2007, 06:55:29 PM
Isn't there a website that offers cdimages and the cues as downloads? That would solve big part of the problem

Legally?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Symphonien on June 08, 2007, 07:26:01 PM
Quote from: Mozart on June 08, 2007, 07:00:50 PM
Legally?

No. So what?

It seems illegal downloads are both better and cheaper. ;D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: orbital on June 08, 2007, 10:22:04 PM
Quote from: Mozart on June 08, 2007, 07:00:50 PM
Legally?
Yes, if possible. You could download the complete CD without the gaps, or with them as they were intended. Most players play the ape format don't they?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 09, 2007, 01:20:25 AM
Quote from: orbital on June 08, 2007, 10:22:04 PM
Yes, if possible. You could download the complete CD without the gaps, or with them as they were intended. Most players play the ape format don't they?

Most plays do APE? Er, no. Most players do MP3 and WMA, some also do OGG and FLAC ... but I know of no player that does APE natively. Even Rockbox (http://www.rockbox.org/twiki/bin/view/Main/FeatureComparison) doesn't seem to support the format. :( Although, if you have one of the players which can take Rockbox, you're laughing - gapless playback is a feature of it. :)

As to sites selling CDs as single files, I know of two: eClassical has an Entire Works (http://www.eclassical.com/eclassic/eclassical?&last_page=record%5flist&genre_id=3&letter=R&choiceNr=6&page=complete%2da&cd_nr=SIGCD054) section offering a very small selection of recordings, while for historical performances, you can go to Classical Music Mobile (http://www.classicalmusicmobile.com/catalog/index.php), where all works are ripped/encoded as single files, each costing just a single Euro, irrespective of duration. :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mozart on June 09, 2007, 02:20:08 AM
I dont know why ape is even used. It just shows you people love monkeys.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on June 09, 2007, 10:46:43 AM
Mediamonkey
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on June 09, 2007, 10:56:26 AM
Quote from: Mark on June 09, 2007, 01:20:25 AM
...for historical performances, you can go to Classical Music Mobile (http://www.classicalmusicmobile.com/catalog/index.php), where all works are ripped/encoded as single files, each costing just a single Euro, irrespective of duration. :)

:o :o :o

Thanks for that, Mark!!!!!  :D :D :D

Must be the best kept secret in classical music.  :D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: orbital on June 09, 2007, 11:04:12 AM
Quote from: Mark on June 09, 2007, 01:20:25 AM
Most plays do APE? Er, no. Most players do MP3 and WMA, some also do OGG and FLAC ... but I know of no player that does APE natively. Even Rockbox (http://www.rockbox.org/twiki/bin/view/Main/FeatureComparison) doesn't seem to support the format. :( Although, if you have one of the players which can take Rockbox, you're laughing - gapless playback is a feature of it. :)
I meant media players on the computers. You can then convert them to file format of your choice. I've once (by miracle?) used CueSplitter to split the big file into mp3's somehow  ::)

I put rockbox on my player btw. But mostly for the extras: You know, Sudoku, Tetris and the like  ;D

Quote
As to sites selling CDs as single files, I know of two: eClassical has an Entire Works (http://www.eclassical.com/eclassic/eclassical?&last_page=record%5flist&genre_id=3&letter=R&choiceNr=6&page=complete%2da&cd_nr=SIGCD054) section offering a very small selection of recordings, while for historical performances, you can go to Classical Music Mobile (http://www.classicalmusicmobile.com/catalog/index.php), where all works are ripped/encoded as single files, each costing just a single Euro, irrespective of duration. :)
Thank you. I'll check them out.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 09, 2007, 11:17:09 AM
Quote from: George on June 09, 2007, 10:56:26 AM
:o :o :o

Thanks for that, Mark!!!!!  :D :D :D

Must be the best kept secret in classical music.  :D

And guess what? I've downloaded ten (count 'em) performances from there. Who says I'm afraid of historical recordings? ;D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on June 09, 2007, 11:42:59 AM
Quote from: Mark on June 09, 2007, 11:17:09 AM
And guess what? I've downloaded ten (count 'em) performances from there. Who says I'm afraid of historical recordings? ;D

For $1.25 a pop, all fear vanishes.  ;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 09, 2007, 11:57:54 AM
Quote from: George on June 09, 2007, 11:42:59 AM
For $1.25 a pop, all fear vanishes.  ;)

Ha! It's about 68p each for me. :D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on June 09, 2007, 11:59:32 AM
Quote from: Mark on June 09, 2007, 11:57:54 AM
Ha! It's about 68p each for me. :D

I just downloaded Furtwangler's Brahms 2 and 3 symphonies and I can testify that this thing is for real!!!  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 09, 2007, 12:02:23 PM
I got Furtwangler's Beethoven Ninth Symphony, and Toscanini's, too. The latter won, no question.

George, check out Strauss's Four Last Songs, Schubert's Wintereisse, and Saint-Saens' Cello Concerto No. 1 - all winners. ;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on June 09, 2007, 12:04:07 PM
Quote from: Mark on June 09, 2007, 12:02:23 PM
I got Furtwangler's Beethoven Ninth Symphony, and Toscanini's, too. The latter won, no question.

George, check out Strauss's Four Last Songs, Schubert's Wintereisse, and Saint-Saens' Cello Concerto No. 1 - all winners. ;)

Yes, I want Berg's VC too.  :o
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 09, 2007, 01:04:50 PM
Mark, check PM.  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 09, 2007, 01:19:14 PM
Quote from: Steve on June 09, 2007, 01:04:50 PM
Mark, check PM.  :)

Steve, check yours. ;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Drasko on June 09, 2007, 01:23:16 PM
Quote from: Mark on June 09, 2007, 01:20:25 AM

As to sites selling CDs as single files, I know of two: eClassical has an Entire Works (http://www.eclassical.com/eclassic/eclassical?&last_page=record%5flist&genre_id=3&letter=R&choiceNr=6&page=complete%2da&cd_nr=SIGCD054) section offering a very small selection of recordings

I belive that doesn't mean in one continuos file but separate movements of entire work in one zip file.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 09, 2007, 01:29:37 PM
Quote from: Drasko on June 09, 2007, 01:23:16 PM
I belive that doesn't mean in one continuos file but separate movements of entire work in one zip file.

This from the eclassical site: See our entire works section, where you'll find entire works as single file downloads.

To me, that says one continuous file. :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 09, 2007, 01:38:07 PM
On the subject of www.eclassical.com, let's look at how this site works:

How eclassical works (http://www.eclassical.com/eclassic/eclassical?&last_page=label%5fpresentation&letter=R&genre_id=3&page=why%5fchoose%5feclassical&choiceNr=6&cd_nr=SIGCD054)

It really is as simple as it sounds. I downloaded a CD from the site last night using a PayPal transaction, and it was crazy easy to do. No registration, no fuss. Just select, pay, download and listen. All their files are in 192kbps MP3 (good enough for most listeners), and because you can't add DRM to MP3s, the files are yours to do with what you will. :)

So where's the catch? There isn't one. Only a downside: the site works with just four labels (as far as I can see): eclassical's record label partners (http://www.eclassical.com/eclassic/eclassical?&last_page=about%5feclassical&letter=R&genre_id=3&page=label%5fpresentation&choiceNr=6&cd_nr=SIGCD054). Of course, if these labels do it for you, and you don't want the subscription style service of eMusic (http://www.emusic.com) or Napster (http://www.napster.com), then eclassical (http://www.eclassical.com) might be what you're looking for.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 09, 2007, 02:05:45 PM
Now, here's a site I'm sure some of you will have heard of: Magnatune (http://magnatune.com/genres/classical/).

It's worth reading how and why this site exists, as its business model differs from that of a major market dominator like iTunes:

Magnatune ... the info (http://magnatune.com/info/).

In short, there's a lot of music up for grabs there. And get this: you can hear it all for free. Every second of every track can be played through their online media player, or through your chosen media player on your computer. Great, huh?

But it gets better. You can actually download everything for free, too! And it's not illegal - the site owners encourage it. They work on the basis that once you've gone to the trouble of downloading and decided you like what you hear, you'll come back and pay. How trusting is that? You can even pay as little as $5 for a CD if that's all you think it's worth. Or you can choose to have it burned to CD for you and mailed out.

Now, it's not quite as easy as it used to be to grab tracks from this site. There's a method you need to follow, and it goes like this:

1) From the list of available recordings, select the one you want.

2) You'll see a link in blue to 'play hifi' - click on this.

3) The music begins playing in an embedded Flash player ... but look further down the page and you'll see this wording:

Optional: if the Flash mp3 player above doesn't work for you, you can play this album as an m3u audio stream (or xspf)

4) EVEN IF THE FLASH PLAYER IS PLAYING FOR YOU, click on the words, ' ... m3u audio stream ... ' - this launches your default media player.

5) Use whatever method is available to you in your media player to 'Save as ... ' (in WMP, it's simply File\Save As ...), and select a desired destination folder on your computer.

6) Click 'Save', and you'll be saving the track you're listening to as fast as it buffers into your media player. Once it's saved to your hard disk drive, seek to the end of the playing track and repeat steps 5 and 6 as each successive track begins playing.

That's really all there is to it.

NB: You'll note that downloading in this way gives you a voiceover at the end of each track, telling you what you just heard and giving you the Magnatune URL. Use an MP3 cutter program, and you can simply remove this. Of course, the idea is that you won't steal the music but pay for it ... so make sure you do!  $:)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 09, 2007, 03:52:30 PM
And this is legal in the US?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 09, 2007, 03:58:15 PM
Quote from: Steve on June 09, 2007, 03:52:30 PM
And this is legal in the US?

I believe so. Read all the info on their site. They seem keen to break the stranglehold of what they see as the 'evil' record business. All the artists get paid, and it's a great way to promote those who might not otherwise get signed.

Right now, I'm downloading (in WAV format ... so, CD quality), Antonio Meneses' Bach Cello Suites. Price paid? £2.72! And that includes the CD artwork and track listing. And get this: I can legally give permission for three other people to download this music FOR FREE! In any format they like: WAV, OGG, FLAC, AAC or MP3.

So, first three folks here to PM me get the link. :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 09, 2007, 04:01:57 PM
Mark, check pm.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 09, 2007, 04:03:33 PM
George and Steve have claimed their prize. Anyone else interested?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 09, 2007, 04:18:30 PM
Third link still up for grabs. PM me. :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lilas Pastia on June 09, 2007, 04:40:52 PM
Quote from: Mark on June 09, 2007, 01:29:37 PM
This from the eclassical site: See our entire works section, where you'll find entire works as single file downloads.

To me, that says one continuous file. :)


Actually, a symphony will come in one download, but will contain the 4 movements as separate files. Nifty.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 09, 2007, 04:46:26 PM
Which, incidentally, happened with my purchase yesterday: I was offered 16 separate links, or a zip file. I went for the latter, naturally. ;)

Thanks for the clarification, Andre. :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 09, 2007, 05:19:32 PM
For those who've not encountered it yet, welcome to Classics Online (http://www.classicsonline.com). I've not used the service yet, but if anyone wants to give it a whirl and report back, that would be really appreciated. :)

Here's a bit from their site explaining their aims:

Classicsonline is a dedicated classical music download service which also offers other genres of quality music, jazz, nostalgia, world and contemporary instrumental.

It is the aim of Classicsonline to offer the widest possible range of classical music so that, eventually, every work of classical music ever recorded will be available from the site.

Over time, we expect to make the catalogs of all important independent classical music labels available. These are at the forefront of repertoire development today.

The service will be launched with the catalogs of BIS, Caprice, Celestial Harmonies, Chandos, Collegium, Coro, CPO, Haenssler, Hungaroton, Marco Polo, Naxos, Profil, Swedish Society, Vanguard, Wergo and others. We expect many other labels to join in the near future.

Aside from offering music at an affordable price, Classicsonline gives you the option to download a full CD or just a track. You pay only for the music you want to listen to. There are absolutely no registration fees required or any hidden charges when downloading.

Classicsonline does not employ any DRM (Digital Rights Management) technology. This means your purchase allows you to transfer your downloaded audio file to your portable player, CDs and other media for personal use. Purchase does not include file transfer for commercial purposes.


My understanding is that this site is the brainchild of Naxos boss Klaus Heymann. So, don't bet against it becoming a market leader at some point in the next 20 years. ;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 09, 2007, 05:30:47 PM
Of course (and as some of you will know), no thread like this one would be complete without a mention of:

Classic Cat (http://www.classiccat.net/)

What is it? The short answer is that they index the free-to-download classical MP3s on the internet.

So, go ahead and try it out. :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on June 09, 2007, 05:33:22 PM
looks good, but 192 is too low, is there a website out there offering quality higher than 192?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 09, 2007, 05:39:12 PM
Not sure yet, MahlerTitan. I'd hoped that you, with all your downloading experience, might know of somewhere.

Got any links to (legal) sites that we can feature in this thread? ???
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on June 09, 2007, 05:41:23 PM

*Crickets*







;D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: beclemund on June 09, 2007, 05:45:43 PM
Here's  an interesting article (http://www.csmonitor.com/2007/0601/p13s02-almp.html) regarding classical music downloads published earlier this month by the Christian Science Monitor.

Thanks for the service links, Mark.

Just a caveat, public domain laws are different in the USA than internationally, so sites like Classical Music Mobile (http://www.classicalmusicmobile.com/catalog/index.php) which use public domain laws with regard to copyright rather than agreements with labels to re-distribute recordings may not be legitimate in the States. Be sure to check the information on any download site regarding thier agreements with labels and/or artists if you intend to use it and if you are interested in legal downloads.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 09, 2007, 05:47:35 PM
Quote from: beclemund on June 09, 2007, 05:45:43 PM
Just a caveat, public domain laws are different in the USA than internationally, so sites like Classical Music Mobile (http://www.classicalmusicmobile.com/catalog/index.php) which use public domain laws with regard to copyright rather than agreements with labels to re-distribute recordings may not be legitimate in the States. Be sure to check the information on any download site regarding thier agreements with labels and/or artists if you intend to use it and if you are interested in legal downloads.

To the person who PM'd me earlier asking about legality, here's your answer. ;D

Thanks, beclemund.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 09, 2007, 05:54:26 PM
Aha! Here's Universal's Classics & Jazz (https://www.classicsandjazz.co.uk/ucj/tssite/homepage.do?ruleset=home) site. And the following tells us that 320kbps is on offer:

Classicsandjazz.co.uk is the Home of Classical and Jazz downloads. Created by Universal Music in conjunction with Fresh Digital and design agency TwentySix London, the site aims to meet the needs of all Classical and Jazz fans online.

The site has been designed for Classical and Jazz fans, so with this in mind the main features are: Better quality of downloads, the bit rate of files that you download are 320kbps, that's over double that of iTunes and most other retailers; you will be able search by composer and catalogue number; you will be able to listen to a minute of each track before you buy; plus you can read reviews from established sources and write your own reviews. The site is not only a store but also a portal for Classical and Jazz. The site provides artist information from frontline artists, which you wouldn't normally get on other digital stores, including photos, biographies, news and tour dates. The site is also interactive not only in its ability to publish user reviews but also as it has its own forum, in which Classical and Jazz fans are invited to discuss the latest releases and news from the music world.

You will find that the store is split into 3 sections. Classical - for the core classical fan, Jazz - for the core Jazz fan and Light which is for artists which are deemed 'crossover' in the music industry, this generally means the more popular artists who front the Classical and Jazz arena. Each main section is split in several genres. These genre pages raise the awareness of the latest and top selling releases.

The site is produced by Universal Music and so it features all the releases from all 66 labels within this record company. This includes Deutsche Grammophon, Decca, Phillips, Verve, Emarcy, Impulse, Concord, Fantasy, Rounder, UCJ and Universal Jazz. This means over 100,000 tracks are available to purchase, that's over 8,000 CDs and 30million seconds of music!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 09, 2007, 06:01:39 PM
And from Chandos, The Classical Shop (http://www.theclassicalshop.net/mp3index.asp).

An interesting point of difference with this service is that it also offers WMA Lossless files. From their website:

WMA lossless is a format that allows the file to be compressed without losing any data, i.e. sound. It works by ‘zipping’ the file before compression, creating a smaller file but without loss, hence ‘lossless’. The sound quality is exactly the same as on a CD, with no deterioration. However, the file sizes of WMA lossless are much larger than MP3 files. One 600 mb CD of music will reduce at a compression rate of 2:1.

Download times vary between 35 minutes on a 1 Meg internet connection down to only 5 minutes for an 8 Meg connection. WMA lossless files can be imported into most PC audio programmes including iTunes and Windows Media Player. iTunes converts into Apple lossless on import, making it compatible with iPods (this is a Windows iTunes facility only, Mac users need to use 3rd party conversion software to import WMAs into iTunes).

Needless to say, WMA lossless is ideally suited to classical music which requires the best possible sound quality.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 09, 2007, 06:52:32 PM
Quote from: beclemund on June 09, 2007, 05:45:43 PM
Here's  an interesting article (http://www.csmonitor.com/2007/0601/p13s02-almp.html) regarding classical music downloads published earlier this month by the Christian Science Monitor.

Thanks for the service links, Mark.

Just a caveat, public domain laws are different in the USA than internationally, so sites like Classical Music Mobile (http://www.classicalmusicmobile.com/catalog/index.php) which use public domain laws with regard to copyright rather than agreements with labels to re-distribute recordings may not be legitimate in the States. Be sure to check the information on any download site regarding thier agreements with labels and/or artists if you intend to use it and if you are interested in legal downloads.

American copyright laws are way too complicated. I still can't figure out whether or not purchasing from classical music mobile is legal in the United States. I emailed the webmaster and he seemed to believe that it would be alright, but I can't find a definitive answer. Who do you go to with questions like this? Am I really supposed to dig up and peruse the relevant copyright laws myself? Their website, on the top right corner says 'only legal music', and they accept registrations from people who indicate that they reside in the states. I don't see why this would be any different then going to Britain, downloading it there, and bringing it with me on a laptop.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: beclemund on June 09, 2007, 07:29:34 PM
Quote from: Steve on June 09, 2007, 06:52:32 PMAmerican copyright laws are way too complicated. I still can't figure out whether or not purchasing from classical music mobile is legal in the United States. I emailed the webmaster and he seemed to believe that it would be alright, but I can't find a definitive answer. Who do you go to with questions like this? Am I really supposed to dig up and peruse the relevant copyright laws myself? Their website, on the top right corner says 'only legal music', and they accept registrations from people who indicate that they reside in the states. I don't see why this would be any different then going to Britain, downloading it there, and bringing it with me on a laptop.

The main differences are the public domain rules. In the US copyright does not expire for almost twice as many years, and there are other restrictions rather than the 50 years indicated on Classical Music Mobile. Granted, you probably will not hear from the RIAA based on downloads from there, but it isn't as cut and dry as the site makes it seems. You can tell if you're treading in dangerous waters if you can find a particular performance in print and readily available. Just a cursory search of titles available from Classical Music Mobile shows most if not all still available on Amazon, so that would red flag those titles (and that whole service) for me. You can find some more information here (http://www.pdinfo.com/copyrt.htm).
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mozart on June 09, 2007, 08:31:09 PM
9
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 09, 2007, 08:42:20 PM
Quote from: beclemund on June 09, 2007, 07:29:34 PM
The main differences are the public domain rules. In the US copyright does not expire for almost twice as many years, and there are other restrictions rather than the 50 years indicated on Classical Music Mobile. Granted, you probably will not hear from the RIAA based on downloads from there, but it isn't as cut and dry as the site makes it seems. You can tell if you're treading in dangerous waters if you can find a particular performance in print and readily available. Just a cursory search of titles available from Classical Music Mobile shows most if not all still available on Amazon, so that would red flag those titles (and that whole service) for me. You can find some more information here (http://www.pdinfo.com/copyrt.htm).

So, it is my duty before I can use this sort of service to investigate completely the intracacies of US copyright law? Wouldn't it the responsibility of the merchant not to accept transactions from the US?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: orbital on June 09, 2007, 08:49:21 PM
Quote from: Steve on June 09, 2007, 08:42:20 PM
So, it is my duty before I can use this sort of service to investigate completely the intracacies of US copyright law? Wouldn't it the responsibility of the merchant not to accept transactions from the US?
In theory yes, but they can easily avoid complications by placing a disclaimer saying that it is the customer's responsibility to make sure that the action they are taking is in line with their state regulations.
Similar to sale alcoholic beverages over the internet. Some sites do ship to all states, but they warn that the customer should not place orders if online alcohol purchase is not legal in their home state. As a rule of the thumb, I think the only law that the website is bound by is the law in the state/country that they are incorporated in.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 09, 2007, 08:55:39 PM
Quote from: orbital on June 09, 2007, 08:49:21 PM
In theory yes, but they can easily avoid complications by placing a disclaimer saying that it is the customer's responsibility to make sure that the action they are taking is in line with their state regulations.
Similar to sale alcoholic beverages over the internet. Some sites do ship to all states, but they warn that the customer should not place orders if online alcohol purchase is not legal in their home state. As a rule of the thumb, I think the only law that the website is bound by is the law in the state/country that they are incorporated in.

That's an unreasonable expectation of a consumer where the site reads, 'only legal music'.

Well it looks like I won't be purchasing music from this site.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: orbital on June 09, 2007, 09:06:48 PM
Quote from: Steve on June 09, 2007, 08:55:39 PM
That's an unreasonable expectation of a consumer where the site reads, 'only legal music'.
Of course, but they are talking about British legality. That's why it might be a good practice to at least make such distinctions visible on the website. Plus if the website does not include the .co.uk designation in their url, you may not even know that they are abroad.

The laws in Britain may say "downloads such as these may be offered to customers from other countries", whereas laws in the US may say "downloads such as these may not be purchased". In such a case the company making these offerings would not be liable for any unlawful activity.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: beclemund on June 09, 2007, 09:13:20 PM
Quote from: Steve on June 09, 2007, 08:42:20 PMSo, it is my duty before I can use this sort of service to investigate completely the intracacies of US copyright law? Wouldn't it the responsibility of the merchant not to accept transactions from the US?

Generally speaking, yes, your actions are often *your* responsibility. ;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 09, 2007, 09:30:12 PM
Quote from: beclemund on June 09, 2007, 09:13:20 PM
Generally speaking, yes, your actions are often *your* responsibility. ;)

This is why I check with members of this forum first. Alas, I shall not be purchasing from this store.  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on June 09, 2007, 09:39:57 PM
I think as long as you are downloading/sharing for personal uses, legality is not really that big of deal.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 09, 2007, 10:41:37 PM
Quote from: MahlerTitan on June 09, 2007, 09:39:57 PM
I think as long as you are downloading/sharing for personal uses, legality is not really that big of deal.

I just think that if I'm going to pay for something, it's only going to be for a perfectly legal download.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on June 10, 2007, 02:18:07 AM
Quote from: Steve on June 09, 2007, 10:41:37 PM
I just think that if I'm going to pay for something, it's only going to be for a perfectly legal download.

if someone really wants to sue you, believe me, those so called "legal" downloads aren't 100% safe.

if you want perfectly legal music, just go buy the CD, and rip the cd onto your laptop, and share with me on demonoid ;D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lilas Pastia on June 10, 2007, 05:07:40 AM
Eclassical is entirely legal because they only buy stuff through a licensing agreement. Many of their offerings are releases from 2006-2007, some are even available before they reach the stores :o.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: beclemund on June 10, 2007, 08:48:52 AM
Quote from: MahlerTitan on June 10, 2007, 02:18:07 AMif someone really wants to sue you, believe me, those so called "legal" downloads aren't 100% safe.

This is a patently false statement. I think you would have a hard time as a record label trying to seek damages from someone for copyright violation who was downloading music from iTunes, emusic, Amazon, Buy.com, etc.. that was bought and paid for. Contracts with labels are negociated by these services so that their users are getting 100% legal music. Each download site will specify the exact usage model for that music too. There are many legal distribution channels for digital music. The not so secret, secret, is to examine a company's connections with labels and artists, consult news articles about a company and their servirce, and give some attention to where the company operates--as they may be working from a different set of laws than your nation of residence.

On the other hand, it is possible to buy an illegally pirated compact disc... you need to use the same kind of discretion when purchasing a DVD or CD as you do when purchasing a download.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on June 10, 2007, 04:40:47 PM
a question:
Is file sharing illegal? if so, to what extent is it illegal, and to what extend is it legal?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 10, 2007, 04:43:46 PM
Quote from: beclemund on June 10, 2007, 08:48:52 AM
This is a patently false statement. I think you would have a hard time as a record label trying to seek damages from someone for copyright violation who was downloading music from iTunes, emusic, Amazon, Buy.com, etc.. that was bought and paid for. Contracts with labels are negociated by these services so that their users are getting 100% legal music. Each download site will specify the exact usage model for that music too. There are many legal distribution channels for digital music. The not so secret, secret, is to examine a company's connections with labels and artists, consult news articles about a company and their servirce, and give some attention to where the company operates--as they may be working from a different set of laws than your nation of residence.

On the other hand, it is possible to buy an illegally pirated compact disc... you need to use the same kind of discretion when purchasing a DVD or CD as you do when purchasing a download.

This has been the problem with the global nature of the internet. If I went to a conventional store and purchased a CD for a lower than usual price, I wouldn't be expected to consult the authorities in order to verify the legality of their operation, yet it seems like, I would be responsible were it an online vendor. Of course, I will try to be careful. But, it seems to me, that when you purchase something from a site with a web address that ends in .com, claims to be selling only legal music, and responds to an email inquiry without stating that their service is not legal in America, I could reasonably expect to be operating within a legal context. But, who knows?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on June 10, 2007, 04:47:04 PM
Quote from: beclemund on June 10, 2007, 08:48:52 AM
This is a patently false statement. I think you would have a hard time as a record label trying to seek damages from someone for copyright violation who was downloading music from iTunes, emusic, Amazon, Buy.com, etc.. that was bought and paid for. Contracts with labels are negociated by these services so that their users are getting 100% legal music. Each download site will specify the exact usage model for that music too. There are many legal distribution channels for digital music. The not so secret, secret, is to examine a company's connections with labels and artists, consult news articles about a company and their servirce, and give some attention to where the company operates--as they may be working from a different set of laws than your nation of residence.

On the other hand, it is possible to buy an illegally pirated compact disc... you need to use the same kind of discretion when purchasing a DVD or CD as you do when purchasing a download.

true, they'll get sued instead of you.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: beclemund on June 10, 2007, 05:17:05 PM
Quote from: MahlerTitan on June 10, 2007, 04:40:47 PMa question:
Is file sharing illegal? if so, to what extent is it illegal, and to what extend is it legal?

For those files still covered under a copyright, no, it is *not* legal. People will decide for themselves what they are willing to get away with, of course. Your earlier statement regarding "downloading/sharing for personal uses" is exactly the thing the RIAA has been coming down on when distributing settlement letters to university campuses and ISPs throughout the US over the last few years.

Quote from: MahlerTitan on June 10, 2007, 04:47:04 PMtrue, they'll get sued instead of you.

This is also unlikely with those companies that have established contracts to distribute music digitally with the copyright holders. There certainly are pay-for services that operate illegally. Again, you need to be thorough about examining which services you are willing to use.

You can find more information about US copyright law directly from US Copyright Office (http://www.copyright.gov/).

From that site:

QuoteIs it legal to download works from peer-to-peer networks and if not, what is the penalty for doing so?
Uploading or downloading works protected by copyright without the authority of the copyright owner is an infringement of the copyright owner's exclusive rights of reproduction and/or distribution. Anyone found to have infringed a copyrighted work may be liable for statutory damages up to $30,000 for each work infringed and, if willful infringement is proven by the copyright owner, that amount may be increased up to $150,000 for each work infringed. In addition, an infringer of a work may also be liable for the attorney's fees incurred by the copyright owner to enforce his or her rights.

Whether or not a particular work is being made available under the authority of the copyright owner is a question of fact. But since any original work of authorship fixed in a tangible medium (including a computer file) is protected by federal copyright law upon creation, in the absence of clear information to the contrary, most works may be assumed to be protected by federal copyright law.

Since the files distributed over peer-to-peer networks are primarily copyrighted works, there is a risk of liability for downloading material from these networks. To avoid these risks, there are currently many "authorized" services on the Internet that allow consumers to purchase copyrighted works online, whether music, ebooks, or motion pictures. By purchasing works through authorized services, consumers can avoid the risks of infringement liability and can limit their exposure to other potential risks, e.g., viruses, unexpected material, or spyware.

For more information on this issue, see the Register of Copyrights' testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee (http://www.copyright.gov/docs/regstat090903.html).
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on June 10, 2007, 05:33:01 PM
Quote from: beclemund on June 10, 2007, 05:17:05 PM
For those files still covered under a copyright, no, it is *not* legal. People will decide for themselves what they are willing to get away with, of course. Your earlier statement regarding "downloading/sharing for personal uses" is exactly the thing the RIAA has been coming down on when distributing settlement letters to university campuses and ISPs throughout the US over the last few years.


so, suppose i purchase a CD legally, and i would like a friend of mine to hear it, so i upload this CD online via Bittorent, so that this friend of mine can receive my "gift", according to what you have said, this is apparently "illegal"?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: beclemund on June 10, 2007, 06:38:41 PM
Quote from: MahlerTitan on June 10, 2007, 05:33:01 PMso, suppose i purchase a CD legally, and i would like a friend of mine to hear it, so i upload this CD online via Bittorent, so that this friend of mine can receive my "gift", according to what you have said, this is apparently "illegal"?

Again, according to the US copyright office "...[ u]ploading or downloading works protected by copyright without the authority of the copyright owner is an infringement of the copyright owner's exclusive rights of reproduction and/or distribution."

So in the case above, yes, that kind of sharing is illegal.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on June 10, 2007, 06:41:48 PM

Can we get back to all that fun downloading discussion stuff?  :-\
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mozart on June 10, 2007, 06:50:45 PM
Quote from: George on June 10, 2007, 06:41:48 PM
Can we get back to all that fun downloading discussion stuff?  :-\

Word yo, no one cares if what they download is illegal, except all you people who care if what they download is illegal. A computer is like an entertainment station, if your not going to illegally download movies, music games...then whats the point of owning one? Send me your new 2000 dollar computers and Ill send you my e machine and you'll be just as happy!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on June 10, 2007, 06:54:50 PM
Quote from: Mozart on June 10, 2007, 06:50:45 PM
Word yo, no one cares if what they download is illegal, except all you people who care if what they download is illegal. A computer is like an entertainment station, if your not going to illegally download movies, music games...then whats the point of owning one? Send me your new 2000 dollar computers and Ill send you my e machine and you'll be just as happy!

Thank you, Ali G.



;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mozart on June 10, 2007, 06:56:39 PM
Quote from: George on June 10, 2007, 06:54:50 PM
Thank you, Ali G.



;)

Haha he did encourage me to steal his movie...
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 10, 2007, 07:21:39 PM
Quote from: Mozart on June 10, 2007, 06:50:45 PM
Word yo, no one cares if what they download is illegal, except all you people who care if what they download is illegal. A computer is like an entertainment station, if your not going to illegally download movies, music games...then whats the point of owning one? Send me your new 2000 dollar computers and Ill send you my e machine and you'll be just as happy!

Unless, of course, you aren't interested in a massive suit from the RIAA. Then, like me, you keep it legal.  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mozart on June 10, 2007, 07:23:42 PM
Quote from: Steve on June 10, 2007, 07:21:39 PM
Unless, of course, you aren't interested in a massive suit from the RIAA. Then, like me, you keep it legal.  :)

Why would they pick me when theres 300 million other Americans doing it too?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 10, 2007, 07:25:17 PM
Quote from: Mozart on June 10, 2007, 07:23:42 PM
Why would they pick me when theres 300 million other Americans doing it too?

You're not any less likely to get chosen then any of them..... if you don't mind the risk.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mozart on June 10, 2007, 07:27:14 PM
Quote from: Steve on June 10, 2007, 07:25:17 PM
You're not any less likely to get chosen then any of them..... if you don't mind the risk.

Well 1 out of 300 million, I think God would have to draw my name for that to happen. Being a prick he probably would.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 10, 2007, 07:32:06 PM
Quote from: Mozart on June 10, 2007, 07:27:14 PM
Well 1 out of 300 million, I think God would have to draw my name for that to happen. Being a prick he probably would.

Or you could just pay for it, and bring that down to 0.  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mozart on June 10, 2007, 07:33:16 PM
Quote from: Steve on June 10, 2007, 07:32:06 PM
Or you could just pay for it, and bring that down to 0.  :)

To a mathematician 1 out of 300 million is as good as zero.

Besides a lawsuit in America comes down to whose got the most Jewish lawyer! Ive got connections ;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: beclemund on June 10, 2007, 07:35:18 PM
Quote from: Mozart on June 10, 2007, 06:50:45 PMWord yo, no one cares if what they download is illegal, except all you people who care if what they download is illegal. A computer is like an entertainment station, if your not going to illegally download movies, music games...then whats the point of owning one? Send me your new 2000 dollar computers and Ill send you my e machine and you'll be just as happy!

Hehe. Well, I would not be satisfied with an emachine tho' there are no illegally downloaded products on my laptop or on the shared storage drive I use to keep my music library, so *nyah, nyah*, you can't have it!  :P

Sorry for the tangent on public domain and copyright tho'. I was merely trying to answer questions as best as I could as they came up.

I am a big fan of digital distribution. Particularly services that provide high quality downloads without bloaty DRM.

Speaking of high quality downloads, The Philadelphia Orchestra (http://www.thephiladelphiaorchestra.com/) provides high quality downloads in lossless FLAC (including historic performances) at very reasonable prices.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mozart on June 10, 2007, 07:44:42 PM
Lol I almost pooped myself, I click on Mozart's 17th pc and it said 215$!! Haha then I realized it was part of some 4 cd collection...
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 10, 2007, 08:31:35 PM
Quote from: Mozart on June 10, 2007, 07:33:16 PM
To a mathematician 1 out of 300 million is as good as zero.

Besides a lawsuit in America comes down to whose got the most Jewish lawyer! Ive got connections ;)

I'm a math major, and I dont consider that to be the eqivalent of zero.  ;D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mozart on June 10, 2007, 08:53:49 PM
Quote from: Steve on June 10, 2007, 08:31:35 PM
I'm a math major, and I dont consider that to be the eqivalent of zero.  ;D
I would be a math major if I had 80k to go to school and I do ;D
Its beyond chance.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 10, 2007, 09:18:19 PM
Quote from: Mozart on June 10, 2007, 08:53:49 PM
I would be a math major if I had 80k to go to school and I do ;D
Its beyond chance.

What do you mean?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on June 10, 2007, 09:47:16 PM
Quote from: Steve on June 10, 2007, 08:31:35 PM
I'm a math major, and I dont consider that to be the eqivalent of zero.  ;D

then you can probably calculate the probability of your being caught downloading "illegal" music.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 10, 2007, 10:36:49 PM
Quote from: MahlerTitan on June 10, 2007, 09:47:16 PM
then you can probably calculate the probability of your being caught downloading "illegal" music.

right...  ;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mozart on June 10, 2007, 11:03:27 PM
Quote from: MahlerTitan on June 10, 2007, 09:47:16 PM
then you can probably calculate the probability of your being caught downloading "illegal" music.
Leave that to the fascinating profession, those living Gods we call actuaries!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mozart on June 10, 2007, 11:05:41 PM
Quote from: Steve on June 10, 2007, 09:18:19 PM
What do you mean?

I mean that there not going to randomly pick anyone. To get caught downloading crap you probably would have to do some other illegal thing that requires your computer being seized... D you really think they will suddenly come take my computer because I downloaded Rigoletto?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mozart on June 10, 2007, 11:15:38 PM
QuoteAnyone found to have infringed a copyrighted work may be liable for statutory damages up to $30,000 for each work infringed and, if willful infringement is proven by the copyright owner, that amount may be increased up to $150,000 for each work infringed.

Small price to pay if it means getting to meet Hannah Montana no?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on June 11, 2007, 06:15:27 AM
Quote from: Mozart on June 10, 2007, 07:27:14 PM
Well 1 out of 300 million, I think God would have to draw my name for that to happen. Being a prick he probably would.

Post of the day.  0:)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 12, 2007, 01:59:01 AM
Okay, folks. A (small) treat for iTunes users.

I got sent a single-song free download code today. I hate iTunes with a passion and wouldn't download from them if forced to at gunpoint, so I'm offering up the code here.

This code will only work once, so it's first come, first served. Don't moan at me if it doesn't work, basically - I couldn't care less. ;D The code expires on August 31st 2007.

Here it is. Enjoy:

J H 7 9 6 T P R F W 3 P
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mozart on June 12, 2007, 03:11:24 AM
Shucks, i think im first and it says itunes doesnt work in mexico...
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 12, 2007, 03:15:43 AM
Quote from: Mozart on June 12, 2007, 03:11:24 AM
Shucks, i think im first and it says itunes doesnt work in mexico...

What rotten luck! :(
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mozart on June 12, 2007, 03:17:01 AM
Quote from: Mark on June 12, 2007, 03:15:43 AM
What rotten luck! :(

I might as well tell you I was going to download Auber overture to fra diavolo
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 12, 2007, 03:18:23 AM
Need to bear in mind there's nothing stopping a 'guest' user of the forum from grabbing the code. ;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: SimonGodders on June 12, 2007, 11:10:47 AM
Okay, Godders enters the world of downloading...

Not with much success :(

I've got Azureus and used Demonoid to download Ray Lamontagne's latest album. I've downloaded the whole thing, but it won't open the files which are flac. I am a mac user which always seems to be a problem, but can it be rectified?

It would be nice to know, as I'm downloading the entire Richter in Prague set (all 15 CD's! Almost 4GB!) which again are files I don't recognise (EAC?).

Is there an application which can help? I'm baffled, just don't have a handle on this downloading malarkey...
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on June 12, 2007, 11:33:45 AM
Quote from: SimonGodders on June 12, 2007, 11:10:47 AM
Okay, Godders enters the world of downloading...

Not with much success :(

I've got Azureus and used Demonoid to download Ray Lamontagne's latest album. I've downloaded the whole thing, but it won't open the files which are flac. I am a mac user which always seems to be a problem, but can it be rectified?

It would be nice to know, as I'm downloading the entire Richter in Prague set (all 15 CD's! Almost 4GB!) which again are files I don't recognise (EAC?).

Is there an application which can help? I'm baffled, just don't have a handle on this downloading malarkey...

I believe that there is software that can convert files of one type to another.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 12, 2007, 11:47:59 AM
'You could use foobar2000 to do this. You would also require a AAC codec. Nero or FAAC could do it. I think there's even a way to use the iTunes codec with foobar, but I use Nero so it doesn't worry me.'
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: SimonGodders on June 12, 2007, 12:02:25 PM
Quote from: Steve on June 12, 2007, 11:47:59 AM
'You could use foobar2000 to do this. You would also require a AAC codec. Nero or FAAC could do it. I think there's even a way to use the iTunes codec with foobar, but I use Nero so it doesn't worry me.'

sorry to sound a bit dumb, but I'm getting lost already...

Would having Nero solve all my issues?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 12, 2007, 12:10:19 PM
Quote from: SimonGodders on June 12, 2007, 12:02:25 PM
sorry to sound a bit dumb, but I'm getting lost already...

Would having Nero solve all my issues?

Ok, scratch the first recommendation. It looks like MacFlac can convert .flac to .aac, which is what you need. I didn't know converted back to .aac.

Try this first http://mac.softpedia.com/get/Audio/MacFLAC.shtml

If quality isn't stellar, you'll need a codec.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 12, 2007, 12:30:57 PM
Simon, EAC isn't a file format, but excellent (most think, the best) free ripping/encoding software. It stands for Exact Audio Copy, and you can find out more about it here: Exact Audio Copy (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exact_Audio_Copy).

However, it's of no use to you as a downloader, or as a Mac user - it's a PC-only application, AFAIK. Where did you get the information telling you that the files are EAC?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: SimonGodders on June 12, 2007, 12:33:27 PM
Quote from: Steve on June 12, 2007, 12:10:19 PM
Ok, scratch the first recommendation. It looks like MacFlac can convert .flac to .aac, which is what you need. I didn't know converted back to .aac.

Try this first http://mac.softpedia.com/get/Audio/MacFLAC.shtml

If quality isn't stellar, you'll need a codec.

No joy :(

Macflac couldn't convert, or an application called Switch - errors in the files. Just keep my fingers crossed for the Richter stuff.

Thanks anyway mate
:)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: SimonGodders on June 12, 2007, 12:38:51 PM
Quote from: Mark on June 12, 2007, 12:30:57 PM
Simon, EAC isn't a file format, but excellent (most think, the best) free ripping/encoding software. It stands for Exact Audio Copy, and you can find out more about it here: Exact Audio Copy (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exact_Audio_Copy).

However, it's of no use to you as a downloader, or as a Mac user - it's a PC-only application, AFAIK. Where did you get the information telling you that the files are EAC?

Hi Mark,

Sorry for confusion, I'm really probing in the dark here! The file that it's already begun to download had Sviatoslav Richter (EAC) and I just 'assumed' that was the file type. I think I will just wait and see what I get when it's finished downloading...

I don't hold out much hope though, as TBH, I'm utterly fucking clueless with all this! Probably stick with CD's for a while longer, luddite is the word :-\
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 12, 2007, 12:48:37 PM
Simon, if you have trouble opening the files when you've got them all, PM me and I'll see if I can sort it out. :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: SimonGodders on June 12, 2007, 12:54:08 PM
Quote from: Mark on June 12, 2007, 12:48:37 PM
Simon, if you have trouble opening the files when you've got them all, PM me and I'll see if I can sort it out. :)

Most kind, cheers.
Probably be another 24hrs until I've downloaded completely. I may be in touch... ;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 12, 2007, 09:23:50 PM
Quote from: SimonGodders on June 12, 2007, 12:54:08 PM
Most kind, cheers.
Probably be another 24hrs until I've downloaded completely. I may be in touch... ;)

I'm surprised MacFlac didn't work. I tested it quickly before I posted the link. Converting from .flac to .aac is difficult without a proper codec. Else, you lose a lot of quality.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 13, 2007, 02:01:08 AM
Quote from: Steve on June 12, 2007, 09:23:50 PM
I'm surprised MacFlac didn't work. I tested it quickly before I posted the link. Converting from .flac to .aac is difficult without a proper codec. Else, you lose a lot of quality.

Steve, it would probably be simpler to convert FLAC to MP3 and not be hampered by a parochial format like AAC, no?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 13, 2007, 08:38:16 AM
Quote from: Mark on June 13, 2007, 02:01:08 AM
Steve, it would probably be simpler to convert FLAC to MP3 and not be hampered by a parochial format like AAC, no?

Yes, it would be much simpler to do this, but when he said iTunes format, I assumed .aac.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: orbital on June 14, 2007, 07:00:28 AM
While I was cleaning up some of my browser bookmarks earlier today, I came across this one:

http://www.recitals.alexeisultanov.ru/

If anybody is interested there are quite a few recordings of Sultanov's recitals/concerts in there.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 14, 2007, 01:06:16 PM
Quote from: orbital on June 14, 2007, 07:00:28 AM
While I was cleaning up some of my browser bookmarks earlier today, I came across this one:

http://www.recitals.alexeisultanov.ru/

If anybody is interested there are quite a few recordings of Sultanov's recitals/concerts in there.


Thanks for the link.  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: techniquest on June 23, 2007, 01:50:11 AM
So how do you convert flac to mp3?

Never mind - I've got it sussed.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: stingo on June 23, 2007, 08:06:59 AM
Operas seem to be floating around usenet these days - among them (ironically enough) Boris Godunov.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Harry on June 23, 2007, 08:14:54 AM
Quote from: stingo on June 23, 2007, 08:06:59 AM
Operas seem to be floating around usenet these days - among them (ironically enough) Boris Godunov.

Now really! ;D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lilas Pastia on June 24, 2007, 06:50:06 AM
Alan Pettersson: symphonies 3 and 15, Segerstam (BIS). Available as single file downloads for 0.99$ each at www.eclassical.com
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on June 26, 2007, 10:49:43 PM
Quote from: Lilas Pastia on June 24, 2007, 06:50:06 AM
Alan Pettersson: symphonies 3 and 15, Segerstam (BIS). Available as single file downloads for 0.99$ each at www.eclassical.com

I didn't realize that had Pettersoon over at eclasical. I'll be sure to pick these up!  ;D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lilas Pastia on June 27, 2007, 05:04:03 AM
Quote from: Steve on June 26, 2007, 10:49:43 PM
I didn't realize that had Pettersoon over at eclasical. I'll be sure to pick these up!  ;D

Also: symphonies 5, 7, 8, 10, 11, viola concerto and the very difficult (for the listener!!) 7 sonatas for 2 violins.
The symphonies are avalaible for 0.99$ or 1.99$, as they are only one or two tracks.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on June 27, 2007, 05:31:54 AM
Quote from: Lilas Pastia on June 24, 2007, 06:50:06 AM
Alan Pettersson: symphonies 3 and 15, Segerstam (BIS). Available as single file downloads for 0.99$ each at www.eclassical.com

Thanks!! I am downloading Symphonies 8 and 10 as I type!  :)

This is exciting for me, as I have never heard this composer.  :D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Sergeant Rock on June 28, 2007, 01:01:40 PM
Quote from: George on June 27, 2007, 05:31:54 AM
Thanks!! I am downloading Symphonies 8 and 10 as I type!  :)

This is exciting for me, as I have never heard this composer.  :D

George, just remember to take your anti-depression meds. Oh...and give someone your belt before you begin listening. It's a good idea, too, to have a trusted person stand by to keep an eye on you that first time. (Suicide watch). Okay, you're ready now. Good luck.

Sarge
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on June 28, 2007, 02:57:34 PM
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on June 28, 2007, 01:01:40 PM
George, just remember to take your anti-depression meds. Oh...and give someone your belt before you begin listening. It's a good idea, too, to a have a trusted person stand by to keep an eye on you that first time. (Suicide watch). Okay, you're ready now. Good luck.

Sarge

;D

8 was a breeze, I am about to put on 10, I'm guessing that is a bit more sucide-inducing?  ;)

Seriously, to me intense music helps me get through and validate difficult feelings, rather than make them worse. My girlfriend seems to avoid any form of entertainment that is "depresssing," as if we can avoid our feelings.  ::)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on June 29, 2007, 04:11:35 AM
Okay, it's a small start, but another site has begun selling very high quality downloads. I found this after just a cursory glance: MusicGiants (http://mgn.musicgiants.com/AlbumDetails.aspx?ALBUM=90496).
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: orbital on June 29, 2007, 06:50:21 AM
Although this was posted in the old forum (by Tony if I'm not mistaken), I found out that it is still available for download for those who did not, or who werent here:

http://blogs.guardian.co.uk/music/2006/12/gavrilov_on_chopin.html

Gavrilov's live Chopin nocturnes performance from 2006. Probably not to everyone's liking. But I listened to them again yesterday, and I like them very much. The op 15/ 1 and 2 in particular.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Sergeant Rock on June 29, 2007, 06:55:05 AM
Quote from: George on June 28, 2007, 02:57:34 PM
;D

8 was a breeze, I am about to put on 10, I'm guessing that is a bit more sucide-inducing?  ;)

7 always gets to me...

Sarge
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on June 29, 2007, 06:58:42 AM
Quote from: orbital on June 29, 2007, 06:50:21 AM
Although this was posted in the old forum (by Tony if I'm not mistaken), I found out that it is still available for download for those who did not, or who werent here:

http://blogs.guardian.co.uk/music/2006/12/gavrilov_on_chopin.html

Gavrilov's live Chopin nocturnes performance from 2006. Probably not to everyone's liking. But I listened to them again yesterday, and I like them very much. The op 15/ 1 and 2 in particular.

Thanks!

I missed that one.  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: orbital on June 29, 2007, 11:46:16 AM
Quote from: George on June 29, 2007, 06:58:42 AM
Thanks!

I missed that one.  :)
Sure thing. They are special IMO. just as you think you were bored with op9/1  8)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mozart on July 01, 2007, 11:48:15 PM
Can someone help me. I downloaded music, and some idiot misnamed all the files to have the wrong file extensions, and the files won't play. The solution is obviously to rename the files, but when I right click them, there is limited options, basically just to play the file not delete or copy or rename or anything. Is there anything I can do about it?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: AnthonyAthletic on July 03, 2007, 11:08:11 AM
Have you tried clicking on the file(s) and pressing your F2 button?

Check that your files don't have more than one (dot) in there.  I have downloaded a few recordings where the file name is something like:

01 - Allegro ma non troppo.001.mp3

where it should read

01 - Allegro ma non troppo.mp3  (deleting the.001 bit) as an example

Take out the (dot) and the extra garbage before the .mp3

Its hard to say without seeing the file.  F2 should work, maybe?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mozart on July 03, 2007, 06:47:36 PM
Yes the problem is an extra dot, and f2 doesn't work :( The files named are ridiculously long and I have tried also to highlight the files and click once to rename and it just make a noise clink and does nothing. I guess its a worthless download.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: AnthonyAthletic on July 03, 2007, 08:38:31 PM
Quote from: Mozart on July 03, 2007, 06:47:36 PM
Yes the problem is an extra dot, and f2 doesn't work :( The files named are ridiculously long and I have tried also to highlight the files and click once to rename and it just make a noise clink and does nothing. I guess its a worthless download.

The files you are trying to rename could have been created with "HJSplit", Sidoze told me about this when I was downloading.  If you upload a file which is too big, many uploaders will use the program "HJSplit" to split/link the files.

So as an example you have Beethoven's 5th as a download and it reads .001.zip and .002.zip or perhaps .zip.001 and .zip.002 then you could need HJSplit to join them back together.

If you have say two files .001 & .002 in one directory, you need to run HJSplit and point it at your .001 file, HJSplit will find .001 and autofind any other subsequent files ie .002 .003 etc and rejoin the whole work back together giving you a file which is now "Joined"

Google and download HJSplit, it is a very small executable program, put this in the directory where your files are and run it against them (the .001 file)....it could be as simple as that.  Looks and sounds to me that the originator of the upload has split the file using HJSplit and not told you about it.  Hope this is the problem.

Cheers

PS If this is the case HJSplit will recreate the .rar or .zip file as joined, then you extract the rar or zip and get to your mp3's or whatever format they are in
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Soundproof on July 08, 2007, 11:54:02 PM
Linn Records offers high-resolution files at Studio Master quality. Like MusicGiants.com they have decided to make available the best possible quality.
Check at the bottom of this link, under Studio Masters, for their various 24bit versions. (CDs are 16bit/44.1kHz.)

You'll need to set up your computer properly to play the files at this resolution, but this is not complicated. Likewise you'll need to convert FLAC files to another format, to play them through iTunes on a Mac. I use xACT to convert, you'll find that program at versiontracker.com


http://www.linnrecords.com/linn-downloads-what.aspx (http://www.linnrecords.com/linn-downloads-what.aspx)

Here are a few sample downloads at 24bit/96kHz. The throughspeed here is 4608kbps, which tells you what the resolution is like, if you compare to 320kbps which most people seem to find satisfactory.

http://01688cb.netsolhost.com/samplerdownload/ (http://01688cb.netsolhost.com/samplerdownload/)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on July 09, 2007, 12:33:22 AM
Quote from: Soundproof on July 08, 2007, 11:54:02 PM
You'll need to set up your computer properly to play the files at this resolution, but this is not complicated.

How does one do this, Soundproof?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Soundproof on July 09, 2007, 01:29:54 AM
Hi Mark,

(Apologies as the below is for a Mac. Check the link at the bottom to find your computer if it's not a Cupertino product).

It took me a while to realize that having a 24bit/96kHz file on my harddisk didn't mean that it would necessarily be output as such when played back.
The Digital-to-Analog Converters (DAC) inside Macs aren't top grade - they do the job, but Jobs wants to make money, so ideally you should output through the Optical out, or with a USB connection.
If your stereo has a stand-alone DAC (such as Benchmark DAC1, LAVRY DA10, Grace m902) then you can send the optical signal from the Mac to that unit, which will then recognize the bit/sampling rates and process accordingly, before sending your signal on to your amplifier. (All of the above can also be used as world-class headphone amplifiers, with volume control).

The optical signal is piped through the same minijack-out port you use for headphones on the Mac. You need an optical Toslink Minijack to Toslink plug cable, the Mac will recognize this connector and start piping an optical signal.

===

To your specific question.
Inside your Applications>Utilities Folder - you'll find an application called Audio MIDI Setup. Double-click that.

Click Audio Devices if that's not already active.
Then Properties>Built-in Output

That opens the Audio Output Pane.
If you have a Toslink Optical cable attached, the SOURCE will show Digital Output.
Next you pick Format: 96000,0Hz & 2ch-24bit

You have now configured your Mac to properly handle the 24bit/96kHz signal, and to pipe it on as such out of your computer.
If you have a USB sound output device attached, then the SOURCE pane will recognize that. You still need to set the proper bit/sampling rates.

===

Once you have done this, you are set for bliss. The difference between the Redbook CD standard of 16/44.1 and 24/96 now available is amazing. (Given that you have a good headphone amplifier/headphones or stereo/speakers -- and the recording is of good quality to begin with).

I have been listening to the Linn Records' Mozart Requiem with the Scottish Chamber Orchestra this weekend, and the sound was such that it brought my daughter across the house and into my listening room.

===

Benchmark make a very good Digital-to-Analog converter, and have spent some time writing up guides for people to be certain they get the best possible quality sound out of their computers and into their sound systems. Check the bottom of this link if you're not a Mac addict:
http://extra.benchmarkmedia.com/wiki/index.php/OS_X_Audio_Playback_-_Setup_Guide (http://extra.benchmarkmedia.com/wiki/index.php/OS_X_Audio_Playback_-_Setup_Guide)


Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on July 09, 2007, 01:33:46 AM
Most comprehensive. Thank you. :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: AnthonyAthletic on July 12, 2007, 11:07:55 AM
.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on July 12, 2007, 11:15:32 AM
Quote from: AnthonyAthletic on July 12, 2007, 11:07:55 AM
This was/is my first attempt at uploading a cd to Rapidshare.  For those of you who would like to hear it, here are the links.  There are two files to download, which need joining with HJSplit to create the RAR archive file which upon joining will give you the complete 4 mvt symphony for extraction.

Anyone who grabs this recording, would you let me know if its been successful at your end upon extraction and listening.

Cheers!!

Gustav Mahler : Symphony No.1 'Titan'

1. I    Langsam.  Schleppend. Wie ein Naturlaut - im Angang sehr gemachlich  12:44
2. II   Kraftig bewegt, doch nicht zu schnell  08:10
3. III  Freierlich und gemessen, ohne zu schleppen  09:38
4  IV  Sturmisch bewegt  17:47

NDR Sinfonieorchester/Kyrill Kondrashin (1981 Recording) 320 kbps/mp3

Links:

http://rapidshare.com/files/42544635/Mahler_1_Kondrashin.rar.001

http://rapidshare.com/files/42551124/Mahler_1_Kondrashin.rar.002

;D

hey great upload! However, can you upload it onto www.mediafire.com ? it's a much better file sharing service, I am sure that the other members will greatly appreciate it.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: AnthonyAthletic on July 12, 2007, 11:17:42 AM
Quote from: MahlerTitan on July 12, 2007, 11:15:32 AM
hey great upload! However, can you upload it onto www.mediafire.com? it's a much better file sharing service, I am sure that other members will greatly appreciate it.

Yeah, I will have a go, never used Mediafire...may have to pm you if its not easy LOL  ;D

If its as simple as Rapidshare then no probs.

Back later, grub's up!!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on July 12, 2007, 06:57:30 PM
Quote from: MahlerTitan on July 12, 2007, 11:15:32 AM
hey great upload! However, can you upload it onto www.mediafire.com ? it's a much better file sharing service, I am sure that the other members will greatly appreciate it.

I would also appreciate this, Tony.

I cannot for the life of me figure out this HJsplit thing.  ???
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on July 12, 2007, 10:10:22 PM
Quote from: George on July 12, 2007, 06:57:30 PM
I would also appreciate this, Tony.

I cannot for the life of me figure out this HJsplit thing.  ???

why? just use the HJsplit program to join the files.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on July 13, 2007, 05:21:51 PM
Quote from: MahlerTitan on July 12, 2007, 10:10:22 PM
why? just use the HJsplit program to join the files.

I tried, but for some reason couldn't get it to work.  ???

I have a MAC.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on July 13, 2007, 05:22:53 PM
Quote from: George on July 13, 2007, 05:21:51 PM
I have a MAC.

That's okay, George. There are plenty of support groups these days. ;D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on July 13, 2007, 05:27:12 PM
Quote from: Mark on July 13, 2007, 05:22:53 PM
That's okay, George. There are plenty of support groups these days. ;D

:P
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: PSmith08 on July 13, 2007, 05:57:26 PM
Quote from: George on July 13, 2007, 05:21:51 PM
I tried, but for some reason couldn't get it to work.  ???

I have a MAC.

So do I.

You need to get the HJSplit Java application (http://www.freebyte.com/hjsplit/#java). As long as you have Java, it works great. It's what I use for these things. Works great. I recommend it.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on July 13, 2007, 06:03:45 PM
Quote from: PSmith08 on July 13, 2007, 05:57:26 PM
So do I.

You need to get the HJSplit Java application (http://www.freebyte.com/hjsplit/#java). As long as you have Java, it works great. It's what I use for these things. Works great. I recommend it.

Thanks!

Do you use the HJSplit.jar or HjSplit.class?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: PSmith08 on July 13, 2007, 06:14:39 PM
Quote from: George on July 13, 2007, 06:03:45 PM
Thanks!

Do you use the HJSplit.jar or HjSplit.class?

HJSplit.jar

Just download it and park it in a folder somewhere, Applications or otherwise (I have a folder devoted to downloading stuff, separate from the iTunes folder), keep it and open it when you need it.

You have to point it to the directory with all the parts (e.g., .rar.001 so on and so forth) and it will only let you select .001 - joining them into the source file. You can even delete the parts while in HJSplit. You'll need a program like UnRarX to get it out of .rar format.

If you have any trouble, just shoot me a PM.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on July 13, 2007, 06:49:22 PM
Quote from: PSmith08 on July 13, 2007, 06:14:39 PM
HJSplit.jar

Just download it and park it in a folder somewhere, Applications or otherwise (I have a folder devoted to downloading stuff, separate from the iTunes folder), keep it and open it when you need it.

You have to point it to the directory with all the parts (e.g., .rar.001 so on and so forth) and it will only let you select .001 - joining them into the source file. You can even delete the parts while in HJSplit. You'll need a program like UnRarX to get it out of .rar format.

If you have any trouble, just shoot me a PM.

Thanks!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: stingo on July 14, 2007, 07:24:09 AM
Umm why are you using HJSplit AND RAR? I thought RAR splits the files itself when you use a solid archive?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: AnthonyAthletic on July 14, 2007, 08:58:25 AM
Quote from: stingo on July 14, 2007, 07:24:09 AM
Umm why are you using HJSplit AND RAR? I thought RAR splits the files itself when you use a solid archive?

Uploading to the host, file sizes only accepted with a 100meg limit. 

Hence the splitting of the RAR file into however many parts required.  ie a Mahler 3 at 320kbps = 180meg two files at 90meg.  An upload over 200meg, ie 210meg = a 3 file split.  100/100/10 or 70/70/70 (at the uploaders choice, not exceeding 100meg)

RAR file rejoined at the downloaders end as one file, then unarchived  ;D  Takes an age to upload though, downloads are much easier :D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: AnthonyAthletic on July 14, 2007, 10:58:07 AM
.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: stingo on July 14, 2007, 01:32:04 PM
Quote from: AnthonyAthletic on July 14, 2007, 08:58:25 AM
Uploading to the host, file sizes only accepted with a 100meg limit. 

Hence the splitting of the RAR file into however many parts required.  ie a Mahler 3 at 320kbps = 180meg two files at 90meg.  An upload over 200meg, ie 210meg = a 3 file split.  100/100/10 or 70/70/70 (at the uploaders choice, not exceeding 100meg)

RAR file rejoined at the downloaders end as one file, then unarchived  ;D  Takes an age to upload though, downloads are much easier :D

I get that it needs to be split, but I thought RAR can do the splitting itself (when solid archives are used), without the need for HJSplit.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on July 14, 2007, 07:06:15 PM
Quote from: AnthonyAthletic on July 03, 2007, 08:38:31 PM
The files you are trying to rename could have been created with "HJSplit", Sidoze told me about this when I was downloading.  If you upload a file which is too big, many uploaders will use the program "HJSplit" to split/link the files.

So as an example you have Beethoven's 5th as a download and it reads .001.zip and .002.zip or perhaps .zip.001 and .zip.002 then you could need HJSplit to join them back together.

If you have say two files .001 & .002 in one directory, you need to run HJSplit and point it at your .001 file, HJSplit will find .001 and autofind any other subsequent files ie .002 .003 etc and rejoin the whole work back together giving you a file which is now "Joined"

Google and download HJSplit, it is a very small executable program, put this in the directory where your files are and run it against them (the .001 file)....it could be as simple as that.  Looks and sounds to me that the originator of the upload has split the file using HJSplit and not told you about it.  Hope this is the problem.

Cheers

PS If this is the case HJSplit will recreate the .rar or .zip file as joined, then you extract the rar or zip and get to your mp3's or whatever format they are in

Thanks to Anthony and PSmith, I have finally figured out this HJSplit business.

Much thanks!  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: PSmith08 on July 14, 2007, 07:14:59 PM
Quote from: George on July 14, 2007, 07:06:15 PM
Thanks to Anthony and PSmith, I have finally figured out this HJSplit business.

Much thanks!  :)

Super.  8)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: M forever on July 15, 2007, 06:17:35 AM
Quote from: stingo on July 14, 2007, 01:32:04 PM
I get that it needs to be split, but I thought RAR can do the splitting itself (when solid archives are used), without the need for HJSplit.

Indeed it can, and it saves both the uploader and the downloader several steps. It is also extremely easy to do. I pointed that out on Operashare, but the moderators suppressed the message. The must be part of an international HJSplit conspiracy!!!  :o


Quote from: George on July 14, 2007, 07:06:15 PM
Thanks to Anthony and PSmith, I have finally figured out this HJSplit business.

Much thanks!  :)

They are great friends to have, apparently, but let me introduce you to another great friend who can help you with a lot of questions, such as HJSplit? or HJSplit for MAC?

This friend is a total insomniac, he is up all the time and apparently doesn't have anything else to do, so he usually answers your questions immediately.

He also has his own website:
www.google.com
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Soundproof on July 16, 2007, 04:48:49 AM
Quote from: M forever on July 15, 2007, 06:17:35 AM
This friend is a total insomniac, he is up all the time and apparently doesn't have anything else to do, so he usually answers your questions immediately.

He also has his own website:
www.google.com


Ah, M forever, do you think the fact that internet connected personal computers represent the most efficient information retrieval system mankind has ever had access to will make a significant impact? How optimistic!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: orbital on July 16, 2007, 01:07:54 PM
Quote from: Mark on June 09, 2007, 01:20:25 AM
Most plays do APE? Er, no. Most players do MP3 and WMA, some also do OGG and FLAC ... but I know of no player that does APE natively. Even Rockbox (http://www.rockbox.org/twiki/bin/view/Main/FeatureComparison) doesn't seem to support the format. :( Although, if you have one of the players which can take Rockbox, you're laughing - gapless playback is a feature of it. :)

I am happy to report that the latest release of Rockbox which I just downloaded can play APE and MPC  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on July 16, 2007, 01:09:19 PM
Quote from: orbital on July 16, 2007, 01:07:54 PM
I am happy to report that the latest release of Rockbox which I just downloaded can play APE and MPC  :)

Which is terrific ... for the few models of player that currently support Rockbox. ;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: orbital on July 16, 2007, 01:11:52 PM
Quote from: Mark on July 16, 2007, 01:09:19 PM
Which is terrific ... for the few models of player that currently support Rockbox. ;)
Archos: Jukebox 5000, 6000, Studio, Recorder, FM Recorder, Recorder V2 and Ondio
iriver: H100, H300 and H10 series
Apple: iPod 4th gen (grayscale and color), 5th/5.5th gen video, 1st gen Nano and Mini 1st/2nd gen (Nano 2nd gen is not supported)
Cowon: iAudio X5 (including X5V and X5L), M5 (including M5L)
Toshiba: Gigabeat X and F series (the S model is not supported)
SanDisk: Sansa E200 series (the R models are not supported)

These are the current players, which should make quite a bit of the market.

(I played Doom on my X5 the other day  ;D )
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on July 16, 2007, 01:13:40 PM
Quote from: orbital on July 16, 2007, 01:11:52 PM
Archos: Jukebox 5000, 6000, Studio, Recorder, FM Recorder, Recorder V2 and Ondio
iriver: H100, H300 and H10 series
Apple: iPod 4th gen (grayscale and color), 5th/5.5th gen video, 1st gen Nano and Mini 1st/2nd gen (Nano 2nd gen is not supported)
Cowon: iAudio X5 (including X5V and X5L), M5 (including M5L)
Toshiba: Gigabeat X and F series (the S model is not supported)
SanDisk: Sansa E200 series (the R models are not supported)

These are the current players, which should make quite a bit of the market.

(I played Doom on my X5 the other day  ;D )

I was quite interested in Rockbox, but I found out very soon that it doesn't support Nano (2nd Gen), so i gave it up.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on July 16, 2007, 02:55:32 PM
Quote from: MahlerTitan on July 16, 2007, 01:13:40 PM
I was quite interested in Rockbox, but I found out very soon that it doesn't support Nano (2nd Gen), so i gave it up.

I agree. I'd love to have Rockbox, but not a single release for Creative's DAPs? WTF? Along with Samsung's, Creative's players are the most bought and used after the iPod. Cowon and Toshiba have a miniscule market share, yet THEY have Rockbox releases? Again, WTF??? ???
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: orbital on July 16, 2007, 07:14:32 PM
non inclusion of Zen is really curious  ::) And to think that my current Rockbox theme is called ZenPod, a combination of Creative Zen and iPod  8)
(http://www.rockbox.org/twiki/pub/Main/WpsIaudioX5/ZenPod_V2_screen2.png)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Steve on July 18, 2007, 05:36:24 PM
Quote from: Mark on July 16, 2007, 02:55:32 PM
I agree. I'd love to have Rockbox, but not a single release for Creative's DAPs? WTF? Along with Samsung's, Creative's players are the most bought and used after the iPod. Cowon and Toshiba have a miniscule market share, yet THEY have Rockbox releases? Again, WTF??? ???

Is Rockbox an alternate firmware?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: orbital on July 18, 2007, 07:30:08 PM
Quote from: Steve on July 18, 2007, 05:36:24 PM
Is Rockbox an alternate firmware?
Yes, an open source operating system.  A Linux for DAP's  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: canninator on July 30, 2007, 04:34:36 AM
Okay, I hope this is the correct thread for this. Some time ago someone posted a link that had the entire Schoenberg catalog for download (legally) but I cannot find the post (by the Search function) or remember the link. If someone could post that link I would be most appreciative.

Many thanks
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: beclemund on July 30, 2007, 06:10:47 AM
Quote from: MahlerTitan on July 24, 2007, 04:25:42 PMcan we trade digital music here?

what i am thinking:
i've a surplus amount of digital music, and someone here might want to trade some of their files with mine. We can negotiate via PM, it's beneficial for both parties.

and transfer can be made via a file-sharing site like www.Mediafire.com

btw, i have around 80 gigs of classical music.

I think you would want to be conscious of what it is you were trading as you wouldn't want to violate the sites guidelines:

Quote from: admin on April 03, 2007, 07:40:26 PMIllegal Activity
GMG will not tolerate the discussion or promotion of any illegal activity. In particular, GMG should not be used as a means for distributing or sharing copyrighted music files. File sharing is strictly prohibited on GMG. Small music samples may be posted on the forum, but anything that contravenes copyright laws will not be acceptable behaviour.

Devising a system for trading copyrighted files could potentially jeopardize the site if it is used as the medium for contact and exchange which I imagine is why the site admin discourages that activity.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: canninator on August 03, 2007, 12:56:07 AM
Quote from: canninator on July 30, 2007, 04:34:36 AM
Okay, I hope this is the correct thread for this. Some time ago someone posted a link that had the entire Schoenberg catalog for download (legally) but I cannot find the post (by the Search function) or remember the link. If someone could post that link I would be most appreciative.

Many thanks

If anybody is interested, I searched and searched and finally found it here

http://www.schoenberg.at/9_webradio/jukebox_e.htm

It's all streaming now rather than downloads but you can listen to quite a lot.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on August 03, 2007, 01:18:18 AM
Quote from: beclemund on July 30, 2007, 06:10:47 AM
I think you would want to be conscious of what it is you were trading as you wouldn't want to violate the sites guidelines:

Devising a system for trading copyrighted files could potentially jeopardize the site if it is used as the medium for contact and exchange which I imagine is why the site admin discourages that activity.

of course not, do you think i would trade copyrighted music? i only meant to trade legal music.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mozart on August 03, 2007, 01:36:39 AM
Why don't you just used demonoid to trade music instead of rapidshare?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on August 03, 2007, 01:38:27 AM
Quote from: MozartMobster on August 03, 2007, 01:36:39 AM
Why don't you just used demonoid to trade music instead of rapidshare?

i don't use rapidshare....
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: The Emperor on August 10, 2007, 09:29:55 AM
Torrents baby!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on August 10, 2007, 09:34:30 AM
Quote from: The Emperor on August 10, 2007, 09:29:55 AM
Torrents baby!
Donkey baby!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Papageno on August 12, 2007, 05:22:46 AM
I used to buy from iTunes, but 128 kbits/s are not worth it, so if what I'm looking for isn't on eMule, Demonoid, OiNK, Mininova or ThePirateBay I just order it from Amazon.co.uk
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on August 12, 2007, 05:31:48 AM
Quote from: Papageno on August 12, 2007, 05:22:46 AM
I used to buy from iTunes, but 128 kbits/s are not worth it, so if what I'm looking for isn't on eMule, Demonoid, OiNK, Mininova or ThePirateBay I just order it from Amazon.co.uk

Wow, is that there standard bitrate?

I think they now have a higher bitrate option on some downloads.

Anyone know what that higher bitrate is?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Papageno on August 12, 2007, 05:45:07 AM
Quote from: George on August 12, 2007, 05:31:48 AM
Wow, is that there standard bitrate?

I think they now have a higher bitrate option on some downloads.

Anyone know what that higher bitrate is?

256 kbits/s only for EMI productions, still not enough though.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on August 12, 2007, 05:51:18 AM
Quote from: Papageno on August 12, 2007, 05:45:07 AM
256 kbits/s only for EMI productions, still not enough though.

Especially considering that many of those EMI's can be had for less money in CD format, like in the Gemini series.  :-\
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on August 12, 2007, 08:54:07 AM
the minimum for me has to be 192, but most of my music are in 320, because i converted them from ape/flac files.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: sound67 on August 13, 2007, 01:14:25 PM
Quote from: MahlerTitan on June 07, 2007, 11:09:55 AM
40 gigs on my main desktop
20 gigs on my laptop

none of the music in my collection (quality wise) is lower than 320 kbps.

And how much of that was downloaded legally?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on August 13, 2007, 01:19:02 PM
Quote from: sound67 on August 13, 2007, 01:14:25 PM
And how much of that was downloaded legally?

100% of course, why would i download "illegal" music? Do i want to break the law?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on August 13, 2007, 01:29:39 PM
Quote from: MozartMobster on August 03, 2007, 01:36:39 AM
Why don't you just used demonoid to trade music instead of rapidshare?

I have no desire to trade music anymore, because it has been proven to be "harmful" to GMG. BTW, i don't use Demonoid anymore, because file-sharing is slow and inadequate.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kullervo on August 14, 2007, 05:13:41 AM
I uploaded this in the Now Listening thread, but it got buried under the flood of posts there, so I'm uploading it here. This is the first section of Langgaard's Lenau Moods song cycle.

Lenaustemninger (Lenau Moods), for mezzo-soprano & string quartet, BVN 138 - I. Calmly (http://download.yousendit.com/21DADC2715AA7689)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: cx on August 14, 2007, 09:07:55 AM
Quote from: Corey on August 14, 2007, 05:13:41 AM
I uploaded this in the Now Listening thread, but it got buried under the flood of posts there, so I'm uploading it here. This is the first section of Langgaard's Lenau Moods song cycle.

Lenaustemninger (Lenau Moods), for mezzo-soprano & string quartet, BVN 138 - I. Calmly (http://download.yousendit.com/21DADC2715AA7689)

Thanks!

Quote100% of course, why would i download "illegal" music? Do i want to break the law?

Can someone briefly explain what "downloading illegal music" means? I was under the impression that CD's I buy in stores or online (or basically anything "in print") are not legally available for free download, but the rest is up for grabs.

--CS
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on August 14, 2007, 09:20:29 AM
Quote from: CS on August 14, 2007, 09:07:55 AM
Thanks!

Can someone briefly explain what "downloading illegal music" means? I was under the impression that CD's I buy in stores or online (or basically anything "in print") are not legally available for free download, but the rest is up for grabs.

--CS
i would like a clear statement as well, but, mind you, this is an international site, and international law differs on copyright infringement.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on August 14, 2007, 01:12:33 PM
Quote from: CS on August 14, 2007, 09:07:55 AM
Can someone briefly explain what "downloading illegal music" means? I was under the impression that CD's I buy in stores or online (or basically anything "in print") are not legally available for free download, but the rest is up for grabs.

In short, if it's still in print and still in copyright, then it's probably illegal to 'trade' it in any way which means royalties don't reach the artist/publisher/fat-cat record execs, etc ...
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kullervo on August 15, 2007, 11:23:00 AM
Just in case anyone misses it in the Now Listening thread, I've uploaded Honegger's 2nd SQ for your enjoyment.

Honegger - String Quartet No. 2 (Erato SQ) (http://www.sendspace.com/file/xu2fky)

:)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on August 15, 2007, 01:34:03 PM
Quote from: Corey on August 15, 2007, 11:23:00 AM
Just in case anyone misses it in the Now Listening thread, I've uploaded Honegger's 2nd SQ for your enjoyment.

Honegger - String Quartet No. 2 (Erato SQ) (http://www.sendspace.com/file/xu2fky)

:)

Thanks Corey!  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kullervo on August 15, 2007, 07:52:27 PM
Quote from: George on August 15, 2007, 01:34:03 PM
Thanks Corey!  :)

Well, what did you think?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on August 15, 2007, 11:55:30 PM
Quote from: Corey on August 15, 2007, 11:23:00 AM
Just in case anyone misses it in the Now Listening thread, I've uploaded Honegger's 2nd SQ for your enjoyment.

Honegger - String Quartet No. 2 (Erato SQ) (http://www.sendspace.com/file/xu2fky)

:)

Corey, what label is this on, and do you have a link to the album art? Cheers! :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Drasko on August 16, 2007, 01:52:53 AM
Just reposting, free Brandenburgs in flac

http://www.good-music-guide.com/community/index.php/topic,2637.0.html (http://www.good-music-guide.com/community/index.php/topic,2637.0.html)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on August 16, 2007, 04:36:47 AM
Quote from: Corey on August 15, 2007, 07:52:27 PM
Well, what did you think?

I will let you know, my listening pile is huge at the moment.  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kullervo on August 16, 2007, 05:13:08 AM
Quote from: Mark on August 15, 2007, 11:55:30 PM
Corey, what label is this on, and do you have a link to the album art? Cheers! :)

(http://www.cdklassisk.dk/images/honeggera.jpg)

and the label is Aura Classics
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on August 16, 2007, 06:16:07 AM
Quote from: Corey on August 16, 2007, 05:13:08 AM
(http://www.cdklassisk.dk/images/honeggera.jpg)

and the label is Aura Classics

Thanks, Corey. Terrific work, btw. :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lilas Pastia on August 16, 2007, 06:27:29 AM
These Honegger quartets are quite surprising. An excellent disc.

A few weeks  ago I narrowly missed a 4cd box of Honegger chamber works on Timpani. I ordered it at BRO, but it was already sold out. Now you see it, now you don't. :P
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Que on August 16, 2007, 07:09:57 AM
Quote from: Mark on August 14, 2007, 01:12:33 PM
In short, if it's still in print and still in copyright, then it's probably illegal to 'trade' it in any way which means royalties don't reach the artist/publisher/fat-cat record execs, etc ...

Right Mark,  :)

But I might add that whether something is in print or not, is irrelevant - only the fact that it's covered by copyrights.
Also it is legal for a consumer to buy from a seller based in a country where the recording is out of copyright while the recording is still in copyright in his own country - as is the case with recordings past the 50 years mark (still covered by copyright in the US, no longer outside the US). But....a US consumer is not allowed to offer/sell/give the recording to others, because that would violate US copyright.

Let's face it: we are violating copyright law all the time when we upload recordings less than 50 years old for others..... :o :o  8)
Downloading something that is offered by others illegally, is however in many countries (Europe) NOT illegal.
Legally, consumers are allowed to copy recordings they own only for their own personal use, in other words: for on their own computer, or for on their own iPod, etc.

Now, isn't that a sobering thought? ;D ;D

Q
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kullervo on August 16, 2007, 07:14:24 AM
Quote from: Lilas Pastia on August 16, 2007, 06:27:29 AM
These Honegger quartets are quite surprising. An excellent disc.

A few weeks  ago I narrowly missed a 4cd box of Honegger chamber works on Timpani. I ordered it at BRO, but it was already sold out. Now you see it, now you don't. :P

I know the box, and I'm fairly certain it is out of print forever or an indefinite amount of time. I would snatch it up in a heartbeat.
EDIT: It's on Amazon.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Scriptavolant on August 19, 2007, 12:39:40 PM
As an exercise I tried to upload something too.
It happens to be GF Malipiero's First Symphony "In quattro tempi come le quattro stagioni" (Moscow Symphony Orchestra - Antonio De Almeida on Marco Polo), one of my favorite works.
For anyone interested.

I
http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?324mzw2mm2m

II
http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?9mmtmfo01rh

III
http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?51mgnqmymzb

IV
http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?2zeglne1qat
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: wtf on August 21, 2007, 02:09:12 PM
torrents, people, torrents
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on August 22, 2007, 12:25:47 AM
Quote from: wtf on August 21, 2007, 02:09:12 PM
torrents, people, torrents

Which are, in the main, illegal. Not torrents, per se, but the exchange of copyrighted content uploaded to them.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: beclemund on August 22, 2007, 06:08:30 AM
Quote from: Mark on August 22, 2007, 12:25:47 AM
Which are, in the main, illegal. Not torrents, per se, but the exchange of copyrighted content uploaded to them.

I think he is just mentioning torrents in the context of the downloads offered in this thread as a means of faster exchange rather than free download services like rapidshare and yousendit which are not particularly fast. :)

In terms of legal issues, torrents are no more illegal than web downloads; it is the content that determines that.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on August 22, 2007, 07:52:06 AM
Quote from: Mark on August 22, 2007, 12:25:47 AM
Which are, in the main, illegal. Not torrents, per se, but the exchange of copyrighted content uploaded to them.

no, just because there are people out there who abuse Bittorent technology, doesn't make BT itself illegal, it is perfectly fine for somone to make private exchanges with another.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on August 22, 2007, 08:28:08 AM
Quote from: beclemund on August 22, 2007, 06:08:30 AM
In terms of legal issues, torrents are no more illegal than web downloads; it is the content that determines that.

I know. I acknowledged this. ;)

Quote from: MahlerTitan on August 22, 2007, 07:52:06 AM
... it is perfectly fine for somone to make private exchanges with another.

Not if the content is copyright protected. You seem to be happy to ignore this fact. ::)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on August 22, 2007, 08:46:15 AM
Quote from: Mark on August 22, 2007, 08:28:08 AM
I know. I acknowledged this. ;)

Not if the content is copyright protected. You seem to be happy to ignore this fact. ::)

Not if the content is copyright protected. of course. :D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: wtf on August 22, 2007, 09:51:55 AM
Quote from: beclemund on August 22, 2007, 06:08:30 AM
I think he is just mentioning torrents in the context of the downloads offered in this thread as a means of faster exchange rather than free download services like rapidshare and yousendit which are not particularly fast. :)

In terms of legal issues, torrents are no more illegal than web downloads; it is the content that determines that.

No, I mean illegally downloading things for free, thus saving lots of money.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Bonehelm on August 23, 2007, 10:01:03 PM
Quote from: MahlerTitan on August 22, 2007, 08:46:15 AM
Not if the content is copyright protected. of course. :D

Eh. Uhm Hmm. Excuse me, but I recall you posted links to Naxos streaming tracks a while back, and those ARE copyrighted, no?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on August 24, 2007, 01:09:26 AM
Quote from: Bonehelm on August 23, 2007, 10:01:03 PM
Eh. Uhm Hmm. Excuse me, but I recall you posted links to Naxos streaming tracks a while back, and those ARE copyrighted, no?

That's perfectly okay, Bonehelm. Naxos streams extracts from its own site for free. You have to pay if you want to stream for longer than about 15 minutes, IIRC. ;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on August 24, 2007, 07:19:00 AM
Quote from: Bonehelm on August 23, 2007, 10:01:03 PM
Eh. Uhm Hmm. Excuse me, but I recall you posted links to Naxos streaming tracks a while back, and those ARE copyrighted, no?

My friend, let me remind you that the links that i generously provided for you and the rest of people here are mere links, which means you have to hear them streaming, which means you CAN NOT download them, or make a duplicate copy, so there is no copyright issues involved.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on August 24, 2007, 08:07:47 AM
Quote from: MahlerTitan on August 24, 2007, 07:19:00 AM
My friend, let me remind you that the links that i generously provided for you and the rest of people here are mere links, which means you have to hear them streaming, which means you CAN NOT download them, or make a duplicate copy, so there is no copyright issues involved.

Not strictly true. There are several available streaming media capture programs which make ... ahem ... 'acquiring' such streams extremely easy indeed. ;) However, I generally don't bother, as it's too time-consuming.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on August 24, 2007, 08:16:06 AM
Quote from: Mark on August 24, 2007, 08:07:47 AM
Not strictly true. There are several available streaming media capture programs which make ... ahem ... 'acquiring' such streams extremely easy indeed. ;) However, I generally don't bother, as it's too time-consuming.

and you think I didn't know about them?
Generally, i wouldn't recommend anyone doing that, because 1) like mark said, is time consuming (but with WM recorder 11.3 it's not really that much trouble anymore)
2) it's 128kbps! that is a very average bit rate.
3) Naxos sells pretty cheap recordings, why not just buy them?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Bonehelm on August 24, 2007, 10:55:04 PM
Quote from: Mark on August 24, 2007, 01:09:26 AM
That's perfectly okay, Bonehelm. Naxos streams extracts from its own site for free. You have to pay if you want to stream for longer than about 15 minutes, IIRC. ;)

There you go. The music MT has given to the public has no time limit while streaming. You can listen to the entire Mahler 3 (which is 95 minutes or so long) without having to pay a single buck.

That is not to say I don't appreciate MT's work and generosity, I think he really wants to contribute. But I just stopped using those links the moment I found out Naxos requires payment after 15 minutes of streaming.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on August 24, 2007, 11:04:27 PM
Quote from: Bonehelm on August 24, 2007, 10:55:04 PM
There you go. The music MT has given to the public has no time limit while streaming. You can listen to the entire Mahler 3 (which is 95 minutes or so long) without having to pay a single buck.

That is not to say I don't appreciate MT's work and generosity, I think he really wants to contribute. But I just stopped using those links the moment I found out Naxos requires payment after 15 minutes of streaming.
oooooooh, how big of you!  yeah sure, whatever you want, btw, did you know that they used to be entirely free... those were the good days.

Let me remind you once more, that Naxos is recording company, they make their money by selling records, and NAXOSMUSICLIBRAY is a very generous contribution made by them (NAXOS) to the academic world also. In other words, don't see NAXOSMUSICLIBRAY as a mere money making scheme like itunes or emusic, but rather see it as what it is- an online library for all to use (geez, i wonder why can't they let people download the recordings, they'll make more money that way, why not?), most people probably don't even know about the site (before i mentioned it), because it's really has been solely confined within the academic circles. I learned of this marvelous site via my involvement with the music program at my university. Let me tell you this, of the some 50000 people at my school, anyone who is a student/faculty member can access this great resource for FREE! So, my friend, they (Naxos) are not doing this for all just the money, you see, and i am not giving you all the links just for "wanting to contribute", i merely want to share it with the world.

so don't give me that (15 minutes of streaming) crap, there ain't any violations against the copyright laws, because no one including (you or me or anyone else i have given the links to) hold ACTUAL copies. Plus, without me, you can't access anymore than what i have given to you. That's like less than 1% of what NaxosMusiclibrary has? PLUS, it is absolutely okay, for me a member, to share links with other people, in fact Naxosmuscilibrary actually PROVIDES links for me to share with other people. If you don't believe me go become a premium member, you'll see.

btw, my intentions to 'lend' my links to you was solely to get you to know little more about Mahler, looks like my job is done here, so you can delete (if you haven't done so already, god forbid! it's illegal) the links, it will be greatly appreciated! Thanks

-MT
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Bonehelm on August 24, 2007, 11:07:09 PM
Quote from: MahlerTitan on August 24, 2007, 11:04:27 PM
oooooooh, how big of you!  yeah sure, whatever you want, btw, did you know that they used to be entirely free... those were the good days.



They used to be completely free, yes. I remember going through all Chopin etudes played by Idil Biret in a single morning without being stopped. But they were always streamed at 128kbps. That, is a shame.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on August 24, 2007, 11:23:55 PM
Quote from: Bonehelm on August 24, 2007, 11:07:09 PM
They used to be completely free, yes. I remember going through all Chopin etudes played by Idil Biret in a single morning without being stopped. But they were always streamed at 128kbps. That, is a shame.

it's not their fault that they can't make it free 128 for everyone, because their bandwidth is limited, and to keep that kind of bandwidth going, they'll need financial contributions from users and academic institutions.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Bonehelm on August 24, 2007, 11:44:47 PM
Quote from: MahlerTitan on August 24, 2007, 11:04:27 PM
oooooooh, how big of you!  yeah sure, whatever you want, btw, did you know that they used to be entirely free... those were the good days.

Let me remind you once more, that Naxos is recording company, they make their money by selling records, and NAXOSMUSICLIBRAY is a very generous contribution made by them (NAXOS) to the academic world also. In other words, don't see NAXOSMUSICLIBRAY as a mere money making scheme like itunes or emusic, but rather see it as what it is- an online library for all to use (geez, i wonder why can't they let people download the recordings, they'll make more money that way, why not?), most people probably don't even know about the site (before i mentioned it), because it's really has been solely confined within the academic circles. I learned of this marvelous site via my involvement with the music program at my university. Let me tell you this, of the some 50000 people at my school, anyone who is a student/faculty member can access this great resource for FREE! So, my friend, they (Naxos) are not doing this for all just the money, you see, and i am not giving you all the links just for "wanting to contribute", i merely want to share it with the world.

so don't give me that (15 minutes of streaming) crap, there ain't any violations against the copyright laws, because no one including (you or me or anyone else i have given the links to) hold ACTUAL copies. Plus, without me, you can't access anymore than what i have given to you. That's like less than 1% of what NaxosMusiclibrary has? PLUS, it is absolutely okay, for me a member, to share links with other people, in fact Naxosmuscilibrary actually PROVIDES links for me to share with other people. If you don't believe me go become a premium member, you'll see.

btw, my intentions to 'lend' my links to you was solely to get you to know little more about Mahler, looks like my job is done here, so you can delete (if you haven't done so already, god forbid! it's illegal) the links, it will be greatly appreciated! Thanks

-MT

I don't know, copyright laws in the US might be different from Canada. So to be safe, I am still not going to use those links. Those recordings aren't even good anyways, compared to what PerfectWagnerite gave me, the full Kubelik set.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on August 24, 2007, 11:51:41 PM
Quote from: Bonehelm on August 24, 2007, 11:44:47 PM
I don't know, copyright laws in the US might be different from Canada. So to be safe, I am still not going to use those links. Those recordings aren't even good anyways, compared to what PerfectWagnerite gave me, the full Kubelik set.

i am not sure that's entirely legal.

Now, while the overall quality of the recordings on NAxos can be inconsistent, but I assure the people out there, that the recordings i picked are the best of the bunch.  To top it off, Gielen's Mahler's 1st is one of the finest out there, and rarely people talk about it.

and just in case you don't believe me, you can read the reviews here:
http://www.classicstoday.com/review.asp?ReviewNum=6637
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Bonehelm on August 24, 2007, 11:58:52 PM
Quote from: MahlerTitan on August 24, 2007, 11:51:41 PM
i am not sure that's entirely legal.

Now, while the overall quality of the recordings on NAxos can be inconsistent, but I assure the people out there, that the recordings i picked are the best of the bunch.  To top it off, Gielen's Mahler's 1st is one of the finest out there, and rarely people talk about it.

and just in case you don't believe me, you can read the reviews here:
http://www.classicstoday.com/review.asp?ReviewNum=6637


ROFL, how can PW's Kubelik be illegal? It's the actual set we're talking about, he mailed me the goddamn original disks with the original box with perfect packing. I made a post about it and posted pics a while back.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on August 25, 2007, 12:03:37 AM
Quote from: Bonehelm on August 24, 2007, 11:58:52 PM
ROFL, how can PW's Kubelik be illegal? It's the actual set we're talking about, he mailed me the goddamn original disks with the original box with perfect packing. I made a post about it and posted pics a while back.

in that case, you should have said that he mailed you the entire cycle, i was mislead by your "gave", because nowadays, with the technology we got, "Gave" can mean many things.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Bonehelm on August 25, 2007, 12:19:49 AM
Quote from: MahlerTitan on August 25, 2007, 12:03:37 AM
in that case, you should have said that he mailed you the entire cycle, i was mislead by your "gave", because nowadays, with the technology we got, "Gave" can mean many things.

Uh huh. Like I gave a damn, for example.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kullervo on August 29, 2007, 08:34:52 AM
Inspired by the Ruggles thread, I've uploaded an excellent but now-OOP disc of American early modernist orchestral pieces by Ives, Ruggles and Ruth Crawford-Seeger, by Christoph von Dohnanyi leading the Cleveland SO.

You can download it here (http://www.sendspace.com/file/aw0du2).
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Bonehelm on August 30, 2007, 03:19:32 AM
Quote from: Corey on August 29, 2007, 08:34:52 AM
Inspired by the Ruggles thread, I've uploaded an excellent but now-OOP disc of American early modernist orchestral pieces by Ives, Ruggles and Ruth Crawford-Seeger, by Christoph von Dohnanyi leading the Cleveland SO.

You can download it here (http://www.sendspace.com/file/aw0du2).


Very nice...thanks Corey. :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on September 07, 2007, 05:22:37 AM
Quote from: Mark on June 03, 2007, 02:04:37 PM
Like it or not, the music industry is focusing its efforts more and more on the distribution and sale of digitally compressed (and, in some cases, uncompressed) music. Or 'downloads', to use common parlance. As broadband speeds increase and computer hard drives become larger - and as familiarity with new technologies becomes steadily more demographically widespread – we're entering a new musical age: one that will undoubtedly benefit the classical music industry in particular.

This thread is intended as a place to discuss downloads, the technologies involved, and where to get the best or most interesting deals. What follows is a brief summary of this thread (now eight pages long), including links that will help new and experienced users of downloads to get more out of this new way of buying and enjoying music.

PLACES TO BUY DOWNLOADS

iTunes Music Store (http://www.apple.com/itunes/store/)

For iPod users who have the iTunes software installed on their computers, iTunes Music Store is a seamless and simple way to buy and download music from a selection of tracks that runs into the millions. Be advised, however, that you MUST own an iPod if you want to transfer the music bought at iTunes onto a portable device. Music downloaded from this site comes in AAC and Apple Lossless formats, both of which place restrictions on what you can do subsequently with the tracks you've bought.

eMusic (http://www.emusic.com/genre/279.html)

eMusic is fast-becoming the biggest challenger to iTunes Music Store is terms of sales and popularity. All music downloaded from this site is in the universally accepted MP3 format, contains NO Digital Rights Management (DRM) – so you can do what you like with the tracks you buy – and is of high enough quality for PC or portable device listening purposes. Be advised that you need to sign up for a subscription package to use this site, but you can cancel this at any time.

eClassical (http://eclassical.com/)

This classical-only download store also sells tracks in MP3 Format, but works with just four independent labels. However, buying from here is extremely simple, particularly if you have PayPal: you can purchase and download music without a subscription, and you don't even have to register.

TO BE CONTINUED ... ;)


EDIT: June 18th - I'm in the process of revising the start of this thread to make it more useful to those unfamiliar with the business of downloading and its attendent technologies.


Familiar with this one Mark?

Legal Sounds.com (http://www.legalsounds.com/)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on September 07, 2007, 05:44:09 AM
Quote from: George on September 07, 2007, 05:22:37 AM

Familiar with this one Mark?

Legal Sounds.com (http://www.legalsounds.com/)

Nope. New one on me, George. ???
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on September 07, 2007, 05:45:24 AM
Quote from: Mark on September 07, 2007, 05:44:09 AM
Nope. New one on me, George. ???

The price/bitrate sure looks right.  :-\
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Que on September 07, 2007, 08:39:56 PM
Quote from: George on September 07, 2007, 05:45:24 AM
The price/bitrate sure looks right.  :-\

Looks Russian. I remember reading about it - something about loopholes/discrepancies with other countries in Russian copyright law, which they use.

Q
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Maciek on September 08, 2007, 12:34:12 AM
Quote from: Que on September 07, 2007, 08:39:56 PM
Looks Russian.

It is:

Quote from: http://www.legalsounds.com/LegalInfoLegal Info
All the materials in the LegalSounds.com music service are available for distribution via Internet according to license ЛС-3М-05-09 of the Russian Multimedia and Internet Society. Under the license agreement, LegalMedia pays license fees for all the materials subject to the Law of the Russian Federation "On Copyright and Related Rights". All the materials are available solely for personal use. Further distribution, resale or broadcasting is prohibited.

Russian materials in Russain Music Collection of LegalSounds.com music service are available for distribution via Internet according to license agreement with OOO "Kontent i pravo"
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Que on September 08, 2007, 01:27:52 AM
Quote from: Que on September 07, 2007, 08:39:56 PM
Looks Russian. I remember reading about it - something about loopholes/discrepancies with other countries in Russian copyright law, which they use.

Q


They might be quite illegal after all... ;D
(No wonder for those prices.  8))

http://www.downloadsquad.com/2007/08/06/dodgy-russian-music-pirates-make-a-comeback/ (http://www.downloadsquad.com/2007/08/06/dodgy-russian-music-pirates-make-a-comeback/)

BTW if they are illegal, under European law nobody that buys from them would be breaking the law (the selling/distributing would be illegal, not the buying). Don't know about US law.

Q
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on September 08, 2007, 02:11:37 AM
When Allofmp3 got closed down (it's due to reopen, however, as it doesn't break Russian law), buyers in the US and UK were warned it was illegal to download from their site. I'd imagine something similar would be the case here? ???
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Que on September 08, 2007, 02:27:46 AM
Quote from: Mark on September 08, 2007, 02:11:37 AM
When Allofmp3 got closed down (it's due to reopen, however, as it doesn't break Russian law), buyers in the US and UK were warned it was illegal to download from their site. I'd imagine something similar would be the case here? ???

I's a complicated issue Mark. Don't know if the UK has chosen such a though approach against the consumer who downloads, maybe your'e only breaking the law if you are ware of the illegal nature? Here (Netherlands) the consumer goes free if he only downloads for personal use and doesn't distibute it any further. Seems a sensible approach.

To comlicate matters further, it might well be that there is a discrepancy between Russian law and internatial copyright law. But this is not my field of expertise. 8)

Q
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Maciek on September 08, 2007, 04:06:26 AM
I think UK laws are generally more strict when it comes to copyright issues than laws in other EU countries (for example, until recently it was illegal to rip discs to mp3 for personal use in the UK, IIRC).
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lilas Pastia on September 13, 2007, 05:45:34 AM
Interesting downloads of violin and orchestra music by Xenakis, Berio and Mira Fornés available for 2.97$ at eclassical (http://www.eclassical.com/eclassic/eclassical?&last_page=more%5finfo&page=record%5flist&cd_nr=BIS772&method=showpage)


From this disc:

(http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/I/51WG8QK9N5L._SS500_.jpg)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kullervo on September 13, 2007, 05:55:23 AM
Quote from: Lilas Pastia on September 13, 2007, 05:45:34 AM
Interesting downloads of violin and orchestra music by Xenakis, Berio and Mira Fornés available for 2.97$ at eclassical (http://www.eclassical.com/eclassic/eclassical?&last_page=more%5finfo&page=record%5flist&cd_nr=BIS772&method=showpage)


From this disc:

(http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/I/51WG8QK9N5L._SS500_.jpg)


Is that a Miró on the cover?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lilas Pastia on September 13, 2007, 05:56:28 AM
The one and only.

I suspect fellow catalan Miguel Anfgel Mira Fornés is the reason behind the choice.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kullervo on September 13, 2007, 05:57:47 AM
Mira and Miró
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: not edward on September 13, 2007, 02:52:42 PM
Quote from: Lilas Pastia on September 13, 2007, 05:45:34 AM
Interesting downloads of violin and orchestra music by Xenakis, Berio and Mira Fornés available for 2.97$ at eclassical (http://www.eclassical.com/eclassic/eclassical?&last_page=more%5finfo&page=record%5flist&cd_nr=BIS772&method=showpage)


From this disc:

(http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/I/51WG8QK9N5L._SS500_.jpg)

Dox-Orkh is IMO one of the better works from Xenakis' late period (which I generally don't tend to like all that much). I've never heard the Mira Fornés--what's his style like?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lilas Pastia on September 13, 2007, 05:14:31 PM
I have no idea at this point, but I'll buy the downloads, so I should report in the coming weeks.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on September 13, 2007, 05:27:47 PM
that xenakis album is also on Naxos, well, that and plus many more.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lilas Pastia on September 13, 2007, 07:24:20 PM
Details,please ? I still haven't pushed the 'pay' button ;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Harry Collier on September 17, 2007, 05:25:50 AM
There is a completely superb (free) download of Bach's second partita for solo violin BWV 1004 from the Download section at:

http://www.alinaibragimova.com/

A wonderful young violinist. With her Bach, you really feel as though you are eavesdropping on a private meditation.

p.s. When I downloaded, there were some garbage characters in front of the URL of the fifth track (the Ciaccona). If they are still there, you will need to edit the URL so that it starts simply: http:// ....
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on September 17, 2007, 05:33:35 AM
Quote from: Harry Collier on September 17, 2007, 05:25:50 AM
There is a completely superb (free) download of Bach's second partita for solo violin BWV 1004 from the Download section at:

http://www.alinaibragimova.com/

A wonderful young violinist. With her Bach, you really feel as though you are eavesdropping on a private meditation.

p.s. When I downloaded, there were some garbage characters in front of the URL of the fifth track (the Ciaccona). If they are still there, you will need to edit the URL so that it starts simply: http:// ....


Anyone interested in hearing more from Alina should buy the current edition of BBC Music magazine, which has her in Bach's two Violin Concerti, as well as the Chaconne from Partita No. 2. ;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: m_gigena on September 25, 2007, 04:37:53 AM
Quote from: Scriptavolant on June 05, 2007, 07:32:53 PM
Download music? What a shame, I would never do that!

I've downloaded enough to fill up seven/eight 5GB Cds. And something from iTunes too (Malipiero symphonies, something else).
And I won't talk about my 40-50 DVD downloaded as well. And books, a lot of books. And softwares sometimes, but not very often.

NetLimiter reads I have downloaded 30gb in the past three weeks.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: m_gigena on September 25, 2007, 04:41:16 AM

http://avaxhome.org/search?q=violin+concerto&commit=Go

Click the "details" link at the bottom right in each post...
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on September 25, 2007, 06:18:47 AM
In case you didn't know, amazon know has 256 kbps MP3 downloads. 

Here's an example of the selection so far:

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=sr_f3_all/103-5638175-0980616?ie=UTF8&rs=&keywords=Horowitz%20&rh=i%3Adigital-music%2Ck%3AHorowitz%20%2Ci%3Adigital-music-album (http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=sr_f3_all/103-5638175-0980616?ie=UTF8&rs=&keywords=Horowitz%20&rh=i%3Adigital-music%2Ck%3AHorowitz%20%2Ci%3Adigital-music-album)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: marvinbrown on September 25, 2007, 05:00:13 PM
Quote from: George on September 25, 2007, 06:18:47 AM
In case you didn't know, amazon know has 256 kbps MP3 downloads. 

Here's an example of the selection so far:

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=sr_f3_all/103-5638175-0980616?ie=UTF8&rs=&keywords=Horowitz%20&rh=i%3Adigital-music%2Ck%3AHorowitz%20%2Ci%3Adigital-music-album (http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=sr_f3_all/103-5638175-0980616?ie=UTF8&rs=&keywords=Horowitz%20&rh=i%3Adigital-music%2Ck%3AHorowitz%20%2Ci%3Adigital-music-album)

  hmm.... they don't seem to have a British mp3 downloads on amazon.co.uk, am I mistaken?

  marvin
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on September 25, 2007, 05:19:54 PM
Quote from: marvinbrown on September 25, 2007, 05:00:13 PM
  hmm.... they don't seem to have a British mp3 downloads on amazon.co.uk, am I mistaken?

  marvin

Does it matter? There should be no problem with you buying downloads from the US site.  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: marvinbrown on September 25, 2007, 11:52:51 PM
Quote from: George on September 25, 2007, 05:19:54 PM
Does it matter? There should be no problem with you buying downloads from the US site.  :)

  George,  don't you need a mailing address in the U.S. to receive hard copied invoices/receipts in order for you to be able to purchase these mp3 downloads?

  marvin
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on September 26, 2007, 04:40:23 AM
Quote from: marvinbrown on September 25, 2007, 11:52:51 PM
  George,  don't you need a mailing address in the U.S. to receive hard copied invoices/receipts in order for you to be able to purchase these mp3 downloads?

  marvin

Yes, I just read about this elsewhere. Sorry. That sucks!  :-[
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kullervo on September 26, 2007, 12:48:50 PM
For your downloading pleasure...

Alexander Mosolov - Piano Concerto No. 1 (http://www.sendspace.com/file/gjqf07)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lilas Pastia on September 26, 2007, 04:39:35 PM
Thanks, Corey. I downloaded  it, but I can't get it to disc  ???
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kullervo on September 26, 2007, 05:02:17 PM
Quote from: Lilas Pastia on September 26, 2007, 04:39:35 PM
Thanks, Corey. I downloaded  it, but I can't get it to disc  ???

Disc?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on September 26, 2007, 07:10:46 PM
Quote from: Corey on September 26, 2007, 05:02:17 PM
Disc?

I think he means CD.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lilas Pastia on September 27, 2007, 05:48:29 AM
Yes, cd. As in "compact disc"  :)

I burn the files on disc 'cause I never listen on the computer. I take my booty to the batcave where all my listening equipment is. And the ol' armchair, of course!
(http://www.cloudster.com/RealHardware/Batmobile66/bat34.jpg)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on September 27, 2007, 05:48:52 AM
 ;D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kullervo on September 27, 2007, 06:03:13 AM
That's what I thought you meant. I can't think of any reason why it wouldn't burn. Maybe the files are wet.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lilas Pastia on September 27, 2007, 06:04:09 AM
Will they dry if I blow on them?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on September 27, 2007, 06:05:39 AM
Quote from: Lilas Pastia on September 27, 2007, 06:04:09 AM
Will they dry if I blow on them?

Seriously, was it that you had trouble unzipping them?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kullervo on September 27, 2007, 06:07:08 AM
That could be the problem, I'm not totally sure about this archiver I've been using. Hm.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lilas Pastia on September 27, 2007, 06:09:35 AM
Seriously, what happens is that when I right click on it the Burrn program opens up. I usually slip the file in the Burrn program and click start burning. But with these, they just don't go into the Burrn. Here's a message I got from a more savvy computer user than I:

The files Manuel sent you are a movie file (avi is a movie format) divided into 2 parts. I can send you more detailed instructions when I get back  - essentially, you can make a DVD or Video-CD out of these, though it won't happen in one easy step...

But my friend is away right now, so I'm still waiting. And the last sentence is just what I feared :P
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on September 27, 2007, 06:14:25 AM
Quote from: Lilas Pastia on September 27, 2007, 06:09:35 AM
Seriously, what happens is that when I right click on it the Burrn program opens up. I usually slip the file in the Burrn program and click start burning. But with these, they just don't go into the Burrn. Here's a message I got from a more savvy computer user than I:

The files Manuel sent you are a movie file (avi is a movie format) divided into 2 parts. I can send you more detailed instructions when I get back  - essentially, you can make a DVD or Video-CD out of these, though it won't happen in one easy step...

But my friend is away right now, so I'm still waiting. And the last sentence is just what I feared :P

I think if you download these files, they will work fine: (these were from beclemond, not Manuel)

http://rapidshare.com/files/51934123/Mahler_2_Pt_1.zip.html mvmts 1-3
http://rapidshare.com/files/51941873/Mahler_2_Pt_2.zip.html mvmts 4 and 5

I am burning mine right now.

Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lilas Pastia on September 27, 2007, 07:21:28 AM
Will try. BUT: it's not the same piece of music... ::)

This is Mahler 2 (who's conducting?) and Manuel's were of the Turnage Trumpet concerto ;)
And of course I have to wait 115 minutes to download part 2. Skata !!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: m_gigena on September 27, 2007, 08:43:33 AM
Quote from: Lilas Pastia on September 27, 2007, 07:21:28 AM
Will try. BUT: it's not the same piece of music... ::)

This is Mahler 2 (who's conducting?) and Manuel's were of the Turnage Trumpet concerto ;)
And of course I have to wait 115 minutes to download part 2. Skata !!

I'm sorry, it has been now confirmed I joyously send all type of files to everybody, but the lack of information on how to play them makes it a very disturbing experience for everyone.   :P

@Lilas Pastia,

when you something like this:

Quotehttp://rapidshare.com/files/58499516/Giulini.Bruckner.9.rehearsal.avi.001
http://rapidshare.com/files/58438401/Giulini.Bruckner.9.rehearsal.avi.002
http://rapidshare.com/files/58458076/Giulini.Bruckner.9.rehearsal.avi.003
http://rapidshare.com/files/58475927/Giulini.Bruckner.9.rehearsal.avi.004
http://rapidshare.com/files/58486115/Giulini.Bruckner.9.rehearsal.avi.005

It means the original file is in avi format but it was split into five files. Once you download all of them you need to run Hjsplit (here  (http://www.treepad.net/download/hjsplit.zip)is the Windows version) to join the files*: the original .avi file will be created from these others.

*In the main screen of Hjsplit you click the JOIN button, you should navigate through your disk and choose
the file with .001 as extension.


You may find .rar files sometimes. Those files don't need to be joined with Hjslplit. By unzipping the first file you will get the whole set decompressed.



I think Boulez conducts that Mahler.

Ever heard Neschling?

QuoteConductor: John Neschling
Orquestra Sinfônica do Estado de São Paulo (Sao Paulo State Symphony
Orchestra).

Cláudia Riccitelli, soprano
Mariana Pentcheva, mezzo soprano
Coro da Orquestra Sinfônica do Estado de São Paulo (OSESP Choir)
Coral Lírico Municipal de São Paulo (Lyric Choir of Sao Paulo City)

Recorded in July/1999 in the Sao Paulo Hall.

Bit-rate: 192 kbps

http://rapidshare.com/files/3793050/Symphony_2.zip
http://rapidshare.com/files/3660956/02_Track_02.mp3

Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on September 27, 2007, 05:58:08 PM

I have a great idea. Why don't we have a thread in the Beginner Board that gives simple explanation about how to download, unzip, join, use and burn all sorts of types of files?

Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lilas Pastia on September 27, 2007, 06:58:01 PM
Quote from: George on September 27, 2007, 05:58:08 PM
I have a great idea. Why don't we have a thread in the Beginner Board that gives simple explanation about how to download, unzip, join, use and burn all sorts of types of files?



Just reading the above makes me think: is there a Nerd Board? This sounds like advanced stuff to me :P

Dear Manuel, I really appreciate the effort. But I'll have to get into that kind of rocket science veeeeery slowly.
And yes, I have the Neschling Sao Paulo Mahler 2 on disc ('t was  a simple mp 3 file - THAT I can manage :D). But it's waiting in the wings until the Mahler bug stings - so many Bruckner recordings, so little time ;D.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Rod Corkin on October 06, 2007, 09:05:30 AM
You'll find music to download at this new site (only visible and downloadable if you register however, which is free).

http://classicalmusicmayhem.freeforums.org/index.php
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on October 06, 2007, 09:23:05 AM
Quote from: Rod Corkin on October 06, 2007, 09:05:30 AM
You'll find music to download at this new site (only visible and downloadable if you register however, which is free).

http://classicalmusicmayhem.freeforums.org/index.php

Methinks your experiences here (and perhaps elsewhere?) prompted you to create your own forum:

Quote from: Rod Corkin over at ClassicalMusicMayhemRegarding 'mayhem' the idea is that topics that would be hounded out as unacceptable at other forums will be encouraged here (eg the anti-establishment notion that Handel was a greater composer than Bach, something I wholly agree with) ...

But these days people seem less keen to argue any point or discuss artistic merit. These are sad times. All we need is a few opinionated people, that is enough to fire the others into action.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Rod Corkin on October 06, 2007, 11:57:01 AM
Quote from: Mark on October 06, 2007, 09:23:05 AM
Methinks your experiences here (and perhaps elsewhere?) prompted you to create your own forum:



I spent 10 years at two other more popular forums than this before I even knew GMG existed. But now I have ideas of my own and I want to manage them myself. The idea is for a form of presentation focusing more on the music than chit chat, encouraging the use of music tracks to illustrate points rather than mere monologues. Also it will be a free platform for anyone with anything to say, however radical, even if the management disagrees with it. The management style will be completely different to the popular forums currently on the net, and lots of music tracks there for members only (you can't even see them unless you register). If I can get the publicity it will be a success. It depends if I can find enough people who want something more out of CM discussion than the usual chit chat. Why not join up and try it for yourself. What have you got to lose?

http://classicalmusicmayhem.freeforums.org/index.php

Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on October 06, 2007, 12:20:30 PM
Quote from: Rod Corkin on October 06, 2007, 11:57:01 AM
The idea is for a form of presentation focusing more on the music than chit chat, encouraging the use of music tracks to illustrate points rather than mere monologues.

Chit chat is dialog.  Your idea for using music tracks is great... in theory.  But in practice it will be too time consuming and tedious for people to track down, upload and link samples for every little point they would want to make.  I think that we'll see  people just using the forum for sharing music instead.

QuoteAlso it will be a free platform for anyone with anything to say, however radical, even if the management disagrees with it. The management style will be completely different to the popular forums currently on the net,

Hold your horses!  I infer from your post open hostility towards the other music forums, this one included, and an implied allegation that the admins censor what they disagree with.  That is highly untrue!  And secondly I am very skeptical that someone who is obviously not neutral, has an ax to grind that starts a board with an agenda will act totally cool and unbiased.

I have no idea who you are, but I can guess that you're pissed.  I wish you luck in getting your board off the ground, but you don't have to advertise it by putting down other boards, especially putting down the message board that you are using for free advertisement, it really doesn't get anymore hypocritical than that!!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Rod Corkin on October 06, 2007, 01:03:51 PM
Quote from: DavidW on October 06, 2007, 12:20:30 PM
Chit chat is dialog.  Your idea for using music tracks is great... in theory.  But in practice it will be too time consuming and tedious for people to track down, upload and link samples for every little point they would want to make.  I think that we'll see  people just using the forum for sharing music instead.

Well have a look around for yourself, I've only been going a week but there enough topics going for the moment, but you won't see most of the music tracks unless you register, they are invisible to non members.

Quote from: DavidW on October 06, 2007, 12:20:30 PM
Hold your horses!  I infer from your post open hostility towards the other music forums, this one included, and an implied allegation that the admins censor what they disagree with.  That is highly untrue!  And secondly I am very skeptical that someone who is obviously not neutral, has an ax to grind that starts a board with an agenda will act totally cool and unbiased.

Some people outside of Beethoven forums seem to find my opinions rather unpalatable. And I've seen enough people barred at CM forums in recent years that I would have kept on-board when I was a moderator years back. PC madness is strangling discussion. Heck I've even got non other than Robert Newman on my books already! Why everyone hits the panic button at the mere mention of his name is beyond me. He's good entertainment as far as I am concerned, even though I disagree with many things he has to say.

Quote from: DavidW on October 06, 2007, 12:20:30 PM
I have no idea who you are, but I can guess that you're pissed.  I wish you luck in getting your board off the ground, but you don't have to advertise it by putting down other boards, especially putting down the message board that you are using for free advertisement, it really doesn't get anymore hypocritical than that!!

On the contrary I was the epitome of calmness when I wrote the above post. I've been involved in other peoples projects for over a decade, now I've got my own ideas for something different and want to get them on the web, whats wrong with that? My opinions relate to CM forums across the board, I think they have to loosen up a bit, I made no reference to GMG directly. But if anything the tone of YOUR message sounds rather aggravated. I'm quite happy with my Mrs sitting at home with a beer, about to put on a Columbo DVD (I've got all 7 series). What that says about my taste I don't know, but just one more thing...
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on October 06, 2007, 01:25:18 PM
Quote from: Rod Corkin on October 06, 2007, 01:03:51 PM
On the contrary I was the epitome of calmness when I wrote the above post.

I never meant that you were merely temporarily enraged, I know that clearly it's a deep seated resentment.  As for the rest of your post please don't peddle your own romanticized version of yourself, we will be our own judge of your character thank you very much. :D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Rod Corkin on October 07, 2007, 12:18:35 PM
Quote from: DavidW on October 06, 2007, 01:25:18 PM
I never meant that you were merely temporarily enraged, I know that clearly it's a deep seated resentment.  As for the rest of your post please don't peddle your own romanticized version of yourself, we will be our own judge of your character thank you very much. :D

Me a Romantic?? Not once have a suffered for my art!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: dtwilbanks on October 09, 2007, 12:02:13 PM
Jazz bassoon?!

There are a couple free tracks here. I haven't listened to them yet.

http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/musician.php?id=4418
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Rod Corkin on October 09, 2007, 01:56:11 PM
Quote from: dtw on October 09, 2007, 12:02:13 PM
Jazz bassoon?!

There are a couple free tracks here. I haven't listened to them yet.

http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/musician.php?id=4418

No bassoon tracks here, but currently Bach v's Handel harpsichord tracks, some Handel opera and oratorio, Beethoven v's Mozart's piano/wind quintets. And a fancy new front-end...

http://classicalmusicmayhem.freeforums.org/portal.php
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on October 09, 2007, 02:02:13 PM
Quote from: Rod Corkin on October 09, 2007, 01:56:11 PM
No bassoon tracks here, but currently Bach v's Handel harpsichord tracks, some Handel opera and oratorio, Beethoven v's Mozart's piano/wind quintets. And a fancy new front-end...

http://classicalmusicmayhem.freeforums.org/portal.php


Rod, could you please stop spamming this sticky? Promotion of your site is NOT its intended purpose. >:(

I'm locking this thread for the time being. My apologies to others for the inconvenience.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Harry on October 19, 2007, 10:11:37 AM
Since you have blocked your personal in box for my messages, you leave me no option than to ask you on this thread, to stop spamming with your site too.
If you are against Rod spamming GMG, than stop doing the same thing with your site.
We do not need another reserve site, in case GMG goes down.
But that's only my two cents of course.
Thank you my friend.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on October 27, 2007, 04:16:22 AM
Just read some exciting news in this month's Gramophone: the Lyrita label has joined the fold over at eMusic. Terrific news for those of us who regularly download from that site. For me, it means I can 'risk' a purchase of the Ma recording of Finzi's Cello Concerto without risking very much at all. :D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mr. Darcy on October 27, 2007, 04:19:52 PM
Woah... That's creepy. I just noticed the Lyrita additions, too, and the first thing (but certainly not the only thing) that popped into my head was that Finzi Concerto with Ma... :o
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: bhodges on November 02, 2007, 12:32:50 PM
Thanks to a great blog called The Rambler, here's an electroacoustic mix called Mass for Oscillator and Tape (http://johnsonsrambler.wordpress.com/2007/11/01/mass-for-oscillator-and-tape/%5Bi), about an hour long.

--Bruce

Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Solitary Wanderer on November 07, 2007, 02:02:16 PM
I want to get:

Haydn's String Quartet Op.64 #4

via FREE download. I'm late buying a cd for a concert next week and I've never downloaded a music mp3 before  :o

I tried the emusic site, but they're wanting my cc details and are going to charge my card on a monthly basis and as [at this stage] I anticipate this being a one-off, I don't want to go down that track.

Any ideas? [links]  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on November 07, 2007, 02:05:25 PM
Quote from: Solitary Wanderer on November 07, 2007, 02:02:16 PM
I want to get:

Haydn's String Quartet Op.64 #4

via FREE download. I'm late buying a cd for a concert next week and I've never downloaded a music mp3 before  :o

I tried the emusic site, but they're wanting my cc details and are going to charge my card on a monthly basis and as [at this stage] I anticipate this being a one-off, I don't want to go down that track.

Any ideas? [links]  :)

Chris, panic not. If you sign up to eMusic, you should get 25 free downloads. Grab whatever you want, then immediately cancel (well, within 14 days :D). You'll not get charged a cent, I promise. ;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Solitary Wanderer on November 07, 2007, 02:19:33 PM
Quote from: Mark on November 07, 2007, 02:05:25 PM
Chris, panic not. If you sign up to eMusic, you should get 25 free downloads. Grab whatever you want, then immediately cancel (well, within 14 days :D). You'll not get charged a cent, I promise. ;)

Thanks Mark. Done it.  :)

So I can now drag the file into Nero and burn a cd?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on November 07, 2007, 02:23:20 PM
Quote from: Solitary Wanderer on November 07, 2007, 02:19:33 PM
Thanks Mark. Done it.  :)

So I can now drag the file into Nero and burn a cd?

Yep. Nero will analyse it, create a temporary WAV image and burn this to a CD-R.

Incidentally, now that you're on eMusic, be sure to have a really good look around. Downloading new and interesting stuff that's not on the major labels can become quite addictive ... or at least, so I've found. :D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Solitary Wanderer on November 07, 2007, 03:02:29 PM
Quote from: Mark on November 07, 2007, 02:23:20 PM
Yep. Nero will analyse it, create a temporary WAV image and burn this to a CD-R.

Incidentally, now that you're on eMusic, be sure to have a really good look around. Downloading new and interesting stuff that's not on the major labels can become quite addictive ... or at least, so I've found. :D

Ok, next dumb question  ;) I downloaded the movements in the correct sequence 1-4, but they have burnt in the wrong order  >:( Whats the trick to getting this right?  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on November 07, 2007, 03:05:45 PM
Quote from: Solitary Wanderer on November 07, 2007, 03:02:29 PM
Ok, next dumb question  ;) I downloaded the movements in the correct sequence 1-4, but they have burnt in the wrong order  >:( Whats the trick to getting this right?  :)

When you have all four tracks in the Nero window and ready to burn, take a look at the track lengths of each. Compare these with the files you downloaded, then simply drag each file into the correct numerical order from top to bottom. ;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Solitary Wanderer on November 07, 2007, 03:07:02 PM
Quote from: Mark on November 07, 2007, 03:05:45 PM
When you have all four tracks in the Nero window and ready to burn, take a look at the track lengths of each. Compare these with the files you downloaded, then simply drag each file into the correct numerical order from top to bottom. ;)

Ok  ;) Thats straight forward enough; I'll do it again.

Thank Mark  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Solitary Wanderer on November 07, 2007, 03:12:21 PM
Now, the file size instead of the track length is showing in Nero; I can suss out that, but it won't let me move them around. I can move image files in Nero but not mp3's?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Solitary Wanderer on November 07, 2007, 03:16:03 PM
Ok got it. By mousing over the mp3 file in my folder I could see the times then I dragged one file at a time into Nero.

Now the burning  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Solitary Wanderer on November 08, 2007, 10:33:13 AM
It was an easy way to obtain music, however...

There were no 'gaps' between the tracks so they all but ran into each other; I like a breather between movements.

My handwriting on the CD-R dosen't look great  ::)

No cover art  :( I couldn't see where you can download that from on emusic.

But, I will spend some more time investigating this 'medium'.  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on November 08, 2007, 01:52:32 PM
Quote from: Solitary Wanderer on November 08, 2007, 10:33:13 AM
There were no 'gaps' between the tracks so they all but ran into each other; I like a breather between movements.

You can manually adjust the amount of seconds between tracks in Nero when you're preparing to burn to CD-R. ;)

QuoteMy handwriting on the CD-R dosen't look great  ::)

Buy or download for free some CD facia/cover printing software. Get some good quality labels and either hijack artwork from websites or create your own.

QuoteNo cover art  :( I couldn't see where you can download that from on emusic.

I do a right-click then 'Save picture as' on the tiny 155 x 155 pixel images eMusic uses, then use AudioShell from Softpointer (a piece of freeware) to append the cover image to each MP3 file. If you want better cover art for printing, I believe there are now plenty of free and pay-for sites offering to hunt down such images for you.

Overall, Chris, why bother burning to CD-R? Get yourself a high-capacity MP3 player, the necessary dock and cables, and hook the lot up to your hifi. It'll save you a fortune in CD-Rs in the long run, and before too long, you'll have a massive download collection that's every bit as fascinating and enjoyable as your physical CD collection. :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Solitary Wanderer on November 08, 2007, 02:06:37 PM
You're a font of information Mark  :)

I'm resisting the mp3 thing...

The mp3 player etc would make sense if I were to move in this direction.

Maybe I'm 'old school' but computer file mp3's just don't seem to have the same value to me as a physical cd  :-\
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on November 08, 2007, 02:19:42 PM
Quote from: Solitary Wanderer on November 08, 2007, 02:06:37 PM
... computer file mp3's just don't seem to have the same value to me as a physical cd  :-\

Nor to me. But shortage of space and convenience of portability (along with massively decreased costs enabling greater exploration) have driven me to adopt and embrace MP3s in recent years.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: marvinbrown on November 08, 2007, 02:28:12 PM
Quote from: Solitary Wanderer on November 08, 2007, 02:06:37 PM
You're a font of information Mark  :)

I'm resisting the mp3 thing...

The mp3 player etc would make sense if I were to move in this direction.

Maybe I'm 'old school' but computer file mp3's just don't seem to have the same value to me as a physical cd  :-\

  I am facing a similar "mental struggle" situation to yours Solitary Wanderer.  But I see that the trends are moving in the direction of mp3/digital music and I am always fascinated by the likes of Mark who know more about this new technology than I'll ever know and are light years ahead of me.  I find myself going to the Apple store often just to educate myself- but the resistence to mp3 is alive and well in my head and is something that I am going to have to overcome one of these days- I sense that if I keep sticking to physical cds time untimately will not be on my side  :-\, remember cassettes look what happened to that technology  ::) .


  marvin
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on November 08, 2007, 02:45:43 PM
Quote from: marvinbrown on November 08, 2007, 02:28:12 PM
But I see that the trends are moving in the direction of mp3/digital music and I am always fascinated by the likes of Mark who know more about this new technology than I'll ever know and are light years ahead of me.

I wouldn't say I was that far ahead, Marvin. Plenty of members here are much more advanced in the digital revolution than I. My fascination came about because, from the age of about 13 or 14, I'd always dreamed of being able to carry all my music (not much, at that time) around in a little box which I could plug headphones into and enjoy whenever I wanted. Of course, cassettes were around then, and I must confess I loved that technology if only for its portability. But it wasn't enough.

Then in 2003, I began experimenting with ripping music from CDs to my PC. I did everything using Windows Media Player, but made the (as it would turn out) costly mistake of choosing the .wma format for my outputted files. These were a heavy drain on my first MP3 player - a Creative MuVo2 with a 1.5Gb HDD - so I began re-ripping hundreds of CDs, this time into MP3 format. Sadly, after two years, I lost all of these when my HDD failed; I'd not made back-ups, so I was pretty pissed off at myself for being so stupid. >:(

A little while later, I bought a Sony MP3 player, and started ripping everything to their own ATRAC3Plus format: the big advantage being that music played back exactly as it did on the original CDs, with no annoying gaps (I'm a passionate believer that gapless playback should be standard by now on ALL digital audio devices). But Sony's software sucked, and the device went wrong. So, I was stumped once again - loads of tracks ripped, nothing to play them on.

Last year, I took a 'year off' from downloads, MP3 players and the like, and just spun CDs. It was glorious. And laborious. Having to cart around so much hardware when on the move. It drove me back into the arms of Creative, and I found my heaven in flash-based players (as opposed to HDD units, which have moving parts that can fail). After going through seven different devices in 3-4 years - at no inconsiderable cost, I might add - I'm now very happy. And when I discovered eMusic, that happiness was close to complete. :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: marvinbrown on November 08, 2007, 03:07:09 PM
Quote from: Mark on November 08, 2007, 02:45:43 PM
I wouldn't say I was that far ahead, Marvin. Plenty of members here are much more advanced in the digital revolution than I. My fascination came about because, from the age of about 13 or 14, I'd always dreamed of being able to carry all my music (not much, at that time) around in a little box which I could plug headphones into and enjoy whenever I wanted. Of course, cassettes were around then, and I must confess I loved that technology if only for its portability. But it wasn't enough.

Then in 2003, I began experimenting with ripping music from CDs to my PC. I did everything using Windows Media Player, but made the (as it would turn out) costly mistake of choosing the .wma format for my outputted files. These were a heavy drain on my first MP3 player - a Creative MuVo2 with a 1.5Gb HDD - so I began re-ripping hundreds of CDs, this time into MP3 format. Sadly, after two years, I lost all of these when my HDD failed; I'd not made back-ups, so I was pretty pissed off at myself for being so stupid. >:(

A little while later, I bought a Sony MP3 player, and started ripping everything to their own ATRAC3Plus format: the big advantage being that music played back exactly as it did on the original CDs, with no annoying gaps (I'm a passionate believer that gapless playback should be standard by now on ALL digital audio devices). But Sony's software sucked, and the device went wrong. So, I was stumped once again - loads of tracks ripped, nothing to play them on.

Last year, I took a 'year off' from downloads, MP3 players and the like, and just spun CDs. It was glorious. And laborious. Having to cart around so much hardware when on the move. It drove me back into the arms of Creative, and I found my heaven in flash-based players (as opposed to HDD units, which have moving parts that can fail). After going through seven different devices in 3-4 years - at no inconsiderable cost, I might add - I'm now very happy. And when I discovered eMusic, that happiness was close to complete. :)

  I am glad to hear that despite all the trouble you went through, you came out ahead.  I too relish the idea of having to carry all my music on one player.  I am sorry to hear that your HDD failed as it did, I always thought those would last a lifetime (a human lifetime).  To a newcomer to this mp3/digital technology as I and probably Solitary Wanderer know, one has to get passed certain unjustified fears.  I think part of the problem is that there is a sense that you have to learn as you go with this digital technology and because this technology changes radically over a period of a few months  if not weeks the situation becomes overwhelming to someone who is not a computer expert such as myself.  I wouldn't know the difference between various formats mp3/AAC etc. or how to convert from one to another or which players play which formats.  Too many products on the market and with the Apple ipod being promoted the way it is, one doesn't know where to begin or where to go.

  marvin
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Solitary Wanderer on November 08, 2007, 03:55:29 PM
Quote from: marvinbrown on November 08, 2007, 02:28:12 PM
remember cassettes look what happened to that technology  ::) .
marvin

Oh yes! I have about 500 cassettes in snazzy trays which haven't been touched in years. [In fact I haven't had a tape player in about 10 years!]

Theres about 300 classical tapes in those from my teenage years.

I proberly couldn't give them away now - they have retained no value, unlike the LP.

:)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Solitary Wanderer on November 08, 2007, 04:03:58 PM
Quote from: marvinbrown on November 08, 2007, 03:07:09 PM
   I think part of the problem is that there is a sense that you have to learn as you go with this digital technology and because this technology changes radically over a period of a few months  if not weeks the situation becomes overwhelming to someone who is not a computer expert such as myself.  I wouldn't know the difference between various formats mp3/AAC etc. or how to convert from one to another or which players play which formats. 

  marvin

<nods>

But, for me the portability arguement isn't a factor. I don't have long work commutes or such. I spend most of my day in my home office where I listen to music on my PC.

If I'm driving somewhere I grab a cd. When I'm doing a 5+ hour photography shoot on location I grab 3+ cds  ;)

However, when I'm learning a new piece of music for an upcoming concert the mp3 idea could be a good one. Sometimes I'm buying a cd for one short piece of music whereas downloading the one mp3 could make sense.  :-\
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: marvinbrown on November 09, 2007, 01:18:36 AM
Quote from: Solitary Wanderer on November 08, 2007, 04:03:58 PM

Sometimes I'm buying a cd for one short piece of music whereas downloading the one mp3 could make sense.  :-\

  Another excellent reason to get into the mp3/digital technology.

  marvin
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Solitary Wanderer on November 10, 2007, 05:10:43 PM
Help!

I'm trying to download some mp3's from emusic and they are ending up as EMP's which I can't open. Whats happening?  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on November 10, 2007, 08:15:26 PM
Quote from: Solitary Wanderer on November 10, 2007, 05:10:43 PM
Help!

I'm trying to download some mp3's from emusic and they are ending up as EMP's which I can't open. Whats happening?  :)

Haven't heard of that problem.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on November 11, 2007, 12:53:52 AM
Quote from: Solitary Wanderer on November 10, 2007, 05:10:43 PM
Help!

I'm trying to download some mp3's from emusic and they are ending up as EMP's which I can't open. Whats happening?  :)

Have you downloaded eMusic's default Download Manager program? I found that unless this was installed (although, it doesn't need to be enabled), MP3 files came down with the wrong file extensions. ???
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Solitary Wanderer on November 11, 2007, 10:23:21 AM
Quote from: Mark on November 11, 2007, 12:53:52 AM
Have you downloaded eMusic's default Download Manager program? I found that unless this was installed (although, it doesn't need to be enabled), MP3 files came down with the wrong file extensions. ???

Yep, I'd downloaded that and it worked fine the first time.

I've just gone into that manager programme again and opened the files with the wrong extensions and it seems to be working ok now converting them.

Thanks  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Solitary Wanderer on November 11, 2007, 01:54:39 PM
Quote from: Mark on November 08, 2007, 01:52:32 PM
You can manually adjust the amount of seconds between tracks in Nero when you're preparing to burn to CD-R. ;)

Mark, how do I do this? I've had a look but can't suss it out  :-\
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on November 11, 2007, 02:15:47 PM
Quote from: Solitary Wanderer on November 11, 2007, 01:54:39 PM
Mark, how do I do this? I've had a look but can't suss it out  :-\

When you've got all the tracks that you want to burn in the relevant Nero window, right-click on each one in turn and choose 'Properties'. You'll see there's a setting to adjust the gap (it's 2 seconds by default) - just type in however long you want the gap to be and click 'Apply'. Be warned, however: you can't modify the very first track in the list of those to be burned. Why? Because the gap is actually added to the BEGINNING of a track, not the end. And Nero likes to stipulate the beginning of the first track to be burned is always 2-3 seconds. Also, if you want a gap of, say, 8 seconds between the end of one work and the start of the next, be sure to add those 8 seconds to the first track that begins the following work, not the last track that ends the preceeding one, if you get my meaning. ;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Solitary Wanderer on November 11, 2007, 03:12:53 PM
Quote from: Mark on November 11, 2007, 02:15:47 PM
When you've got all the tracks that you want to burn in the relevant Nero window, right-click on each one in turn and choose 'Properties'. You'll see there's a setting to adjust the gap (it's 2 seconds by default) - just type in however long you want the gap to be and click 'Apply'. Be warned, however: you can't modify the very first track in the list of those to be burned. Why? Because the gap is actually added to the BEGINNING of a track, not the end. And Nero likes to stipulate the beginning of the first track to be burned is always 2-3 seconds. Also, if you want a gap of, say, 8 seconds between the end of one work and the start of the next, be sure to add those 8 seconds to the first track that begins the following work, not the last track that ends the preceeding one, if you get my meaning. ;)

Yeah I tried that, but theres no 'options' for adjusting in Properties  ???
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on November 11, 2007, 11:11:12 PM
Quote from: Solitary Wanderer on November 11, 2007, 03:12:53 PM
Yeah I tried that, but theres no 'options' for adjusting in Properties  ???

Are you saying you can't see what I've attached?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Solitary Wanderer on November 12, 2007, 10:15:45 AM
Quote from: Mark on November 11, 2007, 11:11:12 PM
Are you saying you can't see what I've attached?

Yes, thats right.

I'm going into 'Copy Data', so maybe its in a different Nero option?

:)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on November 12, 2007, 10:45:29 AM
Quote from: Solitary Wanderer on November 12, 2007, 10:15:45 AM
Yes, thats right.

I'm going into 'Copy Data', so maybe its in a different Nero option?

:)

You want the 'Make Audio CD' function. ;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Solitary Wanderer on November 12, 2007, 10:51:21 AM
Quote from: Mark on November 12, 2007, 10:45:29 AM
You want the 'Make Audio CD' function. ;)

I'll try burning another disc later today via that option. Thanks.  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lilas Pastia on November 14, 2007, 06:29:42 PM
Much to my amazement, I tried to dowload the whole Bruckner 5th (87 minutes) on a single disc using Burrn and it worked :o. The program told me the burning had failed, but it's all there and after sampling, the sound is very immediate. Will I experience any loss in sound quality or playback problem??
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on November 14, 2007, 09:21:28 PM
Quote from: Lilas Pastia on November 14, 2007, 06:29:42 PM
Much to my amazement, I tried to dowload the whole Bruckner 5th (87 minutes) on a single disc using Burrn and it worked :o. The program told me the burning had failed, but it's all there and after sampling, the sound is very immediate. Will I experience any loss in sound quality or playback problem??

it's impossible if it's CD-R. Did you listen through the entire thing?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lilas Pastia on November 15, 2007, 04:43:25 AM
Not yet. But my cd player does announce 86:57 and the beginning of all four movements are there. I'll find out this weekend.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on November 15, 2007, 08:41:35 AM
Quote from: Lilas Pastia on November 15, 2007, 04:43:25 AM
Not yet. But my cd player does announce 86:57 and the beginning of all four movements are there. I'll find out this weekend.

there are discs out there that allows you to burn more than 80 minutes of music.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on November 15, 2007, 09:37:08 AM
Quote from: GBJGZW on November 15, 2007, 08:41:35 AM
there are discs out there that allows you to burn more than 80 minutes of music.

They're called hard drives. ;D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mahlertitan on November 15, 2007, 09:57:40 AM
Quote from: Mark on November 15, 2007, 09:37:08 AM
They're called hard drives. ;D

I guess there are CD-R out there that can go above 80 minutes, but those are very rare.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Drasko on November 15, 2007, 10:29:34 AM
Quote from: GBJGZW on November 15, 2007, 09:57:40 AM
I guess there are CD-R out there that can go above 80 minutes, but those are very rare.

Yes, there are - 800 MB/90 min and 870 MB/99 min
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lilas Pastia on November 15, 2007, 06:51:57 PM
Mine are Memorex and it says 700MB, 80min.

I'll listen to it soon and will report. What amazes me is that the cd player confirms it's 86:57.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lilas Pastia on November 18, 2007, 07:41:50 AM
In the end it did not work. The cd stopped playing just before the 84 minutes mark  :P. When I bought it a few years ago the salesman advised me to play  my longest cd continuously for 24 hours, so the mechanism could encompass any cd length. At the time, it was just over 81 minutes. Anyhow, I reburned it on 2 cds and it's a really great performance (to be discussed in the Abbey sometime this week).
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on November 18, 2007, 02:40:52 PM
I'm not surprised it didn't work, Lilas. Most CD-Rs seem capable of 'overburn' to a maximum of about two minutes. Even then, perfect playback isn't a certainty.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on November 22, 2007, 03:28:46 PM
From the Chandos website, this free download of Schubert's Symphony No. 9 with Noseda and the BBC Philharmonic:

First mvt:

[mp3=200,20,0]http://www.theclassicalshop.net/MP3/Tk_2_-_Schubert-_Symphony_No__9_-_Andante_-_allegro_ma_non_troppo.mp3[/mp3]

Second mvt:

[mp3=200,20,0]http://www.theclassicalshop.net/MP3/Tk_3_-_Schubert-_Symphony_No__9_-_Andante_con_moto.mp3[/mp3]

Third mvt:

[mp3=200,20,0]http://www.theclassicalshop.net/MP3/Tk_4_-_Schubert-_Symphony_No__9_-_Scherzo_and_Trio.mp3[/mp3]

Fourth mvt:

[mp3=200,20,0]http://www.theclassicalshop.net/MP3/Tk_5_-_Schubert-_Symphony_No__9_-_Allegro_vivace.mp3[/mp3]

You should be able to both listen to these files in the players above, and download them by right-clicking on the green iPod-like icon at the end of each and clicking 'Save Target As ...'. ;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lilas Pastia on November 24, 2007, 05:02:58 AM
Hear Ye, violin fans:

David & Igor Oistrakh, violin (with Vladimir Vampolski, piano)
J.S. Bach_ Sonata for 2 Violins in C, BWV 1037

This 1951 recording war originally issued on the
Russian Melodya label. This is an 1950's MMS 45 rpm version.

Available on Rolf Ottevanger's web site (http://www.geocities.com/oudeopnames/leftover.htm)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: drogulus on November 24, 2007, 09:18:05 AM
Quote from: Solitary Wanderer on November 10, 2007, 05:10:43 PM
Help!

I'm trying to download some mp3's from emusic and they are ending up as EMP's which I can't open. Whats happening?  :)

     I guess using the download manager solved your problem, but if you already have too many download managers on your computer you might try just changing the file extension to .mp3. These websites just rename the files to get you to use their manager, which ties you to their service.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on November 24, 2007, 12:26:58 PM
Quote from: drogulus on November 24, 2007, 09:18:05 AM
     I guess using the download manager solved your problem, but if you already have too many download managers on your computer you might try just changing the file extension to .mp3. These websites just rename the files to get you to use their manager, which ties you to their service.

Not necessarily a solution - I believe I tried this and it failed. As for the Download Manager, you can disable it and save tracks one by one as MP3s without file extension renaming. ;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: hippydippy on December 20, 2007, 11:35:20 AM
I don't know whether this has been mentioned but eClassical are upping their bit rate to 320 far all new recordings and re-encoding older works as well. Currently on offer is a new Sally Beamish Viola Concerto 'The Seafarer' seven tracks at 320 for $5.53. It is a site well worth exploring as they seem to get CDs before they appear on the Bis web site. They have the new CD by Thomas Dausgaard of the Schumann Symphony No. 1 together with various overtures.

nik
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on December 20, 2007, 11:44:02 AM
Quote from: hippydippy on December 20, 2007, 11:35:20 AM
I don't know whether this has been mentioned but eClassical are upping their bit rate to 320 far all new recordings and re-encoding older works as well. Currently on offer is a new Sally Beamish Viola Concerto 'The Seafarer' seven tracks at 320 for $5.53. It is a site well worth exploring as they seem to get CDs before they appear on the Bis web site. They have the new CD by Thomas Dausgaard of the Schumann Symphony No. 1 together with various overtures.

nik

Thanks for this, Nik. :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Maciek on December 22, 2007, 12:58:37 AM
Quote from: Mark on November 18, 2007, 02:40:52 PM
I'm not surprised it didn't work, Lilas. Most CD-Rs seem capable of 'overburn' to a maximum of about two minutes. Even then, perfect playback isn't a certainty.

I'm currently using a batch of Verbatims (Taiyo Yuden) and many of them have potential running times exceeding 84 minutes! 8) A couple of months ago, though, I had a cake of TDKs and had a lot of trouble finding one that could carry the 83 mins I wanted to burn... ::)

(A hint for those who have a need for this: EAC has the very useful function of checking how many minutes your CD can "take")
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: orbital on January 02, 2008, 10:42:19 AM
Here is the latest bit from RIAA  :-X :-X

"Recording industry says ripping CDs to computer is illegal "

http://www.tgdaily.com/content/view/35454/118/
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Maciek on January 02, 2008, 11:18:31 AM
Ehmmmm... What about fair use? ???

(Not that it makes much difference to me, I don't live in the States 0:))
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Maciek on January 04, 2008, 04:19:44 AM
Mark posted the free Schubert Symphony from Chandos a few posts up. It should be noted that Chandos give away a CD from their catalogue as a free download every month! This month it's Holst (I'm downloading it as I write). See this page (you might want to bookmark it too ;)):
http://www.theclassicalshop.net/FreeMP3.asp (http://www.theclassicalshop.net/FreeMP3.asp) (this includes a list of the upcoming freebies!)

Another site that offers free mp3s is http://www.eclassical.com/ (http://www.eclassical.com/) (first free download is at the bottom of their home page, and then follow the link for more) - and these are changed on a daily basis! Sometimes it's just random garbage but often a great chance to sample the CDs they sell.

Anyone aware of other mp3 stores which offer free downloads (I mean including stuff such as the 25 tracks offered by http://www.emusic.com/ (http://www.emusic.com/) for everyone entering their programme)?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Maciek on January 04, 2008, 04:24:25 AM
Quote from: Mark on June 09, 2007, 01:20:25 AM
for historical performances, you can go to Classical Music Mobile (http://www.classicalmusicmobile.com/catalog/index.php), where all works are ripped/encoded as single files

And look, they even have a violin concerto by Henryck  WIENIASKI! I think I might try that - I like discovering new composers...
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: J.Z. Herrenberg on January 04, 2008, 04:43:23 AM
Quote from: Maciek on January 04, 2008, 04:24:25 AM
And look, they even have a violin concerto by Henryck  WIENIASKI! I think I might try that - I like discovering new composers...

I have downloaded a lot from them - Berlioz, Debussy, Bruckner, Hartmann, Wagner... And it's only 1 €!

(Hello, Maciek!)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Tapio Dimitriyevich Shostakovich on January 18, 2008, 01:53:23 AM
The music industry definitely has to go lossless. The market demands or at least will demand lossless, as this makes you most flexible e.g. regarding transcoding. Technically no more a problem because of the users bandwidths and storage space...
If the industry doesn't offer this, the people will. Don't want to tell too much, but I can tell I've seen the best recordings and cycles downloadable as lossless on rapidshare etc... Complete Wagner Rings, etc. etc...
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: premont on January 20, 2008, 03:44:56 PM
Quote from: Lilas Pastia on November 24, 2007, 05:02:58 AM
Hear Ye, violin fans:

David & Igor Oistrakh, violin (with Vladimir Vampolski, piano)
J.S. Bach_ Sonata for 2 Violins in C, BWV 1037

This 1951 recording war originally issued on the
Russian Melodya label. This is an 1950's MMS 45 rpm version.

Available on Rolf Ottevanger's web site (http://www.geocities.com/oudeopnames/leftover.htm)


Stylistic considerations apart, this is an extraordinary interpretation - the music is not even by Bach but by his talented pupil Goldberg (the Goldberg with the variations). You can get it here:

http://www.jpc.de/jpcng/classic/detail/-/hnum/2099371?rk=classic&rsk=hitlist

The Oistrakh´s recorded the work a few years later for DG with Hans Pischner , harpsichord, - don´t know this.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: marvinbrown on January 21, 2008, 01:19:11 AM
Quote from: orbital on January 02, 2008, 10:42:19 AM
Here is the latest bit from RIAA  :-X :-X

"Recording industry says ripping CDs to computer is illegal "

http://www.tgdaily.com/content/view/35454/118/

  After reading this article I think the RIAA has completely lost its marbles.  First they prosecuted a woman who "downloaded" 12 songs thousands of dollars per song and now this- disgracefull  >:( !! 

  I live in England and it is only a matter of time before the BPI (our RIAA) adopts similar tactics!!   

This is what can be properly called "DICTATORSHIP OF THE LAW"!

  marvin


Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Rod Corkin on January 25, 2008, 06:54:44 AM
Quote from: marvinbrown on January 21, 2008, 01:19:11 AM
  After reading this article I think the RIAA has completely lost its marbles.  First they prosecuted a woman who "downloaded" 12 songs thousands of dollars per song and now this- disgracefull  >:( !! 

  I live in England and it is only a matter of time before the BPI (our RIAA) adopts similar tactics!!   

This is what can be properly called "DICTATORSHIP OF THE LAW"!

  marvin

I suggest mass 'strikes' should be organised there, ie everyone just simply stop buying ANY music until these fascistic laws are revoked. A good idea, if I do say so myself.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: The Mad Hatter on January 30, 2008, 01:47:55 AM
Quote from: Rod Corkin on January 25, 2008, 06:54:44 AM
I suggest mass 'strikes' should be organised there, ie everyone just simply stop buying ANY music until these fascistic laws are revoked. A good idea, if I do say so myself.

Ah, if only it was workable...

I think hope lies more in artists providing free albums in the hope that you will then pay them for more music. I would very much like to see the record industry wiped from the face of the earth in favour of money going to the people who make the music, rather than promoting it. Oh well, I can dream.

Anyhow, here's Tasmin Little's The Naked Violin (http://www.tasminlittle.org.uk/free_cd/index.html). Haven't had a chance to listen to it yet, but it's all solo violin stuff - Bach's third Partita, along with pieces by Patterson and Ysaÿe. (To be honest, I haven't heard of either of them, but I look forward to listening.) The album comes with introductions by Little.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lethevich on January 30, 2008, 05:37:14 AM
Quote from: The Mad Hatter on January 30, 2008, 01:47:55 AM
Anyhow, here's Tasmin Little's The Naked Violin (http://www.tasminlittle.org.uk/free_cd/index.html). Haven't had a chance to listen to it yet, but it's all solo violin stuff - Bach's third Partita, along with pieces by Patterson and Ysaÿe. (To be honest, I haven't heard of either of them, but I look forward to listening.) The album comes with introductions by Little.

Re. the "three step challenge" - she seems a really cool person.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: The Mad Hatter on February 05, 2008, 02:48:51 AM
Quote from: Lethe on January 30, 2008, 05:37:14 AM
Re. the "three step challenge" - she seems a really cool person.

Yes, thank goodness for people like her and Angela Hewitt, for making classical music more accessible.

Did you hear the hippopotamus story on the Bach introduction?  ;D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Brian on February 13, 2008, 09:22:57 AM
On 14 and 15 February, Classicsonline have a download one album, get another album free sale. Usually the "choice selection" of free albums on offer is of middling quality, but this time it has some extraordinary discs indeed:

- Beethoven Symphonies Nos. 1 and 6 - Minnesota Orchestra, Osmo Vanska - one of my favorite CDs of 2007 (see sig)
- From Roland Brautigam's fortepiano Beethoven cycle - sonatas 1-3, 19, and 20
- Scarlatti recital - Yevgeny Sudbin - the debut CD of possibly the best young pianist around
- Elgar Violin Concerto with James Ehnes
- Arensky chamber music - Lajtha Quartet - Arensky's String Quartet No. 2 for violin, viola and two cellos is a forgotten masterpiece; its mournful opening movement strikes me as the minor-key counterpart of the opening of Tchaikovsky's First Quartet. This is probably not the best performance around, but it's the only commonly available one and very well done (my only comparison is a moving live concert of the Quartet I had the luck to hear last November)
- Sharon Bezaly in Mozart's flute quartets
- the Nash Ensemble's Brahms sextets

Be sure to cash in, folks. There is some really good stuff to be had for free - and if you have yet to hear Yevgeny Sudbin, now is the chance to do so. (The "buy one" part of the deal applies to any disc from the complete catalogs of Naxos, Marco Polo, Cedille, Hungaroton, Chandos, and Hanssler, and everything else on the Classicsonline site.) Link to their list of potential free downloads. (http://www.classicsonline.com/marketing/valentines2008.aspx)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: uffeviking on February 23, 2008, 07:12:05 PM
My very first venture into this subject of downloading music. I hope I don't make too many goofs!
Rico Saccani has created a website to download most of the classical music he conducted during this 25 years with the Budapest Symphony Orchestra as music director. I checked out the site and it looks great too me; video music samples are of very good quality:

http://www.ricosaccani.com:80/
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on March 03, 2008, 11:57:37 PM
This is how classical downloads of the future will be done - in short, they'll be better than your average CD.

http://www.gimell.com/musicstore-download-test-files.aspx

Happily, my equipment plays back 24-bit/96kHz, so I might try out some of these Studio Master Pro files in the future. :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Harry on March 04, 2008, 12:22:09 AM
I am very old fashioned in this respect. I do not like to download anything, let alone music.
I have to hold the music, see it, smell it, read it.
Not software downloaded on whatever device, to playback, no matter if it is 24 bit.
Having a cd in my hand, perusing the details of the music, admiring the art work, etc, is part and parcel of my enjoyment.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on March 04, 2008, 12:27:48 AM
You have CDs a-plenty to enjoy until your final day, Harry. But in the future, CDs will disappear as broadband speeds increase, cheap hard drive storage grows, and downloads achieve quality superior to that of physical CDs and DVDs.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Harry on March 04, 2008, 01:21:30 AM
Quote from: Mark on March 04, 2008, 12:27:48 AM
You have CDs a-plenty to enjoy until your final day, Harry. But in the future, CDs will disappear as broadband speeds increase, cheap hard drive storage grows, and downloads achieve quality superior to that of physical CDs and DVDs.

Yes I know that. The playback systems will change drastically, and that is okay, but I do not expect to be a participant in this.
That's all... :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Dancing Divertimentian on March 04, 2008, 09:36:21 PM
Quote from: Mark on March 04, 2008, 12:27:48 AM
You have CDs a-plenty to enjoy until your final day, Harry. But in the future, CDs will disappear as broadband speeds increase, cheap hard drive storage grows, and downloads achieve quality superior to that of physical CDs and DVDs.

I'm not sure why CDs in the future need to be forced out. Not that I'm the grouse Luddite...I mean, I've lived through all kinds of format changes, from 8 track tape, to LPs, to CDs, and happily embraced them all. 

But this new format has me puzzled.

I'm not sure I see a single advantage to the existing CD/playback format. I buy a CD, plop it in my player, and listen. Simple. Much less hassle than the old bulky and dusty LPs and noisy 8 track tapes. And CDs are portable. And virtually indestructible.... All of which means the evolution from the old formats to the CD format came with beneficial perks. It was a step up.

And that's the rub with downloading for me. Where are the perks? I see nothing in the way of clear evolution. I could stand pat and have no sense of missing out on anything. It's status quo.

And believe me I'd jump on the bandwagon in a heartbeat if I felt excited about it.

But it gets worse. In order to download (which I've happily done) I have to put my faith in the hands of two "antagonists" that have proven themselves unpredictable: my computer (its hard drive and beyond), and the host server. Both of which are notorious for, err, 'having issues'. Hard drives can crash, computers can have glitches, and servers can go down at just the wrong time.

Backing up a hard drive is easy enough but an external hard drive is an unnecessary expense for me. I mean, if I have the physical CD I already have my backup. And it's indestructibility is built in. The idea of backing up something I already own - out of fear of losing it - instantly puts the new format behind the curve for me. It's simply a strike against me enjoying it.

Of course, I could burn the download and *bingo* I have my disc. But again, a CDR isn't free. More unnecessary expense. If I buy the CD itself I spare myself the extra hassle.

Then there's the host issues. Servers can go down. If it goes down smack in the middle of a download..............I hate to think of the irritation this would bring.

And last but not least the glitch issues. No computer is immune to technical glitches. They're rare of course and most of the time very minor, but potentially disruptive during a download (like freezing up).

Now, don't get me wrong - none of this is meant to disparage the new format!!!!! I'm not putting it down in any way. Like I said, I've rode many a format change. I'm just saying I haven't really been 'wowed' by downloading yet. Not enough perks yet to make the move worthwhile. 

Ironically, I'm already set up with my current computer arrangement to easily make downloading my primary source for music. My computer's a good one, I have plenty of memory, I've downloaded/burned already, I have my iPod, etc... All I'd need are good computer speakers for central playback.

Even with all that, for my situation, I feel I have my ideal listening set up already with my current playback system (home stereo).

All of which leads me to my above query: is it really necessary to kill off the CD? There's still a viable market for them - I'm living proof of that. And I just don't see the logic in doing away with a format that gives up nothing to 'the newest'. Let me see clear change - along with benefits/perks - before bidding bye-bye to the existing CD.




Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Tapio Dimitriyevich Shostakovich on March 04, 2008, 09:47:11 PM
Quote from: Mark on March 03, 2008, 11:57:37 PMHappily, my equipment plays back 24-bit/96kHz, so I might try out some of these Studio Master Pro files in the future. :)
But most likely calculates down to 16bit/44 or 48 kHz :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: marvinbrown on March 05, 2008, 12:56:32 AM
Quote from: donwyn on March 04, 2008, 09:36:21 PM
I'm not sure why CDs in the future need to be forced out. Not that I'm the grouse Luddite...I mean, I've lived through all kinds of format changes, from 8 track tape, to LPs, to CDs, and happily embraced them all. 

But this new format has me puzzled.

I'm not sure I see a single advantage to the existing CD/playback format. I buy a CD, plop it in my player, and listen. Simple. Much less hassle than the old bulky and dusty LPs and noisy 8 track tapes. And CDs are portable. And virtually indestructible.... All of which means the evolution from the old formats to the CD format came with beneficial perks. It was a step up.

And that's the rub with downloading for me. Where are the perks? I see nothing in the way of clear evolution. I could stand pat and have no sense of missing out on anything. It's status quo.

And believe me I'd jump on the bandwagon in a heartbeat if I felt excited about it.

But it gets worse. In order to download (which I've happily done) I have to put my faith in the hands of two "antagonists" that have proven themselves unpredictable: my computer (its hard drive and beyond), and the host server. Both of which are notorious for, err, 'having issues'. Hard drives can crash, computers can have glitches, and servers can go down at just the wrong time.

Backing up a hard drive is easy enough but an external hard drive is an unnecessary expense for me. I mean, if I have the physical CD I already have my backup. And it's indestructibility is built in. The idea of backing up something I already own - out of fear of losing it - instantly puts the new format behind the curve for me. It's simply a strike against me enjoying it.

Of course, I could burn the download and *bingo* I have my disc. But again, a CDR isn't free. More unnecessary expense. If I buy the CD itself I spare myself the extra hassle.

Then there's the host issues. Servers can go down. If it goes down smack in the middle of a download..............I hate to think of the irritation this would bring.

And last but not least the glitch issues. No computer is immune to technical glitches. They're rare of course and most of the time very minor, but potentially disruptive during a download (like freezing up).

Now, don't get me wrong - none of this is meant to disparage the new format!!!!! I'm not putting it down in any way. Like I said, I've rode many a format change. I'm just saying I haven't really been 'wowed' by downloading yet. Not enough perks yet to make the move worthwhile. 

Ironically, I'm already set up with my current computer arrangement to easily make downloading my primary source for music. My computer's a good one, I have plenty of memory, I've downloaded/burned already, I have my iPod, etc... All I'd need are good computer speakers for central playback.

Even with all that, for my situation, I feel I have my ideal listening set up already with my current playback system (home stereo).

All of which leads me to my above query: is it really necessary to kill off the CD? There's still a viable market for them - I'm living proof of that. And I just don't see the logic in doing away with a format that gives up nothing to 'the newest'. Let me see clear change - along with benefits/perks - before bidding bye-bye to the existing CD.



  You raise some very good points and convincing ones as well. I still buy CDs and will continue to do so, especially operas as I need to have the libretto in a small booklet.  But I have entered the digital technology age and have ripped all my music on my harddrive.  Carrying CDs around can be quite cumbersome especially when you are travelling, driving etc. I have about 500 CDs in my collection and  I like the idea of all my music being on one mp3/iPod player that fits neatly in my pocket.  I have my whole collection at my finger tips whenever I want it. 

  Recently I have started downloading the Bach Suzuki Cantatas from emusic (thanks Mark I owe you one for referring me to that website  :)) as I am collecting these.  I have noticed that some of the new Suzuki cantatas on CD are released in SACD format (I am not sure what that is?? but I do know that I can not import SACD formatted CDs into iTunes).  As it turns out emusic has these same SACD CDs in mp3 format and at a fraction of the price that they can be had from amazon marketplace sellers.  True they are in mp3 format but this is a tradeoff that I am willing to live with.  Plus storage space problems have become less of an issue!!

  I am pleased to hear from Mark that new higher quality audio files are now available for downloading.  I think I'd be a very old man or dead before CDs become obsolete but I do believe that one day it will happen.  Such is the nature of technology.

  marvin 
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Dancing Divertimentian on March 05, 2008, 06:30:27 PM
Quote from: marvinbrown on March 05, 2008, 12:56:32 AM
  You raise some very good points and convincing ones as well. I still buy CDs and will continue to do so, especially operas as I need to have the libretto in a small booklet.  But I have entered the digital technology age and have ripped all my music on my harddrive.  Carrying CDs around can be quite cumbersome especially when you are travelling, driving etc. I have about 500 CDs in my collection and  I like the idea of all my music being on one mp3/iPod player that fits neatly in my pocket.  I have my whole collection at my finger tips whenever I want it.


Marvin,

Yes, for those who have storage issues I can imagine downloading must be a boon. All the music you need in two square feet of computer.

And traveling, as you said, becomes a snap when you can load up an iPod and clip it on.

Neither of these things has ever been too pressing for me, though. As it is, the only way I can see embracing downloading is if things drastically change for me. Like I suddenly need storage space.

But I admit it's nice to know I have the option if I ever needed it...



Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on March 14, 2008, 04:42:48 AM
Excellent offer from eClassical: grab it with both hands.

Berlioz Requiem - Norrington (http://www.eclassical.com/eclassic/eclassical?page=mar08-2)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: J.Z. Herrenberg on March 14, 2008, 05:07:31 AM
Quote from: Mark on March 14, 2008, 04:42:48 AM
Excellent offer from eClassical: grab it with both hands.

Berlioz Requiem - Norrington (http://www.eclassical.com/eclassic/eclassical?page=mar08-2)

I got an email with this offer a few days ago, as a regular customer. And I wonder whether the discussion with Rikard from eClassical has changed something, for this download comes with pdf files (with the booklet, the inlay and the label) and a jpg with the cover. Is this a first?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on March 14, 2008, 05:17:40 AM
Quote from: Jezetha on March 14, 2008, 05:07:31 AM
I got an email with this offer a few days ago, as a regular customer. And I wonder whether the discussion with Rikard from eClassical has changed something, for this download comes with pdf files (with the booklet, the inlay and the label) and a jpg with the cover. Is this a first?

I, too, got an email yesterday. ;)

As to whether or not this is a first: no, it isn't. I've had a couple of downloads from eClassical that have come similarly (if not quite as comprehensively) packaged.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: J.Z. Herrenberg on March 14, 2008, 05:22:11 AM
Quote from: Mark on March 14, 2008, 05:17:40 AM
I, too, got an email yesterday. ;)

As to whether or not this is a first: no, it isn't. I've had a couple of downloads from eClassical that have come similarly (if not quite as comprehensively) packaged.

And in that if not quite as comprehensively resides, perhaps, the GMG Factor...  ;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on March 14, 2008, 05:25:19 AM
Quote from: Jezetha on March 14, 2008, 05:22:11 AM
And in that if not quite as comprehensively resides, perhaps, the GMG Factor...  ;)

Here's hoping. ;D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mark on March 15, 2008, 04:08:08 AM
New release from Naxos is rather nice for those who remain unpoisoned by a certain GMG member's 'advocacy':

Elgar - Part-songs (http://www.classicsonline.com/catalogue/product.aspx?pid=551356)

I'd still recommend the Finzi Singers on Chandos in preference, but there's some lovely singing here, nonetheless.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: BachQ on March 15, 2008, 06:08:45 AM
Quote from: Mark on March 15, 2008, 04:08:08 AM
but there's some lovely [Elgarian] singing here, nonetheless.

We'll take your word for that ..........  :D

Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: John Copeland on March 28, 2008, 07:05:07 AM
Quote from: Mark on March 14, 2008, 04:42:48 AM
Excellent offer from eClassical: grab it with both hands.

Berlioz Requiem - Norrington (http://www.eclassical.com/eclassic/eclassical?page=mar08-2)

Yes, thankls for this - a great work, double CD, hopefully a fabulous performance, all for just over 3 quid.  I'm trying not to download these days, but this was just too good to miss.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: marvinbrown on April 04, 2008, 07:54:08 AM


  My quest for Bach's cantatas continues.  My membership at emusic was renewed yesterday and I took full advantage of my 50 downloads per month all in one day  :o...;D and most of the downloads were of the folowing:

  Cantatas 21, 23, 66, 105, 106, 131, Suzuki

  Cantatas 82, 191 Rilling

  I just love emusic  :D!

  marvin
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: eclassical on April 07, 2008, 05:32:59 AM
Quote from: Jezetha on March 14, 2008, 05:07:31 AM
I got an email with this offer a few days ago, as a regular customer. And I wonder whether the discussion with Rikard from eClassical has changed something, for this download comes with pdf files (with the booklet, the inlay and the label) and a jpg with the cover. Is this a first?

Actually, we took the discussion seriously and I've spent hours replacing small cover art with larger images, etc since having the discussion.

But it's actually not up to us if we can include PDFs with booklets etc. It's up to the labels, and some labels don't have it at all, others don't want
to give it away because they believe it would compete with CD sales if booklets are included (sigh). Why don't you contact the labels and request this? I don't think they realize that there is a great demand for booklets in PDF (although I've told them but they wouldn't listen) and that competing with their CD sales isn't a bad thing, it's actually the future ;-)

Anyway, we listen and will include as much extra material as we can in our future offers. UK label Signum has understood this and are offering booklets that we include when using their music. I've also linked to booklets on our "view all tracks from CD" page, if we have it.

And you can browse here:

http://www.eclassical.com/pdf/ (http://www.eclassical.com/pdf/) (PDFs)

and here:

http://www.eclassical.com/cover_art/ (http://www.eclassical.com/cover_art/) (improved quality cover art)

In particular the sometimes minimal pictures from Hänssler were replaced with larger ones, but I've gone through all labels and will continue this work.

Just wanted to say that we heard you and we're working on it. Hopefully the labels will wake up soon too!

Rikard
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: J.Z. Herrenberg on April 07, 2008, 05:41:47 AM
Quote from: eclassical on April 07, 2008, 05:32:59 AM
But it's actually not up to us if we can include PDFs with booklets etc. It's up to the labels, and some labels don't have it at all, others don't want to give it away because they believe it would compete with CD sales if booklets are included (sigh). Why don't you contact the labels and request this? I don't think they realize that there is a great demand for booklets in PDF (although I've told them but they wouldn't listen) and that competing with their CD sales isn't a bad thing, it's actually the future ;-)

Hi Rikard!

Thanks for your update.

I can both understand your exasperation and the reasoning of the labels. But - and here you are right - they are thinking short-term. Why don't they see that CDs and mp3s (or flac files) simply complement each other, and that a downloader is just as much a customer as a buyer in a shop (online or otherwise), and that he or she is also entitled to as much information?

Yes, I think I'll write to some of my favourite labels...

All the best!

Johan
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: eclassical on April 08, 2008, 12:11:13 AM
Quote from: Jezetha on April 07, 2008, 05:41:47 AM
I can both understand your exasperation and the reasoning of the labels. But - and here you are right - they are thinking short-term. Why don't they see that CDs and mp3s (or flac files) simply complement each other, and that a downloader is just as much a customer as a buyer in a shop (online or otherwise), and that he or she is also entitled to as much information?

Yes, I think I'll write to some of my favourite labels...

Johan, why not post your emails to the labels and any replies here? It would be very interesting for us all, I think, to hear how they reason ;) Or at least share the response as a summary here?

Rikard
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: J.Z. Herrenberg on April 08, 2008, 12:14:06 AM
Quote from: eclassical on April 08, 2008, 12:11:13 AM
Johan, why not post your emails to the labels and any replies here? It would be very interesting for us all, I think, to hear how they reason ;) Or at least share the response as a summary here?

Rikard

I'll keep you posted.

Johan
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Daedalus on April 22, 2008, 03:01:12 AM
Hello all,

I have only recently started to experiment with downloading music - I feel that the price must represent a fantastic bargain for me to consider doing so, otherwise I may as well part with a little more cash and obtain a CD version with the artwork and notes etc.
I tend to download single movement pieces because I would normally have to buy a whole CD for just one piece of music - this way I can often find excellent bargains.

As a poor postgraduate student, I am deeply afraid of subscription services etc. I have tended to stick to 'pay as you go' sites. Some sites, such as Classics Online, seem to be very expensive as far as I am concerned - I could normally get the CD for the prices they charge. That really is the deciding factor for me - the download must be much cheaper than the price of the CD, otherwise what is the point?

I have just visited the  Classic Music Mobile site as recommended by somebody on this thread - what incredible value! I have downloaded a few excerpts and all seems well with the sound quality too. Is there anything on there that I should stay clear of?

I must confess that I find downloading to be a very timely pursuit! I tend to copy my downloads to CDs, as well as to my MP3 player, so that I can listen to the music in my study and while out travelling respectively. Copying to CD also provides a way of 'backing up' my downloads. I would hate to lose all of my downloaded music - at least I would be able to recover it from CDs.
Do any of you bother to copy your downloads to CD-R?

So many questions!  ;D

D.

Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Daedalus on April 22, 2008, 03:18:44 AM
Does anyone know if converting one file to another file type would result in a loss of quality?

I have downloaded something as a WAV file - if I convert this WAV file to an MP3 file using MediaMonkey or something similar, would this be better than just downloading it again as an MP3? 

Any guidance would be appreciated.

D.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: J.Z. Herrenberg on April 22, 2008, 03:35:31 AM
Quote from: Daedalus on April 22, 2008, 03:18:44 AM
Does anyone know if converting one file to another file type would result in a loss of quality?

I have downloaded something as a WAV file - if I convert this WAV file to an MP3 file using MediaMonkey or something similar, would this be better than just downloading it again as an MP3? 

Any guidance would be appreciated.

D.

If you don't want any loss in quality but still want a smaller size, convert your WAV file to FLAC, not to mp3. I suggest you download foobar2000 to play and convert files. It's very small and relatively easy to use. If you want to burn FLAC files to CD (to make an Audio CD), download Burrn.

If you have any questions about how to use them, let me know.

http://www.majorgeeks.com/download4003.html

http://www.burrrn.net/?page_id=4
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Daedalus on April 22, 2008, 03:43:33 AM
Jezetha - thanks for this.

I have downloaded a WAV file to copy to CD  - I figured go for the very highest quality.
However, now I have got the WAV on CD, I want to make an MP3 copy for my MP3 player.
It sounds like this foobar2000 might help me to achieve this.

My main concern was that, in converting from wav to mp3, I might not get the same quality mp3 file as I would by just downloading the file again in mp3 format. Does that make sense?

A similar idea is if you were to copy a CD to WAV files and then convert the WAVs to MP3 afterwards using software like foobar2000. Would it be better to have just copied the CD again but this time to MP3? It probably makes no difference but I am easily confused by this kind of thing!  ::)  :)

D.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: J.Z. Herrenberg on April 22, 2008, 03:57:46 AM
Quote from: Daedalus on April 22, 2008, 03:43:33 AM
Jezetha - thanks for this.

I have downloaded a WAV file to copy to CD  - I figured go for the very highest quality.
However, now I have got the WAV on CD, I want to make an MP3 copy for my MP3 player.
It sounds like this foobar2000 might help me to achieve this.

My main concern was that, in converting from wav to mp3, I might not get the same quality mp3 file as I would by just downloading the file again in mp3 format. Does that make sense?

A similar idea is if you were to copy a CD to WAV files and then convert the WAVs to MP3 afterwards using software like foobar2000. Would it be better to have just copied the CD again but this time to MP3? It probably makes no difference but I am easily confused by this kind of thing! 

If you convert a WAV file to mp3 there is some loss especially if the bitrate is low (say 128 kb). If the bitrate is set at 192, for instance, many people don't hear a difference. Probably a bitrate of 320 is best, but the maximum I get on foobar is 220 or thereabouts. You'll have to check, if you want to download an mp3, what the bitrate is - if it's 320, go for the download. It saves you converting WAV files to mp3s at a lower bitrate. If you can still follow me...

Btw - ripping with foobar2000 is easy:

Start the programme - go to File - click on Open AudioCD - Select drive - and the rest is easy (if your CD is in a database, you can automatically download tags).

To set the bitrate for mp3s:

Click on File - go to Preferences - go to Tools - click on Converter - you see 'Encoding Presets': choose MP3 - click on edit - choose (use the slide) best quality - OK.

P.S. I just remembered - I don't know if the LAME encoder (to make mp3s) has to be downloaded separately. It's been so long I've been using this...
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Daedalus on April 22, 2008, 04:21:26 AM
Jezetha, thank you for this very quick and informative response.
I think I have an idea of how to proceed now! Thank you for your help.

D.

P.S. This downloading business is fun!  ;D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: rickardg on April 22, 2008, 04:40:45 AM
Quote from: Daedalus on April 22, 2008, 03:43:33 AM
My main concern was that, in converting from wav to mp3, I might not get the same quality mp3 file as I would by just downloading the file again in mp3 format. Does that make sense?

A similar idea is if you were to copy a CD to WAV files and then convert the WAVs to MP3 afterwards using software like foobar2000. Would it be better to have just copied the CD again but this time to MP3? It probably makes no difference but I am easily confused by this kind of thing!  ::)  :)

The most important distinction is between lossless formats (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lossless_data_compression#Audio) and lossy formats (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lossy#Audio) (WAV is a lossless format not mentioned in the lists linked, since it isn't compressed at all).

Lossless formats retain all the original information from the source e g the CD but compresses it rather like a zip-file. Lossy formats throw away some information in order to make the file even smaller, higher quality files (320 kbps) retain more information than low quality (128 kbps). Most of the information thrown away is inaudible, but some isn't which causes compression artifacts (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compression_artifact#Compression_artifacts_in_audio_coding) .

Conversions to lossless formats (like FLAC, WAV, Apple Lossless) don't cause degradation of sound quality, but if the source is already lossily compressed you won't gain quality either. Conversions to lossy formats (like mp3, AAC, ogg) do degrade quality and, at least in theory, conversions between lossy formats also lose quality, although I haven't tried it.

CD (WAV) -> Lossless (e g FLAC or Apple Lossless) -> CD (WAV) should give you an exact copy of the original CD

CD (or WAV) -> Lossless -> mp3 should be equivalent to CD -> mp3.

CD -> mp3 -> lossless is pointless, you get a large file with the same quality as the mp3.

CD -> mp3 (320 kbps) -> mp3 (128 kbps) will (at least in theory, I haven't tried it) give worse quality than CD -> mp3 (128 kbps)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: J.Z. Herrenberg on April 22, 2008, 04:41:01 AM
Quote from: Daedalus on April 22, 2008, 04:21:26 AM
Jezetha, thank you for this very quick and informative response.
I think I have an idea of how to proceed now! Thank you for your help.

D.

P.S. This downloading business is fun!  ;D

Glad to be of service. Btw, there is an excellent programme, EAC (Exact Audio Copy), which I haven't mentioned because I have never used it... But I know people very exacting in their audio standards who swear by it... FYI.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on April 22, 2008, 07:31:01 AM
Quote from: Jezetha on April 22, 2008, 04:41:01 AM
Glad to be of service. Btw, there is an excellent programme, EAC (Exact Audio Copy), which I haven't mentioned because I have never used it... But I know people very exacting in their audio standards who swear by it... FYI.

Yes, I long for the day when it comes to MAC.  :-[

Anyone know if it really gets better quality than an itunes WAV rip?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: J.Z. Herrenberg on April 22, 2008, 07:34:14 AM
Nice contribution, rickardg!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: rickardg on April 22, 2008, 08:19:28 AM
Quote from: George on April 22, 2008, 07:31:01 AM
Yes, I long for the day when it comes to MAC.  :-[

There is always Max (http://sbooth.org/Max/) which is a GUI frontend to cdparanoia (http://xiph.org/paranoia/index.html), but I haven't used it for ripping.

Quote from: George on April 22, 2008, 07:31:01 AM
Anyone know if it really gets better quality than an itunes WAV rip?

Is there a problem with iTunes ripping? I've naïvely assumed it created a perfect copy of the content of the CD, at least if you've enabled error correction. (Up to interpolation due to scratches, bits flipped by cosmic radiation and other stuff like that).
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on April 22, 2008, 08:25:08 AM
Quote from: rickardg on April 22, 2008, 08:19:28 AM
Is there a problem with iTunes ripping? I've naïvely assumed it created a perfect copy of the content of the CD, at least if you've enabled error correction. (Up to interpolation due to scratches, bits flipped by cosmic radiation and other stuff like that).

It's an ongoing debate. I haven't enountered any problems, but then again I haven't burned 2 copies each way and compared. I'm guessing that the difference is negligible.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Tapio Dimitriyevich Shostakovich on April 23, 2008, 02:13:02 AM
As a sidenote: Always get the latest LAME mp3 encoder (amongst others) from rarewares.org
Since 3.98b8 there's an interesting development: you can use fractions in vbr presets (this is probably not correct english), what I mean is before we could use -V 0, - V 1 [...] to -V9 (0 is the best quality vbr value). Now you can use -V 0.77.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: J.Z. Herrenberg on April 23, 2008, 02:44:28 AM
Quote from: Wurstwasser on April 23, 2008, 02:13:02 AM
As a sidenote: Always get the latest LAME mp3 encoder (amongst others) from rarewares.org
Since 3.98b8 there's an interesting development: you can use fractions in vbr presets (this is probably not correct english), what I mean is before we could use -V 0, - V 1 [...] to -V9 (0 is the best quality vbr value). Now you can use -V 0.77.

Thanks for that link! I updated my LAME encoder.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: eclassical on April 27, 2008, 11:13:00 AM
Quote from: Daedalus on April 22, 2008, 03:18:44 AM
Does anyone know if converting one file to another file type would result in a loss of quality?

I have downloaded something as a WAV file - if I convert this WAV file to an MP3 file using MediaMonkey or something similar, would this be better than just downloading it again as an MP3? 

Any guidance would be appreciated.

D.

Please note that going from one lossy format, e.g. acc to another lossy format, e.g. mp3 will also mean loss in quality. This is because the converter will most likely go from lossy format 1 to WAV and then to lossy format 2, which means compressing again in the last step.

Same thing applies if you want to save your DRM infested music before it might be rendered obsolete (as will happen with your MSN Music files if you change computer or OS after September this year when Microsoft will discontinue its DRM servers) by creating a CD from the files and then rip the CD to MP3 or Ogg etc. It will then be compressed a second time and you will lose quality. This is only one reason for not purchasing files that are defective by DRM.

George:

This seems to be a good ripper for MAC:

http://www.versiontracker.com/dyn/moreinfo/macosx/21952 (http://www.versiontracker.com/dyn/moreinfo/macosx/21952)

//Rikard
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: bhodges on April 29, 2008, 10:05:25 AM
Got this press release in my inbox awhile ago for HDtracks, a new download service by the founders of Chesky Records.  It sounds pretty great, but has anyone heard anything about this?  (Unfortunately, the website says it's only available in the U.S. at the moment.)

--Bruce

* * * * *

For Press Information:
Doug Wright
Giles Communications
914-798-4115
dwright@giles.com


HDtracks.com Offers Discerning Music Fans DRM-Free*
CD-quality Downloads from Leading Independent Labels

Exciting new avenue for iPod and mp3 users delivers high-resolution files
compatible with any device, plus full liner notes


New York City, April 29, 2008 – HDtracks, founded by David and Norman Chesky of the audiophile record label Chesky Records, today announces the launch of its ambitious audiophile-quality music download Web site (www.hdtracks.com) that offers music enthusiasts high-resolution recordings from a distinguished and diverse stable of thousands of  artists, including Smokey Robinson, Joe Jackson, Bob James, Buddy Guy, Nina Simone, Earl Wild, Zubin Mehta, The Kinks, Of Montreal, Yo La Tengo and Jerry Garcia, from 60 independent labels around the world. Music can be downloaded in high definition uncompressed AIFF or lossless FLAC format files for playback on home audio systems, including PCs, Macs or music servers, or as 320kbps mp3 files that far exceed the quality of standard mp3 files for playback on iPods and other portables. 

HDtracks offers an intriguing alternative for the current "iTunes" music buyer. In addition to offering consumers entire albums at value-pricing ($11.98), complete with PDF-file downloads of album cover art and full liner notes, it is the first site to provide nothing but high-definition, DRM-free downloads for both PCs and Macs playable on any home or portable device. The site also offers thousands of music titles from diverse genres (including blues, classical, country, folk, gospel, jazz, latin, new age, pop, R&B, rock, soundtracks and world music) that are often overlooked by music sites designed to be "everything for everybody." (Editor's Note: A complete list of independent record labels associated with HDtracks is attached.)

"HDtracks is like the cool Greenwich Village record store of yesteryear, where you can always discover something different and worthwhile that you'd never find anywhere else," said site co-founder Norman Chesky. "And by focusing on the sale of complete albums and giving music enthusiasts the ability to download cover art and liner notes, we're also restoring key components of the music experience not enjoyed since the days of vinyl, and not offered by any other music site."

High definition music files deliver greater audio detail and realism than the standard compressed 128 kbps mp3 files commonly heard by the average iPod and mp3 player user. By preserving more of the original digital information in the recording, the AIFF, FLAC and 320 kbps mp3 files offered by HDtracks retain more of the original audio performance. In offering all three of these formats as an option for any download, HDtracks gives buyers the ultimate flexibility for playback:

· AIFF format files deliver uncompressed CD-quality music that is compatible with iTunes, iPods and Winamp

· FLAC format files deliver CD-quality lossless compression music files that allows audio to be downloaded at a faster rate than AIFF and is compatible with Media Monkey, VLC, Songbird, Mac Flac, Toast and Winamp

· 320 kbps mp3 format files enable quick download times and universal compatibility for all portable mp3 media players

Furthermore, in the coming months HDtracks will offer select titles in ultra-high resolution 96kHz/24-bit files that provide DVD-Audio sound quality for music enthusiasts who seek the very finest audio quality available.

"Serious efforts have been made throughout history to deliver a pristine live-music experience, from the design of concert halls with perfect acoustics to the building of precious hand-made instruments, to the years of work put in by performers to perfect their craft," said site co-founder David Chesky. "We offer the best alternative to those music enthusiasts who will not compromise and accept recorded music that is compressed, flat, lifeless, and represents a mere fraction of the original performance."

Not surprisingly, accomplished musicians frustrated by how typical downloads diminish the quality of their work have responded favorably to HDtracks. "At last!," declared nine-time Grammy winner Paquito D'Rivera. "With the invention of HDtracks, music lovers can not only enjoy CD quality, but also liner notes and photographs of their favorite artists. The future is here!"  Legendary concert pianist Earl Wild noted that HDtracks "is the only music download site that retains the exact experience of my audiophile-recording CDs. Anyone particular about sound quality should feel comfortable using this site exclusively."  Renown flugelhorn master Chuck Mangione simply said, "I love the way my recordings sound!"

About HDtracks

Founded by David and Norman Chesky of the respected audiophile-record label Chesky Records, HDtracks is a high-quality music download service offering a diverse catalog of independent music from around the world. HDtracks does not believe in DRM, and as a result, offers a selection of unencrypted files that play on any computer or portable device. HDtracks recognizes that while there are significant benefits to accessing music at the touch of a button in today's computer age, preserving sound quality and the visceral experience of the live music performance should remain a priority. The sound should not suffer at the expense of convenience. The HDtracks mission is to deliver the whole package: world-class music, unrivaled sound, files that play in any environment, and liner notes that enhance appreciation of the artist and album.

* Digital Rights Management encoding, or DRM, is a technology that limits the usage of digital media. HDTracks does not employ this technology as the company believes that once its customers purchase music from its site, they have the right to play it wherever they wish on any device they choose.

Note to editors: Please contact Doug Wright , Giles Communications at 914-798-4115 or dwright@giles.com for interviews with Norman or David Chesky.

HDtracks features music from the following independent labels:
Acoustic Disc
Alligator Records
Appleseed Recordings
ASV
Audium Records
Bar None Records
BHM Records/ZYX
Black Box
Blind Pig Records
Blue Jackal Entertainment
Brodsky Records
Calvin Records
Chesky Records
COE Records
Collegium Records
Cryptogramophone
Daemon Records
Dorian
DRG
Evidence Records
Fatboy Records
Gaudeamus
HipBop Records
Hyena Records
Imago Recording Company
Ivory Classics
KOCH Records
Liquid 8 Records
Luaka Bop
Marquis Classics
MaxJazz
MDG Records
Miles High Records
Mode Records
Musical Concepts
New Albion Records
New World Records
OhBoy Records
Oxingale
Pachyderm Records
Penitentiary Records
Reader's Digest
Reference Recordings
Renaissance Entertainment
Resonance
Revenant Records
Sidecho
Signature Sound Recordings
Silva Screen Records
Sundazed Music
Sunnyside Records
Taang! Records
Taxi Records
The Children's Group
Tzadik
Vanguard Classics
White Line
Wigmore Hall Live
Wildflower
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Conservationist on May 27, 2008, 09:14:52 AM
A good FAQ on ripping/downloading:

http://www.anus.com/metal/hall/YaBB.cgi?board=mp3;action=display;num=1171222541
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Brian on May 27, 2008, 01:47:00 PM
Quote from: bhodges on April 29, 2008, 10:05:25 AM
Blind Pig Records
I was stunned to see this label included on the list. About an hour's drive from where I live is a place called the Hilltop Café (http://www.hilltopcafe.com/), which is, well, on a hilltop. In the middle of nowhere. It's about a dozen miles from the nearest town, but the food (Greek/Cajun/Texan) is legendary and some folks drive all the way from Austin or (like us) San Antonio to eat there. The Café is owned by a fellow named Johnny Nicholas, a Greek-Texan who in his heyday (the 60s and 70s) was a minor but popular figure in the Texas blues circuit. Posters in the restaurant advertise his gigs with folks like B.B. King. Anyways, back in the 70s Johnny Nicholas was one of the major properties of ... Blind Pig Records. And when I last visited the restaurant, the day before yesterday, I had one of the very best sandwiches of my life - a Blind Pig Sandwich, open face with ham, melted provolone, tomatoes and oodles of Mediterranean seasoning. Absolutely scrumptious (and far too small  :D )!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mn dave on June 03, 2008, 04:28:52 PM
Yay for me! Naxos has gone to the iTunes Plus format.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on June 03, 2008, 04:52:19 PM
Quote from: mn dave on June 03, 2008, 04:28:52 PM
Yay for me! Naxos has gone to the iTunes Plus format.

Since when you care about SQ?  :P
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mn dave on June 03, 2008, 04:55:07 PM
Quote from: George on June 03, 2008, 04:52:19 PM
Since when you care about SQ?  :P

:P :-[ :-\ :'( >:( :P ??? 8) >:D

0:)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Tapio Dimitriyevich Shostakovich on June 03, 2008, 11:05:59 PM
Quote from: mn dave on June 03, 2008, 04:28:52 PMYay for me! Naxos has gone to the iTunes Plus format.
Erm, afaik "itunes plus" is just a brand name, the format should be AAC.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mn dave on June 04, 2008, 04:23:45 AM
Quote from: Wurstwasser on June 03, 2008, 11:05:59 PM
Erm, afaik "itunes plus" is just a brand name, the format should be AAC.

"Plus" meaning twice the kbps.  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Tapio Dimitriyevich Shostakovich on June 05, 2008, 08:11:48 AM
Quote from: mn dave on June 04, 2008, 04:23:45 AM"Plus" meaning twice the kbps.  :)
But it's still AAC, even if someone would call it "mn dave super ultra plus". Additionally, the bandwidth and hard disk space reality demands LOSSLESS ONLY, which makes us way more flexible.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mn dave on June 05, 2008, 08:16:01 AM
Quote from: Wurstwasser on June 05, 2008, 08:11:48 AM
But it's still AAC...

Yeah.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: nigeld on June 13, 2008, 06:34:57 AM
those of you who like to download at decent quality should be aware that eClassical.com are in the process of shifting everything to 320kbps.

Really excellent service with some great offers

Just downloaded Martinu symphonies 1 to 6 for just $5.99

Neemi Jarvi on BIS



Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mn dave on June 27, 2008, 11:10:33 AM
I have moved from iTunes to Amazon downloads recently because they offer more recordings in better sound.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on June 27, 2008, 11:19:22 AM
Quote from: mn dave on June 27, 2008, 11:10:33 AM
I have moved from iTunes to Amazon downloads recently because they offer more recordings in better sound.

Seconded. No DRM either.  8)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mn dave on June 27, 2008, 11:28:35 AM
Quote from: Howard on June 27, 2008, 11:19:22 AM
Seconded. No DRM either.  8)

No DRM in iTunes Plus files but the lower quality ones, yes. Which...makes no sense to me.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on June 27, 2008, 09:46:13 PM
2-for-1, anyone?

http://www.classicsonline.com/generics.aspx?id=col_anniversary&utm_source=Naxos_ecard&utm_medium=email&utm_content=buy&utm_campaign=COL_Anniversary

Not a great variety of selections, though.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mn dave on July 03, 2008, 05:20:41 AM
VBR

What is it? Why do we like/not like it?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Tapio Dimitriyevich Shostakovich on July 03, 2008, 05:41:29 AM
Quote from: Mn Dave on July 03, 2008, 05:20:41 AMVBR

What is it? Why do we like/not like it?
We like it. Just read http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Variable_bitrate
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mn dave on July 03, 2008, 05:44:30 AM
Quote from: Wurstwasser on July 03, 2008, 05:41:29 AM
We like it. Just read http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Variable_bitrate

Indeed we do. Thanks, sir.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: otterhouse on October 05, 2008, 01:32:31 AM
this week for you on:

http://docent.cmd.hro.nl/otter/

Edmund Nick, conducting the
"Bavaria-Sinfonie-Orchester"
Liszt: Hungarian Rhapsody No 2 & 12

From a DGG 45 rpm issued June 1956

Have fun!

Rolf
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: J.Z. Herrenberg on October 05, 2008, 01:42:08 AM
Good morning, and thank you, Rolf!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Maciek on October 22, 2008, 05:34:43 AM
Does anyone else subscribe to the CHANDOS newsletter? The free downloads from the last couple of times are rather worhtless, but I take them anyway - it's a sort of automatism. But this month I can't seem to be able to download track no. 12. Not that I'm dying to get it (I am a little curuous though - it's Schumann's Abendlied, Op. 107 No. 6 in and orchestral version by Saint-Saens), but I find the situation a bit annoying. Anyone else have the same problem?

(I really hate that disclaimer they have: Please Note: as these tracks are provided free, no customer/technical support can be given or correspondence entered into. The downloads have been tested on most of the popular operating systems and web/email clients. - as I'm almost 100% sure that they in fact do not test these links at all.)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on October 22, 2008, 02:03:39 PM
I subscribe to the Chandos email newsletter, but never bother with the downloads. I note with interest, however, that they say no correspondence will be entered into regarding these tracks. Believe me, it's not just the free MP3s they won't correspond about. Each month, the editorial section gives an email address so you can have a right to reply. But do they ever publish these replies, or even acknowledge their receipt? Do they hell!

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Maciek on October 22, 2008, 02:59:46 PM
They used to have some very decent recordings as free downloads - but that was before they started to actually include them into the newsletter. Nowadays, I really don't know why I do it. But, as I say, it's beyond my willpower to stop. ;D

It doesn't seem to be such a great marketing strategy to completely ignore one's customers. But then, what do I know? ::)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on October 22, 2008, 03:26:39 PM
There does seem to be a whiff of intellectual arrogance about the editor, so perhaps that might explain the reluctance to respond to 'plebs'. ;D

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Tapio Dimitriyevich Shostakovich on October 25, 2008, 04:33:49 AM
(http://kco.radio4.nl/images/promo_headers/1_en.jpg) (http://kco.radio4.nl/)

The downloads require registration, you get CBR 320 mp3 files, one file per symphony, plus booklet PDF.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on October 25, 2008, 05:49:19 AM
Quote from: Wurstwasser on October 25, 2008, 04:33:49 AM
(http://kco.radio4.nl/images/promo_headers/1_en.jpg) (http://kco.radio4.nl/)

The downloads require registration, you get CBR 320 mp3 files, one file per symphony, plus booklet PDF.
And just in the nick of time.   ;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Tapio Dimitriyevich Shostakovich on October 25, 2008, 11:46:47 PM
But you can get the "prachtige symfonieën" "vanaf 15. october tot 24. november" - so there are some days left. For the prachtig lekker download! :D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on October 26, 2008, 12:12:49 AM
Thanks for this. I successfully downloaded all ten symphonies and their booklets last night (25th).

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on October 26, 2008, 12:25:53 AM
Quote from: Wurstwasser on October 25, 2008, 11:46:47 PM
But you can get the "prachtige symfonieën" "vanaf 15. october tot 24. november" - so there are some days left. For the prachtig lekker download! :D

Ah. My bad.  :-[ I had been reading, or assumed that I read, rather, that as October.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on October 26, 2008, 12:34:02 AM
Quote from: opus67 on October 26, 2008, 12:25:53 AM
Ah. My bad.  :-[ I had been reading, or assumed that I read, rather, that as October.

Don't worry. I misread it, too. ;D

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: bhodges on October 28, 2008, 06:02:36 AM
Thanks to a blog called inconstant sol, here (http://inconstantsol.blogspot.com/2008/10/here-is-performance-of-grard-griseys.html) is a live performance of Gérard Grisey's Les Espaces Acoustiques (1974-1985) from the Munich Bienniale, with Stefan Asbury conducting the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra (recorded May 2, 2008).

I first heard a recording of this piece earlier this year, and it is quite something--one of the best examples of "spectralism" round.  The timbres Grisey came up with are pretty astonishing.

PS, the piece is in six parts, about 95 minutes long.

--Bruce
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: not edward on October 28, 2008, 06:40:11 AM
Awesome! Les Espaces Acoustiques isn't one of my very favourite Grisey works (for me, the work he did in the last few years of his lie is very special), but it's an always-fascinating cycle that could almost act as a manifesto for spectralism. This is definitely a must-listen for me.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: donaldopato on November 06, 2008, 03:28:49 PM
I have never heard a note of this man's music...until today.. it is wonderful! THANK YOU! And this is after only listening to part one of the download.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Brian on November 23, 2008, 10:06:14 PM
Got this email lately...
Quote
Dear ClassicsOnline customer and enthusiast,

We're very pleased to have you be among the first to know that ClassicsOnline's entire catalog of nearly 22,000 albums is now available at 320 kbps. As a thank you for your loyal patronage, we will make all your previous 192 kbps downloads available at 320 kbps files at no extra charge.
Wow! That's awesome  8)  It means I get to upgrade at least a couple dozen CDs.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: FredT on December 06, 2008, 10:46:41 AM
I recently discovered the ability to download mp3 files, convert them to wave and then burn cds for my listening pleasure. Couple goodies of recent: On John Berky's abruckner.com site, Mr Berky has made available a fascinating document of Paul Hindemith conducting the 7th symphony in I believe the Nowak edition. There isn't much of Hindemith conducting other composers but one can appreciate his love of the score though there is some sloppy playing by the NY Phil.

Another magnificent offering on The European Archive site is Mahler's 4th conducted by Karel Sejna with the Czech PO. IMHO, this is one of the very great Mahler 4th's; beautifully played with a sense of intimacy which is surely right for this lovely, at times delicate creation. Sound is not too bad either though bass is admittedly weak.

Also I'd like to mention some Artur Rodzinski-Cleveland Orch goodies on archive.org. 

I'm having a lot of fun searching out downloads, especially those ones that remain hidden treasures, not yet available on commercial cd!

:)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: SonicMan46 on December 06, 2008, 03:23:34 PM
Well, whether this short thread will be transferred to the larger one mentioned in the preceding post, I believe that some clarification of the audio file conversions may be of use to those just getting into ripping, downloading, & converting of audio files from one type to another.

First, keep in mind that MP3 audio files are a 'lossy' format, i.e. depending on the bit rate (and type used), the standard CD audio tracts are reduced in size to a tenth of their original size (e.g. @ 124 kbps, a 10 MB per minute CDA or WAV file is reduced in size to about 1 MB/minute); of course, this process compresses and 'removes' audio information - at higher bit rates, the MP3 sound quality becomes pretty much indistinguishable from the original audio signal - I usually rip my CDs at 192 kbps, and those being offered at 320 kbps will pretty much match CD quality to a normal pair of ears!

Now, the main reason to obtain audio tracts as MP3 files (or other 'lossy' formats) is to save a LOT of space and put much more music onto devices that have more limited capacity, such as SD cards  or other storage options.   But an important 'reverse' consideration is under discussion, i.e. taking a 'compressed & lossy' audio file and converting it back into the size of a standard CD or WAV format - keep in mind that this will permit these audio tracts to be played on equipment that can only handle CDs (e.g. an older car CD player) - however, the process of taking a MP3 file back up to a much larger size CDA or WAV does NOT restore the original audio signal; the data that was LOST in the compression process cannot be restored; now, if the original extraction was done at a HIGH bit rate, then the sound will likely be similar, but if done at a lower rate, the sound will be degraded.

This remains for me a confusing process even after many years of reading, ripping, and burning CD-Rs - for those who may be REALLY interested in all of this audio stuff, I can recommend the book pictured below -  :D

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51FRAxijHdL._SL500_AA240_.jpg)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on December 06, 2008, 03:41:49 PM
An excellent post, Dave. I'd also like to recommend a thread on another classical forum which throws a good deal of light on the subject. Ignore the posts by yours truly and skip through to the one by a member called hugerr on page 2 (Reply #27): CD Formats (http://www.talkclassical.com/3731-cd-formats.html).

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: SonicMan46 on December 06, 2008, 04:17:09 PM
Thanks, FK - not easy to put comments into a few paragraphs, esp. on such a complex topic -  :)

My other recommendation for those using a variety of audio formats is to purchase machines that have the ability to play as many audio (and video) formats as possible - my portable CD players & CD/DVD players can also play MP3 CD-Rs, so very easy to place a disc into any of these machines regardless of the files contained - keep in mind that on a single CD-R you can 'burn' about 10 hrs of music as MP3 files (at a standard bit rate) - I use these type of discs in my basement workshop - one will play for hours!  :D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: drogulus on December 06, 2008, 05:05:03 PM
    You can reduce most mp3 wisdom to 2 rules:

     1) Lossless is better than lossy, and all lossy files should be made from lossless ones.

     2) So: Either use lossless files for everything, or use the lossless files as your archive from rips and make your mp3s for your player from that.

     Maybe that's 4 rules, so I'm using lossy compression. :D If you do it this way you can redo your lossy files if you decide they don't sound good enough (meaning you can actually hear the difference from the full version). If you just go with lossy files as rips you can't go back without reripping. The information is lost.

     Downside: These approaches are the safest and provide the most peace of mind about SQ, but they also require the most HD space and with a dual format collection you're always performing maintenance to keep them up to date. I think it's worth it.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on December 10, 2008, 06:43:45 AM
Quote from: Kuhlau on December 06, 2008, 03:41:49 PM
An excellent post, Dave. I'd also like to recommend a thread on another classical forum which throws a good deal of light on the subject. Ignore the posts by yours truly and skip through to the one by a member called hugerr on page 2 (Reply #27): CD Formats (http://www.talkclassical.com/3731-cd-formats.html).

FK

I completely agree, Kuhlau, that is a very good discussion indeed; anyone not thoroughly initiated in computer audio formats ought to read it.

For my part I download very little, preferring to buy music on CD simply because you get full CD quality, (PCM 16bit/44.1kHz), and because it is no more expensive to buy CDs than downloads at $1.00 per "song".

However I listen 95% to computer playback: my usual player is Foobar2000 (http://www.foobar2000.org/);  see 'My stereo equipment', below for further details.  For classical music I always rip to a lossless format: usually  FLAC, sometimes ALAC (Apple Lossless).  N.B. Archiving to a lossless format permits you to burn CD-Rs with full, original quality.  It's true that MP3 at 320kbps takes about half the space of lossless and that most people, on most equipment, can't tell the difference -- but then again some can.  IMO, at the low cost of computer hard disk capacity today, it is worthwhile to rip only to lossless.

If you want to store a lot of music on a portable device, an iPod or other MP3 player, then I recommend tha you create a copy, converting from lossless to a medium-high bit rate MP3 (or optionally AAC for Apple iPod).

For ripping, conversion, and burning I highly recommend dBpoweramp (http://www.dbpoweramp.com/); this program is about as good as it gets, folks: easlier to use and more functional than EAC, although the 'Reference' version will cost you US$36.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Tapio Dimitriyevich Shostakovich on December 11, 2008, 12:00:38 AM
Yup, agreed.
Many hardware players support AAC also, as a modern codec it is a better alternative to mp3. Depending on what the player suports, I'd lossy encode in order: (wma standard < Lame mp3 < [nero aac|vorbis]). If WMA pro was supported on hardware players, I'd also go for that one. WMA encoding can also be done with fb2k, but it's useless as long as wma pro is not supported widely.
If you don't need the burning part (I have no more need for it, all my target devices support usb sticks) fb2k would be all you need. The converter become much better. Especially if you create lossy files for car or wherever portable, foo_dsp_vlevel is a must for classical listeners (high dynamics in general).
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lethevich on December 11, 2008, 09:30:16 AM
Just a reminder, John Berky's archive of obscure Bruckner performances is no longer limited to three available downloads at any one time, there are now considerably more. I particularly recommend the 6th, which is one of the best. The 4th would also be a fine introduction to somebody who has yet to hear the work - a solid performance, well played and recorded.

http://www.abruckner.com/downloads/downloadofthemonth/
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on December 12, 2008, 01:52:14 PM
Quote from: Lethe on December 11, 2008, 09:30:16 AM
Just a reminder, John Berky's archive of obscure Bruckner performances is no longer limited to three available downloads at any one time, there are now considerably more. I particularly recommend the 6th, which is one of the best. The 4th would also be a fine introduction to somebody who has yet to hear the work - a solid performance, well played and recorded.

http://www.abruckner.com/downloads/downloadofthemonth/

Thanks for the link, Lethe. Not come across this site before. :)

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lilas Pastia on December 12, 2008, 06:54:58 PM
Quote from: Kuhlau on December 12, 2008, 01:52:14 PM
Thanks for the link, Lethe. Not come across this site before. :)

FK

Mandatory bookmark material.

BTW I read your reviews of the various Brahms PC 1 recordings with much interest  ;)

Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on December 12, 2008, 11:57:53 PM
Quote from: Lilas Pastia on December 12, 2008, 06:54:58 PM
BTW I read your reviews of the various Brahms PC 1 recordings with much interest  ;)

Good show - thanks. :)

There's still one review to come (Freire/Chailly), but I've been busy preparing my classical music review blog for launch in January. I'll try to get that final review sorted next week. ;)

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on December 13, 2008, 05:47:42 AM
This looks great!  :)

Deutsche Grammophon (http://www2.deutschegrammophon.com/cat/result?SearchString=&ART_ID=&COMP_ID=&ALBUM_TYPE=L&IN_XXSERIES=&javascript=1&x=31&y=4) is now offering FLAC and 320kbps MP3 downloads direct from their website.  The selection looks limited as yet, however.

Or you can stream the whole album for a week to see if you like it for $0.99.  Boogie down!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: flyingdutchman on January 03, 2009, 02:23:21 PM
A great download from Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001NBNR7S/ref=yml_dp

Those are the complete symphonies for $6.99!!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on January 03, 2009, 02:33:52 PM
Quote from: jo jo starbuck on January 03, 2009, 02:23:21 PM
A great download from Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001NBNR7S/ref=yml_dp

Those are the complete symphonies for $6.99!!

This is too incredible an offer to turn down. :o

Here's the link for those of us in the UK: Complete Glazunov Symphonies (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Glazunov-The-Complete-Symphony-Collection/dp/B001NE5JOE/ref=sr_f3_1?ie=UTF8&s=dmusic&qid=1231025505&sr=103-1).

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on January 04, 2009, 11:27:35 AM
Quote from: Feanor on December 13, 2008, 05:47:42 AM
This looks great!  :)

Deutsche Grammophon (http://www2.deutschegrammophon.com/cat/result?SearchString=&ART_ID=&COMP_ID=&ALBUM_TYPE=L&IN_XXSERIES=&javascript=1&x=31&y=4) is now offering FLAC and 320kbps MP3 downloads direct from their website.  The selection looks limited as yet, however.

Or you can stream the whole album for a week to see if you like it for $0.99.  Bogey down!

I wonder if EMI is also doing this? I'm gonna check it out! Thanks!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on January 24, 2009, 07:26:28 PM
There's a new search engine that covers mediafire, rapidshare, sendspace, badongo, and 4sharedfiles:

http://freec-panelwebhosting.co.cc/rapid/

Apparently they are expanding everyday. Right now, not much is available. Could become a great resource, so I figured I'd post this. 
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on January 24, 2009, 08:20:28 PM
Quote from: George on January 24, 2009, 07:26:28 PM
There's a new search engine that covers meidafire, rapidshare, sendspace, badongo, and 4sharedfiles:

http://freec-panelwebhosting.co.cc/rapid/

Apparently they are expanding everyday. Right now, not much is available. Could become a great resource, so I figured I'd post this. 

Nice. Thanks for the link.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on February 18, 2009, 02:36:50 AM
Quote from: Feanor on December 13, 2008, 05:47:42 AM
This looks great!  :)

Deutsche Grammophon (http://www2.deutschegrammophon.com/cat/result?SearchString=&ART_ID=&COMP_ID=&ALBUM_TYPE=L&IN_XXSERIES=&javascript=1&x=31&y=4) is now offering FLAC and 320kbps MP3 downloads direct from their website.  The selection looks limited as yet, however.

Or you can stream the whole album for a week to see if you like it for $0.99.  Boogie down!

Do you or anyone else know if DG plans to make all of their downloads available as FLAC?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Maciek on February 18, 2009, 03:39:46 AM
The DVD sound-ripping discussion has been moved here (http://www.good-music-guide.com/community/index.php/topic,11153.msg276753.html#msg276753). $:)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on February 24, 2009, 07:16:36 AM
One for Berg/Julia Fischer fans, courtesy of RMCR:

Berg's Violin Concerto (http://groups.google.com/group/rec.music.classical.recordings/browse_thread/thread/ae91dbfbc4dd1a09?hl=en) - Julia Fischer with the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra under Ingo Metzmacher.

Two FLAC files, so ideal for those who care about quality. ;)

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lethevich on February 24, 2009, 07:17:54 AM
Quote from: Kuhlau on February 24, 2009, 07:16:36 AM
One for Berg/Julia Fischer fans, courtesy of RMCR:

Berg's Violin Concerto (http://groups.google.com/group/rec.music.classical.recordings/browse_thread/thread/ae91dbfbc4dd1a09?hl=en) - Julia Fischer with the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra under Ingo Metzmacher.

Two FLAC files, so ideal for those who care about quality. ;)

Wow, a must-grab for me. Thanks!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on February 24, 2009, 07:22:23 AM
No worries, Sara.

Sometimes it pays having RMCR coming into one's inbox as just a single daily abridged email. ;)

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lethevich on February 24, 2009, 07:38:51 AM
Quote from: Kuhlau on February 24, 2009, 07:22:23 AM
Sometimes it pays having RMCR coming into one's inbox as just a single daily abridged email. ;)

I like how typical that thread was for RMCR. Instead of commenting on the music, they get involved in a 2 page long argument about the recording's origin ;D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on February 24, 2009, 07:42:36 AM
This is why they've been relegated to a brief email once a day - having RMCR on Google Reader crowded out every other feed. ;D

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Haffner on February 24, 2009, 10:15:42 AM
Quote from: Kuhlau on December 12, 2008, 11:57:53 PM
Good show - thanks. :)

There's still one review to come (Freire/Chailly), but I've been busy preparing my classical music review blog for launch in January. I'll try to get that final review sorted next week. ;)

FK


Really cool site!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on February 24, 2009, 10:22:31 AM
Quote from: AndyD. on February 24, 2009, 10:15:42 AM
Really cool site!

Thanks, Andy. :)

I'm working hard to make it a destination for classical music newbies. Somewhere they can read my thoughts on music ... then go off and read those of others. ;D

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Haffner on February 24, 2009, 11:12:18 AM
Quote from: Kuhlau on February 24, 2009, 10:22:31 AM
Thanks, Andy. :)

I'm working hard to make it a destination for classical music newbies. Somewhere they can read my thoughts on music ... then go off and read those of others. ;D

FK


I really got something out of your article on the Rattle/Beethoven. It was really useful, since I haven't heard that recording yet/
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mwb on March 17, 2009, 09:42:55 AM
Now that the Boston Symphony Orchestra has had its Digital Music Store (http://www.bso.org/bso/shop/productCategories.jsp;jsessionid=Q2UTMDF3GWBQMCTFQMGSFEQ?id=bcat13360032) for a while, has any one tried it and have opinions about it?  Quality, usability, etc.?

It seems like a good way for me to show support for them since I live here and actually never go to their live concerts. 

I find their subscription model interesting.  If I'm reading it right, since they do it by year (I'm ignoring the bizarre 3 months of access option) rather than by season, it seems it is kind of in your best interest to not buy it now mid-season but either wait until the end of the current season or beginning of next to get both seasons (since it covers the archive and newly added stuff for one year.) 
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on March 20, 2009, 11:38:55 AM
Mozart
Piano Concerto 20
Martha Argerich
conducted by Barenboim
Paris 1986
Live Concert


http://www.divshare.com/download/launch/5599876-171.

These are unfortunately lossy files, in .ogg format, but I thought I would post the link for those who can make use of these files.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on March 20, 2009, 11:53:10 AM
Thanks, George. :) I'm downloading it now, but since it's close to bedtime, I'll have to listen to it later in the day.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on March 20, 2009, 11:54:18 AM
Quote from: opus67 on March 20, 2009, 11:53:10 AM
Thanks, George. :) I'm downloading it now, but since it's close to bedtime, I'll have to listen to it later in the day.

.ogg is an audio format, right? I can't download it, as I am at work right now, but I am curious.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on March 20, 2009, 12:01:52 PM
Quote from: George on March 20, 2009, 11:54:18 AM
.ogg is an audio format, right? I can't download it, as I am at work right now, but I am curious.
Yep. Open source, too. And it's from the same people who bring you FLAC.

The download is a zip file, though.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on March 20, 2009, 12:21:51 PM
Cheers, George, ;)

May I warmly recommend the podcasts from the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum (http://www.gardnermuseum.org/music/podcast/theconcert.asp) in Boston? Every other Sunday from September through May, they hold concerts in the Tapestry Room at the museum, and make these available for free in podcast format through their site. Each one has an introduction from their music director, followed by an introduction to whatever's about to be played - then it's all music, pure and simple.

Okay, these are fairly low-bitrate files. But the performances I've heard so far from the 66 podcasts currently available (be sure to check out the archives (http://www.gardnermuseum.org/music/podcast/archives.asp)) are excellent and well worth hearing.

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mwb on March 21, 2009, 05:39:05 AM
Quote from: Kuhlau on March 20, 2009, 12:21:51 PM
Cheers, George, ;)

May I warmly recommend the podcasts from the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum (http://www.gardnermuseum.org/music/podcast/theconcert.asp) in Boston? Every other Sunday from September through May, they hold concerts in the Tapestry Room at the museum, and make these available for free in podcast format through their site. Each one has an introduction from their music director, followed by an introduction to whatever's about to be played - then it's all music, pure and simple.

Okay, these are fairly low-bitrate files. But the performances I've heard so far from the 66 podcasts currently available (be sure to check out the archives (http://www.gardnermuseum.org/music/podcast/archives.asp)) are excellent and well worth hearing.

FK

Agreed usually worth a listen.  I subscribe to it via iTunes where it is called amusingly enough "The Concert." 

I'd also recommend the WGBH Classical Performance Podcast (http://streams.wgbh.org/online/clas/clas_performance.xml), which I also subscribe to via iTunes and enjoy a great deal.

----------------
Listening to: Chopin, Frederic - Chopin: Piano Sonata No.2 in B flat minor, Op.35 - 1. Grave - Doppio movimento (http://www.foxytunes.com/artist/chopin%2c+frederic/track/chopin%3a+piano+sonata+no.2+in+b+flat+minor%2c+op.35+-+1.+grave+-+doppio+movimento)
via FoxyTunes (http://www.foxytunes.com/signatunes/)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on March 21, 2009, 09:22:51 AM
Quote from: mwb on March 21, 2009, 05:39:05 AM
I'd also recommend the WGBH Classical Performance Podcast (http://streams.wgbh.org/online/clas/clas_performance.xml), which I also subscribe to via iTunes and enjoy a great deal.

Fantastic. Thanks for this. :)

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on March 22, 2009, 04:24:40 AM
Free download of a live broadcast of the Beethoven PC 1 by Sokolov with Pinnock. This was broadcasted by The Bavarian Radio (Bayern 4 Klassik).

It was uploaded by another fan of the pianist and link will not last long. (a day or two)

Enjoy!

http://www.megaupload.com/?d=CJ3J3SP0
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Dr. Dread on March 27, 2009, 04:27:02 AM
The Amazon daily mp3 deal is "99 Perfectly Relaxing Songs" for 99 cents.

Much of this is actually sacred music, so you can get a bunch of it cheap. Notation isn't always that great. A bit of a hodge-podge. Not sure how much this costs regularly. Maybe the same price.

99 CENTS!  ;D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Tapio Dimitriyevich Shostakovich on March 27, 2009, 09:09:07 AM
No single penny for lossy music! (Applies for me).
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Dr. Dread on March 27, 2009, 09:13:02 AM
Quote from: Wurstwasser on March 27, 2009, 09:09:07 AM
No single penny for lossy music! (Applies for me).

Yes, well, what's your point?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: flyingdutchman on March 27, 2009, 06:28:40 PM
So emusic is offering me a return to them for $8.99 and I get 50 downloads.  I want to get a bunch of Sterling cd downloads and I think it would be a great deal, but my thoughts about emusic are that they aren't well thought of around here.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on March 28, 2009, 01:12:51 AM
There are pluses and minuses to using eMusic. On the one hand, you get a lot of music for your bucks. On the other, you sometimes find that the ripping and/or encoding has been sloppily done. It wasn't like that when I first began using the service in 2006 - I almost never encountered a problem. Then I started to discover more and more files with stuff wrong with them (clicking, popping, a few seconds chopped off of the end) ... so I quit the service.

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on March 28, 2009, 04:37:49 AM
Lots of free downloads here: http://www.damians78s.co.uk/html/currently_available_recordings.html
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Dr. Dread on March 28, 2009, 04:39:28 AM
Quote from: George on March 28, 2009, 04:37:49 AM
Lots of free downloads here: http://www.damians78s.co.uk/html/currently_available_recordings.html

What format?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lethevich on March 29, 2009, 12:22:28 PM
Rattle's Beethoven/WP cycle for £3 download on Amazon UK (http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B001TR46QC)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on March 29, 2009, 02:30:14 PM
Well spotted, Sara.

Anyone who wants a taster of that cycle should read my review of these forces tackling the Ninth Symphony (http://aneverymanforhimself.wordpress.com/2009/01/15/review-2-beethoven-symphony-no-9-choral/).

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: loudav on March 29, 2009, 06:05:08 PM
I thought you folks might be interested in this:

http://thepiratebay.org/torrent/4811309

This is a 24-bit/44.1 kHz transcription using high-end analog equipment of an LP released originally on Pierre Verany records (PV 3791). It is a recording made in October 1978 of the Royal Organ in Saint-Maximin-en-Provence, constructed in 1774 by Jean and Joseph Isnard, performed by Pierre Bardon. The organ, the recording, and the LP pressing are all magnificent. It is one of the richest and most brilliant recordings of an organ I've ever heard. The engineers (not credited on the LP) used Schoeps MSTC microphones with MK4 cardoid capsules suspended from a helium balloon for optimum positioning, EMT cables, and a Nagra IV S reel-to-reel tape recorder running Agfa PEM 468 tape. The Isnard organ has breathtakingly snorty reed stops and lovely sweet flutes. The LP is in immaculate condition, and there is virtually no tracking distortion at all, even in the most challenging passages.

More information on the organ can be found here: http://www.sonusparadisi.cz/organs/Maximin/history.0.asp

Equipment used for A/D conversion: Lyra Helikon phono cartridge, Linn LP12/Lingo turntable, Linn Ittok tonearm, Audioquest LeoPard tonearm cable, PS Audio PS2 preamplifier, Kimber PBJ interconnect, M-Audio Audiophile USB A/D converter.


André Raison - Extraits du premier livre d'orgue [10:26]

Vive le Roy des Parisiens (offerte du 5 ton)
Trio en passacaille
Grand Plein-jeu


Gilles Jullien - Extraits du premier livre d'orgue [13:13]

Trio à trois claviers
Dessus de tierce
Trio à deux dessus
Grand Plein-jeu à cinq parties
Dessus de cornet
Tierce en taille


Jean-Francois Dandrieu [7:14]

Offertoire
Récit de Nazard
Fugue sur l'Ave Maris Stella


Guillain - Suite du deuxième ton [11:30]

Prélude
Tierce en taille
Duo
Basse de trompette
Trio de flûtes
Petit Plein-jeu
Dialogue

No information on registrations was provided with the LP.

Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lethevich on March 30, 2009, 12:58:39 AM
Sounds interesting, I'll check it - thanks. Fun to read about the helium balloon :D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on March 31, 2009, 05:50:33 AM
Quote from: loudav on March 29, 2009, 06:05:08 PM
I thought you folks might be interested in this:

http://thepiratebay.org/torrent/4811309

This is a 24-bit/44.1 kHz transcription using high-end analog equipment of an LP ...


Thanks, loudav,

I'm downloading this as I write.  Should be a good listen.

But I wonder:  could this be a copywrite infringement?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lethevich on March 31, 2009, 07:33:05 AM
Quote from: Feanor on March 31, 2009, 05:50:33 AM
Thanks, loudav,

I'm downloading this as I write.  Should be a good listen.

But I wonder:  could this be a copywrite infringement?

Most if not all of Lou's releases are still in copyright, if I recall correctly, but he takes great pains to only release music which is not commercially available and often impossible to find for any amount of money. An example of "ethical filesharing".
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: loudav on March 31, 2009, 01:58:55 PM
Quote from: Lethe on March 31, 2009, 07:33:05 AM
Most if not all of Lou's releases are still in copyright, if I recall correctly, but he takes great pains to only release music which is not commercially available and often impossible to find for any amount of money. An example of "ethical filesharing".

Well, semi-ethical, but thanks for the vote of confidence, Lethe. This is indeed long OOP--in fact, I'm not sure it was ever released on CD. So no one's commercial interests are being harmed by its being shared. But as Lethe observes, copyright presumably still holds.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on March 31, 2009, 04:21:48 PM
Quote from: loudav on March 31, 2009, 01:58:55 PM
Well, semi-ethical, but thanks for the vote of confidence, Lethe. This is indeed long OOP--in fact, I'm not sure it was ever released on CD. So no one's commercial interests are being harmed by its being shared. But as Lethe observes, copyright presumably still holds.

$:) Well in that case I listen guilt-free.   0:)

It is indeed excellent organ sound and a tribute to great recording technique.  And a tribute the LP medium -- even when transcribed to digital.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: flyingdutchman on March 31, 2009, 05:09:43 PM
Quote from: Feanor on March 31, 2009, 05:50:33 AM
Thanks, loudav,

I'm downloading this as I write.  Should be a good listen.

But I wonder:  could this be a copywrite infringement?


How do I download this?  I tried and I can't seem to read the torrent.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: loudav on March 31, 2009, 05:51:16 PM
Quote from: jo jo starbuck on March 31, 2009, 05:09:43 PM
How do I download this?  I tried and I can't seem to read the torrent.

You need bittorrent client software such as utorrent, which you can download free (Google utorrent). You open the torrent file in the client software and it connects you to the swarm. You also need control over your firewall to be able to both upload and download, so it's usually not do-able on a large networked system like at work or a university. If you've never done it before, there can be a bit of learning curve. See:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BitTorrent_(protocol)

Good luck!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on March 31, 2009, 07:11:05 PM
Quote from: jo jo starbuck on March 31, 2009, 05:09:43 PM
How do I download this?  I tried and I can't seem to read the torrent.

If you're on a MAC, Transmission (freeware) is very easy to use.  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: flyingdutchman on March 31, 2009, 08:29:24 PM
Quote from: loudav on March 31, 2009, 05:51:16 PM
You need bittorrent client software such as utorrent, which you can download free (Google utorrent). You open the torrent file in the client software and it connects you to the swarm. You also need control over your firewall to be able to both upload and download, so it's usually not do-able on a large networked system like at work or a university. If you've never done it before, there can be a bit of learning curve. See:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BitTorrent_(protocol)

Good luck!

Thanks.  Did it. Got it.  Sounds great!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: stingo on April 02, 2009, 10:08:43 AM
Going to ask a newbie question here... When you buy downloads, do you get liner notes and artwork, or just the music?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Frumaster on April 02, 2009, 11:13:52 AM
Quote from: stingo on April 02, 2009, 10:08:43 AM
Going to ask a newbie question here... When you buy downloads, do you get liner notes and artwork, or just the music?

Depends where you buy it really.  A few sites (usually those owned by a particular label) offer liner notes, but so far as I know Amazon and iTunes don't offer them.  You will always get the cover artwork though.  This is usually embedded in the mp3 files.

Now a question of my own with regards to copyright laws.  I know, for instance, that it is legal to download musical scores for free (IMSLP), if it is X many years old because the copyright is no longer in effect.  Does the same apply to recordings, (does it depend on composiion date or performance date?).  Also, what about items that are out of production? 
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on April 02, 2009, 11:20:12 AM
Quote from: stingo on April 02, 2009, 10:08:43 AM
Going to ask a newbie question here... When you buy downloads, do you get liner notes and artwork, or just the music?

That depends on the source of the download.  For example the BitTorrent download mentioned above included a few notes but no artwork.  And even for a given source, the contents can be variable.  If you download from, say, Amazon, the files usually include some "metadata", a.k.a. "tags", and often front cover art, but usually nothing like complete liner notes.

Actually, this is a pretty big topic.

Personally I'm content when the individual files contain relatively complete sets of metadata let alone artwork.  But this is the exception rather than the rule.  In any case there is so much inconsistancy that as a classical listener you will definitely want the capability to revise the tags to ensure consistancy with you own preferences.  Most computer audio players provide some facility to edit tags but they aren't all adequate in this respect.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: haydnguy on April 03, 2009, 06:03:04 AM
I just got an email that ClassicsOnline is having a sale on all of Julie Fischer's Pentatone recordings. I checked them out and they are 50% off (MOSTLY $5.00).  8)

oops, forgot the addy:

http://www.classicsonline.com/generics.aspx?id=Julia_Fischer&utm_source=COL_News&utm_medium=email&utm_content=Julia_Fischer_banner&utm_campaign=COL_News040309
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: flyingdutchman on April 03, 2009, 09:00:28 PM
Quote from: BaxMan on April 03, 2009, 06:03:04 AM
I just got an email that ClassicsOnline is having a sale on all of Julie Fischer's Pentatone recordings. I checked them out and they are 50% off (MOSTLY $5.00).  8)

oops, forgot the addy:

http://www.classicsonline.com/generics.aspx?id=Julia_Fischer&utm_source=COL_News&utm_medium=email&utm_content=Julia_Fischer_banner&utm_campaign=COL_News040309

Despite the tempting offer, I'd rather have these in SACD.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mwb on April 04, 2009, 06:08:26 AM
Quote from: BaxMan on April 03, 2009, 06:03:04 AM
I just got an email that ClassicsOnline is having a sale on all of Julie Fischer's Pentatone recordings. I checked them out and they are 50% off (MOSTLY $5.00).  8)

Sweet.  I'm most definitely taking advantage of that.  Thanks for sharing.

----------------
Listening to: Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Mozart: Symphony #20 In D, K 133 - 2. Andante. Neville Marriner /The Academy Of St. Martin In The Fields (http://www.foxytunes.com/artist/mozart%2c+wolfgang+amadeus/track/mozart%3a+symphony+%2320+in+d%2c+k+133+-+2.+andante)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on April 04, 2009, 09:22:55 AM
For What.CD members, I have made available the complete Mengelberg Beethoven Limited Edition set, in FLAC format. If you are not a member and want to become one, PM me.  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Dr. Dread on April 08, 2009, 01:33:37 PM
FOR THOSE WHO CARE:

iTunes are all "Plus" now. 256 kbps across the board.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on April 08, 2009, 01:35:16 PM
Quote from: Mn Dave on April 08, 2009, 01:33:37 PM
FOR THOSE WHO CARE:

iTunes are all "Plus" now. 256 kbps across the board.

Very, very good news and a step in the right direction.  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Dr. Dread on April 08, 2009, 01:40:48 PM
Quote from: George on April 08, 2009, 01:35:16 PM
Very, very good news and a step in the right direction.  :)

Indeed. Too bad I have to pay to upgrade my albums, but at least I don't have to pay full price again.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on April 08, 2009, 01:43:09 PM
Quote from: Mn Dave on April 08, 2009, 01:40:48 PM
Indeed. Too bad I have to pay to upgrade my albums, but at least I don't have to pay full price again.

That's cool that they offer the option to pay a bit more to upgrade. Since the plus takes twice as much space, might be wise to not upgrade it all.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Dr. Dread on April 08, 2009, 01:46:50 PM
Quote from: George on April 08, 2009, 01:43:09 PM
That's cool that they offer the option to pay a bit more to upgrade. Since the plus takes twice as much space, might be wise to not upgrade it all.

Yeah, only stuff I really love. (I upgraded two so far: A Dylan and a Bernarda Fink).
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Frumaster on April 08, 2009, 01:46:55 PM
Quote from: George on April 08, 2009, 01:35:16 PM
Very, very good news and a step in the right direction.  :)

You're right, a postitive step...but still a baby step.  They're charging near CD prices for downloads without delivering a tangible product or even liner notes.  Why can't they just go lossless?  Its so frustrating.  They're losing tons of business because people can just find lossless torrents for free.  I can guarantee that if iTunes went lossless, sales would go up and illegal downloads would go down.  I know I would buy from them. 

Maybe I won't have to wait much longer though.  The only intermediate step remaining is 320k.  Guess they're trying to milk this process for everything its worth.

Oh, not to mention that Amazon has had 256k as the norm for quite some time already.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on April 08, 2009, 01:48:36 PM
Quote from: Frumaster on April 08, 2009, 01:46:55 PM
You're right, a postitive step...but still a baby step.  They're charging near CD prices for downloads without delivering a tangible product or even liner notes.  Why can't they just go lossless?  Its so frustrating.  They're losing tons of business because people can just find lossless torrents for free.  I can guarantee that if iTunes went lossless, sales would go up and illegal downloads would go down.  I know I would buy from them.

Me too, I was just tying to be positive about it.  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Dr. Dread on April 08, 2009, 01:51:14 PM
I'm not going to get into this, but many new albums come with liner notes and I don't think many people are ready to give up disc space to go lossless.

Okay, I'm done. I just wanted to make the one announcement.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Frumaster on April 08, 2009, 01:54:16 PM
Quote from: Mn Dave on April 08, 2009, 01:51:14 PM
I'm not going to get into this, but many new albums come with liner notes and I don't think many people are ready to give up disc space to go lossless.

Okay, I'm done. I just wanted to make the one announcement.

Memory is cheap though!  You can get 500GB for 100 bucks or so.  Plus, with a decent ad campaign they could convice people of lossless superiority, and then people wouldn't mind the extra space so much.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Tapio Dimitriyevich Shostakovich on April 09, 2009, 01:02:04 AM
Quote from: Mn Dave on March 27, 2009, 09:13:02 AMYes, well, what's your point?
I often need to transcode stuff for listening in my car (apply some variable dynamics effect - essential for car). Lossy->Lossy == EVIL. :D
In times with cheap Terabyte hard disks and endless Internet bandwidth I want the best available source.
A lossless source is the only proper starting point and the only valid source for being flexible. Beside the stuff for car, I also convert to an mp3 player (lame @ v2) and to my Livingroom-Notebook (vorbis at q8).
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Teresa on April 09, 2009, 01:39:38 AM
 :D   The Boston Symphony Orchestra is offering the deal of a lifetime $50 for a 1 year subscription.  A 1 year subscription includes their current six 88.2kHz 24 Bit downloads plus all the music files on their site and all that will be released in the next year. From what James Levine said that should be at least 8 more high resolution downloads.

I paid for the one year subscription and it is the best deal I've ever seen on music.  You can also buy their downloads a la carte.

Prices are $8.99 to 9.99 for 2 channel 24/88.2 and $11.99-$12.99 for multichannel 24/88.2. All include detailed program notes and back and front covers in PDF form.

The six high resolution 24 Bit 88.2Khz downloads so far, first price is Stereo, second price is Multichannel. There are also MP3 Stereo versions available for $1 less.

The Red Sox™ Album (Keith Lockhart, Boston Pops) Stereo only $8.99

Ravel: Daphnis et Chloé (James Levine, Boston Symphony Orchestra) $9.99/$12.99

Brahms: Ein deutsches Requiem (A German Requiem), Op. 45) (James Levine, Boston Symphony Orchestra) $9.99/$12.99

Mahler: Symphony No. 6 (James Levine, Boston Symphony Orchestra) $9.99/$12.99

Bolcom: Lyric Concerto; Symphony No. 8 for chorus and orchestra (James Levine, Boston Symphony Orchestra) $8.99/$11.99

Mozart Chamber Music for Winds and Strings (James Levine, Boston Symphony Orchestra) $9.99/$12.99

The following are MP3 only

Tanglewood Music Center Orchestra: Live Performances 2006

Oscar and Tony: Award-Winning Music From the Stage and Screen

Sleigh Ride - Christmas Favorites

America

Plus 12 programs from "From the Broadcast Archives: 1943-2000"

So as you can see there are 22 programs so far that you get for your $50, plus all the ones added to their web site in the next year.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on April 09, 2009, 03:34:37 AM
Quote from: Frumaster on April 08, 2009, 01:46:55 PM
...  They're charging near CD prices for downloads without delivering a tangible product or even liner notes.  Why can't they just go lossless?  Its so frustrating.  They're losing tons of business because people can just find lossless torrents for free.  I can guarantee that if iTunes went lossless, sales would go up and illegal downloads would go down.  I know I would buy from them. 

Maybe I won't have to wait much longer though.  The only intermediate step remaining is 320k.  Guess they're trying to milk this process for everything its worth.
...

Indeed.  I personally refuse to pay CD prices for lossy downloads, even 320 kbps.

The fact remains that even 320 kbps files are much smaller than lossless. Nevertheless at hard disk prices today, you have SFB if you prefer a lossy format just to conserve space.  The lossy downloads have to do more with download speeds rather that storage space.  I think the answer to the download issue is BitTorrent, but that techology is anathema to commercial providers because of its association with downloading illegal copies.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on April 09, 2009, 03:52:10 AM
Quote from: Frumaster on April 08, 2009, 01:46:55 PM
Why can't they just go lossless?  Its so frustrating.  They're losing tons of business because people can just find lossless torrents for free.  I can guarantee that if iTunes went lossless, sales would go up and illegal downloads would go down.

Can you really guarantee that? Wow! You should work in Apple's sales or marketing departments.

Sorry, but that's a pretty naive view. I'm guessing you acquire stuff illegally via torrents. And I'm also willing to wager that even if iTunes went lossless, you'd still get stuff from torrents. Why wouldn't you? It's there, so you take it. Unless some moral issue prevents you. But I don't know many human beings who'd get moralistic about this (unless they were losing money personally because of illegal file sharing - and even then, it's an economical rather than a moral issue).

The fact is this: torrents are addictive. High-quality stuff for free. Who's going to switch to paying for lossless when they've experienced that? Only meths drinkers and village idiots. No, the answer lies in what Feanor hinted at - record companies have to agree a way to monetise torrents, like a levy on ISP charges for those who upload and download heavily.

Believe me, the record execs WILL cave in eventually. It's a case of market forces - and we all know how swayed big business is by these.

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Dr. Dread on April 09, 2009, 05:10:02 AM
What's the difference between a "download" and a "torrent"? Thanks.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on April 09, 2009, 05:35:53 AM
Quote from: Kuhlau on April 09, 2009, 03:52:10 AM

Quote from: Frumaster on April 08, 2009, 01:46:55 PM
...  They're charging near CD prices for downloads without delivering a tangible product or even liner notes.  Why can't they just go lossless?  Its so frustrating.  They're losing tons of business because people can just find lossless torrents for free.  I can guarantee that if iTunes went lossless, sales would go up and illegal downloads would go down.  I know I would buy from them. 
...

Can you really guarantee that? Wow! You should work in Apple's sales or marketing departments.

Sorry, but that's a pretty naive view. I'm guessing you acquire stuff illegally via torrents. And I'm also willing to wager that even if iTunes went lossless, you'd still get stuff from torrents. Why wouldn't you? It's there, so you take it. Unless some moral issue prevents you. But I don't know many human beings who'd get moralistic about this (unless they were losing money personally because of illegal file sharing - and even then, it's an economical rather than a moral issue).

The fact is this: torrents are addictive. High-quality stuff for free. Who's going to switch to paying for lossless when they've experienced that? Only meths drinkers and village idiots. No, the answer lies in what Feanor hinted at - record companies have to agree a way to monetise torrents, like a levy on ISP charges for those who upload and download heavily.

Believe me, the record execs WILL cave in eventually. It's a case of market forces - and we all know how swayed big business is by these.

FK

Tut, tut, Kuhlau,

Are you implying that Frumaster has downloaded illegal copies, or that he ought to??   >:D

What iTunes and other download vendors ought to do is provided them at much lower cost.  The brutal fact is that it is much cheaper to deliver downloads than phyisical CDs to the consumer, but the download pricing structure doesn't reflect this.  Such is the conservatism and greed of the music industry that they can't grasp that illegal copying would be largely forstalled and revenues actually rise if the price of a "song" were a reasonable $0.10 - 0.15 rather than $0.99 - 1.39 as it is now.

As a classical listener consider this.  If a recording company were to make albums available in lossless format (via BitTorrent or standard download) for say, $2.50 per, their revenues would be stable or improve.  Furthermore they would have little need delete items for their catalogues -- always disappointment for music lovers -- since it's the physical disc and its distribution that drives that phenomenon.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on April 09, 2009, 05:49:37 AM
Quote from: Mn Dave on April 09, 2009, 05:10:02 AM
What's the difference between a "download" and a "torrent"? Thanks.

Download: getting a file stored in a (single) server somewhere. You know, the click-and-save procedure.

Torrent: One or more persons who have the file seeds it to the rest of the world. The whole file is split into smaller chunks and the "peers" (the people in the "swarm" who download this stuff) get a few chunks at a time from the seeder and also exchange stuff between each other.

Torrent, in a way, is a form of download, but it doesn't strain a single server trying to service thousands of download requests at the same time, especially in case of very large files. Also, the seeders and peers can put a cap on their max. upload and download speeds, and can even decide not to seed or share with certain people. The more peers you have in your swarm, the less each has to upload. Before a person can start seeding, he or she needs to create a torrent file which has to be downloaded by the peers and opened using a peer-to-peer (P2P) application (utorrent, Azureus, BitTorrent - the original, and the like).
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on April 09, 2009, 05:51:01 AM
Quote from: Mn Dave on April 09, 2009, 05:10:02 AM
What's the difference between a "download" and a "torrent"? Thanks.

Well a "torrent" is a download of a sort.  A regular download is from a single source; it typically occurs during a single, continuous interval of time, although there are download programs that permit downloads to be stopped and restarted.

On the other hand, a BitTorrent technology permits a given download to be downloaded in part from many sources similtaneously, and the download can be interrupted and later resumed with no fuss.  Also, one can download one or many downloads at once while regulating the amount of your computer's resources that are dedicated to the overall torrent process.

The torrent "sources" I allude to can be any computer on the Internet that has copy of the constituent files that is defined as a "torrent".  Typically BitTorrent users, actual participants, are uploading stuff they have previously downloaded, as well as downloading new stuff.  Of course, all this is what makes BitTorrent such a boon for illegal copying.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Dr. Dread on April 09, 2009, 05:51:53 AM
Quote from: opus67 on April 09, 2009, 05:49:37 AM
Download: getting a file stored in a (single) server somewhere. You know, the click-and-save procedure.

Torrent: One or more persons who have the file seeds it to the rest of the world. The whole file is split into smaller chunks and the "peers" (the people in the "swarm" who download this stuff) get a few chunks at a time from the seeder and also exchange stuff between each other.

Torrent, in a way, is a form of download, but it doesn't strain a single server trying to service thousands of download requests at the same time, especially in case of very large files. Also, the seeders and peers can put a cap on their max. upload and download speeds, and can even decide not to seed or share with certain people. The more peers you have in your swarm, the less each has to upload. Before a person can seed, he or she needs to create a torrent file which has to be downloaded by the peers and opened using a peer-to-peer (P2P) application (utorrent, Azureus, BitTorrent - the original, and the like).

Thanks, Nav!!

And Feanor. :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on April 09, 2009, 07:32:09 AM
Download = A way to get a specific file that someone else has already uploaded and has shared the link with you. 

Torrent = A way to get pretty much anything that was ever recorded, assuming someone has created a torrent for it. Torrents are much more public, so you don't need to know the person who created it.  8)

Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Teresa on April 09, 2009, 06:40:00 PM
Quote from: Mn Dave on April 09, 2009, 05:10:02 AM
What's the difference between a "download" and a "torrent"? Thanks.

Others have to you what BitTorrent downloads are, now it is time for a word of caution.  :o

I am very cautious on the Internet and refuse to use BitTorrents. A BitTorrent is a peer-to-peer file sharing (P2P) communications protocol. This two-way communication opens up one's computer to spyware, malware and attacks.   So download these out at your own risk.

Here is more information on BitTorrents
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BitTorrent_(protocol)

I stay with traditional one-way downloads from trusted websites such as HDTracks, various Symphony Orchestras and other legitimate sellers.  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Coopmv on April 09, 2009, 07:31:40 PM
Quote from: Teresa on April 09, 2009, 06:40:00 PM

I stay with traditional one-way downloads from trusted websites such as HDTracks, various Symphony Orchestras and other legitimate sellers.  :)


The same here.  I downloaded a few symphonies from the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra website, which I certainly trust.  No downloads for me from any other type of websites ...
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on April 09, 2009, 09:44:41 PM
Quote from: Teresa on April 09, 2009, 06:40:00 PM
I stay with traditional one-way downloads from trusted websites such as HDTracks, various Symphony Orchestras and other legitimate sellers.  :)

Try downloading an Ubuntu image file (all 696 MB of it), on release day from the any of the Ubuntu servers from around the world! :D ;)

Just to make things clear, while this is a thread dedicated to download of classical music, the BitTorrent protocol can be used to download any kind of file, not just audio. :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: mwb on April 11, 2009, 06:21:54 AM
Quote from: Teresa on April 09, 2009, 01:39:38 AM
:D   The Boston Symphony Orchestra is offering the deal of a lifetime $50 for a 1 year subscription.  A 1 year subscription includes their current six 88.2kHz 24 Bit downloads plus all the music files on their site and all that will be released in the next year. From what James Levine said that should be at least 8 more high resolution downloads.

....

So as you can see there are 22 programs so far that you get for your $50, plus all the ones added to their web site in the next year.

Yeah, I asked a few weeks ago if anyone has tried it yet (http://www.good-music-guide.com/community/index.php/topic,1340.msg287492.html#msg287492).  Good to see someone now has and likes it.

I may wait for the couple of weeks for the current season to end so my year sub will include all of next season and the archives for the current and past ones that they add.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: loudav on April 13, 2009, 03:36:09 PM
Here's another 24-bit/44.1 kHz transcription using high-end analog equipment: a performance on the lyra viol by Mary Cyr, released as an LP on McGill University Records (82015) in 1983. It has not to my knowledge ever been released on CD. Mary Cyr was then an associate professor at McGill, and as of 2002 had moved onto the University of Guelph.

The lyra viol is a smaller variant on the bass viol, popular in England in the 17th century, when a distinctive repertoire of polyphonic music was written for it. More information on the instrument and its repertoire can be found in the Grove Dictionary of Music and Musicians, and in Wikipedia.

This is a warm, detailed recording with a rich bass resonance that befits the instrument. The LP is in immaculate condition, and there is virtually no tracking distortion at all except for a bit in the last couple of minutes of each side of the LP.

Equipment used for A/D conversion: Lyra Helikon phono cartridge, Linn LP12/Lingo turntable, Linn Ittok tonearm, Audioquest LeoPard tonearm cable, PS Audio PS2 preamplifier, Kimber PBJ interconnect, M-Audio Audiophile USB A/D converter.

Check it out at: http://thepiratebay.org/torrent/4845692

Enjoy!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: loudav on April 14, 2009, 04:17:42 PM
Here's another 24-bit/44.1 kHz transcription using high-end analog equipment: a performance of five of Haydn's divertimenti for baryton, viola, and violoncello, by the Münchner Baryton-Trio. It was released on LP on the always excellent Claves label (D 609). The CD reissue is now long out of print and available only as an mp3 download, which cannot do justice to the complex tones of the recording.

The baryton is a modified viola da gamba with sympathy strings that resonate in response to the vibrations of the bowed strings. The sympathy strings produce a more complex timbre, and can also be plucked directly by the performer's thumb. The baryton never hit it big, but it was a favorite of Haydn's patron, Prince Nikolaus Esterházy, and so Haydn wrote about 175 pieces for the instrument between 1765 and 1775. More information on the baryton can be found in the Grove Dictionary of Music and Musicians, and in Wikipedia.

Check it out at: http://www.mininova.org/tor/2488876

Enjoy!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: loudav on April 15, 2009, 01:50:00 PM
Here's a 24-bit/44.1 kHz transcription using high-end analog equipment of one of my most-prized LPs: a performance by Colin Tilney on the remarkable positive organ in the chapel of Knole House in Kent, England. It was released on EMI Electrola Germany in 1982 as part of their excellent Reflexe series (069-46-403), and has not to my knowledge ever been released on CD.

The organ is a Jacobean chest organ dating from around 1608, with pipes all of English Oak comprising four stops: stopped diapason (8'), principal (4'), twelfth (2 2/3'), and fifteenth (2'). The only metal in the entire organ is in the forged iron stop action, in the brass pallet springs, and in the brass key and sticker pins. 175 of the 200 pipes are original. The organ is mean-tone tuned about 1/4 tone sharp of A=440. The high tuning was needed to get it back to mean-tone after an earlier alteration to even-tempered tuning.

Check it out at: http://thepiratebay.org/torrent/4850230

Enjoy!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: loudav on April 16, 2009, 04:08:36 PM
This one is a beaut! It is a 24-bit/44.1 kHz transcription using high-end analog equipment of a performance by Sigiswald Kuijken on baroque violin of J.S. Bach's first sonata and partita for solo violin. The violin was made by Giovanni Grancino circa 1700 and has been restored to baroque specifications.

The recording was engineered by Dr. Thomas Gallia, Paul Dery, and Monika Werner at Artimino Villa dei Medici in December 1981, and released as part of a 3LP set by Deutsche Harmonia Mundi in 1983 (DHL 20401.03). The CD reissue is long out of print, and used copies sell for lamentably high prices.

This is a very clear and clean recording in a moderately resonant space, bringing out every nuance of the violin's timbre. The LP is in immaculate condition, and there is virtually no tracking distortion at all. The torrent includes a zip archive with scans of the booklet notes in French from the LP set. I hope eventually to transcribe the other two LPs, so stay tuned.

Check it out at: http://thepiratebay.org/torrent/4852741

Enjoy!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on April 17, 2009, 10:05:53 AM
Quote from: loudav on April 16, 2009, 04:08:36 PM
...

Check it out at: http://thepiratebay.org/torrent/4852741

Enjoy!

Uh-oh   :-\  According to news today, ThePirateBay principals are going to jail in Sweden for evasion of copywrite laws.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1bGxxrwhC38
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lethevich on April 17, 2009, 10:17:28 AM
Quote from: Feanor on April 17, 2009, 10:05:53 AM
Uh-oh   :-\  According to news today, ThePirateBay principals are going to jail in Sweden for evasion of copywrite laws.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1bGxxrwhC38

Fortunately the site will remain up for at least the near future.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on April 17, 2009, 01:41:52 PM
It's truly pathetic, watching the authorities chasing a handful of high-profile file-sharing facilitators. Soon as they shut one lot down, another lot will open up elsewhere. It's this 'fingers-in-the-dam' approach to sorting out the 'problem' of peer-to-peer networks that's galvanising people's resolve to keep on swapping stuff illegally. Quit trying to kill it, find a way to monetise it. Morons. ::)

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Peregrine on April 17, 2009, 02:02:53 PM
Quote from: Kuhlau on April 17, 2009, 01:41:52 PM
It's truly pathetic, watching the authorities chasing a handful of high-profile file-sharing facilitators. Soon as they shut one lot down, another lot will open up elsewhere. It's this 'fingers-in-the-dam' approach to sorting out the 'problem' of peer-to-peer networks that's galvanising people's resolve to keep on swapping stuff illegally. Quit trying to kill it, find a way to monetise it. Morons. ::)

FK

Eggsactly!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on April 17, 2009, 02:18:07 PM
Knew you'd be with me. ;)

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lethevich on April 17, 2009, 02:56:50 PM
Quote from: Kuhlau on April 17, 2009, 01:41:52 PM
It's truly pathetic, watching the authorities chasing a handful of high-profile file-sharing facilitators. Soon as they shut one lot down, another lot will open up elsewhere. It's this 'fingers-in-the-dam' approach to sorting out the 'problem' of peer-to-peer networks that's galvanising people's resolve to keep on swapping stuff illegally. Quit trying to kill it, find a way to monetise it. Morons. ::)

I hope somebody other than me saw the music industry representative interviewed on Channel 4 news earlier - it was spectacular. For some reason the music industry recruit the most foul-tempered "public relations" people I have ever witnessed. This surly fellow didn't take long before he (literaly) compared pirating music to condoning murder :D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on April 17, 2009, 03:36:09 PM
Quote from: Kuhlau on April 17, 2009, 02:18:07 PM
Knew you'd be with me. ;)

FK

Me too  8)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Andante on April 18, 2009, 04:43:48 PM
Quote from: Kuhlau on April 17, 2009, 01:41:52 PM
It's truly pathetic, watching the authorities chasing a handful of high-profile file-sharing facilitators. Soon as they shut one lot down, another lot will open up elsewhere. It's this 'fingers-in-the-dam' approach to sorting out the 'problem' of peer-to-peer networks that's galvanising people's resolve to keep on swapping stuff illegally. Quit trying to kill it, find a way to monetise it. Morons. ::)

FK

Hi there MrK, as someone who has never exchanged/swapped music peer to peer what program do you need to facilitate this highly contagious entreprise
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Andante on April 18, 2009, 06:42:56 PM
George, I have come across torrents but the set up scared me, i,e opening and closing ports, I just did not feel confident enough to continue. :-[
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Diletante on April 19, 2009, 05:37:16 AM
Andante, I use uTorrent. http://www.utorrent.com/ (http://www.utorrent.com/)
I know squat about ports and stuff, so I just downloaded it, opened it, put some torrents on and voilà, it started downloading.

Be as it may, I don't use torrents much. I prefer downloading directly from sites such as Rapidshare, Megaupload... I know some pages with a bunch of interesting links, which for obvious reasons I can't put here, but if you PM me...  ;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on April 19, 2009, 05:40:13 AM
Quote from: Andante on April 18, 2009, 06:42:56 PM
George, I have come across torrents but the set up scared me, i,e opening and closing ports, I just did not feel confident enough to continue. :-[

I have replied via Personal Message. Check your box.  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Andante on April 19, 2009, 12:22:20 PM
Guy's  thanks for the reply's. George I will answer your PM later.
I persevered with torrents set up [6.1.2.] and it did appear to open the ports with out any input from me, so far so good,  I have d/l my first work,  [dime a dozen] it took a very long time, hours, it has come through as a FLAC file,  questions:

1. If you start a d/l  and then carry on doing other things, does the d/l keep beavering away in the background until it is finished [even if you switch off PC and then switch on again next day?]

2. Are all the torrent d/l in FLAC and  that is why they take so long,
The d/l that I have made was 500GB approx for 80min the same thing in mp3 would have been about 50-70GB I do realise that FLAC packs in more detail.

3. I assume that you have to convert to burn to CD any help here would be appreciated, I am running Vista home with WMP11.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on April 19, 2009, 01:01:42 PM
Quote from: Andante on April 19, 2009, 12:22:20 PM
1. If you start a d/l  and then carry on doing other things, does the d/l keep beavering away in the background until it is finished [even if you switch off PC and then switch on again next day?]

Yes, torrents will continue to download in the background irrespective of whatever else you do on your PC or Mac - although if you're uploading files to a web server, you'll probably notice this takes considerably longer when torrents are incoming (this very much depends on your torrent client's setting, as well as your connection speeds, both up and down). If you switch off your PC, all progress halts ... but resumes once you power back up and launch the torrent client.

Quote from: Andante on April 19, 2009, 12:22:20 PM2. Are all the torrent d/l in FLAC and  that is why they take so long? The d/l that I have made was 500GB approx for 80min the same thing in mp3 would have been about 50-70GB I do realise that FLAC packs in more detail.

500GB?!!! :o What are you downloading? An entire discography? Biggest torrents I've ever hauled in were around 8GB - and yes, that takes quite a bit of time to complete. I think you must mean MB not GB. As for FLAC, you'll need to Google for information on the format - it would take up too much space to reproduce such here.

Quote from: Andante on April 19, 2009, 12:22:20 PM3. I assume that you have to convert to burn to CD any help here would be appreciated, I am running Vista home with WMP11.

Well, yes, there is a 'conversion' of sorts that takes place when you burn FLAC files to a CD-R, in as much that the digital information will get decoded. The best thing to do is install something like WinAmp, MediaMonkey or foobar2000 in order to burn the files to a CD-R. Just bear in mind that you'll need at least Nero 8 installed on your machine if you choose to burn using the last of these three very capable media players.

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Brian on April 19, 2009, 01:41:53 PM
Quote from: Kuhlau on April 19, 2009, 01:01:42 PM
500GB?!!! :o What are you downloading? An entire discography?
Must be Celibidache's Ring Cycle  >:D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on April 19, 2009, 01:50:08 PM
Quote from: Brian on April 19, 2009, 01:41:53 PM
Must be Celibidache's Ring Cycle  >:D

;D

No, it's his Brahms symphony set.*



_____________________
* I'm a fan of Celibidache
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on April 19, 2009, 02:16:25 PM
George, Brian - very good. ;D

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Andante on April 19, 2009, 02:52:45 PM
I meant MB, sorry :'(
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on April 20, 2009, 06:21:46 AM
Quote from: Kuhlau on April 19, 2009, 01:01:42 PM
Well, yes, there is a 'conversion' of sorts that takes place when you burn FLAC files to a CD-R, in as much that the digital information will get decoded.
FK

Is there a loss in quality or something? I actually burnt a FLAC disc for the first time yesterday, without giving a thought to whether the CD player would play it or not. Thankfully, it did.

Quote from: Brian on April 19, 2009, 01:41:53 PM
Must be Celibidache's Ring Cycle  >:D

;D ;D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on April 20, 2009, 06:44:19 AM
Quote from: opus67 on April 20, 2009, 06:21:46 AM
Is there a loss in quality or something? I actually burnt a FLAC disc for the first time yesterday, without giving a thought to whether the CD player would play it or not. Thankfully, it did.

There's no loss in quality, it's just that not all burning software is capable of burning straight from FLAC to CD-R. Luckily, my Toast 9 software handles this nicely. What are you using?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on April 20, 2009, 06:52:49 AM
Quote from: George on April 20, 2009, 06:44:19 AM
There's no loss in quality, it's just that not all burning software is capable of burning straight from FLAC to CD-R. Luckily, my Toast 9 software handles this nicely. What are you using?

Thanks, George. I use K3b (http://k3b.plainblack.com/).

It was my first time successfully burning FLAC to CD-R. I once tried a Mahler 6 recording... all 85+ minutes of it. Burnt a nice coaster out of it.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on April 20, 2009, 06:54:19 AM
Quote from: opus67 on April 20, 2009, 06:52:49 AM
Thanks, George. I use K3b (http://k3b.plainblack.com/).

It was my first time successfully burning FLAC to CD-R. I once tried a Mahler 6 recording... all 85+ minutes of it. Burnt a nice coaster out of it.

I'm surprised that you were even able to burn a disc longer than 80 minutes. I've never been able to.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on April 20, 2009, 06:59:17 AM
Quote from: George on April 20, 2009, 06:54:19 AM
I'm surprised that you were even able to burn a disc longer than 80 minutes. I've never been able to.

As I said, it wasn't a complete success. But it is possible to go beyond the time limit set by the standard CDs. Google should help you with that. :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on April 20, 2009, 06:59:51 AM
Quote from: opus67 on April 20, 2009, 06:59:17 AM
As I said, it wasn't a complete success. But it is possible to go beyond the time limit set by the standard CDs. Google should help you with that. :)

Google is my friend.  0:)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on April 20, 2009, 07:02:20 AM
Hey, mine too! ;D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on April 20, 2009, 07:04:16 AM
Quote from: opus67 on April 20, 2009, 07:02:20 AM
Hey, mine too! ;D

I've known him way longer. Were you at his wedding? I didn't see you there!

;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Andante on April 20, 2009, 12:27:46 PM
Not wishing to appear as a skinflint, is there a free program that will handle FLAC, I have the free FLAC front end on my computer but it will not load my recent d/l
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on April 20, 2009, 12:51:31 PM
All the media players I previously mentioned handle FLAC as part of their freeware* versions.

FK

*foobar2000 being free, period. ;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Andante on April 20, 2009, 01:29:26 PM
I have MediaMonkey and that will not load ?  are there 2 versions also have Foobar and this will not decode either it just shows
Unable to open item for playback (Unsupported file format):
"C:\Users\Colin\Documents\10._Satie_-_Piezas_para_piano.rar"
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on April 20, 2009, 01:39:57 PM
You can't play back .rar files. These are compressed items (like .zip). You need WinRAR (http://www.rarsoft.com/) to decompress them so you can extract the FLAC files. ;)

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: loudav on April 20, 2009, 02:19:39 PM
Here is a 24-bit/44.1 kHz transcription using high-end analog equipment of  performances by Christopher Hogwood of a selection of pieces from the Fitzwilliam Virginal Book on a double virginal made by Thomas White in 1642. These performances were produced by Peter Wadland, engineered by John Dunkerley and John Pellowe, and released as a 2LP set on Editions de L'Oiseau-Lyre (D261D2) in 1982. They have not to my knowledge ever been released on CD.

These are among the best recordings of historic keyboard instruments I have ever heard. They are relatively close-mic'd in a moderately resonant space, and bring out the finer details as well as the overall sound of the instruments very nicely. The LPs from which these recordings were transcribed are in exemplary condition. In the coming days, I will be uploading further selections performed on three other English keyboard instruments of special historic interest.

Check it out at: http://thepiratebay.org/torrent/4861125

Enjoy!

Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Andante on April 20, 2009, 02:28:45 PM
Sorry Kuhlau, All a matter of Pilot error, I should be grounded ::)  am now playing FLAC file on Mediamonky just a matter of locating for burn.

Have converted and burned CD Success,  ;D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on April 21, 2009, 05:09:51 AM
Quote from: Andante on April 20, 2009, 12:27:46 PM
Not wishing to appear as a skinflint, is there a free program that will handle FLAC, I have the free FLAC front end on my computer but it will not load my recent d/l

If you ever find a[n uncorrupted] media file unplayable, even after extracting it from an archive, give VLC (http://www.videolan.org/vlc/) a try. It can handle just about every format you throw at it.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Andante on April 21, 2009, 01:19:17 PM
opus67   Thanks for that tip.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: nigeld on April 24, 2009, 02:44:55 AM
Quote from: Kuhlau on April 17, 2009, 01:41:52 PM
It's truly pathetic, watching the authorities chasing a handful of high-profile file-sharing facilitators. Soon as they shut one lot down, another lot will open up elsewhere. It's this 'fingers-in-the-dam' approach to sorting out the 'problem' of peer-to-peer networks that's galvanising people's resolve to keep on swapping stuff illegally. Quit trying to kill it, find a way to monetise it. Morons. ::)

FK


Until they do find a way to monetise it you should stop stealing it.  Freeloader   $:) 0:)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Tapio Dimitriyevich Shostakovich on April 24, 2009, 07:55:29 AM
Quote from: nigeld on April 24, 2009, 02:44:55 AMUntil they do find a way to monetise it you should stop stealing it.  Freeloader   $:) 0:)
"Do not record/steal music from the radio by recording it on tapes!"
Progress. Progress has never been stopped and will never be stopped. You cannot turn back the clock. Simple.

My guess is, the "making money out of music records" business is almost dead. I'm not sure what that means for the classical genre forinstance, but mankind will survive.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on April 25, 2009, 03:25:59 AM
Quote from: nigeld on April 24, 2009, 02:44:55 AM

Until they do find a way to monetise it you should stop stealing it.  Freeloader   $:) 0:)


Thanks for sharing. Really makes me want to read your other eight posts. ::)

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: nigeld on April 26, 2009, 11:24:18 AM
Quote from: Wurstwasser on April 24, 2009, 07:55:29 AM
"Do not record/steal music from the radio by recording it on tapes!"
Progress. Progress has never been stopped and will never be stopped. You cannot turn back the clock. Simple.

My guess is, the "making money out of music records" business is almost dead. I'm not sure what that means for the classical genre forinstance, but mankind will survive.

Yep mankind will survive but I for one will be sad to see the dramatic reduction of new recordings that has to follow this trend.

....and just cause everyone else is doing it, don't make it right.  Ripping a file of music you haven't paid for really is no different to walking out of a shop with a disc you haven't paid for.  How many of us would really be willing to do that?







Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on April 26, 2009, 11:43:22 AM
Quote from: nigeld on April 26, 2009, 11:24:18 AM
Ripping a file of music you haven't paid for really is no different to walking out of a shop with a disc you haven't paid for.

Not so.

Firstly, if you steal a CD from a store, you're getting the whole PHYSICAL product: liner notes, case, disc ... the lot. When you download from a torrent, you're getting a reproduction of the original, not the thing itself. Yes, you can pay for these reproductions from numerous online stores - thereby condoning their greed and encouraging the practice of charging large sums of money for what are, at the end of the day, just 1s and 0s (you'll have to pay again if you want the packaging, liner notes, et al).

Is that right? I think not. So using torrents is a good (if not currently legal) way to send a clear message to fat cat record execs: Rethink your strategy or continue losing revenue. Because, let's make no mistake about this, it's the record companies that suffer most from file sharing, not the artists.

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: techniquest on April 26, 2009, 01:13:46 PM
QuoteRethink your strategy or continue losing revenue. Because, let's make no mistake about this, it's the record companies that suffer most from file sharing, not the artists.

Whereas I do agree with your sentiments, and have been known to download the odd symphony or two, I think there's a flaw in your argument. If the record companies lose revenue, then they are less likely to contract recordings - especially from new or off-the-beaten-track composers. Unless a good profit is likely (a Beethoven/Brahms/Mozart disc from a well known combo - or yet another compilation from Classic FM), companies will simply say 'no'. That's when composers and musicians suffer.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on April 26, 2009, 01:33:54 PM
Quote from: techniquest on April 26, 2009, 01:13:46 PM
If the record companies lose revenue, then they are less likely to contract recordings - especially from new or off-the-beaten-track composers. Unless a good profit is likely (a Beethoven/Brahms/Mozart disc from a well known combo - or yet another compilation from Classic FM), companies will simply say 'no'. That's when composers and musicians suffer.

Alternatively, the performers take greater control of their own affairs. See the artists on the Onyx label for proof.

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: techniquest on April 27, 2009, 08:10:20 AM
The LSO live recordings also presumably add to your point, which is a fair point indeed.
I assume that when someone downloads from a torrent, someone else has bought the disc in the first instance and is then sharing with others what they have paid money for via the torrent networks; is that correct? If that's so, then theoretically downloading a torrent is no different to my lending the disc I bought today to my next door neighbour so he can listen to it. He hasn't paid for it, but he does have the benefit of being able to listen to it.
This argument is like an endless tennis match - both sides can see justification in their opinions.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on April 27, 2009, 11:35:03 AM
Quote from: techniquest on April 27, 2009, 08:10:20 AM
...
I assume that when someone downloads from a torrent, someone else has bought the disc in the first instance and is then sharing with others what they have paid money for via the torrent networks; is that correct? [YES] If that's so, then theoretically downloading a torrent is no different to my lending the disc I bought today to my next door neighbour so he can listen to it. He hasn't paid for it, but he does have the benefit of being able to listen to it. [NO!]
This argument is like an endless tennis match - both sides can see justification in their opinions.

The principal difference is that when I lend the CD to my neighbour I (presumably) don't have the use of it while he has it.  If I publish a bit torrent of that CD thousands of people may download and be similtaneously listening to it.

For that matter, as it stands in many jurisdictions, if I rip the CD to my hard drive I am not violating the copywrite laws since this is "fair use" of the CD I own.  On the other hand if I sell the CD -- or perhaps even if I just lend it out --  my hard drive copies become illegal.  :(
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: techniquest on April 27, 2009, 12:58:26 PM
QuoteOn the other hand if I sell the CD -- or perhaps even if I just lend it out --  my hard drive copies become illegal.

So that means that if I go out and buy a CD at a shop, then burn it to my hard drive so that I can listen to it on my mp3 player (for example), and then at some later date sell the original CD on (say) ebay; the mp3 that I have on my player and hard drive is now an illegal copy? Even though it was perfectly OK when I had the original CD in my possession, and even though I had paid the actual CD that I have burned?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on April 27, 2009, 03:01:28 PM
Quote from: techniquest on April 27, 2009, 12:58:26 PM
So that means that if I go out and buy a CD at a shop, then burn it to my hard drive so that I can listen to it on my mp3 player (for example), and then at some later date sell the original CD on (say) ebay; the mp3 that I have on my player and hard drive is now an illegal copy? Even though it was perfectly OK when I had the original CD in my possession, and even though I had paid the actual CD that I have burned?
Yep.  In fact it's somewhat doubtful whether the second copy you have on your MP3 player is legal.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Andante on April 27, 2009, 04:49:49 PM
What is the situation if you give away a copy instead of selling a copy?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on April 28, 2009, 02:03:59 AM
Quote from: Andante on April 27, 2009, 04:49:49 PM
What is the situation if you give away a copy instead of selling a copy?

Obvious, isn't it?  ILLEGAL  $:)

I suppose that copywriter holders will first go after those trying to make money but will and have gotten to those who "share" without making profit.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: techniquest on April 28, 2009, 08:54:54 AM
QuoteYep.  In fact it's somewhat doubtful whether the second copy you have on your MP3 player is legal.
Why?

QuoteFor that matter, as it stands in many jurisdictions, if I rip the CD to my hard drive I am not violating the copywrite laws since this is "fair use" of the CD I own.
But it is no longer "fair use" and become illegal if I give away, sell or eat the original CD?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Brian on April 28, 2009, 09:26:04 AM
Due to what has to be a pricing error of some kind, ClassicsOnline is now selling a 320 kbps download of Vernon Handley's complete Chandos Bax cycle (http://www.classicsonline.com/catalogue/product.aspx?pid=725273) for $10.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lethevich on April 28, 2009, 11:22:53 AM
Thanks for pointing that out, Brian - I hope that some people go for it.

To any high-Romantic fan, this is music to wallow in. Not the most immediate of works, but there is such a richness of depth to be found that, as an investment, this set is rather superb at such a price.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: jimmosk on April 28, 2009, 12:31:49 PM
On the effect-of-illegal-sharing-on-future-recordings subject, I've often wondered whether this will lead to a return of the much older pre-subscription model: in the 18th century a publisher would announce that they *would* publish a book once a certain number of people sent in their money for it. *Then* they created the book, gave it to those who had subscribed, and (sometimes) continued to sell more copies in stores.  In the future do you think a recording company might say something like, "we will record Arvo Pärt's Symphony #5 as soon as we have received $30,000 in pre-orders?", and only then record the work... the assumption being that once copies of it were in listeners hands, illegal sharing would prevent them from getting much further revenue, so best to get the $30,000 up front?

Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Andante on April 28, 2009, 01:51:14 PM
Quote from: Feanor on April 28, 2009, 02:03:59 AM
Obvious, isn't it?  ILLEGAL  $:)

I suppose that copywriter holders will first go after those trying to make money but will and have gotten to those who "share" without making profit.

I don't think it is that simple, if I leave my CD collection to my wife when I die, that is not illegal  0:)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on April 29, 2009, 01:39:25 AM
Quote from: Brian on April 28, 2009, 09:26:04 AM
Due to what has to be a pricing error of some kind, ClassicsOnline is now selling a 320 kbps download of Vernon Handley's complete Chandos Bax cycle (http://www.classicsonline.com/catalogue/product.aspx?pid=725273) for $10.

Already have it in lossless (won't tell you how ;)). Still think Bryden Thomson's set (also on Chandos) is superior, however.

Quote from: jimmosk on April 28, 2009, 12:31:49 PM
On the effect-of-illegal-sharing-on-future-recordings subject, I've often wondered whether this will lead to a return of the much older pre-subscription model: in the 18th century a publisher would announce that they *would* publish a book once a certain number of people sent in their money for it. *Then* they created the book, gave it to those who had subscribed, and (sometimes) continued to sell more copies in stores.  In the future do you think a recording company might say something like, "we will record Arvo Pärt's Symphony #5 as soon as we have received $30,000 in pre-orders?", and only then record the work... the assumption being that once copies of it were in listeners hands, illegal sharing would prevent them from getting much further revenue, so best to get the $30,000 up front?

An interesting idea ... though I think the sums involved would need to be smaller. From what I've read, $30,000 might be a bit ambitious.

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on April 29, 2009, 03:31:23 AM
Quote from: Andante on April 28, 2009, 01:51:14 PM
I don't think it is that simple, if I leave my CD collection to my wife when I die, that is not illegal  0:)

Your right about it not being simple: laws differ significantly between jurisdictions for sure.  No, it's not illegal to leave you wife your CD collection, but she's got the physical CD: see what I'm getting at?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Valentino on April 29, 2009, 09:47:24 AM
Quote from: jimmosk on April 28, 2009, 12:31:49 PM
On the effect-of-illegal-sharing-on-future-recordings subject, I've often wondered whether this will lead to a return of the much older pre-subscription model: in the 18th century a publisher would announce that they *would* publish a book once a certain number of people sent in their money for it. *Then* they created the book, gave it to those who had subscribed, and (sometimes) continued to sell more copies in stores.  In the future do you think a recording company might say something like, "we will record Arvo Pärt's Symphony #5 as soon as we have received $30,000 in pre-orders?", and only then record the work... the assumption being that once copies of it were in listeners hands, illegal sharing would prevent them from getting much further revenue, so best to get the $30,000 up front?
I do think that's where we're heading. Again.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Teresa on April 29, 2009, 04:32:25 PM
Quote from: Brian on April 28, 2009, 09:26:04 AM
Due to what has to be a pricing error of some kind, ClassicsOnline is now selling a 320 kbps download of Vernon Handley's complete Chandos Bax cycle (http://www.classicsonline.com/catalogue/product.aspx?pid=725273) for $10.

Thanks Brian for the heads up, that is a lot of music for $9.99 and I like Bax!  I signed up day before yesterday and never got a conformation email to activate my account, I couldn't contact Classics Online as their contact email was not working.  Their email is now working, they responded within 10 minutes of my sending the email,  :D BRAVO! I've never got a response so quick from anyone! Thanks Rose!

Everything is working great and I am listening as I download all seven of Bax's Symphonies plus a couple of overtures and a set of interviews with Vernon Handley.

UPDATE: Classics Online just raised the price of the Bax Symphonies to 49.95 so the 9.99 must have been a pricing error.  Also you will have to manually input the Symphony numbers. as each track lists the name of the movement but not the individual symphony number,  Using you use the track and disc number I was able to get the symphony numbers from their website.  Good thing I was up late night before last that is a big savings!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Andante on April 29, 2009, 05:41:43 PM
Quote from: Feanor on April 29, 2009, 03:31:23 AM
  No, it's not illegal to leave you wife your CD collection, but she's got the physical CD: see what I'm getting at?

What I failed to mention was that due to the tarnishing bug that struck a lot of CDs from the 90s approx, I copied quite a few as a safe guard, so she would inherit copies, secondly with Naxos, artists are paid upfront once only for making a CD, so if you copy a Naxos only Naxos suffers,IMO its to late to get the copying stopped now, the music industry is having a big shake up.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Franco on May 08, 2009, 06:52:01 AM
Read today in the Wall Street Journal about a new classical download site:

New Ways to Buy Bach Online  (http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124174826897199479.html#mod=todays_us_weekend_journal)

QuoteClassical Archives, a new digital store focused exclusively on classical music, is Mr. Schwob's answer to mass-market digital retailers with "a complete lack of understanding of how classical music should be offered," down to the way they often categorize recordings. "It's basically a lack of respect when you say Bach is an 'artist,' not a composer," Mr. Schwob says.

[...]

Mr. Schwob, a businessman who is largely unknown in the insular world of orchestras and operas, has put some $4 million of his own money into the launch of Classical Archives, which is a new version of a site Mr. Schwob founded 15 years ago. His site's selling points: an emphasis on high-quality audio and a browsing system designed by musicologists (including an architect of one of the Web's most popular music services, Pandora) to satisfy aficionados and novices alike.

Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Maciek on May 08, 2009, 08:47:55 AM
From the same page (sideboard on the left):

Quote
Online Overtures
ArkivMusic

...

Top digital seller: Karol Szymanowski's Symphonies No. 1 & 4, conducted by Antoni Wit and performed by the Warsaw Philharmonic Orchestra, featuring pianist Jan Krzysztof Broja.

:o Who would have guessed?! :o
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Valentino on May 08, 2009, 08:59:09 AM
I'm very much looking forward to the day ArkivMusic offers FLAC. mp3 won't do, sorry.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on May 08, 2009, 11:14:08 AM
Quote from: Franco on May 08, 2009, 06:52:01 AM
Read today in the Wall Street Journal about a new classical download site:

New Ways to Buy Bach Online  (http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124174826897199479.html#mod=todays_us_weekend_journal)

I got excited about this ... then realised 'highest quality' meant 320kbps MP3. Call me jaded, but Classics Online are already rolling out FLAC, and Passionato have had this format for a while.

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Andante on May 08, 2009, 02:31:12 PM
Quote from: Kuhlau on May 08, 2009, 11:14:08 AM
I got excited about this ... then realised 'highest quality' meant 320kbps MP3. Call me jaded, but Classics Online are already rolling out FLAC, and Passionato have had this format for a while.

FK

Why did you have to mention Classics on line and Passionato, I am just addicted to FLAC but only have 5GB on my BB, more expense coming up :'(
how on earth am I to justify more GB to my Wife ???
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on May 08, 2009, 02:59:43 PM
BB, Andante? ???

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on May 08, 2009, 03:00:58 PM
Quote from: Kuhlau on May 08, 2009, 02:59:43 PM
BB, Andante? ???

FK

BlackBerry probably.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on May 08, 2009, 03:05:14 PM
BlackBerry's have in excess of 5GB of memory? :o

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Andante on May 08, 2009, 03:44:27 PM
BB= Broad Band  ::) I am on a 5GB (max) pricing plan we pay NZ$10/GB next permanent plan is 10GB so a lot more $$$ and it is just about the slowest in the whole Cosmos
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Valentino on May 08, 2009, 03:54:41 PM
That's 5GB per day, week or month, Andante?

I have the slowest (would that be the narrowest?) broadband in the whole cosmos. Internet radio at 160kbps just doesn't work.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Andante on May 08, 2009, 04:13:49 PM
It's per month, I run Internet Radio OK, on separate wireless system, but for certain FLAC d/l it takes a while, only been able to have BB for about 18mths still a lot better than dial up,  Have just tested speed, best yet up=130kb/s    down=1400kb/s  what is yours?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on May 10, 2009, 05:25:14 AM
Quote from: Andante on May 08, 2009, 04:13:49 PM
Have just tested speed, best yet up=130kb/s    down=1400kb/s  what is yours?

Your signature implies that you know it already.  ;D

Actually I'm not especially fast:
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Valentino on May 10, 2009, 07:05:00 AM
A good moment I suppose, and (edit) a not so good one:

(http://www.speedtest.net/result/470518557.png) (http://www.speedtest.net/result/470525763.png)

Latency is crap and crap.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on May 10, 2009, 07:14:37 AM
Mine:

(http://www.speedtest.net/result/470523849.png)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on May 10, 2009, 10:17:50 AM
How rubbish is this ...

(http://www.speedtest.net/result/470619136.png) (http://www.speedtest.net)

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on May 10, 2009, 10:26:33 AM
Quote from: Kuhlau on May 10, 2009, 10:17:50 AM
How rubbish is this ...

(http://www.speedtest.net/result/470619136.png) (http://www.speedtest.net)

FK

Time to move to NYC!  $:)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: John Copeland on May 10, 2009, 10:28:36 AM
 :(
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on May 10, 2009, 10:45:09 AM
Quote from: George on May 10, 2009, 10:26:33 AM
Time to move to NYC!  $:)

Or just to gates of his closest neighbour with super-fast wireless. >:D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on May 10, 2009, 10:56:49 AM
Quote from: opus67 on May 10, 2009, 10:45:09 AM
Or just to gates of his closest neighbour with super-fast wireless. >:D

No, NYC.   $:)

;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Wanderer on May 10, 2009, 11:01:31 AM
You should all move to Athens. We may be ancient, but our internet is fast. Cool columns atop that hill downtown, too.  8)

(http://www.speedtest.net/result/470630507.png)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on May 10, 2009, 11:02:36 AM
Quote from: Wanderer on May 10, 2009, 11:01:31 AM
You should all move to Athens. We may be ancient, but our internet is fast. Cool columns atop that hill downtown, too.  8)

(http://www.speedtest.net/result/470630507.png)

Too bad you don't give as well as you take.  ;D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: rickardg on May 10, 2009, 11:35:35 AM
Hey, what's with all you guys' upload speeds? I always make sure to seed generously :)

(http://www.speedtest.net/result/470651711.png)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on May 10, 2009, 11:44:45 AM
That's impossible!  :o Seriously, did you doctor the pic, rickardg?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Andante on May 10, 2009, 12:00:10 PM
Quote from: Feanor on May 10, 2009, 05:25:14 AM
Your signature implies that you know it already.  ;D

Actually I'm not especially bright:

Yes to the first, just checking for fibbers 0:)   I do not agree with the second [sorry] couldn't resist it ;)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on May 10, 2009, 12:06:16 PM
John, what are you sad about? Your download speed p***es all over mine. :(

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on May 10, 2009, 12:07:49 PM
I want rickardg's internet connection. :(

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: not edward on May 10, 2009, 01:40:12 PM
Seriously unspectacular here: (http://www.speedtest.net/result/470723497.png) (http://www.speedtest.net)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Wanderer on May 10, 2009, 02:44:04 PM
Quote from: George on May 10, 2009, 11:02:36 AM
Too bad you don't give as well as you take.  ;D

Big deal, nobody really cares about uploading, anyway...  >:D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on May 10, 2009, 02:49:23 PM
Quote from: Wanderer on May 10, 2009, 02:44:04 PM
Big deal, nobody really cares about uploading, anyway...  >:D

;D

Not a member of What.CD or Waffles I see...

Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Teresa on May 10, 2009, 03:52:17 PM
Quote from: mwb on April 11, 2009, 06:21:54 AM
Yeah, I asked a few weeks ago if anyone has tried it yet (http://www.good-music-guide.com/community/index.php/topic,1340.msg287492.html#msg287492).  Good to see someone now has and likes it.

I may wait for the couple of weeks for the current season to end so my year sub will include all of next season and the archives for the current and past ones that they add.

My new article "BSO's Digital Music subscription program, the bargain of the century!"  is in the new issue of Positive Feedback Online
http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue43/bso.htm (http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue43/bso.htm)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Tapio Dimitriyevich Shostakovich on May 10, 2009, 08:08:47 PM
Quote from: Wanderer on May 10, 2009, 11:01:31 AMYou should all move to Athens. We may be ancient, but our internet is fast. Cool columns atop that hill downtown, too.  8)(http://www.speedtest.net/result/470630507.png)
Erm, just let me remind you the results are in Megabit/s, not Megabyte/s.
http://www.bit-calculator.com/
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on May 11, 2009, 01:54:17 AM
Now, now, let's not get carried away. Here's the official conversion chart.

(http://imgs.xkcd.com/comics/kilobyte.png)

XKCD #394

Wurstwasser, 45 Mbps is fast, for the average consumer at least.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kuhlau on May 11, 2009, 01:57:02 AM
That's brilliant. ;D

FK
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on May 11, 2009, 02:16:43 AM
Quote from: Kuhlau on May 11, 2009, 01:57:02 AM
That's brilliant. ;D

FK

It's XKCD, after all. What did you expect?

;D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Wanderer on May 11, 2009, 02:22:09 AM
Quote from: George on May 10, 2009, 02:49:23 PM
;D
Not a member of What.CD or Waffles I see...

And proud of it.  ;D

Quote from: Wurstwasser on May 10, 2009, 08:08:47 PM
Erm, just let me remind you the results are in Megabit/s, not Megabyte/s.
http://www.bit-calculator.com/

Of course I know (as are everyone's results who took that cute little test also). But thanks for the link, it's dead useful and I'll pass it on to some mathematically (and computerly) challenged acquaintances of mine (I have a few).

PS. I like opus67's official conversion chart even better.  ;D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lethevich on May 11, 2009, 06:37:19 AM
(http://www.speedtest.net/result/471127782.png) (http://www.speedtest.net)

Life sucks, man, life sucks. It should actually be a little over 3 Mb/s, but my current modem hates me.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: rickardg on May 11, 2009, 07:53:01 AM
Quote from: opus67 on May 10, 2009, 11:44:45 AM
That's impossible!  :o Seriously, did you doctor the pic, rickardg?

Nope, I'm just lucky enough to live where there is a real Ethernet connection and not ASDL, after all, the A stands for 'Asymmetric''.

Veering decidedly off-topic: I find it interesting that most ISPs treat the net as a broadcast medium rather than a network medium, of course there is higher demand for content consumption than content production, but still, with my connection I could run a moderately popular web site or forum from home.

Oh by the way, I just realised I had the network cable disconnected and running on my old flaky wireless network. Turns out the connection is asymmetric after all

(http://www.speedtest.net/result/471171399.png)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on May 11, 2009, 07:57:37 AM
Now you're just showing off. >:(


;)

Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Tapio Dimitriyevich Shostakovich on May 11, 2009, 10:29:39 PM
Quote from: opus67 on May 11, 2009, 01:54:17 AMWurstwasser, 45 Mbps is fast, for the average consumer at least.
Yes, I didn't state the opposite.
I'm on a 16Mbps ADSL line, max. download speed is ~1.65MByte/s, upload 120kByte/s. Which is the "standard" package here in germany imo.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Dr. Dread on June 15, 2009, 06:36:38 PM
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/8100394.stm
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on June 16, 2009, 05:58:46 AM
Quote from: MN Dave on June 15, 2009, 06:36:38 PM
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/8100394.stm

Yes, remarkable.  A music purveyor actually willing to enterain the notion that lower prices  :o might reduce piracy.

On the other hand it's part of the trend to extract a certain amoung of money from people's pockets on steady and predictable basis.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Brian on July 08, 2009, 11:07:32 AM
Well, eMusic has driven me away. They have just absorbed Sony, RCA, and Columbia into their catalog, bringing in artists like Eugene Ormandy and Leonard Bernstein, but the deal also brought in a wealth of hassles:

- My account was changed from 40 to 24 downloads per month at the same price tag.
- Full albums from most labels now cost 12 "tracks" even when there are fewer than 12. For instance, Karel Ancerl's Shostakovich 7th on Supraphon costs 12 points even though it is 4 tracks long.
- Almost all 20 of my wishlist items now cost 12 downloads, meaning they will now take me 10 months to download whereas, previously, they would have taken just 6.5 months.
- Although it was stated that all albums with more than 12 tracks would be reduced to a "price tag" of 12, this change has not been made.

However, I am wise enough to see that cutting myself off from eMusic would also cut myself off from the chance to download music by Bernstein, Ormandy, Munch, Szell, Ancerl, and others which are drifting out of print, plus Paavo Jarvi's Beethoven cycle. So I have adopted a compromise. I just upgraded my account to super-connoisseur, meaning I get a gajillion downloads per month for the fee of $42. I will finish off my entire wishlist by September and cancel my account.

EDIT: And that's another sticking point. They've omitted Paavo Jarvi's Beethoven cycle.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Coopmv on July 25, 2009, 07:28:37 AM
Quote from: Feanor on June 16, 2009, 05:58:46 AM
Yes, remarkable.  A music purveyor actually willing to enterain the notion that lower prices  :o might reduce piracy.

On the other hand it's part of the trend to extract a certain amoung of money from people's pockets on steady and predictable basis.

This logic is a no-brainer.  Microsoft has drastically slashed prices on its Office software in China where some 90% of its software products are pirated copies.  Sales have gone up a few hundred percent since MS made that pricing move.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on July 30, 2009, 08:55:33 AM
Just registering at Zig-Zag Territories' website (http://www.zigzag-territoires.com) gets you 5 Euros' worth of store (download) credit. And most albums go for about 10.

Although their website claims (http://www.zigzag-territoires.com/boutique.php3?page=11&lang=en) that "[t]he downloaded files on PC/Windows are in WMA format and require a Windows Media Player 8 or superior to be played on your computer. You can burn 5 copies of the downloaded titles to listen them on your Hifi or in your car or on your Ipod compatible WMA" and that "a specific format is provided for mac users," what I downloaded were MP3 files encoded @ 128 kbps. But I'm using Linux and I don't know if that made a difference.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Valentino on August 01, 2009, 01:10:04 AM
Did you buy claimed WMA quality, but what you got was mp3@128kbps, or did you listen to the 90s samples?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on August 01, 2009, 08:12:51 AM
Quote from: Valentino on August 01, 2009, 01:10:04 AM
Did you buy claimed WMA quality, but what you got was mp3@128kbps, or did you listen to the 90s samples?

I downloaded 4 tracks and accordingly my credit went down after each download. All the files contained complete movements.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Coopmv on August 01, 2009, 11:01:18 AM
Quote from: Valentino on August 01, 2009, 01:10:04 AM
Did you buy claimed WMA quality, but what you got was mp3@128kbps, or did you listen to the 90s samples?

How much better is WMA SQ compared with mp3@128kbps?  All CD's I have added to my desktop via my WM Player were ripped at 192 bits.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on August 01, 2009, 11:03:41 AM
Well wma @ 64kbps is equivalent to mp3@128kbps, but as you go to higher bitrates they both become transparent and the differences between become neglible.  But wma@128kpbs will be much, much closer to transparent than mp3 at that bitrate, it's just much more efficient at low bitrates.  The same goes for vorbis, mp3pro, atrac and others.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Coopmv on August 01, 2009, 11:07:31 AM
Quote from: DavidW on August 01, 2009, 11:03:41 AM
Well wma @ 64kbps is equivalent to mp3@128kbps, but as you go to higher bitrates they both become transparent and the differences between become neglible.  But wma@128kpbs will be much, much closer to transparent than mp3 at that bitrate, it's just much more efficient at low bitrates.  The same goes for vorbis, mp3pro, atrac and others.

So there are not much audible improvements going from wma@128kbps to wma@192kbps?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lethevich on August 01, 2009, 11:35:34 AM
Whatever they're offering, if it's lower than 192kbps in any format, it's shockingly poor value... :-\
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Coopmv on August 01, 2009, 11:37:17 AM
Quote from: Lethe on August 01, 2009, 11:35:34 AM
Whatever they're offering, if it's lower than 192kbps in any format, it's shockingly poor value... :-\

But the download is not exactly dirt-cheap?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on August 01, 2009, 11:42:08 AM
Quote from: Coopmv on August 01, 2009, 11:07:31 AM
So there are not much audible improvements going from wma@128kbps to wma@192kbps?

Well you can test that for yourself by doing an abx comparison.  Personally I'm only interested in a minimum of 192kbps if I'm paying for it.  In other words, I agree with Lethe.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Coopmv on August 01, 2009, 11:46:33 AM
Quote from: DavidW on August 01, 2009, 11:42:08 AM
Well you can test that for yourself by doing an abx comparison.  Personally I'm only interested in a minimum of 192kbps if I'm paying for it.  In other words, I agree with Lethe.

I just do not believe in download ...

Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on August 01, 2009, 11:55:28 AM
Quote from: Coopmv on August 01, 2009, 11:46:33 AM
I just do not believe in download ...

cds are cheap enough that if you don't want to, don't bother, that's what I say.  I only buy mp3s when it's significantly cheaper than buying the cd (new or used), or the cd can't be found.  There are still so many holes in digital download I really don't think plunging into the digital world is worth it yet, cds will still be around for along time to come. :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Coopmv on August 01, 2009, 12:01:50 PM
Quote from: DavidW on August 01, 2009, 11:55:28 AM
cds are cheap enough that if you don't want to, don't bother, that's what I say.  I only buy mp3s when it's significantly cheaper than buying the cd (new or used), or the cd can't be found.  There are still so many holes in digital download I really don't think plunging into the digital world is worth it yet, cds will still be around for along time to come. :)

I agree and this has been exactly my reasoning.  I have seen CD's by the likes of Gustav Leonhardt, big-name artists going for the equivalent of $1 per CD with these box sets.  How much cheaper can the downloads be for these recordings?
So unless space is an issue, go for the CD's.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Tapio Dimitriyevich Shostakovich on August 13, 2009, 06:33:34 AM
Quote from: DavidW on August 01, 2009, 11:03:41 AMWell wma @ 64kbps is equivalent to mp3@128kbps, but as you go to higher bitrates they both become transparent and the differences between become neglible.  But wma@128kpbs will be much, much closer to transparent than mp3 at that bitrate, it's just much more efficient at low bitrates.  The same goes for vorbis, mp3pro, atrac and others.
The first is the MS bullshit claim. Second, wma standard is not wma pro. Two different codecs. WMA standard is pretty crappy at bitrates less than maybe 160 kbps. I did some wma standard testing once, I was pretty surprised how bad it is. WMA pro instead is maybe as good as modern codecs like aac, vorbis, mpc and such. But close to zero hardware support.

But hey we've got Terabyte hard disks today. Get lossless and be flexible in what you do with it. Feel free to convert things to what your current needs are and feel free to drop the lossy into the recycle bin again.
I wouldn't invest a single penny in lossy.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on August 13, 2009, 07:39:13 AM
Quote from: Wurstwasser on August 13, 2009, 06:33:34 AM
The first is the MS bullshit claim. Second, wma standard is not wma pro. Two different codecs. WMA standard is pretty crappy at bitrates less than maybe 160 kbps.

I don't think you need to use language that harsh to make your point. ::)  I'm not confusing wma standard with pro, BOTH are superior to mp3.  It's not bs, it's common knowledge.  ABX for yourself, wma is not "pretty crappy" as you so eloquently put it.

Quote from: Wurstwasser on August 13, 2009, 06:33:34 AM
But hey we've got Terabyte hard disks today. Get lossless and be flexible in what you do with it. Feel free to convert things to what your current needs are and feel free to drop the lossy into the recycle bin again.
I wouldn't invest a single penny in lossy.

Well it's your loss then.  Lossy can be downloaded on online stores, haven't seen lossless yet for downloads.  Also lossless is inconvenient for flash players.  Last time I checked flash players had a few gigs of memory and not terabytes.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Tapio Dimitriyevich Shostakovich on August 14, 2009, 07:28:19 AM
I tested WMA with "-a_codec WMA9STD -a_mode 2 -a_setting Q50_44_2" and Q75 and after a few quick listens it showed weaknesses close to mp3 cbr. I was immediately disappointed, I thought it would be an alternative to mp3 for my Cowon iAudio7. It wasn't. The Cowon had a bad firmware (which is now fixed) which played ogg vorbis files awfully bad. I won't test wma std. again because of no need.

And from what I remember from Hydrogenaudio.org listening tests we had two groups of encoders: wma std. and mp3 as the lower quality codecs. wma pro, mpc, vorbis, (nero) aac as the modern and better ones. Here's a wma vs. mp3 listening test: click (http://www.hydrogenaudio.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=35438&hl=).

Quote from: DavidW on August 13, 2009, 07:39:13 AMWell it's your loss then.  Lossy can be downloaded on online stores, haven't seen lossless yet for downloads.

I'm not losing anything, I've got it all. On the legal side, Chandos has a ton of lossless downloads for you.

QuoteAlso lossless is inconvenient for flash players.  Last time I checked flash players had a few gigs of memory and not terabytes.

As I said. "Feel free to convert things to what your current needs are". lame.exe, neroaacenc.exe, oggenc.exe exist. Even as drag and drop programs for the computer illiterate. (lamedropxpd, oggdropxpd). foobar2000.org, rarewares.org, convert and throw away as often as you feel like.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Franco on August 14, 2009, 07:33:19 AM
Running iTunes on a Windows system does not import FLAC songs (at least as far as I know).  There are workarounds for a Mac, but I'm not sure and doubt that the iPod will play the songs even if you can on iTunes.

Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Tapio Dimitriyevich Shostakovich on August 14, 2009, 07:59:04 AM
Quote from: Franco on August 14, 2009, 07:33:19 AMRunning iTunes on a Windows system does not import FLAC songs (at least as far as I know).  There are workarounds for a Mac, but I'm not sure and doubt that the iPod will play the songs even if you can on iTunes.
"You get what you pay for" :D Stay away from proprietary Hard- and Software!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Franco on August 14, 2009, 08:24:41 AM
That's a bit glib.

Now that I have over 70,000 tracks loaded into my iTunes Library, it is not very practical to switch - or storing that many songs in a higher quality format.  And besides, AAC, while lossy, is better than mp3 and I like the flexibility of the software in all other respects.  I don't buy/download many songs anymore, but usually upload CDs or my current project, which is converting my vinyl and tapes to CD via a CD Recorder (HHB CDR-850), and then either ripping them to my hard dirve or uploading directly into iTunes.

I won't be doing away with my CD collection - but having the portability of the iPod is a great benefit.

Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Tapio Dimitriyevich Shostakovich on August 14, 2009, 08:38:09 AM
Yes of course. 70000 tracks, if in typical classical length, is a lot. I've got 20000 of classical and this is already more than 11 weeks.

I just want to say it's always better to start from a lossless source on a PC and convert to any possible format. In your case it's not a problem to convert whatever lossless format to m4a (e.g. with foobar2000+neroacenc.exe).

Well I'm from the fb2k world. Once done, it's more flexible than anything. Has a very good converter and great database queries. But needs a geek to have it all ;)

(http://www.fileden.com/files/2007/9/21/1446950/fb2k2009.png)

E.g. this is my naming scheme for lossy files for my DVD player. It's disgusting ;):

$puts(altmp,$ascii($trim($if3(%work%,%album%,%directory%))))$ifequal($strrchr($get(altmp),'No. '),$sub($len($get(altmp)),4),$puts(al,$left($get(altmp),$sub($len($get(altmp)),1))0$right($get(altmp),1)),$puts(al,$replace($get(altmp),No. 0 ,No. 00 ,No. 1 ,No. 01 ,No. 2 ,No. 02 ,No. 3 ,No. 03 ,No. 4 ,No. 04 ,No. 5 ,No. 05 ,No. 6 ,No. 06 ,No. 7 ,No. 07 ,No. 8 ,No. 08 ,No. 9 ,No. 09 )))$puts(com,$ascii($if2($trim($substr(%composer%,$strrchr(%composer%, ),999)),$left(%album artist%,30))))$if(%conductor%,$puts(con,$ascii($trim($substr(%conductor%,$strrchr(%conductor%, ),999)))))$if(%ensemble%,$puts(ens,$ascii($upper($abbr(%ensemble%)))))$puts(fn,[$num(%discnumber%,1)]$ifgreater(%subsong%,0,$num(%subsong%,2),$num(%tracknumber%,2))'. '$trim($left($ascii(%title%),80)))$if($or($strstr($lower(%title%),'symphony'),$and(%work%,$not($strcmp($lower($ascii($replace(%work%,'.',,',',,' ',,'-',,':',,';',))),$lower($ascii($replace(%title%,'.',,',',,' ',,'-',,':',,';',))))))),$get(com)\$get(al)$if($and(%conductor%,%ensemble%),' ('$get(con) - $get(ens)')',[' ('$get(con)')'][' ('$get(ens)')'])\$get(fn),$get(com)\_Various\$left($trim(%title%),80)$if($and(%conductor%,%ensemble%),' ('$get(con) - $get(ens)')',[' ('$get(con)')'][' ('$get(ens)')']))
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on August 14, 2009, 09:09:13 AM
Quote from: DavidW on August 01, 2009, 11:55:28 AM
cds are cheap enough that if you don't want to, don't bother, that's what I say.  I only buy mp3s when it's significantly cheaper than buying the cd (new or used), or the cd can't be found.  There are still so many holes in digital download I really don't think plunging into the digital world is worth it yet, cds will still be around for along time to come. :)

I refuse to pay for MP3 at any bit rate, even 320 kbps.  Paying US$1.00/track for a lossy format is an outrageous gouge when the physical CD likely costs no more.  This pricing is indicative of the greed of music distributors. After all, the whole cost of the physical production and distribution is by-passed, yet they expect to get the same price; it makes no sense.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on August 14, 2009, 09:40:06 AM
Quote from: Feanor on August 14, 2009, 09:09:13 AM
I refuse to pay for MP3 at any bit rate, even 320 kbps.  Paying US$1.00/track for a lossy format is an outrageous gouge when the physical CD costs likely costs no more.  This pricing is indicative of the greed of music distributors. After all, the whole cost of the physical production and distribution is by-passed, yet they expect to get the same price; it makes no sense.

I don't think you've looked around enough.  If you buy them by the album it's much cheaper.  I picked up a Wuorinen chamber album for $3, the Suzuki Handel Messiah (a 2fer) for less than $4.  The complete Haydn symphonies can be purchased on mp3 for around $23.  I agree that $1/track is a rip, but there some sweet deals out there. :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Gurn Blanston on August 14, 2009, 09:48:05 AM
Quote from: Feanor on August 14, 2009, 09:09:13 AM
I refuse to pay for MP3 at any bit rate, even 320 kbps.  Paying US$1.00/track for a lossy format is an outrageous gouge when the physical CD costs likely costs no more.  This pricing is indicative of the greed of music distributors. After all, the whole cost of the physical production and distribution is by-passed, yet they expect to get the same price; it makes no sense.

I completely agree with that. Lossy downloads are generally overpriced. You rip once, sell 1,000,000 times. And yet, when I browse Amazon, for example, I see "MP3 Album price $9.99", and right next to it "CD - Used, like new - $3.99". Now, I'm a well-known dumbass, but which choice do you think I would make there? :D  I have, however, gotten many rare, OOP disks as downloads, and there the $9.99 looks pretty damned good! :)

8)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Tapio Dimitriyevich Shostakovich on August 15, 2009, 11:15:32 PM
As an example you typically have four choices:

a) mp3 at $9.99. Maybe a jpg cover.
b) lossless at 9.99$ plus maybe a scanned booklet. Thanks Chandos.
c) CD for $11.99.
d) lossless with scanned booklet and ripping log by a community for $0.00 (I just say Avax, Melo & Co.)

Oh what a dilemma! The morals! The sin! The solution of course is: a) or b) because d) is illegal. c), erm, c. I don't like c because I need everything digital and I hate ripping and having the physical media. They will only crowd my basement.

I remember this blog entry (http://blog.koehntopp.de/archives/2518-Falscher-Planet,-falsches-Jahrtausend.html) (german) where the author states computers basically are copy machines, IT is copying, and he does not know a solution to the dilemma. I fully agree with that article. OTOH I do not agree fully with Paratenpartei. Piratenpartei is kind of trend sport in Germany, especially amongst students. To me, basically they apply socialist wet dreams on IT.

Yours,
Wurstpope
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on August 16, 2009, 04:09:33 AM
Quote from: Wurstwasser on August 15, 2009, 11:15:32 PM
As an example you typically have four choices:

a) mp3 at $9.99. Maybe a jpg cover.
b) lossless at 9.99$ plus maybe a scanned booklet. Thanks Chandos.
c) CD for $11.99.
d) lossless with scanned booklet and ripping log by a community for $0.00 (I just say Avax, Melo & Co.)

...

Yours,
Wurstpope

Well, this is a good synopsis.  From my perspective only (c) represents fair value for money, though, of course, (b) is a huge improvement over (a).  I would be just happy with (b) but I'd rather pay less -- and ought to, given the much lower distribution chain costs.  The cost of (a) for those satisfied with MP3 ought to be perhaps $1.50 or maybe 20 cents for a single "song".

If irrational greed didn't trump common sense for the music distributors, they would be charging 15-20 cents per there would be far less piracy. Or at least if the long-time high prices hadn't already gotten people in the habit of piracy, that would be the effect.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on August 16, 2009, 07:24:55 AM
Quote from: Feanor on August 16, 2009, 04:09:33 AM
If irrational greed didn't trump common sense for the music distributors, they would be charging 15-20 cents per there would be far less piracy. Or at least if the long-time high prices hadn't already gotten people in the habit of piracy, that would be the effect.

Charging $1 per is not "irrational greed", it represents the biggest price cut the major studios have ever made.  People used to buy an entire album to get the one song they liked, and they paid $12-17 to effectively get one song.  Now instead of buying the entire thing they get exactly what they want for less than 10% of the original price.

The system wasn't created to rip off classical music listeners, it was created to provide a cheap enough solution to turn the majority of people away from piracy and start paying for their music again.

When you think of the big picture, of what most people want, if someone is not willing to pay $1 per song, then they are not willing to pay at all.  Your suggestion of charging 15-20 cents does not really make any sense to me.  And you must realize that itunes, amazon etc employ professionals to gather and analyze statistics to determine the pricing that will yield the highest profit.  I doubt an armchair critic on an internet forum knows better.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Gurn Blanston on August 16, 2009, 07:58:19 AM
Well, I do think that the price of lossy downloads is, at least in some instances, irrational greed. I'll give you one example, but there are plenty of others. On Amazon right now, the BIS set of Brautigam Haydn sonatas. MP3 price for the album: $65.50. Now Amazon doesn't carry the set itself (I think it recently went OOP), but when they did it was <>$55, and on the Marketplace it can still be had for $59. (sometimes $49). Now, I'm sorry, but that's irrational greed. That would be high even if they were lossless downloads. Their distribution costs and overall investment is nearly insignificant. And as a marketing thing, how many of those sets do you think they actually sell? Who would pay that price! :-\

I am still willing to pay a fair price, and I think the concept of selling downloads is a good one, but there are clearly some things that are entirely out of line.

8)

----------------
Listening to:
Ludwig Van Beethoven - Op 061 Concerto in D for Violin & Orchestra 1st mvmt - Allegro ma non troppo
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on August 16, 2009, 08:14:47 AM
Well if you compare mp3s to the used market, you can't really expect the prices to be the same.  I think it only makes sense to compare directly to amazon's price.  Their "marketplace" is driven by a different supply/demand and also can fluctuate quite rapidly, it would be near impossible for amazon to track their marketplace pricing to match on their mp3 pricing to be fair.  And I speak as someone who sells on amazon, I can come back and find my listing buried under cheap prices in just a day, or find it sell within hours when it was in the middle before.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on August 16, 2009, 12:27:33 PM
Quote from: DavidW on August 16, 2009, 07:24:55 AM
Charging $1 per is not "irrational greed", it represents the biggest price cut the major studios have ever made.  People used to buy an entire album to get the one song they liked, and they paid $12-17 to effectively get one song.  Now instead of buying the entire thing they get exactly what they want for less than 10% of the original price.

The system wasn't created to rip off classical music listeners, it was created to provide a cheap enough solution to turn the majority of people away from piracy and start paying for their music again.

When you think of the big picture, of what most people want, if someone is not willing to pay $1 per song, then they are not willing to pay at all.  Your suggestion of charging 15-20 cents does not really make any sense to me.  And you must realize that itunes, amazon etc employ professionals to gather and analyze statistics to determine the pricing that will yield the highest profit.  I doubt an armchair critic on an internet forum knows better.

No doubt the online music distributors rejoice to hear your argument.  But I'm not entirely convinced.

I have no idea whether most people bought entire albums to get one song as you suggest. Some did not doubt, but most I knew including me bought whole album out of choice, even when a "single" (45 rpm) was available.  Obviously the $1 per "song" figure is psychologically significant.  And I'm sure you are right that the $1 per was a deliberate calculation.  However I doubt consideration of piracy much entered into it. Rather my guess is that it was decided as the figure that would not undermine CD sales for brick & mortar sellers.  This has certainly born out for classical sales.

I'll stick to my point that $1 per track is a rip-off given the huge distribution cost savings.  The arguement that the masses will pay happily pay a buck to avoid paying for the whole album, or for the gradification of an instant download, sounds reasonable -- except that it is refuted by the evidence of piracy.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: vandermolen on August 22, 2009, 04:00:57 PM
I just purchased my first 'download' - the reason being because Barbirolli never made a commercial recording of Vaughan Williams's 4th Symphony and it is only available as a download. A performance from 1950 - unlike any other - a great performance:

Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Coopmv on August 22, 2009, 04:26:45 PM
Quote from: vandermolen on August 22, 2009, 04:00:57 PM
I just purchased my first 'download' - the reason being because Barbirolli never made a commercial recording of Vaughan Williams's 4th Symphony and it is only available as a download. A performance from 1950 - unlike any other - a great performance:



But is this considered an EMI recording?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on August 22, 2009, 05:25:06 PM
Quote from: Coopmv on August 22, 2009, 04:26:45 PM


But is this considered an EMI recording?

Since when does the record label matter at all?  Unless you are suggesting that he was swindled into paying for a bootleg.  As far as I know, only those pesky russian stores have distributed music without paying royalties.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: vandermolen on August 23, 2009, 02:25:55 PM
Quote from: Coopmv on August 22, 2009, 04:26:45 PM


But is this considered an EMI recording?

Don't think so - no mention of EMI in the accompanying booklet. It was taken from a BBC studios broadcast in 1950.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Teresa on August 27, 2009, 04:47:47 PM
Quote from: Feanor on August 14, 2009, 09:09:13 AM
I refuse to pay for MP3 at any bit rate, even 320 kbps.  Paying US$1.00/track for a lossy format is an outrageous gouge when the physical CD costs likely costs no more.  This pricing is indicative of the greed of music distributors. After all, the whole cost of the physical production and distribution is by-passed, yet they expect to get the same price; it makes no sense.

I agree! I will accept MP3 for free, such as the free downloads at Amazon.com but when I lay down REAL MONEY I want at least 24 Bit 88.2kHz lossless downloads.  I get the 24/88.2 and 24/96 FLAC downloads from http://www.hdtracks.com/index.php?file=staticpage&pagename=audiophile_96khz (http://www.hdtracks.com/index.php?file=staticpage&pagename=audiophile_96khz) and then convert them to 24/88.2 and 24/96 Apple Lossless to play on my MAC.  I am also a Digital Subscriber to the Boston Symphony website http://www.bso.org/bso/shop/productCategories.jsp?id=bcat13360032 (http://www.bso.org/bso/shop/productCategories.jsp?id=bcat13360032) and get their concerts in 24/88.2kHz. 

The physical formats I purchase are SACDs, DVD-Audios and LPs, I was never into CDs as I never cared for their sound.  But I will say I prefer a CD ripped to Apple Lossless over the original CD, still I don't use such recordings except for background music.  When I listen to music for pleasure I choose high resolution digital and analog.  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on August 27, 2009, 05:01:32 PM
Quote from: Teresa on August 27, 2009, 04:47:47 PM
But I will say I prefer a CD ripped to Apple Lossless over the original CD,

Why?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Teresa on August 27, 2009, 05:06:07 PM
Quote from: DavidW on August 27, 2009, 05:01:32 PM
Why?
To my ears it sounds less harsh, but even the Apple Lossless version I do not listen to seriously, just as background music.  I really don't like any digital lower than the Soundstream 50kHz recordings from LPs or SACDs.  I prefer as high a sampling rate as possible and like DSD the best of all. 
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on August 27, 2009, 05:07:34 PM
But it's the same thing.  How can it sound less harsh if it's the same thing? ???
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Teresa on August 27, 2009, 05:08:41 PM
Quote from: DavidW on August 27, 2009, 05:07:34 PM
But it's the same thing.  How can it sound less harsh if it's the same thing? ???

It is to my ears and they are the ones that count to me.  :)

Not sure of the reasons why?  Perhaps less jitter due to re-clocking?  Perhaps warmth is added in the lossless conversion?  Who knows, but I think that is one reason computer audio is popular.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on August 27, 2009, 05:10:59 PM
Oh okay. :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Tapio Dimitriyevich Shostakovich on August 27, 2009, 08:03:04 PM
Quote from: Teresa on August 27, 2009, 04:47:47 PMI was never into CDs as I never cared for their sound.  But I will say I prefer a CD ripped to Apple Lossless over the original CD, still I don't use such recordings except for background music.

Interesting web site. Do they sell real 88/96k audio? I'm not sure how they are being created, because from what I know ripping from SACD is at least difficult. Or do they get the source files from the labels? Maybe there's a statement on that web site? I do not want to buy transcoded 44.1->96 audio.

But some strange opinions there. aiff is the good old pendant to what is the RIFF WAVE on PCs. Nothing new here, no lossless data compression and (AFAIK) it doesn't support tagging... But they treat it like something superior and in the "which format should I use" section they talk about data compression and about audiophiles who hear a difference... Nothing, lossy nor lossless file compression apply on aiff. Strange, seems like there is some kind of faith factor...

The best developed lossless formats of course are flac, wavpack, tak etc., formats which support a 44/96k audio and such, and also support all kind of metadata fun.

I wouldn't say they add "warmth". They add as much warmth as your file compression programs add bytes to a text file. Lossless encoding<->decoding is a reversible and deterministic process and due to the modern file formats, a pretty efficient one regarding file size and en/decoding speed. No room for "warmth".

Lowest common denominator: IMO it's a good idea to always try to get the best available quality for a specific piece of music, because we can afford it. (TB hard drives)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on August 28, 2009, 06:49:36 PM
Quote from: Teresa on August 27, 2009, 05:08:41 PM
It is to my ears and they are the ones that count to me.  :)

Not sure of the reasons why?  Perhaps less jitter due to re-clocking?  Perhaps warmth is added in the lossless conversion?  Who knows, but I think that is one reason computer audio is popular.

I think the most likely reason is that you are closer to the source. Rather than have the info be on a CD that needs to be read to get to the digital data, you can simply read the data directly when it's in a digital form, like Apple Lossless. Apple Lossless contains the same information as WAV or AIFF, by the way. Personally I think that XLD does a better job of ripping, as it was designed to do so without errors. The difference can only be heard on a decent stereo, but it is there. With itunes, ripping is more of an added benefit than the main function. After all, they want you to buy their downloads, not just import stuff that you already own.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Valentino on August 30, 2009, 03:39:25 AM
One should be careful comparing the sound of the original CD with Apple lossless played with iTunes/Quicktime, since by default Quicktime is set up with EQ...
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on August 30, 2009, 03:45:59 AM
Quote from: Valentino on August 30, 2009, 03:39:25 AM
One should be careful comparing the sound of the original CD with Apple lossless played with iTunes/Quicktime, since by default Quicktime is set up with EQ...

Very good to know. I wasn't aware of that. Is there a way to change the default? Do you know what the EQ setting for the default is?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Valentino on August 30, 2009, 04:50:12 AM
I dunno how you set it up, George. I'm on the open source bandwagon.

But try this:
QuoteDu kan jo begynne med å sjekke om du har EQ på i iTunes (Equalizer under Advanced).
Og så kan du forsikre deg om at du har riktig sample rate osv stilt i Audio MIDI Setup panelet, i Verktøymappen.
Så skal du slå av alle sound enhancers, volume levelers, osv.
;D This translates to appx:
Check iTunes ->
Equalizer -> Advanced. EQ should be off.
Tools -> Audio MIDI Setup. Check for correct sample frequency.
Turn off all sound enhancers, volume levelers etc.

And: Set Streaming Buffer size to Large.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on August 30, 2009, 07:50:20 AM
I would imagine that even if the EQ is on, it would be on the default setting of flat.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Valentino on August 30, 2009, 08:52:57 AM
From reports I've read from people I trust it's not flat. Scary, isn't it?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on August 30, 2009, 08:57:11 AM
Well no I just checked under my itunes, I've never messed with the eq before, so it is at the default-- which is flat.  If people think that it's not flat, it's just their own biased perception away from flat.  For example, those that love bass will find something without a bass hump anemic or cold.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Valentino on September 11, 2009, 11:31:25 PM
It's not about thinking or feeling, but about comparing input and output data files.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Coopmv on September 12, 2009, 06:02:10 AM
Quote from: Valentino on September 11, 2009, 11:31:25 PM
It's not about thinking or feeling, but about comparing input and output data files.

As long as the copy is bit-accurate against the original, isn't that good enough?  No?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on September 12, 2009, 06:56:01 AM
Quote from: Coopmv on September 12, 2009, 06:02:10 AM
As long as the copy is bit-accurate against the original, isn't that good enough?  No?

I hope we're still talking about signal processing.  EQ, and any other digital processing, including digital volume control, will alter the bits versus the original file.  Whether you feel the bit twiddling is worthwhile is personal, but certainly the purists demand bit-perfect delivery the DAC.

I'm a semi-purist myself.  I know, for example, that iTunes running on a Window XP doesn't deliver bit perfection, even with all digital processing defeated.  That's part of the reason I prefer to use Foobar2000 with the Kernel Streaming add-in.  Foobar + KS does deliver bit perfection as evidenced by the fact that my HDCD indicator on my DAC lights when a recording is so encoded.

The other reason I like Foobar is that it's album list and play list displays are highly customizable, more so than iTunes or most other players.  (Foobar is only available for PC, not Mac or Linux.)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Valentino on September 12, 2009, 09:59:34 PM
Quote from: Coopmv on September 12, 2009, 06:02:10 AM
As long as the copy is bit-accurate against the original, isn't that good enough?  No?
Yup.

(I do use a digital volume control myself, so the output to DAC is not "bit perfect". My ears like that.)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Coopmv on September 13, 2009, 03:41:32 AM
Quote from: Valentino on September 12, 2009, 09:59:34 PM
Yup.

(I do use a digital volume control myself, so the output to DAC is not "bit perfect". My ears like that.)

So some of the bits actually correspond to "louder" volume?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Valentino on September 13, 2009, 04:57:47 AM
Softer, rather. A digital volume control recalculates the bits. Output is only equal to input at -0dBFS.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Coopmv on September 13, 2009, 05:04:26 AM
Quote from: Valentino on September 13, 2009, 04:57:47 AM
Softer, rather. A digital volume control recalculates the bits. Output is only equal to input at -0dBFS.

I thought the bits were registered or recorded at the time of the original recording and technically they are fixed.  The digital volume control only alters the way they (i.e. the bits that make up the sound - 8 bits to a word and so on) are perceived but does not fundamentally alter them.     
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on September 13, 2009, 01:45:11 PM
Quote from: Coopmv on September 13, 2009, 03:41:32 AM
So some of the bits actually correspond to "louder" volume?

Yes, the bits represent volume (amplitude) as well as frequency.  A digital volume control recalculates the bits to represent the lower volume.  One (or the principal) effect is to reduce the dynamic range.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Coopmv on September 13, 2009, 01:49:01 PM
Quote from: Feanor on September 13, 2009, 01:45:11 PM
Yes, the bits represent volume (amplitude) as well as frequency.  A digital volume control recalculates the bits to represent the lower volume.  One (or the principal) effect is to reduce the dynamic range.

But do the recalculated bit values permanently overwrite the original bit values? 
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on September 13, 2009, 02:22:25 PM
Quote from: Coopmv on September 13, 2009, 01:49:01 PM
But do the recalculated bit values permanently overwrite the original bit values?  

No, the original files aren't modified, only the bits sent downstream to the DAC for playback.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Coopmv on September 13, 2009, 03:07:57 PM
Quote from: Feanor on September 13, 2009, 02:22:25 PM
No, the original files aren't modified, only the bits sent downstream to the DAC for playback.

This makes a lot of sense since a digital volume control should behave just like an analog volume control in that the original source material is not altered.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Tapio Dimitriyevich Shostakovich on September 15, 2009, 04:42:48 AM
Like feanor, I'm also an fb2k-only user as everything else is too limited and it (there is no really "it", because it's heavily customizable) suits my workflow. Cannot live without ColumnsUI, cannotlive without the Converter interface, cannot live without auto playlists and database queries. I like software which is closer to the basics, not GUI overloaded software where you don't know exactly why something works and something doesn't.

BTW, there's also a plugin which allows playback of Apple Lossless. Personally I don't like the format because not much supported and bad decoding performance (important, if you transcode to another format).
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Gurn Blanston on September 15, 2009, 05:43:44 AM
So, getting back to download (ahem  ::) ) has anyone here had any experience with this vendor?

http://us.7digital.com/

They are also in Europe, since I found them there first and they linked back to their US page. They have a big variety of streaming media, and MP3/AAC downloads at good prices. The latter are DRM free, the MP3's are 320kbps.

I am thinking of signing on, just curious if there are any horror stories associated with. :)

8)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Teresa on September 17, 2009, 06:38:01 PM
Quote from: Wurstwasser on August 27, 2009, 08:03:04 PM
Interesting web site. Do they sell real 88/96k audio? I'm not sure how they are being created, because from what I know ripping from SACD is at least difficult. Or do they get the source files from the labels? Maybe there's a statement on that web site? I do not want to buy transcoded 44.1->96 audio...

Yes they are real authentic high resolution downloads and I have some mighty impressive music files from HDTracks.  Here is a statement from David Chesky from the Audio Asylum:

To all:

I just want to clarify some points about HDtracks:

- HDtracks is not Chesky Records, but rather a digital
distributor of CD-quality and hi-res music. We include many
formats and sample rates.

- HDtracks is like a music store--some albums will sound better
than others. If you buy music from labels such as Reference,
Water Lilly, Chesky, and other known audiophile labels, you are
most likely to get remarkable sonic recordings.

- HDtracks also offers recordings in hi-res formats from other
mainstream labels. When we sign these labels to HDtracks, we ask
them that their hi-res files be one-to-one copies of their own
master hi-res files.

- These can be anywhere from 44.1/24 up to 96/24. We trust our
partner labels' word, but in the event that we find that an
album accidentally gets into the hi-res store that is not native
hi-res, we immediately will remove it. We are tying to manage
the content and keep it as pure as we can and not play games
with sound.

On another note, we should not be so concerned with just looking
for energy about 22K to define hi-res. There are many instances
where you will not find high-frequency energy above 22K, even in
hi-res recordings. Certain microphones' mic pre amps and types of
music will cause a natural roll-off long before the 22K
frequency is reached. In the event that we discover that a sharp
brick wall filter is in place on one of our 88/24 or
96/24 tracks, that album will be immediately taken down from our
HD store.

I hope this clarifies things and would like to add that hi-res
files played back off hard drives can really push our industry
forward in the pursuit of better sonic quality.

Best,
David Chesky
HDtracks founder, composer, and die-hard audiophile!

http://www.audioasylum.com/forums/pcaudio/messages/6/60186.html (http://www.audioasylum.com/forums/pcaudio/messages/6/60186.html)
http://www.hdtracks.com/index.php?file=staticpage&pagename=audiophile_96khz (http://www.hdtracks.com/index.php?file=staticpage&pagename=audiophile_96khz)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on September 18, 2009, 04:59:26 AM
Quote from: Teresa on September 17, 2009, 06:38:01 PM
Yes they are real authentic high resolution downloads and I have some mighty impressive music files from HDTracks.  Here is a statement from David Chesky from the Audio Asylum:
...

Any discussion of HDtracks needs to mention that they sell only to U.S. residents -- which kinda SUCKS.  >:(
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Brian on October 02, 2009, 07:39:41 AM
ClassicsOnline, Naxos' download service, is launching a pilot program of FLAC downloads today.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on October 02, 2009, 11:23:10 AM
Quote from: Brian on October 02, 2009, 07:39:41 AM
ClassicsOnline, Naxos' download service, is launching a pilot program of FLAC downloads today.

Thanks for that!  :)

The only FLAC albums I was able to find with a quick look were here under Highlights: Audiophile Recordings (http://www.classicsonline.com/promos/audiophile_recordings.html).  There aren't very many as yet, though it's nice to see the FLAC are (mostly) the same price as the 320kpbs MP3.

(I reiterate: I categorically refuse to pay CD prices for anything less than CD quality, however FLAC does meet that criterion.)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Papageno on October 06, 2009, 12:17:18 PM
I recently discovered Spotify[/i], free streaming of thousands of CDs - apart from Deutsche Grammophon. :( (https://www.spotify.com/en/get-started/)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Morigan on October 26, 2009, 05:56:19 PM
To all opportunistic Canadian music lovers

The Canadian iTunes store has a major tagging error right now. The DG box collection called "111 years of Deutsche Grammophon" is priced at only $9,99. This collection features 720-something tracks, all great-to-legendary DG recordings. The price of that set on the American iTunes store is $120... It's literally theft. But, hey... I paid for it! it's their mistake!  >:D

So hurry up before they notice this and change the price back to what it should be.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Valentino on October 31, 2009, 02:29:43 PM
Quote from: Feanor on September 18, 2009, 04:59:26 AM
Any discussion of HDtracks needs to mention that they sell only to U.S. residents -- which kinda SUCKS.  >:(
If you have a Paypal account it doesn't matter were you reside. :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Coopmv on October 31, 2009, 03:21:46 PM
Quote from: Valentino on October 31, 2009, 02:29:43 PM
If you have a Paypal account it doesn't matter were you reside. :)

If you are doing the direct download, I just do not see how geographical restrictions can be imposed ...
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on November 01, 2009, 01:06:12 AM
Quote from: Coopmv on October 31, 2009, 03:21:46 PM
If you are doing the direct download, I just do not see how geographical restrictions can be imposed ...

Licensing restrictions. At least that's what they say.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on November 01, 2009, 01:15:09 AM
Quote from: Coopmv on October 31, 2009, 03:21:46 PM
{Re. HDTracks not permittig non-US downloads} If you are doing the direct download, I just do not see how geographical restrictions can be imposed ...

For a start, they ask for your address.

I think these other methods apply too, though somebody else might know for sure:
= IP address can be linked to a country
= Credit card numbers is linked to a specific financial institution and hence country
= Paypay reveals your address
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Coopmv on November 01, 2009, 03:33:06 AM
Quote from: Feanor on November 01, 2009, 01:15:09 AM
For a start, for a start they ask for your address.

I think these other methods apply too, though somebody else might know for sure:
= IP address can be linked to a country
= Credit card numbers is linked to a specific financial institution and hence country
= Paypay reveals your address

I will only go for the occasional free downloads, like those I downloaded from the RCO site late last year.  I have never gone for paid downloads and there are no recordings that I am dying to get that do not exist on CD ...
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Valentino on November 01, 2009, 03:54:18 AM
It's been a while since I bought anything from HDtracks, but when I made my account about a year ago (for paying with Paypal) I didn't have to state my address. I live in Norway.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Coopmv on November 01, 2009, 03:56:51 AM
Quote from: Valentino on November 01, 2009, 03:54:18 AM
It's been a while since I bought anything from HDtracks, but when I made my account about a year ago (for paying with Paypal) I didn't have to state my address. I live in Norway.

They must cut the Nordic countries a break ...    ;D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: MN Dave on November 16, 2009, 12:31:34 PM
http://www.amazon.com/The-Mikado/dp/B002NV8MDG/ref=pd_nr_dm_al_19?ie=UTF8&s=dmusic
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Teresa on November 24, 2009, 04:13:15 PM
One of the many advantages of computer audio: You can shuffle through your music collection easily anytime you want.

(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NOEVqitG1Gg/Swx_s52J66I/AAAAAAAAAKY/EiLiYikTyvs/s320/Screen+capture+1.png)

Plus you can sort your music files by title, artist, composer or any other way you want to.  No other format can one easily find every title in one's collection of a single composer no matter how short.  The only problem is some music files have the composers first name first instead of last name.  I fix this so the it's Last name, First name.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: MN Dave on November 24, 2009, 04:16:13 PM
That's the way to do it, Teresa. It appears you have iTunes too.  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Teresa on November 24, 2009, 06:52:09 PM
Quote from: MN Dave on November 24, 2009, 04:16:13 PM
That's the way to do it, Teresa. It appears you have iTunes too.  :)
Hi Dave,
;)
Yes I have iTunes on a Mac Mini.  I hook it up with Monster Cable mini to two RCA's using the analog out to my tubed AMC preamp.  I will soon be reviewing some firewire DACs for Positive Feedback Online, as soon as I narrow down the ones I want to review.  I want to try these DACs so I can hear my Reference Recordings 24/176.4 HRx's in their native resolution.  Currently my core audio downsamples them to 24/96. 

I set up my music files "Info tab" as follows:

1) 1 look over the information to see how accurate it is.

2) I highlight all the music files for the album and right click: Get Info, go the Info screen and make changes.  This saves a lot of time.

3) Under "Artist" I rearrange the information so it is "conductor name, orchestra name" sometimes with downloads the conductor is missing so I look at the album cover or do a google search to find out who it is and then enter the information.

4) Under "Album Artist" I list only the "orchestra name" or if it's a compilation "various artists"

5) Under "Composer" I make sure the composers last name is first, comma and then last name.  I also make sure there are no spaces after the name as this can create two files as iTunes reads spaces as a character.

This sounds like a pain, and a lot of music files need correcting, sometimes even spelling and other errors as well.  But once it's done, it's done.

The advantage of using both "Artist" and "Album Artist" is for example using the recording from the picture above I can find all of my recordings by the New Symphony Orchestra Of London no matter who the conductor is and all those conducted by Alexander Gibson no matter what orchestra he conducts.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on November 25, 2009, 06:15:22 AM
Quote from: Teresa on November 24, 2009, 04:13:15 PM
One of the many advantages of computer audio: You can shuffle through your music collection easily anytime you want.

(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NOEVqitG1Gg/Swx_s52J66I/AAAAAAAAAKY/EiLiYikTyvs/s320/Screen+capture+1.png)

Plus you can sort your music files by title, artist, composer or any other way you want to.  No other format can one easily find every title in one's collection of a single composer no matter how short.  The only problem is some music files have the composers first name first instead of last name.  I fix this so the it's Last name, First name.
Hummm ... well, yes, quite true.

I don't download much but I have ripped a lot.  Nowadays I rip exclusively with dBpoweramp which can pull metadata from several sources incl. Freedb and Allmusic.  However the consistency of classical metadata is extremely poor.  I always end up correcting tags using a tag editor, in my case, Tag&Rename.  Almost always I have to correct the format and spelling of the Composer's name and the Genre.  I frequently touch up the Titles, plus (if I'm ripping) I add the Label and catalogue number.

BTW, for Composer I use the format <last name>, <first name(s)> (<birth year>-<death year>) or (b.<birth year>) which ensures everything by him/her grouped in one place.

iTunes is OK; you can find what you want usually.  (Perhaps it's really the only way to go if you're Mac O/S.)  However (on Windows) I use Foobar2000 which as fully customizable Album Lists for which you can number of list sequences, (e.g. by Genre/Composer; by Artist/Album, by Genre/Album; by Composer; etc., etc., etc.).  Other players such as J.River Media Jukebox, or Media Monkey offer a lot more options than iTunes.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Catison on November 25, 2009, 02:11:57 PM
Lots of great Black Friday deals at Amazon this week.  I just picked up the complete Glazunov symphonies for $5!!

http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html/ref=amb_link_86142811_3?ie=UTF8&docId=1000455711&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=left-1&pf_rd_r=0D95BF5M9BDJVGMQSMDR&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=501397631&pf_rd_i=2236008011
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Teresa on November 25, 2009, 02:59:49 PM
 ;D This weeks free album download at classical.com is "Moross - The Big Country, High Noon, Bonanza" with Carl Davis and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra http://www.classical.com/free-classical-music.php (http://www.classical.com/free-classical-music.php)  I've played it, the music is great and it sounds very good.   

The is the first thing I have downloaded from classical.com and the tag information is really poor.  There is no picture of the album, all track numbers say number 1 and the title of the recording is incorrect, it should be called "Great Western Themes".  I found the album cover to add to the music files using google image search.  I numbered the tracks on the album and retitled it with the correct name.  Is this just a fluk or all of the downloads at classical.com like this?

Avoid the other free download of the Mendelssohn/Bruch Violin Concertos as it is full of skips.    :(
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Brian on December 01, 2009, 06:20:34 AM
LARGE NUMBERS OF FREE THINGS

Amazon is currently selling an MP3 download album called "I Love the '80s (1880s)". It contains Naxos recordings of the following:

Brahms Symphony No 3 (Alsop/LPO; half-decent performance which the Hurwitzer loved)
Mahler Symphony No 1 (Halasz; haven't heard this CD)
Tchaikovsky Symphony No 5 (Wit/PNRSO; really solid playing if unspectacular)
Dvorak Symphony No 6 (Gunzenhauser/Slovak PO; one of the best recent recordings)
Borodin Symphony No 3 (Gunzenhauser; haven't heard this CD)
Saint-Saens Organ Symphony (unsure who's playing; ditto)
Bruckner Symphony No 9 (Tintner; celebrated recording)

This five-hour album is totally free. 500 megabytes.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on December 01, 2009, 06:24:43 AM
Quote from: Brian on December 01, 2009, 06:20:34 AM
LARGE NUMBERS OF FREE THINGS

Amazon is currently selling an MP3 download album called "I Love the '80s (1880s)". It contains Naxos recordings of the following:

Brahms Symphony No 3 (Alsop/LPO; half-decent performance which the Hurwitzer loved)
Mahler Symphony No 1 (Halasz; haven't heard this CD)
Tchaikovsky Symphony No 5 (Wit/PNRSO; really solid playing if unspectacular)
Dvorak Symphony No 6 (Gunzenhauser/Slovak PO; one of the best recent recordings)
Borodin Symphony No 3 (Gunzenhauser; haven't heard this CD)
Saint-Saens Organ Symphony (unsure who's playing; ditto)
Bruckner Symphony No 9 (Tintner; celebrated recording)

This five-hour album is totally free. 500 megabytes.

I, for one, am very grateful to you (and amazon.com ;)), sir.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on December 01, 2009, 06:27:35 AM
Quote from: Opus106 on December 01, 2009, 06:24:43 AM
I, for one, am very grateful to you (and amazon.com ;)), sir.

Wait -- I guess I spoke too soon.

QuoteAmazon MP3 Purchases are limited to U.S. customers.

Edit: No, I can actually get around these geographical limitations quite easily. :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Brian on December 01, 2009, 07:44:31 AM
Quote from: Opus106 on December 01, 2009, 06:27:35 AM
Edit: No, I can actually get around these geographical limitations quite easily. :)

Glad to hear that! :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on December 01, 2009, 07:51:40 AM
Quote from: Opus106 on December 01, 2009, 06:27:35 AM
Edit: No, I can actually get around these geographical limitations quite easily. :)

Opus 106 is everywhere.  0:)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Benji on December 01, 2009, 08:10:38 AM
Quote from: George on December 01, 2009, 07:51:40 AM
Opus 106 is everywhere.  0:)

Opnipotent....omnopustent.... darn it doesn't really work but you get the idea :P
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Catison on December 03, 2009, 07:34:07 AM
Quote from: Brian on December 01, 2009, 06:20:34 AM
LARGE NUMBERS OF FREE THINGS

Amazon is currently selling an MP3 download album called "I Love the '80s (1880s)". It contains Naxos recordings of the following:

Brahms Symphony No 3 (Alsop/LPO; half-decent performance which the Hurwitzer loved)
Mahler Symphony No 1 (Halasz; haven't heard this CD)
Tchaikovsky Symphony No 5 (Wit/PNRSO; really solid playing if unspectacular)
Dvorak Symphony No 6 (Gunzenhauser/Slovak PO; one of the best recent recordings)
Borodin Symphony No 3 (Gunzenhauser; haven't heard this CD)
Saint-Saens Organ Symphony (unsure who's playing; ditto)
Bruckner Symphony No 9 (Tintner; celebrated recording)

This five-hour album is totally free. 500 megabytes.

Thanks for the tip!

They have a lot of other non-classical samplers for free too.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Brian on December 03, 2009, 08:05:55 AM
"Very Best of Naxos Early Music" is another great free sampler.

And Brett, another of the $5 deals is Mravinsky conducting Shostakovich 5, 6 and 8! I might have to pick up that and the Glazunov both...
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on December 16, 2009, 03:02:54 AM
A recent article written on this topic by the guy who started the Yahoo Classical Recordings group:

http://www.macworld.com/article/145050/2009/12/classical_downloads.html
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Teresa on December 25, 2009, 05:04:12 PM
Between now and January 10 at amazon.com, each time you purchase an MP3 album priced $7.99 or higher, you'll get a credit good for one of the 800+ $5 MP3 albums Free.

One of my free choices was Musique de la Grèce antique by Gregorio Paniagua conducting the Atrium Musica de Madrid.  Fantastic album!

I also discovered another great advantage of computer audio, If I don't like the album art I can replace it.  The Album art used for the Musique de la Grèce is the same as used for the CD, however the artwork for the LP is full size and looks beautiful, so I replaced the artwork.

The MP3 / CD Artwork
(http://www.harmoniamundi.com/__media/document/1432/200/1951015_G.jpg)

The LP artwork
(http://nightfall.free.fr/cfp/pochettes/1143.jpg)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Chris on January 03, 2010, 07:01:36 AM
Might I ask if anyone here uses Napster? I use their subscription service and it's great as a resource for sampling recordings before buying them on CD. I has most of the Naxos library, along with DG and the others.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: classicalmusicfan on January 19, 2010, 11:20:27 PM
We are all moved by the tragic earthquake in Haiti. As a way to keep the people of Haiti in our hearts and minds, please take this free download of the Haitian national anthem (http://"http://www.classicsonline.com/catalogue/product.aspx?pid=1647&trackid=45790") from COL and share with your friends and loved ones.

(http://prod-assets.mog.com/amg/pop/cov200/drg900/g942/g94257wfiaq.jpg) (http://"http://www.classicsonline.com/catalogue/product.aspx?pid=1647&trackid=45790")
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: stingo on January 20, 2010, 01:42:18 PM
I have an MP3 credit from Amazon - any recommendations on for items that are download only? (I prefer having the disc, but if the disc isn't available, then the MP3 will suffice.)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: MN Dave on January 20, 2010, 02:02:51 PM
Quote from: stingo on January 20, 2010, 01:42:18 PM
I have an MP3 credit from Amazon - any recommendations on for items that are download only? (I prefer having the disc, but if the disc isn't available, then the MP3 will suffice.)

Go into the mp3 area, go to the classical section, sort by average rating and start shopping. That's if you trust your fellow Amazonians.  :)

Oh, and hunt for bargains. I've found 10 "disc" box sets for $9.99!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Coopmv on February 15, 2010, 03:31:01 AM
Quote from: Beethovenian on January 20, 2010, 02:02:51 PM
Go into the mp3 area, go to the classical section, sort by average rating and start shopping. That's if you trust your fellow Amazonians.  :)

Oh, and hunt for bargains. I've found 10 "disc" box sets for $9.99!

I tend to view average ratings taken across fewer than 5 reviewers with a dose of skepticism and ignore ratings with fewer than 5.  I have found ratings with at least 30 reviewers much more accurate.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Teresa on February 17, 2010, 02:44:30 AM
I finally have all of my music on my computer.  In Classical music that breaks down to 291 composers.  In have 2,907 items/compositions/songs which breaks down as follows:
My high resolution 88.2kHz and 96kHz tracks are mostly from HD Tracks and the BSO.
Most of my MP3 downloads are from Amazon and emusic.
Plus I burned the CD layer of my SACDs at 320kbps.

I have deleted a lot of what I download, I would say about 75% of the free downloads from Amazon and iTunes gets deleted.  And about 20% of the downloads from monthly subscriptions such as emusic.  The 15 to 30 second previews are really not long enough to tell if I really will like something.

The companies in Classical music with my heaviest delete rate are Deutsche Grammaphon, Naxos and BIS.  I no longer download anything from these three companies even for free.  I used to get the weekly free track and the monthly $1.49 Naxos samplers from Classics Online but I don't anymore as I have deleted most of them for poor sound quality. 

I have discovered MP3's from Telarc, Reference Recordings, Lyrita and a handful of others are always excellent and standup to repeated listenings so I look for these first.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: John Copeland on February 17, 2010, 03:00:50 AM
Teresa, it is always interesting to see how others collect and organise their music.  I had a massive amount of collected digital recordings last year, but lost them due to their becoming a pyre in a fire...I started collecting again immediately after, many people in here helped me, and now I have an ever growing collection of both digital and cd recordings.
I am surprised you have deleted much Naxos downloads due to sound quality.  I learned that somewhere in the mid-1990's Naxos polished up their mastering, and indeed I have found this to be accurate as the naxos recordings I have reflect a sound quality which is far better balanced and clear than a lot of their old stuff.
QuoteI have discovered MP3's from Telarc, Reference Recordings, Lyrita and a handful of others are always excellent and standup to repeated listenings so I look for these first.
:D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Teresa on February 17, 2010, 12:54:24 PM
Quote from: John on February 17, 2010, 03:00:50 AM
Teresa, it is always interesting to see how others collect and organise their music.  I had a massive amount of collected digital recordings last year, but lost them due to their becoming a pyre in a fire...I started collecting again immediately after, many people in here helped me, and now I have an ever growing collection of both digital and cd recordings.
I am surprised you have deleted much Naxos downloads due to sound quality.  I learned that somewhere in the mid-1990's Naxos polished up their mastering, and indeed I have found this to be accurate as the naxos recordings I have reflect a sound quality which is far better balanced and clear than a lot of their old stuff. :D
John I am sorry to hear about the fire, some people recommend backing-up off site.  I would loose everything as well, all of my SACDs and DVD-Audios and all of my computer audio.  I back up to DVD+R but they are stored in a drawer, perhaps I should get a fire-proof safe?

I have found one Naxos SACD I like, Shostakovich Hamlet, it is powerful and exciting but still has that cold sound that I associate with Naxos and most modern major label classical recordings.  All the other Naxos SACDs I didn't like at all and some were absolutely terrible.  I have downloaded perhaps 40 or so MP3 tracks from Naxos, all but two have been deleted.  Most were from the six $1.49 new release Naxos Samplers from Classics Online I purchased over the last year, these were recorded between 2008-2009.  I agree most of the worst Naxos were from the 1990's but I don't care for them even for free.   There might be another decent Naxos out there but for me it is not worth the search. 

I would never want to attempt to diminish the joy others may get from Naxos, I or anyone else wouldn't be able to anyway.  I'm just sharing my experiences.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: flyingdutchman on February 17, 2010, 08:04:01 PM
Teresa deletes BIS because she found out that she was fooled by the recording techniques of BIS.  She raved about BIS for ages, then found out that they don't release in "hi-rez" and has since been made to look ridiculous because she was fooled so badly.  No she won't have anything to do with BIS
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Teresa on February 18, 2010, 01:06:21 AM
Quote from: jo jo starbuck on February 17, 2010, 08:04:01 PM
Teresa deletes BIS because she found out that she was fooled by the recording techniques of BIS.  She raved about BIS for ages, then found out that they don't release in "hi-rez" and has since been made to look ridiculous because she was fooled so badly.  No she won't have anything to do with BIS

I have ALWAYS raved about DSD recorded SACDs, I've raved about Telarc, Channel Classics, PentaTone and Exton among others but I never raved about any BIS recordings in ANY format.   However I do like the first three Grieg BIS DSD recorded SACDs, and two 24 Bit 44.1kHz recorded SACDs "American Spectrum" and "Shilkret: Trombone Concerto".  My opinion of these two SACDs did not change after I found out they were 44.1kHz instead of 88.2kHz.  THEY STILL SOUND EXACTLY THE SAME AS THEY ALWAYS DID!  It is the really bad sounding BIS SACDs and bad sounding BIS MP3s I don't like.

Recently I deleted over 20 BIS MP3 tracks for poor sound that I downloaded from my eMusic subscription.  Problems include weak bass, shrillness and unrealistic sound, BIS are among the worst MP3s I've tried.   I like Telarc MP3s better than ANY BIS recording in any format.

So you explain to me why BIS MP3s sound so much worse than MP3s from better recording companies as all MP3s are lossy 44.1kHz, so in a way MP3 takes the recorded resolution OUT of the equation?  TO MY EARS IT IS THEIR LESS THAN PERFECT TO POOR ENGINEERING PURE AND SIMPLE!  BIS is sometimes good in DSD, not as good in PCM.  For PCM I choose good recordings such as Telarc and Reference Recordings. 

I will say this BIS MP3s overall are better than Naxos and Deutsche Gramaphon MP3s but not by much.   BTW I was defending Robert von Bahr against a poster accusing him of recording at 44.1kHz, I said there was no way he would do that,  I was wrong!  I should have never STOOD UP FOR HIM, as he came out and admitted that indeed he was releasing in 24 Bit 44.1kHz PCM recorded SACDs.

BIS SACDs (http://pro-sacd.lefora.com/2009/12/31/bis-sacds/)

The History of BIS' departure from DSD recording to 24 Bit 44.1kHz PCM recording (http://sacdlives.blogspot.com/2010/02/history-of-bis-departure-from-dsd.html)

Listening with EARS not eyes. (http://sacdlives.blogspot.com/2009/12/listening-with-ears-not-eyes.html)

Telarc SACD Sampler 1 - DSD vs. PCM (http://sacdlives.blogspot.com/2009/06/telarc-sacd-sampler-1-dsd-versus-24-bit.html)

A Tale of two SACDs - DSD versus 24 Bit PCM (http://sacdlives.blogspot.com/2009/06/tale-of-two-sacds-dsd-versus-24-bit.html)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: flyingdutchman on February 18, 2010, 06:26:51 AM
Teresa,

You were defending Robert because to your ears, before the revelation by Robert, BIS were great.  You were fooled, you feel burned, and now you rail against a label that has received accolades by thousands, including reviewers much more qualified than you.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on February 18, 2010, 09:20:48 AM
Quote from: jo jo starbuck on February 18, 2010, 06:26:51 AM
Teresa,

You were defending Robert because to your ears, before the revelation by Robert, BIS were great.  You were fooled, you feel burned, and now you rail against a label that has received accolades by thousands, including reviewers much more qualified than you.
Do we really need to beat this further?

Theresa has a long history of "I love vinyl and DSD-recorded SACD" and "I hate CD and all things PCM".  In that, after all, she is perfectly consistent.

(Although she seems allow that Reference Recordings (HDCD) and Telarc (RBCD) can sound OK.)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Scarpia on February 18, 2010, 10:14:19 AM
I find the criticism of BIS quite puzzling.  To my ears their sound is not flashy, but strikingly realistic and natural. 
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Teresa on February 18, 2010, 01:06:16 PM
Quote from: jo jo starbuck on February 18, 2010, 06:26:51 AM
Teresa,

You were defending Robert because to your ears, before the revelation by Robert, BIS were great.  You were fooled, you feel burned, and now you rail against a label that has received accolades by thousands, including reviewers much more qualified than you.

>:DYour statement is not true at all.  Before the revelation I liked a handful of BIS SACDs, I still do by the way.  The two 24 Bit 44.1kHz SACDs actually sounded better than their resolution would indicate, this is a compliment to BIS and a bit of a shock.  Read my comments about American Spectrum before and after the revelation http://www.sa-cd.net/showthread/34896//y?page=first (http://www.sa-cd.net/showthread/34896//y?page=first) I avoided the subject of sound quality before the revelation as I was excited because of the music, as some of my favorite modern composers were making it to SACD.  Contrast that to my reviews of Telarc SACDs where I fall all over myself describing their sonic attributes.

I only gradually tried BIS again after being let down in 2005 by the complete Peer Gynt which sounded PCM'ish to me and other BIS SACDs that sounded terrible, at the time I blamed the engineering as according to Robert's email of 2005 I believed that he switched from DSD to 88.2kHz PCM.  The fact that after a couple of dozen or so PCM SACDs from BIS I found two that I liked does not justify your statement. 

BIS SACDs were never great all around, even the three DSD recorded Grieg SACDs were not perfect but they are world's better than the PCM BIS SACDs at any resolution.  Did you not read my review of the comparison of BIS DSD and PCM SACDs? A Tale of two SACDs - DSD versus 24 Bit PCM (http://sacdlives.blogspot.com/2009/06/tale-of-two-sacds-dsd-versus-24-bit.html)

"In my system playing the high resolution 2 channel stereo program, the PCM recording has muffled high frequencies, and is congested on climaxes and the climax of "In the Hall of the Mountain King" actually has audible digital distortion of the type I usually only hear on Redbook CDs, as if the recording is running out of steam, or perhaps bits?

The climaxes on the earlier DSD recording are clean, powerful with no congestion or closed-in feeling and not even a hint of distortion. DSD also affords the percussion instruments more umph! There is more ambiance on the DSD recorded SACD along with more beautiful and relaxing sound.

Both SACDs lack deep bass and bass warmth but that could be due to the hall or the choice of or placement of the microphones. In short these two SACDs prove why all recordings, especially orchestral recordings should ONLY be recorded DSD."


Since the early days of SACDs, ten years ago I have always sought out and purchased DSD or analog recorded SACDs.  I seldom purchase PCM recorded SACDs of any resolution unless it was music I could not get in DSD or analog recorded SACDs.  That is why my moniker is DSD at sa-cd.net! :D  I love DSD recordings.

BIS is one such company that was a goto for hard to find music not offered by other labels, where you get the idea I ever said they were sonically great is beyond me.  As I have even stated that I like Telarc's  16 Bit 50kHz Soundstream recordings much better than even the best BIS DSD recorded SACD, however nothing in the entire world equals a Telarc DSD recorded SACD, nothing not even 200 Gram LPs IMHO!!! ;D

Perhaps you should read all of the links I provided before you make false accusations again.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Teresa on February 18, 2010, 01:17:45 PM
Quote from: Scarpia on February 18, 2010, 10:14:19 AM
I find the criticism of BIS quite puzzling.  To my ears their sound is not flashy, but strikingly realistic and natural.
What recordings one loves and dislikes are highly personal and I never would want to distract anyone from enjoying the music they love, I am just offering my experiences with MP3s and their success rate in staying on my hard-drive. 

I am happy you find BIS enjoyable and even realistic.  Not sure about your comment about not being flashy, do you consider deep bass and bass warmth flashy?  I consider both as an important part of the sonic picture I cannot live without.  I understand equating percussive impact as flashy but I wouldn't want to live without this type of realism either.  To me most BIS recordings are too compromised to be sonically pleasing, they are not alone as I find this problem with many major labels including Naxos and Deutsche Gramaphon.  This is why I usually prefer the audiophile labels. 

While there are 100's of recording companies that offer the sonic realism I crave, even in lowly MP3, no one has reached the sonic heights of Telarc yet but I keep trying new labels as they appear, so in time perhaps?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Scarpia on February 18, 2010, 01:50:33 PM
Quote from: Teresa on February 18, 2010, 01:17:45 PM
What recordings one loves and dislikes are highly personal and I never would want to distract anyone from enjoying the music they love, I am just offering my experiences with MP3s and their success rate in staying on my hard-drive. 

I am happy you find BIS enjoyable and even realistic.  Not sure about your comment about not being flashy, do you consider deep bass and bass warmth flashy?  I consider both as an important part of the sonic picture I cannot live without.  I understand equating percussive impact as flashy but I wouldn't want to live without this type of realism either.  To me most BIS recordings are too compromised to be sonically pleasing, they are not alone as I find this problem with many major labels including Naxos and Deutsche Gramaphon.  This is why I usually prefer the audiophile labels. 

While there are 100's of recording companies that offer the sonic realism I crave, even in lowly MP3, no one has reached the sonic heights of Telarc yet but I keep trying new labels as they appear, so in time perhaps?

BIS recordings are made by putting the a small number of the very finest microphones available in front of the orchestra and recording what transpires, without any external manipulation of the signal.  No spotlight microphones, readjustment of balances, equalization, etc.  It is the sound of the orchestra and the hall, to the extent that the equipment can capture it.  The bass response in their recordings strike me as very extended and natural (i.e., if there is a bass drum in the orchestra I sometimes find myself worried that my low frequency drivers will be blown out).   They don't manipulate the recording to compensate for the supposed limitations of the medium, which is why I prize their recording over those made by most other companies.  Recently I listened to their recording of Holmboe symphony no 6, and the result was stunning, in my opinion.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Teresa on February 18, 2010, 06:18:50 PM
Quote from: Scarpia on February 18, 2010, 01:50:33 PM
BIS recordings are made by putting the a small number of the very finest microphones available in front of the orchestra and recording what transpires, without any external manipulation of the signal.  No spotlight microphones, readjustment of balances, equalization, etc.  It is the sound of the orchestra and the hall, to the extent that the equipment can capture it.  The bass response in their recordings strike me as very extended and natural (i.e., if there is a bass drum in the orchestra I sometimes find myself worried that my low frequency drivers will be blown out).   They don't manipulate the recording to compensate for the supposed limitations of the medium, which is why I prize their recording over those made by most other companies.  Recently I listened to their recording of Holmboe symphony no 6, and the result was stunning, in my opinion.
Like I said I never try to tell anyone else what to enjoy, I just share my own experiences.

However you are closer to describing how Telarc records than how BIS records.  Robert von Bahr has said just the opposite on sa-cd.net.  He switched from DSD to PCM because at the time DSD did not offer him the tools he needed to edit in the DSD domain.  He says he edits, uses equalization, reverb, readjust balances, etc.  He also uses spotlight microphones.  The one natural thing he does is not restrict the dynamic range.

By contrast here is how Telarc records, they really use NO EQ, they edit as little as is possible, they use 3-4 microphones for Stereo and 7 for Multichannel.  All balancing is done prior to recording and they never adjust balances or levels afterword.  Indeed from their earliest days they have NEVER believed in "fixing it in the mix"! 

The basic Telarc recording technique is a modern day version of the legendary Mercury Living Presence recordings.  Jack Renner loved C. Robert Fine's natural sounding three omni microphone recordings and these served as his sonic role models.  Renner experimented and further honed his own "minimal miking" approach, which is still the primary model for the Telarc's engineering practices today.

Telarc Records - The Living Legends (http://telarc-hires.blogspot.com/2009/11/telarc-records-living-legends.html)

"For the record, we have never worked to emphasize the basses, low frequencies, or bass drums on Telarc recordings. We simply record with excellent FLAT omni mics, keep the recording path wide open and FLAT, and do nothing to take away low-end. The low-end on the recordings is representative of what was there AT THE SESSION and ON-STAGE. Many, many orchestral recordings have had the low-frequencies attenuated, especially the older classics originally released on LP. If one's system has been tuned for playback of the oldies, then playback of a current flat response recording will sound as if the low-end is overblown. Which one is correct? Since I'm there at the inception - and can compare to what is hitting the mics live on-stage - the FLAT RESPONSE recording is by far the closest."
Michael Bishop
Recording Engineer


Natural realistic bass response is a hallmark of Telarc recordings (http://telarc-hires.blogspot.com/2009/11/natural-realistic-bass-response-is.html)

About Telarc (http://telarc-hires.blogspot.com/2009/12/about-telarc.html)

Telarc, masters of the Art and Science of recording (http://telarc-hires.blogspot.com/2009/12/telarc-masters-of-art-and-science-of.html)

I have one final question, if bass-shy recordings such as BIS have extended bass response in your system, how do recordings that retain the full low frequency energy and impact of the original event sound?  Such as those from from Telarc, Reference Recordings, Mercury Living Presence and Delos?  Or do you avoid these and just stick with bass-shy recordings such as those from BIS, Naxos or DG?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Scarpia on February 18, 2010, 06:51:51 PM
Quote from: Teresa on February 18, 2010, 06:18:50 PM
Like I said I never try to tell anyone else what to enjoy, I just share my own experiences.

However you are closer to describing how Telarc records than how BIS records.  Robert von Bahr has said just the opposite on sa-cd.net.  He switched from DSD to PCM because at the time DSD did not offer him the tools he needed to edit in the DSD domain.  He says he edits, uses equalization, reverb, readjust balances, etc.  He also uses spotlight microphones.  The one natural thing he does is not restrict the dynamic range.

By contrast here is how Telarc records, they really use NO EQ, they edit as little as is possible, they use 3-4 microphones for Stereo and 7 for Multichannel.  All balancing is done prior to recording and they never adjust balances or levels afterword.  Indeed from their earliest days they have NEVER believed in "fixing it in the mix"! 

The basic Telarc recording technique is a modern day version of the legendary Mercury Living Presence recordings.  Jack Renner loved C. Robert Fine's natural sounding three omni microphone recordings and these served as his sonic role models.  Renner experimented and further honed his own "minimal miking" approach, which is still the primary model for the Telarc's engineering practices today.

Telarc Records - The Living Legends (http://telarc-hires.blogspot.com/2009/11/telarc-records-living-legends.html)

"For the record, we have never worked to emphasize the basses, low frequencies, or bass drums on Telarc recordings. We simply record with excellent FLAT omni mics, keep the recording path wide open and FLAT, and do nothing to take away low-end. The low-end on the recordings is representative of what was there AT THE SESSION and ON-STAGE. Many, many orchestral recordings have had the low-frequencies attenuated, especially the older classics originally released on LP. If one's system has been tuned for playback of the oldies, then playback of a current flat response recording will sound as if the low-end is overblown. Which one is correct? Since I'm there at the inception - and can compare to what is hitting the mics live on-stage - the FLAT RESPONSE recording is by far the closest."
Michael Bishop
Recording Engineer


Natural realistic bass response is a hallmark of Telarc recordings (http://telarc-hires.blogspot.com/2009/11/natural-realistic-bass-response-is.html)

About Telarc (http://telarc-hires.blogspot.com/2009/12/about-telarc.html)

Telarc, masters of the Art and Science of recording (http://telarc-hires.blogspot.com/2009/12/telarc-masters-of-art-and-science-of.html)

I have one final question, if bass-shy recordings such as BIS have extended bass response in your system, how do recordings that retain the full low frequency energy and impact of the original event sound?  Such as those from from Telarc, Reference Recordings, Mercury Living Presence and Delos?  Or do you avoid these and just stick with bass-shy recordings such as those from BIS, Naxos or DG?

I also regard Telarc highly, at least for engineering quality.   The tragedy of Telarc is they often did not record first rate ensembles or performances, and too often the result was superb recordings of medicre performances of mostly very standard repetoire.   I don't find BIS's recording style to be much different, and they do a fantastic job of finding superb performers.  I ask myself the following question.  What is more important, hearing a compelling music performance, or experiencing what it would sound like for someone to strike a 48 inch bass drum in my living room?

Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Teresa on February 20, 2010, 01:41:02 PM
Moved to the new Non-Classical Download Thread (http://www.good-music-guide.com/community/index.php/topic,15911.msg396493.html#msg396493)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: stingo on February 26, 2010, 08:06:18 AM
Are there any great recordings that are available ONLY via download? Asking about amazon in particular. Thanks for the help.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Scarpia on February 26, 2010, 12:50:31 PM
Quote from: stingo on February 26, 2010, 08:06:18 AM
Are there any great recordings that are available ONLY via download? Asking about amazon in particular. Thanks for the help.

I don't know if there is a list of recordings only available as downloads, but DG currently has downloads available on their own web site for many recordings for which the CD issue has been deleted from the catalog.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Teresa on March 07, 2010, 09:10:48 PM
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/515hcENLzFL._SL500_AA280_.jpg)

Discovered a great new exciting mostly tonal modern work at Amazon.   Mauricio Kagel's Les Idees Fixes - Rondo for Orchestra and it was only 89 cents for a 22 minute work.  It's the first selection from the album Mauricio Kagel: Les Idees Fixes  (http://www.amazon.com/Mauricio-Kagel-Les-Idees-Fixes/dp/B001NAZS3A/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&s=dmusic&qid=1268022830&sr=1-4) I only downloaded the first track as the samples of the other two compositions were too atonal for me.  But if you like them, the entire album is only $2.67

I've listened to it twice, the sound quality is excellent for MP3, the high percussion was very realistic with great impact, and the strings smooth.  The bit rate is 225 kbps (VBR) and it was encoded with LAME 3.97
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: George on March 10, 2010, 05:58:31 PM
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51zjaopls8L._SL500_AA280_.jpg)



Not the best transfer, but for $7.99 (in MP3 format) it's a good way to sample the composers performances of his own works.  (http://www.amazon.com/Rachmaninoff-plays-Piano-Concertos-Pieces/dp/B0030ME416/ref=sr_shvl_album_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1268271433&sr=301-1)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on March 13, 2010, 07:06:25 AM
In connection with the 150th anniversary of Gustav Mahler's birth, as well as Christoph Eschenbach's 70th anniversary in 2010, christoph-eschenbach.com, in collaboration with the websites of the Orchestre de Paris and Medici TV will each offer a unique free streaming experience of all of Gustav Mahler's Symphonies.

Each month, starting on February 19, 2010 and then on the 15th of each month thereafter, a new symphony of Gustav Mahler will be put online for free streaming. Each symphony was recorded with the Orchestre de Paris under the direction of Christoph Eschenbach and filmed by the director François Goetghebeur. By October 15, 2010 the complete symphonies will be online for streaming and remain accessible until at least July 2011.


http://mahler.christoph-eschenbach.com/
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: stingo on March 13, 2010, 07:37:44 AM
Quote from: Opus106 on March 13, 2010, 07:06:25 AM
In connection with the 150th anniversary of Gustav Mahler's birth, as well as Christoph Eschenbach's 70th anniversary in 2010, christoph-eschenbach.com, in collaboration with the websites of the Orchestre de Paris and Medici TV will each offer a unique free streaming experience of all of Gustav Mahler's Symphonies.

Each month, starting on February 19, 2010 and then on the 15th of each month thereafter, a new symphony of Gustav Mahler will be put online for free streaming. Each symphony was recorded with the Orchestre de Paris under the direction of Christoph Eschenbach and filmed by the director François Goetghebeur. By October 15, 2010 the complete symphonies will be online for streaming and remain accessible until at least July 2011.


http://mahler.christoph-eschenbach.com/

Great find - thanks!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: MN Dave on October 09, 2010, 04:24:46 AM
I notice many operas can be had at Amazon's MP3 department for chump change.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: John Copeland on January 13, 2011, 12:18:27 AM
Quote from: Opus106 on March 13, 2010, 07:06:25 AM
Each month, starting on February 19, 2010 and then on the 15th of each month thereafter, a new symphony of Gustav Mahler will be put online for free streaming. Each symphony was recorded with the Orchestre de Paris under the direction of Christoph Eschenbach and filmed by the director François Goetghebeur. By October 15, 2010 the complete symphonies will be online for streaming and remain accessible until at least July 2011.

http://mahler.christoph-eschenbach.com/

Thanks for this!
I listened to and watched Mahler 1 this morning.
Eschenbach is a right handed conductor, with somewhat scary features during critical passages.  But he knows Mahler well, and brings out everything that shines.  Like Bernstein, he plays with the pauses in a way which make the music both beautiful and dangerous and essential listening.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: PaulSC on January 20, 2011, 07:09:20 PM
Woodwind quintet fans please note, an archive of (mostly live) recordings featuring the Soni Ventorum quintet (in full, in smaller configurations, and with guests) can be found at

http://soniventorum.com/soniventorum_archives.html (http://soniventorum.com/soniventorum_archives.html)

and everything there is free to download. I'd estimate maybe 100 items, ranging from Bach through Babbitt and including most of the standard quintet repertoire along the way. Ten Reicha quintets! Nine Danzi quintets! Nielsen! Schoenberg! Ligeti!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lethevich on January 20, 2011, 07:17:06 PM
How good of them. Thanks for the link!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Gurn Blanston on January 21, 2011, 04:29:12 AM
For new or old friends of eClassical (always a nice place to buy music), they recently began offering all their music in both 16 and 24 bit FLAC. The 16 bit is priced the same as their 320kbps MP3'S. Also includes a PDF of the liner notes, a very nice touch. Among other things they have much of the BIS catalog, and I can tell you from experience that if you ask for something they don't have, they'll have it next week. Yesterday I bought volume 8 of the Brautigam/Beethoven set in 16 bit flac with liner notes for $9 US. I have to say, that's not a bad deal at all! :)

http://www.eclassical.com/

8)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: J.Z. Herrenberg on January 21, 2011, 12:33:32 PM
Quote from: Gurn Blanston on January 21, 2011, 04:29:12 AM
For new or old friends of eClassical (always a nice place to buy music), they recently began offering all their music in both 16 and 24 bit FLAC.

Agreed. And good news, indeed.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lethevich on January 21, 2011, 02:53:05 PM
The day eMusic makes the leap to lossless will be when I can finally justify going digital only :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: J.Z. Herrenberg on January 22, 2011, 01:03:19 AM
Quote from: Lethe on January 21, 2011, 02:53:05 PM
The day eMusic makes the leap to lossless will be when I can finally justify going digital only :)
You mean the other way round, don't you?  ;) (Or were jou making a joke?!)
'The day I can finally justify going digital only will be when eMusic makes the leap to lossless.'
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lethevich on January 22, 2011, 01:26:19 AM
Nothing intentional on my part, just bad stream of consciousness typing :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: J.Z. Herrenberg on January 22, 2011, 02:54:02 AM
Quote from: Lethe on January 22, 2011, 01:26:19 AM
Nothing intentional on my part, just bad stream of consciousness typing :)

Well, Lethe is the river of forgetfulness.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: RJR on April 06, 2011, 06:23:34 AM
While browsing through Clive Heath's reprocessed 78s I found a link to another classical download site dedicated solely to piano works. The pianists are not household names but there is a large selection of piano works, including modern composers:

Piano Society.
Listening to Heath's Moisewitsch Rach 2nd at the moment.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Andante on April 19, 2011, 11:32:03 PM
Quote from: Scriptavolant on June 05, 2007, 07:32:53 PM
Download music? What a shame, I would never do that!


Now that wouldn't be via To#e@ts by any chance  8)






(http://www.vocinelweb.it/faccine/ammiccanti/14.gif)


I've downloaded enough to fill up seven/eight 5GB Cds. And something from iTunes too (Malipiero symphonies, something else).
And I won't talk about my 40-50 DVD downloaded as well. And books, a lot of books. And softwares sometimes, but not very often.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: quark on June 22, 2011, 05:12:13 AM
I have downloaded quite a few great recordings from Qobuz.com, a French site which offers .mp3, .alac and .flac (sometimes HD .flac). Prices are significantly cheaper than buying the actual CD's which makes perfect sense IMO.
I was disappointed only once, with Grimaud's Reflection album.
The .flac files presented the defect that there was a fading at the end of each movement and, instead of a forte (or fff, don't know the score, there was a huge diminuendo on the very last notes of the 2nd mvt of Schumann's concerto.
But they reacted to my complaint very quickly, offering me a free download in replacement of the defective one.
A great label site for downloading is Hyperion's.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: haydnguy on June 24, 2011, 12:47:26 PM
In case anyone is interested the Bruckner 3 & 4 by Inbal is on Amazon U.S. as a download for $2.76 each.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: SonicMan46 on June 29, 2011, 06:50:21 PM
Not sure if this is the appropriate thread or if there may be another concerning download conversions?  :-\

But I've been interested in the Doyen recordings of Faure's Piano Music - found a website and downloaded 4 *.rar archives of the 4 discs in the Erato offerings - I extracted these into 4 folders (image attached below of one of the folders - the rest look similar).

Now there is a LARGE *.flac file plus a number of others which include several w/ a *.cue extension (not sure what this means?) - my question regards the best way of converting these files into 'something' that I can put on a CD-R either as a WAV or a MP3, the latter of course would allow me to get all of these FLAC files on a single disc; now I do have software that will convert between these formats but not sure what the *.cue files are for?

Thus, what are my options - any advice would be appreciated - thanks all.   :D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on June 29, 2011, 07:08:22 PM
The cues are for burning the cds.  Fire up your favorite burning program and see if it's recognized Dave. :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Andante on June 29, 2011, 07:17:16 PM
Traders little helper and foobar 2000 are good programs for converting to WAV
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: quark on June 30, 2011, 05:33:51 AM
the easiest way to burn a CD starting with the .flac image and the .cue is a freeware software called burrrn (available here: www.burrrn.net/). You just place the .cue into burrrn and push (guess what?) "Burrrn".
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lethevich on June 30, 2011, 05:37:54 AM
The cue contains the index points for the tracks - if you want seperate flac files to play on your computer or mp3 player, Google Medieval CUE Splitter - it's a freeware app.  You can decompress to wav by downloading flac's frontend (available on their website) - drag the flac file in and decompress it. If the cue throws up an error during any of these processes, open it in notepad check that the filename (and extension) are identical to the file. So if you covert it to wav, change the extension in the cue file to be .wav not .flac.

There are reasons why CD images like this are technically better than seperate track rips, but they're not very consumer-friendly.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: SonicMan46 on June 30, 2011, 06:58:01 AM
Thanks all for your comments on the *.flac & *.cue files - using a program on my laptop, I've converted the FLAC files in WAV just to listen on my stereo - now on disc 3 - no glitches so far; of course the conversion is into one BIG file only for each disc - will take a look this afternoon at some of the options suggested and decide what may be best for my needs! Dave  :D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Andante on June 30, 2011, 09:12:23 PM
With the converters that I use the only part that is used is the actual track either as 1 track (which I split using NCH WavePad sound editor) or as separate tracks, the cue file just sits in the folder, am I missing some thing?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lethevich on July 01, 2011, 07:27:57 AM
Quote from: Andante on June 30, 2011, 09:12:23 PM
With the converters that I use the only part that is used is the actual track either as 1 track (which I split using NCH WavePad sound editor) or as separate tracks, the cue file just sits in the folder, am I missing some thing?

If I understand you correctly, converters/encoders can indeed only be used on the source music file, whether it's a CD image (a single track) or seperate tracks. Where the cue comes into it is to tell the playback or burning software where the transition points between tracks are - in terms of encoding the file, this is a seperate process and distinction between track points is not needed because it's a batch job in which the whole lot is converted from one format to another.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mandryka on July 01, 2011, 07:32:21 AM
Download medieval cue splitter to split each FLAC file -- it's fairly obvious how it works

http://www.medieval.it/downloads/menu-id-63.html

Why not burn your CD directly from the FLAC file -- you can do this with the free version of media monkey or burnn or by installing a plugin for nero.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: SonicMan46 on July 01, 2011, 07:45:56 AM
Well, there appears to be many ways to 'skin a cat' -  :D   With Sara's initial suggestion, I did the following:

I downloaded the Medieval Cue Splitter and was able to take each of my LONG wav files and extract to the individual tracts; then converted these files to MP3 (256 kbps) so I could 'fit' the 4 discs onto one CD-R for playing convenience; finally, I burned each disc as a folder (MP3_1Faure, MP3_2Faure, etc.), so they showed up as folder listings (did not want to fuss w/ renumbering these files between the discs).

Not sure if the disc would work in my den stereo (which plays MP3 CD-Rs) - to my surprise (I'm listening to the burned disc at the moment), it played through the Nocturnes fine and then transitioned w/o a hitch to the second folder!  If the whole CD-R plays then I'll just put it into a skinny jewel box w/ the track listings which I printed.

Now, I've got all of these files on a USB 32GB stick in FLAC, WAV, and now MP3, so will be able to do future manipulation, if needed.  Thanks again for all of the comments - I certainly need to become more familiar w/ these numerous 'conversion' options!  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Andante on July 01, 2011, 03:19:56 PM
Quote from: Lethe Dmitriyevich Shostakovich on July 01, 2011, 07:27:57 AM
If I understand you correctly, converters/encoders can indeed only be used on the source music file, whether it's a CD image (a single track) or seperate tracks. Where the cue comes into it is to tell the playback or burning software where the transition points between tracks are - in terms of encoding the file, this is a seperate process and distinction between track points is not needed because it's a batch job in which the whole lot is converted from one format to another.
My method to date has been to convert FLAC files directly to WAV via FooBar or My Little Trader then burn to CD via Ashampoo, I have not knowingly used the cue file, some times the track listings are supplied in a note pad file, so I assume that the cue file is not used in my method?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lethevich on July 01, 2011, 03:33:53 PM
Quote from: Andante on July 01, 2011, 03:19:56 PM
My method to date has been to convert FLAC files directly to WAV via FooBar or My Little Trader then burn to CD via Ashampoo, I have not knowingly used the cue file, some times the track listings are supplied in a note pad file, so I assume that the cue file is not used in my method?

Indeed - the cue only needs to be used if you're doing something with a full CD image - either to split it or to burn it without splitting.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Andante on July 01, 2011, 03:41:56 PM
Quote from: Lethe Dmitriyevich Shostakovich on July 01, 2011, 03:33:53 PM
Indeed - the cue only needs to be used if you're doing something with a full CD image - either to split it or to burn it without splitting.
Thanks you got me worried for a while :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: jimmosk on September 29, 2011, 11:39:48 AM
I just learned that Amazon is giving away a free $2 credit towward the purchase of any MP3s from their site, apparently as a loss-leader to get people to browse their offerings.  Hey, it's only $2 but it's free!  Here's where I learned the details: http://www.mymoneyblog.com/free-2-credit-for-amazon-mp3-downloads-2.html (http://www.mymoneyblog.com/free-2-credit-for-amazon-mp3-downloads-2.html)

...now, does anyone have suggestions about what interesting MP3s one can get for $2?  I'm thinking about a couple of Cherubini overtures... or maybe this pair of Italian late-Classical complete works for $1.78: http://www.amazon.com/Italian-Classical-Symphonies-Brunetti-Clementi/dp/B0059L0G86 (http://www.amazon.com/Italian-Classical-Symphonies-Brunetti-Clementi/dp/B0059L0G86)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: stingo on September 29, 2011, 05:11:02 PM
There's Tchaikovsky, Glazunov and Sibelius symphony cycles for under $10 from BIS.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lethevich on September 29, 2011, 05:38:47 PM
Quote from: jimmosk on September 29, 2011, 11:39:48 AM
I just learned that Amazon is giving away a free $2 credit towward the purchase of any MP3s from their site, apparently as a loss-leader to get people to browse their offerings.  Hey, it's only $2 but it's free!  Here's where I learned the details: http://www.mymoneyblog.com/free-2-credit-for-amazon-mp3-downloads-2.html (http://www.mymoneyblog.com/free-2-credit-for-amazon-mp3-downloads-2.html)

...now, does anyone have suggestions about what interesting MP3s one can get for $2?  I'm thinking about a couple of Cherubini overtures... or maybe this pair of Italian late-Classical complete works for $1.78: http://www.amazon.com/Italian-Classical-Symphonies-Brunetti-Clementi/dp/B0059L0G86 (http://www.amazon.com/Italian-Classical-Symphonies-Brunetti-Clementi/dp/B0059L0G86)

Do try Onslow if you haven't already - a single movement from a piece would suck, but they do have this fine set of variations for piano as a single track: link (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001VZ4VE4/ref=dm_dp_trk1?ie=UTF8&qid=1317345911&sr=1-1).
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: eyeresist on September 29, 2011, 05:51:13 PM
Amazon occasionally "gives" me a $1 credit for MP3s. Useless, as they will not sell MP3s to Australia!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on September 29, 2011, 09:31:23 PM
Quote from: eyeresist on September 29, 2011, 05:51:13 PM
Amazon occasionally "gives" me a $1 credit for MP3s. Useless, as they will not sell MP3s to Australia!

Thanks for reminding about the "offer"; I've been wanting to report about their stupidity as well.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on December 22, 2011, 06:38:54 AM
Just noticed that Presto has also started offering downloads -- MP3 and FLAC. It's not available for every album, but take a look at this (http://www.prestoclassical.co.uk/r/BIS/BISCD1323%252F24#download) for example.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: stingo on December 22, 2011, 10:41:09 AM
Are there any good download-only albums? Amazon is offering 10 points for every dollar spent on mp3 downloads using their credit card.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Tapio Dimitriyevich Shostakovich on December 23, 2011, 12:01:55 AM
Quote from: Lethevich Dmitriyevna Pettersonova on July 01, 2011, 03:33:53 PMIndeed - the cue only needs to be used if you're doing something with a full CD image - either to split it or to burn it without splitting.
...or if you embed it into a single album file... this is what I do.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Papy Oli on January 09, 2012, 12:25:20 PM
http://lepetitbuda.blogspot.com/ (http://lepetitbuda.blogspot.com/)

Found some Rameau by Scott Ross there (post of 29/06/09).
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: flyingdutchman on February 09, 2012, 03:43:50 PM
Anyone else have Spotify?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Gurn Blanston on February 09, 2012, 03:45:33 PM
Quote from: jo jo starbuck on February 09, 2012, 03:43:50 PM
Anyone else have Spotify?

There's a whole thread about it here somewhere. A bunch of folks, it seems (not me though).

8)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: flyingdutchman on February 09, 2012, 04:28:36 PM
It's great!  I am on a 30 day free premium account.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: jimmosk on July 11, 2012, 01:33:00 PM
A bargain so extreme I wouldn't be surprised if it's the result of a typo:

Mahler's ten symphonies (the Adagio only in the case of the Tenth), plus several song cycles, performed by the Utah Symphony Orchestra under Maurice Abravanel.  For ninety-nine cents.  (USA only, I'm afraid)
http://www.amazon.com/Big-Mahler-Box-Bach-Guild/dp/B008J7G5LO/ (http://www.amazon.com/Big-Mahler-Box-Bach-Guild/dp/B008J7G5LO/)
While you're there you may also want to check out the Big Brahms Box and Big Gustav Leonhardt Box.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: stingo on July 12, 2012, 12:57:46 PM
Quote from: jimmosk on July 11, 2012, 01:33:00 PM
A bargain so extreme I wouldn't be surprised if it's the result of a typo:

Mahler's ten symphonies (the Adagio only in the case of the Tenth), plus several song cycles, performed by the Utah Symphony Orchestra under Maurice Abravanel.  For ninety-nine cents.  (USA only, I'm afraid)
http://www.amazon.com/Big-Mahler-Box-Bach-Guild/dp/B008J7G5LO/ (http://www.amazon.com/Big-Mahler-Box-Bach-Guild/dp/B008J7G5LO/)
While you're there you may also want to check out the Big Brahms Box and Big Gustav Leonhardt Box.

Nice finds. I have some of the symphonies (by the Utah Symphony/Abravanel) on Silverline Classics. Nice to have the whole set now.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Karl Henning on July 12, 2012, 01:16:11 PM
No, I'll bet they mean it. They had a similar 99¢ deal with a Bach "box" for his birthday.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: dyn on December 21, 2012, 05:33:12 AM
for those of us whose interests lie more in the music of the last fifty years or so—

http://avantgardeproject.conus.info/mirror/index.htm (http://avantgardeproject.conus.info/mirror/index.htm)
http://www.ubu.com/sound/ (http://www.ubu.com/sound/)
& of course blogs like 5:4 that upload off-air recordings, etc

it is also possible to download music from soundcloud or youtube, although i'm not sure why you would want to most of the time

e: and of more general interest, there is a suspiciously large amount of music here (http://classical-music-online.net/) (although i believe you have to subscribe to download more than one track every 10 minutes)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Lake Swan on December 25, 2012, 05:39:43 PM
5 smackers in the iTunes store.  :o

https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/vintage-piano-classical-greats/id496770690
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on June 30, 2013, 09:47:00 AM
The entire Barshai Shostakovich symphony cycle is only $16 on itunes and only $9 on amazon.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Brian on June 30, 2013, 10:58:11 AM
MusicWeb's postage costs, and my tiny apartment, have led me to set up deals wherein I'll be reviewing CDs for them based on downloads from various sites. So far no issues with ClassicsOnline, but The Classical Shop, which is run by Chandos, has been giving me fits. They let you download in MP3, WMA, or FLAC, which is nice. Not-so-nice: their download manager software only lets you get one album at once, so when I tried downloading two albums, the first one was cut off and I had to wait for the second one to finish, then go back in and manually pull down every track from album #1 that hadn't been received. Pain in the butt. Hopefully I can find a workaround. Anybody have experiences with The Classical Shop?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: FrankMaine on July 02, 2013, 05:04:27 AM
Quote from: Lake Swan on December 25, 2012, 05:39:43 PM
5 smackers in the iTunes store.  :o

https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/vintage-piano-classical-greats/id496770690

That's a pretty nice deal!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: aukhawk on July 04, 2013, 02:53:23 AM
Quote from: Brian on June 30, 2013, 10:58:11 AM
... The Classical Shop, which is run by Chandos, has been giving me fits. They let you download in MP3, WMA, or FLAC, which is nice. Not-so-nice: their download manager software only lets you get one album at once, so when I tried downloading two albums, the first one was cut off and I had to wait for the second one to finish, then go back in and manually pull down every track from album #1 that hadn't been received. Pain in the butt. Hopefully I can find a workaround. Anybody have experiences with The Classical Shop?

I've had similar.  The whole experience is generally flakey compared with Amazon, Classics Online or the excellent eClassical.  It took me several visits over 3 days to download an entire Shostakovich Quartets set. However I've never lost any money over it, they offer lossless files and sometimes 24-bit even when not advertised as such, and in some cases can be cheaper than Amazon (for example if you want to split a 2-disc set).
I use all four of the above-named, but mostly Amazon (UK).
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: pencils on July 09, 2013, 02:45:30 PM
Forgive me for asking a question that probably has an answer somewhere in here, and further apologies if it offends, but do any of you guys/ladies use places to download that are, erm.... cheap. I mean, cheap as in, well, you know what I mean. Pointers welcomed.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: North Star on July 09, 2013, 04:46:02 PM
Quote from: pencils on July 09, 2013, 02:45:30 PM
Forgive me for asking a question that probably has an answer somewhere in here, and further apologies if it offends, but do any of you guys/ladies use places to download that are, erm.... cheap. I mean, cheap as in, well, you know what I mean. Pointers welcomed.
Symphonyshare.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: pencils on July 10, 2013, 09:54:57 AM
Thank you  :) ... The more suggestions the better  :P
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on July 13, 2013, 11:47:52 AM
Itunes.  And no other anymore due to the convenience of playing from the cloud -> Apple TV -> home hifi.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: otare on July 27, 2013, 04:45:24 AM
I just found out that you can download lossless (ALAC or FLAC) from Hyperion for about half the price of the regular CD. This is very tempting. Hyperion has a lot of interesting recordings.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Opus106 on July 27, 2013, 06:37:33 AM
Quote from: otare on July 27, 2013, 04:45:24 AM
I just found out that you can download lossless (ALAC or FLAC) from Hyperion for about half the price of the regular CD. This is very tempting. Hyperion has a lot of interesting recordings.

If it's going to hurt your wallet very much, let me not tell you about the daily discount of 50% at E-classical (though it's only one CD per day; but their prices for 24-bit FLAC are generally better anyway, compared to the physical CD from BIS). Or about Chandos, who sell their discs through The Classical Shop.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Brian on July 27, 2013, 11:46:52 AM
Anybody else have an experience where MP3 downloads from ClassicsOnline have awful popping sounds at really loud orchestral climaxes? There weren't any on the Copland Rodeo I got from them recently, but this Colin Davis Sibelius 2 (Dresden) has them in the first movement and I thought my headphones were breaking. Then I played it on my speakers and the popping continued.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Willow Pattern on July 27, 2013, 10:39:56 PM
Quote from: Brian on July 27, 2013, 11:46:52 AM
Anybody else have an experience where MP3 downloads from ClassicsOnline have awful popping sounds at really loud orchestral climaxes? There weren't any on the Copland Rodeo I got from them recently, but this Colin Davis Sibelius 2 (Dresden) has them in the first movement and I thought my headphones were breaking. Then I played it on my speakers and the popping continued.

I've downloaded a fair bit from ClassicsOnline lately and have'nt experienced any problems like you are describing?. I still havent gotten through my virtual pile yet so I will be sure to let you know if this problem occurs!.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread: Russian Website "Classical Music Online"
Post by: Cato on October 01, 2013, 06:12:53 AM
Does anyone have any experience with this Russian website?

http://classical-music-online.net/en/composers/O (http://classical-music-online.net/en/composers/O)

I have tested it and so far it seems marvelous!  Under "O" one finds e.g. all the symphonies of Ovchinnikov, plus his classic film scores.  Check out Leo Ornstein.

They also offer the only stereo recording of Taneyev's opera The Oresteia.  (It takes a while to download, or at least it takes a while for my connection.)

For $20. via PayPal one gets "unlimited" hearing for 3 years: I was wondering if anyone had paid this fee and if so, were you satisfied.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Karl Henning on October 01, 2013, 06:17:07 AM
Most interesting. The Twirblers must know of this!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread: Russian Website "Classical Music Online"
Post by: cjvinthechair on October 01, 2013, 10:23:16 AM
Quote from: Cato on October 01, 2013, 06:12:53 AM
Does anyone have any experience with this Russian website?

http://classical-music-online.net/en/composers/O (http://classical-music-online.net/en/composers/O)

I have tested it and so far it seems marvelous!  Under "O" one finds e.g. all the symphonies of Ovchinnikov, plus his classic film scores.  Check out Leo Ornstein.

They also offer the only stereo recording of Taneyev's opera The Oresteia.  (It takes a while to download, or at least it takes a while for my connection.)

For $20. via PayPal one gets "unlimited" hearing for 3 years: I was wondering if anyone had paid this fee and if so, were you satisfied.

Most of us settle for the long wait between free downloads - you can still get 4 or 5 a day - but the range of music is quite spectacular, & in 2+ years I've not had a problem with anything on the site !
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread: Russian Website "Classical Music Online"
Post by: Cato on October 01, 2013, 10:50:05 AM
Quote from: cjvinthechair on October 01, 2013, 10:23:16 AM
Most of us settle for the long wait between free downloads - you can still get 4 or 5 a day - but the range of music is quite spectacular, & in 2+ years I've not had a problem with anything on the site !

Thanks for the response!  I would hate to get hooked on the site, and then see it tank for lack of funds!  That is why I was wondering about donating online.

"Spectacular" is correct!  Other examples are the 3 Piano Sonatas of Protopopov, Vyshnegradsky's Transparence for Ondes Martenot and 1/4-tone pianos, Busoni's Violin Concerto, and his operas Turandot and Doctor Faust, 2 operas by Mehul, and on and on!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: stingo on October 06, 2013, 06:08:36 AM
SACD - does anyone know if any retailers (like eClassical) offer the surround version of recordings vs the stereo version for download?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: A1_DAN on October 06, 2013, 12:19:35 PM
Channel classics have a small selection of multichannel downloads in DSD format.

http://www.channelclassics.com/native-dsd-multichannel.html
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: The new erato on November 11, 2013, 10:29:03 PM
There's a free 76 min download of highlights from the Suzuki Bach cantata cycle here:

http://www.prestoclassical.co.uk/r/BIS/BIS9051?utm_source=News-2013-11-11&utm_medium=email (http://www.prestoclassical.co.uk/r/BIS/BIS9051?utm_source=News-2013-11-11&utm_medium=email)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: radi on November 15, 2013, 07:56:26 PM
Mark your calendars everyone, eClassical will have another christmas calendar thing this year, this time BIS with Harmonia Mundi. From Dec 1 to 24 one album from each label each day will be on sale -50%. Past two christmases there have been some really great albums there.

www.eclassical.com (http://www.eclassical.com)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: stingo on November 16, 2013, 02:04:35 AM
Quote from: radi on November 15, 2013, 07:56:26 PM
Mark your calendars everyone, eClassical will have another christmas calendar thing this year, this time BIS with Harmonia Mundi. From Dec 1 to 24 one album from each label each day will be on sale -50%. Past two christmases there have been some really great albums there.

www.eclassical.com (http://www.eclassical.com)

Haven't they been doing that throughout? That's how I got the first Feinberg sonatas download last month. Or am I missing something?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: radi on November 16, 2013, 02:21:57 AM
Quote from: stingo on November 16, 2013, 02:04:35 AM
Haven't they been doing that throughout? That's how I got the first Feinberg sonatas download last month. Or am I missing something?

Yeah, the Daily Deals promotion goes on throughout the year, but in addition to that they have their christmas promos which tend to have much more recent and hand-picked quality recordings, rather than random back catalogue. (Plus this year there will be Harmonia Mundi albums too)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Brian on November 25, 2013, 07:01:51 PM
eClassical does:
- a daily deal from the BIS back catalogue (usually)
- an Advent calendar of half-price recent issues
- a 40th anniversary sale now through December 31 of 40 top-selling BIS CDs.

Here's my quick field guide to the 40th anniversary sale (http://musicweb-international.com/classrev/2013/Nov13/BIS_40_feature.htm), with reviews of 15 or so CDs and links to a dozen more.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Wanderer on November 28, 2013, 11:55:17 PM
I came by this promotion and it sounds good; free hi-res tracks from Linn Records.

24-bits of Christmas (http://www.linn.co.uk/christmas)


Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: amw on December 28, 2013, 04:51:44 PM
From the share-o-sphere, a substantial but neglected piano cycle by a Brazilian modernist composer:

http://inconstantsol.blogspot.co.nz/2013/11/almeida-prado-cartas-celestes-estudio.html

Only available in physical form on an out-of-print 3 LP set, as far as I (and, evidently, the blog contributors) know. I've been dipping into it; rewarding listening so far, though I don't know how well it holds up as a whole.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Mookalafalas on March 31, 2014, 05:51:30 AM
For those with an interest in such things, Demonoid is back.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread: Russian Website "Classical Music Online"
Post by: SBookman on May 03, 2014, 06:32:10 PM
Quote from: Cato on October 01, 2013, 06:12:53 AM
Does anyone have any experience with this Russian website?
Sir,
Yes, I paid. No complaints, no wait, but one at a time.

http://classical-music-online.net/en/composers/O (http://classical-music-online.net/en/composers/O)

I have tested it and so far it seems marvelous!  Under "O" one finds e.g. all the symphonies of Ovchinnikov, plus his classic film scores.  Check out Leo Ornstein.

They also offer the only stereo recording of Taneyev's opera The Oresteia.  (It takes a while to download, or at least it takes a while for my connection.)

For $20. via PayPal one gets "unlimited" hearing for 3 years: I was wondering if anyone had paid this fee and if so, were you satisfied.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Wakefield on July 27, 2014, 07:14:14 PM
This looks as an interesting offer:3,59 € for the RIAS Amadeus Quartet Mozart Recordings (Mozart: String Quartets, String Quintets & Clarinet Quintet) - CD quality (Lossless 16 bits 44,1 kHz):

(http://static.qobuz.com/images/covers/70/42/4022143214270_600.jpg)

http://www.qobuz.com/fr-fr/album/the-rias-amadeus-quartet-mozart-recordings-mozart-string-quartets-string-quintets-clarinet-quintet-amadeus-quartet/4022143214270
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: marsia on August 01, 2014, 06:36:15 AM
Quote from: radi on November 15, 2013, 07:56:26 PM
Mark your calendars everyone, eClassical will have another christmas calendar thing this year, this time BIS with Harmonia Mundi. From Dec 1 to 24 one album from each label each day will be on sale -50%. Past two christmases there have been some really great albums there.

www.eclassical.com (http://www.eclassical.com)

thanx for the link!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Wakefield on December 17, 2014, 07:51:58 AM
Presto Classical

Decca Sound: The Analogue Years 1969 – 1980 (32 hours 12 minutes)
[asin]B00E0H8KAQ[/asin]

MP3 (320 kbps) $25.75
CD Quality FLAC (lossless, 44.1 kHz, 16 bit) $32.25

I downloaded the FLAC version. It sounds excellent.  :)

http://www.prestoclassical.co.uk/r/Decca/4786111#download
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread: Russian Website "Classical Music Online"
Post by: Cato on April 09, 2015, 10:07:38 AM
Quote from: Cato on October 01, 2013, 10:50:05 AM
Thanks for the response!  I would hate to get hooked on the site, and then see it tank for lack of funds!  That is why I was wondering about donating online.

"Spectacular" is correct!  Other examples are the 3 Piano Sonatas of Protopopov, Vyshnegradsky's Transparence for Ondes Martenot and 1/4-tone pianos, Busoni's Violin Concerto, and his operas Turandot and Doctor Faust, 2 operas by Mehul, and on and on!

I just came across a performance of the incredible Protopopov Sonata #1 by a Russian pianist named Daniel Ekimovsky who seems not to have known that Afros on white guys died with Bob Ross!   0:)

Despite that: it is some performance!  The one available on YouTube has static throughout for some reason, so this is an improvement, although the quality is again not the best. 

http://classical-music-online.net/en/listen/131965 (http://classical-music-online.net/en/listen/131965)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: geralmar on March 10, 2016, 03:34:31 PM
Bach's complete works for organ can be downloaded free from a University of Michigan website:

http://www.blockmrecords.org/bach/
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DaveF on March 15, 2016, 01:59:47 PM
Good bit of customer service from Qobuz today - I discovered about 10 seconds of what sounds like static interference on a recently-purchased download and e-mailed them.  Reply came back within 5 minutes - Sorry, it's on the original disc, just let us know what you'd like as a replacement.  Not bad, I thought (although really good customer service would have been "Here you go, we've just re-ripped it and please find attached a copy of the offending track, minus faults".  But you can't have everything.)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: EigenUser on March 16, 2016, 12:10:09 AM
Quote from: DaveF on March 15, 2016, 01:59:47 PM
Good bit of customer service from Qobuz today - I discovered about 10 seconds of what sounds like static interference on a recently-purchased download and e-mailed them.  Reply came back within 5 minutes - Sorry, it's on the original disc, just let us know what you'd like as a replacement.  Not bad, I thought (although really good customer service would have been "Here you go, we've just re-ripped it and please find attached a copy of the offending track, minus faults".  But you can't have everything.)
I would have just assumed it was Stockhausen >:D >:D :laugh:
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DaveF on March 16, 2016, 12:47:22 AM
Quote from: EigenUser on March 16, 2016, 12:10:09 AM
I would have just assumed it was Stockhausen >:D >:D :laugh:

You're not far off, actually - German, iconoclastic - step forward, Herr Hindemith.  Incidentally, it's probably immoral of me to say this, but if Qobuz haven't rectified this fault, you can basically get the album for free - the complete viola music played by Kim Kashkashian, and the fault is at the end of Disc 1, track 3.  I'm getting http://www.qobuz.com/gb-en/album/lutoslawski-symphonies-concertos-etc-witold-lutoslawski/5099921531859 as a "replacement" (although I still get to keep over 2 hours of fault-free Kashkashian violistic gymnastics.)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: amw on March 16, 2016, 03:58:30 AM
Quote from: DaveF on March 15, 2016, 01:59:47 PM
Good bit of customer service from Qobuz today - I discovered about 10 seconds of what sounds like static interference on a recently-purchased download and e-mailed them.  Reply came back within 5 minutes - Sorry, it's on the original disc, just let us know what you'd like as a replacement.  Not bad, I thought (although really good customer service would have been "Here you go, we've just re-ripped it and please find attached a copy of the offending track, minus faults".  But you can't have everything.)
Qobuz gets files direct from the labels, they don't actually have any CDs I'm aware of. And they're in hot water with the labels due to bankruptcy, so requests directed at labels for new files are likely to be ignored—more trouble than they're worth.

A year or two back I found an album of string quartets where all of the tracks were in fact oboe music, and bore no relation to the actual album details. I didn't buy it, just streamed it; and when I reported it to them they checked and were like "yeah, that's a label problem, we'll ask them for new files." Did a search for that album a couple of weeks ago and found that it's still an oboe album. Perhaps they would have addressed it more urgently if I'd actually paid money for it, but I doubt it.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DaveF on March 16, 2016, 12:58:10 PM
Quote from: amw on March 16, 2016, 03:58:30 AM
Did a search for that album a couple of weeks ago and found that it's still an oboe album. Perhaps they would have addressed it more urgently if I'd actually paid money for it, but I doubt it.

The Hindemith likewise remains with its 15 seconds of overdubbed Stockhausen and, from what you say, seems likely to remain that way.  Well, I can only repeat my advice to anyone wanting a download for (currently) £15.59 from Qobuz, and who also would quite like the Hindemith (which is astonishingly good btw, although I'm a viola player and Hindemith-fan, so I would say that): buy that, complain about track 3, claim your free replacement...
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Andante on June 24, 2016, 04:10:50 PM
Quote from: Mookalafalas on March 31, 2014, 05:51:30 AM
For those with an interest in such things, Demonoid is back.
I did my first down load via Demonoid a few years ago  >:D
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Crassus on October 27, 2016, 01:39:56 AM
Bought these two Bernstein Mahler recordings from High Definition Tape Transfers (HDTT)

(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0778/3319/products/Mahler_7_Bernstein_NYP_cover.png?v=1459167182)
DSD128 Direct Stream Digital

https://www.highdeftapetransfers.com/products/mahler-symphony-no-7-leonard-bernstein-conducts-the-new-york-philharmonic (https://www.highdeftapetransfers.com/products/mahler-symphony-no-7-leonard-bernstein-conducts-the-new-york-philharmonic)


(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0778/3319/products/Mahler_8_Bernstein_cover.png?v=1468863322)
DXD 24bit - 352.8khz PCM Flac

https://www.highdeftapetransfers.com/products/mahler-symphony-no-8-leonard-bernstein-london-symphony-orchestra (https://www.highdeftapetransfers.com/products/mahler-symphony-no-8-leonard-bernstein-london-symphony-orchestra)

Listening to the 8th now. I've never heard this recording before. I love Bernstein's interpretation. It sounds fabulous in audiophile sound  :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread: Russian Website "Classical Music Online"
Post by: carlito77 on December 24, 2016, 11:43:18 AM
Quote from: Cato on October 01, 2013, 06:12:53 AM
Does anyone have any experience with this Russian website?

http://classical-music-online.net/en/composers/O (http://classical-music-online.net/en/composers/O)

I have tested it and so far it seems marvelous!  Under "O" one finds e.g. all the symphonies of Ovchinnikov, plus his classic film scores.  Check out Leo Ornstein.

They also offer the only stereo recording of Taneyev's opera The Oresteia.  (It takes a while to download, or at least it takes a while for my connection.)

For $20. via PayPal one gets "unlimited" hearing for 3 years: I was wondering if anyone had paid this fee and if so, were you satisfied.

Excellent site. For a modest donation, you have full access to their musical database to download. Though you can download music for free, there is a limit as oppose to those who make a donation. I have no complaints and would encourage anybody to at least make a donation It's not cheap maintaining their servers and they do provide a great service for those who love classical music.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread: Russian Website "Classical Music Online"
Post by: Spineur on January 09, 2017, 09:10:16 AM
 ;D
Quote from: carlito77 on December 24, 2016, 11:43:18 AM
Excellent site. For a modest donation, you have full access to their musical database to download. Though you can download music for free, there is a limit as oppose to those who make a donation. I have no complaints and would encourage anybody to at least make a donation It's not cheap maintaining their servers and they do provide a great service for those who love classical music.
Is it streaming ?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread: Russian Website "Classical Music Online"
Post by: carlito77 on January 17, 2017, 02:35:24 AM
Quote from: Spineur on January 09, 2017, 09:10:16 AM
;DIs it streaming ?

Yes they do stream any composition you choose in their database but you can also download it.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Zeus on February 03, 2017, 05:02:56 AM
Is it legal, or is it bootleg?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kontrapunctus on February 09, 2017, 05:50:58 PM
I recently joined the ranks of downloaders. I plan to download only recordings that are higher resolution than RBCDs but will still buy SACDs. Of course, if a CD I want isn't available in a download, then I'll buy it. The 8 or so "hi-res" (24bit 96k) ones I've bought so far all sound great.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Spineur on February 09, 2017, 06:50:37 PM
Quote from: Toccata&Fugue on February 09, 2017, 05:50:58 PM
I recently joined the ranks of downloaders. I plan to download only recordings that are higher resolution than RBCDs but will still buy SACDs. Of course, if a CD I want isn't available in a download, then I'll buy it. The 8 or so "hi-res" (24bit 96k) ones I've bought so far all sound great.
I have hundreds, and got increasingly annoyed of the price difference between the hires and regular CD prices.  For a long time it was in the 20-30% range, which was alright for me.  Now, it is often 50-66% more, a price difference which isnt warranted IMO.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: andolink on February 09, 2017, 10:48:48 PM
I've heard numerous audio engineer types adamantly state that any higher resolution that 16 bit/44.1 khz (standard CD quality) is entirely beyond the range of human hearing and that the whole hi-res. thing is a pure marketing scam.  That's why I've never been tempted to go that route.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: eljr on February 20, 2017, 06:04:25 AM
Quote from: andolink on February 09, 2017, 10:48:48 PM
I've heard numerous audio engineer types adamantly state that any higher resolution that 16 bit/44.1 khz (standard CD quality) is entirely beyond the range of human hearing and that the whole hi-res. thing is a pure marketing scam.  That's why I've never been tempted to go that route.

I don't know about it being purely a marketing scam as higher resolution is indeed higher resolution.

Best, maybe, to stick to fact not opinion. Hi-Rez generally fails in double blind tests set up to distinguish between 16 bit/44.1 khz and higher resolution.

of course MP3 generally does not do much worse either

I am of the camp that I prefer the best resolution available.... knowing I likely will hear no difference.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Todd on June 11, 2017, 06:10:34 AM
(http://f4.bcbits.com/img/a1886980162_10.jpg)


Kimiko Ishizaka's recording of the Goldbergs is available for $0.00 here (http://www.opengoldbergvariations.org/download).
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Todd on June 11, 2017, 04:01:47 PM
I don't know if this has been posted about before, but http://www.classiccat.net/ has links to hundreds/thousands of free MP3s of a variety of recordings.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Todd on June 11, 2017, 07:26:22 PM
(http://f4.bcbits.com/img/a2828572734_16.jpg)


Turns out that Ms Ishizaka also recorded the first book of the 48, which is also available for free using the same link from above.  The downloads are available in multiple formats, including high res FLAC and WAV.  Robert Douglass appears to have posted on this forum before under the user name Open Goldberg.  The two of them put together a Kickstarter campaign to record Chopin's Preludes on an 1842 Pleyel, as well, which hopefully will also be available for free under a Creative Commons license.  In addition to all that, Ms Ishizaka used to be a successful competitive powerlifter and Olympic lifter.  I got me some listening to do.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kontrapunctus on June 14, 2017, 12:17:39 PM
Quote from: Todd on June 11, 2017, 06:10:34 AM
(http://f4.bcbits.com/img/a1886980162_10.jpg)


Kimiko Ishizaka's recording of the Goldbergs is available for $0.00 here (http://www.opengoldbergvariations.org/download).

Thanks for the link. I offered $1.00--didn't feel like completely taking advantage! Those who want hi-res be sure to select the FLAC version, as it defaults to MP3 and you get only one download. (I learned this the hard way--had to buy it twice!) I've only had a chance to sample it, but the audio and her playing are excellent.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Todd on June 15, 2017, 12:21:31 PM
It looks like it has been eight years since it was last mentioned, but the Isabella Stewart Gardner museum has a now vast music library available on MP3. (http://www.gardnermuseum.org/music/listen/music_library)  Many/most/all are also available on YouTube.  There are many performances from notable artists of today - Jumppanen, Denk, Weilerstein, Biss, and so forth.  The price is right.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Todd on August 04, 2017, 09:50:27 AM
Pianist Michael Houstoun offers a variety of free downloads via Bandcamp, in a variety of formats including lossless, through his website: http://www.michaelhoustoun.co.nz/discs_bandcamp.html

Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Ghost Sonata on August 15, 2017, 09:44:56 AM
Just FYI.  I have not explored this site yet, but do look forward to doing so :

http://www.openculture.com/2017/08/download-400000-free-classical-musical-scores-46000-free-classical-recordings.html
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: stingo on August 24, 2017, 08:05:32 AM
Quote from: Todd on June 11, 2017, 06:10:34 AM
(http://f4.bcbits.com/img/a1886980162_10.jpg)


Kimiko Ishizaka's recording of the Goldbergs is available for $0.00 here (http://www.opengoldbergvariations.org/download).

I subscribe to her work on bandcamp for 20 euros a year. I think her current (kickstarter) project is recording the Art of the Fugue.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: torut on September 04, 2017, 11:07:39 AM
Quote from: stingo on August 24, 2017, 08:05:32 AM
I subscribe to her work on bandcamp for 20 euros a year. I think her current (kickstarter) project is recording the Art of the Fugue.

It is almost there but still has not reached the goal. 56 hours to go.

Libre Art of the Fugue (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/opengoldberg/libre-art-of-the-fugue/description)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Todd on September 27, 2017, 03:01:43 PM
CD Baby currently offers 70 free classical downloads.  Most titles are not exactly enticing, but I found three that I'm getting.  CD Baby offers about 2,600 free titles total in all genres.  Downloads are available as MP3 and FLAC.

(https://cdbaby.name/o/l/olegtimofeyev.jpg)

(https://cdbaby.name/m/u/musicallyspeaking13.jpg)

(https://cdbaby.name/p/e/pedjamuzijevic.jpg)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Todd on October 10, 2017, 10:57:23 AM
This may have been mentioned already, but Paperback Classics (http://www.rediscovery.us/paperbacks.html) has a variety of free downloads available as 320 MP3s.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Todd on October 18, 2017, 06:25:45 AM
(http://f4.bcbits.com/img/a0240845586_16.jpg)


Available for free, or any amount one wishes to pay at:

http://music.kimiko-piano.com/album/j-s-bach-the-art-of-the-fugue-kunst-der-fuge-bwv-1080
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kontrapunctus on October 20, 2017, 01:23:24 PM
I bought this as a "CD quality FLAC" file from Presto Classical...or so I thought. It's nothing more than a slightly upsampled MP3 file (its bit rate is 595 kbps...a CD quality FLAC is 1114.2 kbps). This is the second time Presto has ripped off customers by selling such files. They refunded my money the first I complained and requested a refund, but they didn't even bother to respond this time. They are dead to me. BUYER BEWARE WHEN DEALING WITH PRESTO. Oh, the music is very intense and powerful, and the sound is decent enough, but it would have been better as a true hi-res file or a CD.

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51YFxcjzo7L._SS500.jpg)

I posted this in two threads deliberately.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Todd on October 20, 2017, 01:39:13 PM
Quote from: Toccata&Fugue on October 20, 2017, 01:23:24 PMits bit rate is 595 kbps...a CD quality FLAC is 1114.2 kbps


I've ripped thousands of discs, and most/all end up below the 1411 kbps bit rate when converted to FLAC.  Yesterday I listened to one disc's worth of FLACs from Yu Kosuge's LvB sonata cycle, which is in outstanding sound, and the bit rate is 500-ish.  It sounds identical to the CD.  I've done dozens of A/Bs and never been able to hear a difference between CD and FLAC, with some previously mentioned (probable) error correction issues on Denon discs. 

I've also noticed that bit rates vary substantially on "high res" 24 bit downloads I've purchased, though they are always above the 1411 CD standard. 

Presto is almost certainly selling perfectly fine FLACs.  It would be interesting to learn if they create them, or if they simply resell files provided by the record labels.  I think you should probably know that before warning people about dealing with Presto.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Brian on October 20, 2017, 01:51:04 PM
Also, Presto has a more or less sterling reputation among classical shoppers and I have purchased (physical) music from them for almost a decade, so I agree that additional scrutiny is important here. There is a Presto employee on this very board.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kontrapunctus on October 20, 2017, 03:10:42 PM
Quote from: Todd on October 20, 2017, 01:39:13 PM

I've ripped thousands of discs, and most/all end up below the 1411 kbps bit rate when converted to FLAC.  Yesterday I listened to one disc's worth of FLACs from Yu Kosuge's LvB sonata cycle, which is in outstanding sound, and the bit rate is 500-ish.  It sounds identical to the CD.  I've done dozens of A/Bs and never been able to hear a difference between CD and FLAC, with some previously mentioned (probable) error correction issues on Denon discs. 

I've also noticed that bit rates vary substantially on "high res" 24 bit downloads I've purchased, though they are always above the 1411 CD standard. 

Presto is almost certainly selling perfectly fine FLACs.  It would be interesting to learn if they create them, or if they simply resell files provided by the record labels.  I think you should probably know that before warning people about dealing with Presto.

According to my Lossless Audio Checker software, it is not a FLAC file but merely an upsampled MP3. They resell files, so clearly they need someone to check the files to be sure they actually are FLAC or hi-res. None of the hi-res files I've bought from them have been problematic. I've been a loyal customer for a long time, but those days are over until they respond to my email and rectify the problem.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Todd on October 20, 2017, 03:16:48 PM
Quote from: Toccata&Fugue on October 20, 2017, 03:10:42 PMAccording to my Lossless Audio Checker software, it is not a FLAC file but merely an upsampled MP3.


Interesting, I've never heard of that happening before. 

I would think it might make sense to see if the company resolves the problem before complaining about them.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Parsifal on October 20, 2017, 03:21:03 PM
Quote from: Toccata&Fugue on October 20, 2017, 01:23:24 PMits bit rate is 595 kbps...a CD quality FLAC is 1114.2 kbps

Every FLAC I have ever ripped in my life (and that numbers in the thousands) has resulted in a reduction to 40-60% of the original file size, giving an effective bit rat (bits read per second of audio) of 550-850 kbps.  Effective bit rate depends on the nature of the audio signal an on the details of the compression program and how it was run.

Quote from: Toccata&Fugue on October 20, 2017, 03:10:42 PM
According to my Lossless Audio Checker software, it is not a FLAC file but merely an upsampled MP3. They resell files, so clearly they need someone to check the files to be sure they actually are FLAC or hi-res. None of the hi-res files I've bought from them have been problematic. I've been a loyal customer for a long time, but those days are over until they respond to my email and rectify the problem.

That is something else. It is theoretically possible to convert an MP3 file back to raw wav, then to convert that to FLAC. That would be truly pointless, but it is not so clear to me that it is possible to detect this just by analyzing the FLAC file. You have not specified how you obtained this bit rate of 595 kbps, so it is not possible to evaluate the validity of your claim. And if that is really what they did, your claim is incorrectly specified. You have do have a FLAC file, but it was generated from a mp3 file, rather than from a raw audio file (wav).

Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kontrapunctus on April 13, 2018, 10:32:39 PM
I listened to a CD-quality FLAC and an MQA (Master Quality Authentication) file of Nielsen's Chaconne from the 2L label--the MQA sounded much more realistic and less "digital."

(https://shop.klicktrack.com/image/C078200726F317030C5835BA90241A29-39D4F040B2AA-00.jpg/large?type=release&v=3)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on April 23, 2018, 12:59:46 PM
Quote from: Todd on October 20, 2017, 01:39:13 PM
Quote from: Toccata&Fugue on October 20, 2017, 01:23:24 PM
I bought this as a "CD quality FLAC" file from Presto Classical...or so I thought. It's nothing more than a slightly upsampled MP3 file (its bit rate is 595 kbps...a CD quality FLAC is 1114.2 kbps).

I've ripped thousands of discs, and most/all end up below the 1411 kbps bit rate when converted to FLAC.  Yesterday I listened to one disc's worth of FLACs from Yu Kosuge's LvB sonata cycle, which is in outstanding sound, and the bit rate is 500-ish.  It sounds identical to the CD.  I've done dozens of A/Bs and never been able to hear a difference between CD and FLAC, with some previously mentioned (probable) error correction issues on Denon discs. 

I've also noticed that bit rates vary substantially on "high res" 24 bit downloads I've purchased, though they are always above the 1411 CD standard. 

Like Todd, I have ripped thousands of CDs to FLAC;  invariably the bit rate is less that the uncompressed CD's  1411 kbps bit rate.  The FLAC encoding process compresses the original without loss very much as Zip compresses other computer files without loss.

Also, I agree that the extent of compression depends on the source music:  FLAC uses a variable bit rate.  The highest bit rates I've notice, over 1200 kbps, are in the case of certain Jazz recordings:  in all these case the music included cymbals struck with wire brush.  This creates a very complex sound that requires a much higher than typical FLAC bit rate.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Baron Scarpia on May 11, 2018, 10:08:51 AM
I've discovered that prestoclassical sells FLAC downloads of most classical CDs for a price which is significantly lower than a new CD, often lower than a good quality used CD. I think that this will become my default way of purchasing classical music.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: premont on May 11, 2018, 10:18:25 AM
Quote from: Todd on October 20, 2017, 01:39:13 PM

Presto is almost certainly selling perfectly fine FLACs. It would be interesting to learn if they create them, or if they simply resell files provided by the record labels.  I think you should probably know that before warning people about dealing with Presto.


They resell files from different labels. I have experienced, that defective files must be sent anew from the labels. Defective files are rare but creep in now and then, and in two cases they have not been able to get a new file for me from the label.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Baron Scarpia on May 11, 2018, 10:29:43 AM
Quote from: Todd on October 20, 2017, 01:39:13 PMPresto is almost certainly selling perfectly fine FLACs.  It would be interesting to learn if they create them, or if they simply resell files provided by the record labels.  I think you should probably know that before warning people about dealing with Presto.

I would say that if the label is reputable (so far I've gotten FLAC files from Sony and BIS) it doesn't matter. Even though two FLAC files from the same source may be different, depending on the encoding settings, they will expand to an audio stream with is bit-for-bit identical to the original. I trust prestoclassical. The danger that Toccata alluded to is the possibility that an unscrupulous or incompetent label might start with an mp3 file which is a lossy version of the original, expand it to a wave file, then compress the result to FLAC, producing a lossless copy of lossy audio data.

In any case, I only consider PrestoClassical in cases where the label itself does not make lossless audio file available. Hyperion, for instance, distributes FLAC files from their web site. I think I have gotten a FLAC file from DG, but it was a horrible ordeal, the worst web site design I can remember encountering.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Zeus on November 15, 2018, 06:42:04 AM
eMusic has finally exploded.

eMusic, one of the pioneers of the musical download business, seems to have finally gone kaput, at least insofar as their selection of classical music is concerned.

A quick recap of their history to this point.  In the early years, they had a broad selection, but tracks were fairly low quality (ie less than 256 kbps).  A couple of years ago, they switched over to 320 kbps, which is good enough in my book, especially at the prices offered.  Typically albums were priced around $5 to $8 – ie competitive – but it was also possible to prepay for "booster packs" and thus get albums for roughly 50% off.

And the selection was very good too, at least for a time.  For a while, essentially all popular labels were available, excepting only the so-called "major" labels (DG, Decca, Sony, etc), and a few "independent" labels who have traditionally been rather reticent in the download business (Hyperion, DHM, MDG, etc).

The upshot was that almost all the latest releases were available for download in good quality for about $3 a disc.  Note also that double albums were often mis-priced as single albums.

Accordingly, I gorged.  For the last couple of years I've been buying about 200 albums a year – which is a lot for me – but at $3 per album, that's just $600 for year or $50 per month.  Less than I spend on coffee, I'm sure.

Sadly it couldn't last.  A few labels were dropped when eMusic switched over to 7digital's content library.  Over the last year or so, I've seen more labels disappear, often in groups.  But until the beginning of this month, there were enough labels around to keep things interesting.  But this month, Naxos and all the many labels they represent also disappeared.  Now there are just a very small handful of labels available – Brilliant, Audite, some Supraphon, some Naive – plus a lot of garbage.

I'm still in a bit of shock, frankly, and struggling to adjust.  Although I was an early adopter of Spotify, I let my membership there lapse because I preferred the benefits of ownership, even of digital tracks.  Recently I've cranked up the Spotify again – and I'm very very impressed with the current selection by the way – but somehow it doesn't feel the same.  Also my first impression is that the sound quality is not as good, but I could be wrong.

I will still occasionally buy downloads, but not nearly as much.  I can still get Naxos albums for $5 to $6, and most other albums for $10 to $11; but this seems outrageously expensive to me since I'm used to paying just $3 each.

I guess I'm gonna spend more time digesting and enjoying the music I already have.  Lord knows I have a lot of music to get to know better.

I realize that very, very few of you are downloaders in the 320 kbps range (anyone?), but I figured I'd share this news and vent my spleen anyway. 

This is, after all, the classical downloads thread!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: flyingdutchman on November 15, 2018, 06:57:07 AM
I tend to go only for ALAC or FLAC downloads.  I do have Spotify which I pay for each month and it gives some good examples.  If I like it enough, I'll buy the download at FLAC or ALAC level or buy the CDs.  I have the George Szell 100+ set coming which I'll copy to ALAC and then sell.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Kontrapunctus on November 19, 2018, 06:57:57 PM
I mostly buy FLAC, preferably 24 bit and either 96 or 192khz, but a few weeks ago I splurged on a DSD download--oh my does it sound good! It's on the Chasing the Dragon label in the UK.

(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1767/8719/products/COVER_c7cd7f0a-4060-405a-9818-1d5305c8b395_1024x1024.jpg?v=1524906499)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Border Collie on November 21, 2018, 01:25:47 AM
Zeus

Try Chandos.net

They carry a bucket-load of labels including Brilliant and Naxos.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: amw on November 21, 2018, 01:39:58 AM
Quote from: Baron Scarpia on May 11, 2018, 10:29:43 AM
In any case, I only consider PrestoClassical in cases where the label itself does not make lossless audio file available. Hyperion, for instance, distributes FLAC files from their web site. I think I have gotten a FLAC file from DG, but it was a horrible ordeal, the worst web site design I can remember encountering.
Old post but do not buy digital downloads from Universal (DG/Decca)—the FLAC files are digitally watermarked in a way that creates audible wobbling and distortion.

Presto is usually ok; Lossless Audio Checker sometimes turns up false negatives. It's usually worth testing a suspicious file with multiple softwares to be certain. (A 16-bit/44.1khz FLAC file may have a bit rate as low as 300kbps, especially in the case of piano music, or as high as 1200kbps, especially in the case of harpsichord and percussion music. An upsampled MP3 usually has a higher bit rate than a common or garden FLAC, because the MP3 compression algorithm produces distortion at high frequencies which is then more expensive to encode losslessly.)

Chandos is.... fairly expensive for MP3s. For cheap MP3s probably have to go with the monopolists, Amazon and Google.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: pseudolongino on February 14, 2020, 11:29:00 AM
someone care to update this thread?
most of the sites are dead or only sell tracks available in published cds
im searching big archives of past concerts, like the metrognome blogspot which closed down several years ago
i've heard of symphonyshare but cant open anything on my chrome and it seems it's not very searchable anyway, so pretty useless as databases go
any suggestion? i'd like to further my knowledge of people like steinberg, munch and szell
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Daverz on February 14, 2020, 04:11:28 PM
Quote from: pseudolongino on February 14, 2020, 11:29:00 AM
someone care to update this thread?
most of the sites are dead or only sell tracks available in published cds
im searching big archives of past concerts, like the metrognome blogspot which closed down several years ago
i've heard of symphonyshare but cant open anything on my chrome and it seems it's not very searchable anyway, so pretty useless as databases go
any suggestion? i'd like to further my knowledge of people like steinberg, munch and szell

ConcertArchive?

https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/concertarchivemirror
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: pseudolongino on February 14, 2020, 11:16:50 PM
thanks, i wrote to the administrator, do they admit freely?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: pseudolongino on February 15, 2020, 10:56:34 PM
it appears not
does someone know whether classics online really has all that stuff online, which fileshare host do they use and what format are the files in?
i have half a mind of shedding these 20 dollars and be done with it
Title: Free Signum Digital Sampler at Presto Classical
Post by: Pohjolas Daughter on March 20, 2020, 05:49:34 AM
I just received an email from Presto Classical (a great company based in the UK from which one can order classical music in either physical or digital format).  Signum is currently allowing their customers to download a 90 minute sampler from albums that they've put out over the years.  Could be a fun way to see which, if any, albums of theirs you might wish to purchase.   :)

https://www.prestomusic.com/classical/products/8335420--signum-digital-sampler?utm_source=News-2020-03-20&utm_medium=email

Best wishes,

PD

p.s.  If there is already a thread on something like this, please feel free to move it there.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: TMHeimer on March 27, 2020, 10:04:11 AM
Downloading music (legally or illegally) has decimated the free concerts by bands in our area. In maybe the 50s or 60s the AF of M (musicians union) struck a deal with record companies so a small % of money spent on records (and later cassettes, VHSs, CDs & DVDs) went into the Music Performance Trust Fund. This money went to paying us musicians playing free concerts for the public (ie. summer night concerts "under the stars"). About 20 years ago this quickly began to die out as people began to download music. Fund raising could not in most cases cover the lost money and bands dried up. The only reason the group I play in, the Westchester Band has been able to keep half of it's concerts was due to the generosity of the audience people of Scarsdale, NY. Somewhat recently the AF of M struck a deal with the digital people to once again get a little money back into the Fund--we haven't seen results at all where I play--probably because downloading legally costs a fraction of buying a record or DVD. I quit the union in 2008 after 35 years. Wrote the union president and he said that the Fund doesn't (didn't) exist for people like me who only play such concerts (as opposed to orchestras and contracts), and that I should continue paying union dues to support my FELLOW MUSICIANS. Sorry, not doing that....

The local symphony where I used to play, the Yonkers Philharmonic continued on with it's normal season. But that was always only 3-4 concerts from Fall to Spring anyway, so I guess city parks money and fund raising has kept that one going.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Daverz on April 29, 2020, 02:31:57 AM
Qobuz is giving away a few downloads for free.  One of them is the live album of Nielsen concertos from the New York Philharmonic.

(https://static.qobuz.com/images/covers/68/56/0747313155668_600.jpg)

https://www.qobuz.com/us-en/search?q=qobuz-music-gifts
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: j winter on April 29, 2020, 10:15:20 AM
Quote from: Daverz on April 29, 2020, 02:31:57 AM
Qobuz is giving away a few downloads for free.  One of them is the live album of Nielsen concertos from the New York Philharmonic.

(https://static.qobuz.com/images/covers/68/56/0747313155668_600.jpg)

https://www.qobuz.com/us-en/search?q=qobuz-music-gifts

Thankee kindlee for the heads up  :)  I have downloaded several, including the above....
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Papy Oli on April 30, 2020, 07:05:52 AM
Quick question for the Qobuz users please:

I have played around with Qobuz since yesterday in three different ways since setting the account:

1 - their Web player as a tab in my Opera browser on the laptop
2 - their android app on my phone
3 - their windows 64-bit app on the laptop as well

I used (1) most of yesterday for the searches and that worked perfectly. Same for (2) today. e.g. If i do a search for "Naive Vivaldi", click "See All Releases", I get a first set of 20-ish results and then go arrow down to load the next page of results and so on.

In (3), the windows app, however, the second page of results does not load up when i scroll down. I am only left with the first 20 results.

Are you or have you experienced anything similar please ?

Thank you.

Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Roasted Swan on May 10, 2020, 07:54:24 AM
As the soundtrack to some house decorating that self-isolation has finally forced on me I've been downloading some of those old Bach Guild "Big Boxes".  In the US I know they are ridiculously cheap - here in the UK still a very good bargain.  I enjoyed all of the "Big Box of Chamber Music Vol.2" - some interesting repertoire from Berg String Quartet to Dohnanyi and Ravel and the Gounod Wind Symphony (which I'm not sure I'd ever heard before).  All the performances were at least good and some better than that.  A very good way of abdicating having to make choices of listening material every 40 minutes or so and a real pleasure.  Now onto the Choral Box Vol.4 and Big Box of Romantic Orchestral music - some real gems here!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Pohjolas Daughter on May 10, 2020, 08:12:51 AM
Quote from: Roasted Swan on May 10, 2020, 07:54:24 AM
As the soundtrack to some house decorating that self-isolation has finally forced on me I've been downloading some of those old Bach Guild "Big Boxes".  In the US I know they are ridiculously cheap - here in the UK still a very good bargain.  I enjoyed all of the "Big Box of Chamber Music Vol.2" - some interesting repertoire from Berg String Quartet to Dohnanyi and Ravel and the Gounod Wind Symphony (which I'm not sure I'd ever heard before).  All the performances were at least good and some better than that.  A very good way of abdicating having to make choices of listening material every 40 minutes or so and a real pleasure.  Now onto the Choral Box Vol.4 and Big Box of Romantic Orchestral music - some real gems here!
I have some of those sets--thanks for reminding me.  I have two Haydn and also the "Little Big Debussy Box".  Realized that I hadn't yet listened to the Debussy one so I'll visit that for a while today.  Lots of artists on there with whom I am not familiar:  Jeffrey Biegel and Ronan O'Hora.

How did the decorating go?

Just looked at one of them on Amazon to see how much they were currently going for.  I think they're $.99 but then if you click on one of the sets, it shows 99 cents next to each track!  If I'm recalling correctly, when I purchased them as downloads, they were on special for $1.99?  and were going for around $4-ish normally?

Best,

PD
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Roasted Swan on May 10, 2020, 10:41:59 AM
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on May 10, 2020, 08:12:51 AM
I have some of those sets--thanks for reminding me.  I have two Haydn and also the "Little Big Debussy Box".  Realized that I hadn't yet listened to the Debussy one so I'll visit that for a while today.  Lots of artists on there with whom I am not familiar:  Jeffrey Biegel and Ronan O'Hora.

How did the decorating go?

Just looked at one of them on Amazon to see how much they were currently going for.  I think they're $.99 but then if you click on one of the sets, it shows 99 cents next to each track!  If I'm recalling correctly, when I purchased them as downloads, they were on special for $1.99?  and were going for around $4-ish normally?

Best,

PD

Hi PD - I have to say my natural aversion to decorating was eased if not erased by listening to this rolling collection of Chamber Music.  I'm much more of a "Symphonic Addict" type - pace our colleague here! - but actually just hearing a sequence of really beautiful chamber music well played was very inspiring!  The Ronan O'Hora recordings were sourced via the RPO/Tring "own label" whcih produced some very fine recordings and performances in its short life.  Jeffrey Biegel recorded for Naxos/Albany etc - good solid playing.......
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Pohjolas Daughter on May 10, 2020, 01:10:36 PM
Quote from: Roasted Swan on May 10, 2020, 10:41:59 AM
Hi PD - I have to say my natural aversion to decorating was eased if not erased by listening to this rolling collection of Chamber Music.  I'm much more of a "Symphonic Addict" type - pace our colleague here! - but actually just hearing a sequence of really beautiful chamber music well played was very inspiring!  The Ronan O'Hora recordings were sourced via the RPO/Tring "own label" whcih produced some very fine recordings and performances in its short life.  Jeffrey Biegel recorded for Naxos/Albany etc - good solid playing.......
Does the term "decorating" by you equal "Painting"? Or other things?   ;) :)

Thanks for the info.  A couple of questions:

RPO = Royal Philharmonic Orchestra I'm guess?  Was Ronan O'Hora a real person or one of those pseudonyms re recordings?
"Tring"= New to me?

Currently listening to the Swiss singer Hugues Cuenod...ah peace!  Will have to listen to them more closely at a later time.  Debussy was the right move for me today.  Tried to listen to some "modern" music today, but too trying for my frame of mind.

Best wishes and stay safe,

PD

Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Roasted Swan on May 13, 2020, 12:57:17 PM
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on May 10, 2020, 01:10:36 PM
Does the term "decorating" by you equal "Painting"? Or other things?   ;) :)

Thanks for the info.  A couple of questions:

RPO = Royal Philharmonic Orchestra I'm guess?  Was Ronan O'Hora a real person or one of those pseudonyms re recordings?
"Tring"= New to me?

Currently listening to the Swiss singer Hugues Cuenod...ah peace!  Will have to listen to them more closely at a later time.  Debussy was the right move for me today.  Tried to listen to some "modern" music today, but too trying for my frame of mind.

Best wishes and stay safe,

PD

Decorating means very dull rubbing down paintwork and splashing the matt emulsion around!  So perfect for extended playlists - and Debussy fitted that bill for me as well today.  Tring was the label used by the RPO yes Royal Philharmonic)  for their "own label" recordings back in the early '90's.  It was an excellent series with very good engineering and excellent conductors albeit in mainly core repertoire.  As a concept it didn't last long but these recordings turn up under licence in various guises.  I've collected a lot of them and they range from at least good up to excellent.  Ronan O'Hora is a real pianist and a good one too
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Pohjolas Daughter on May 13, 2020, 01:02:53 PM
Quote from: Roasted Swan on May 13, 2020, 12:57:17 PM
Decorating means very dull rubbing down paintwork and splashing the matt emulsion around!  So perfect for extended playlists - and Debussy fitted that bill for me as well today.  Tring was the label used by the RPO yes Royal Philharmonic)  for their "own label" recordings back in the early '90's.  It was an excellent series with very good engineering and excellent conductors albeit in mainly core repertoire.  As a concept it didn't last long but these recordings turn up under licence in various guises.  I've collected a lot of them and they range from at least good up to excellent.  Ronan O'Hora is a real pianist and a good one too
Thanks for the info RS (Do you go by anything else here?).  Well, well done you for making your home brighter, etc.!

I'll file that away should I run across any of them.  Is Ronan O'Hara still performing and/or recording?

PD
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: stingo on January 17, 2021, 10:32:04 PM
So Chandos is offering 30% off Chandos downloads til roughly the end of the month. Any suggestions?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Pohjolas Daughter on January 18, 2021, 03:26:48 AM
Quote from: stingo on January 17, 2021, 10:32:04 PM
So Chandos is offering 30% off Chandos downloads til roughly the end of the month. Any suggestions?
I see this currently on their website:  https://www.chandos.net/dailyoffer  Is there something else (or elsewhere) that I'm missing?

Ah, I see it there, under their January sale....I'll give it a think.  Any particular type of music that you enjoy or are interested in exploring right now?  Favorite composers?

PD

Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Daverz on January 18, 2021, 04:07:50 AM
Quote from: stingo on January 17, 2021, 10:32:04 PM
So Chandos is offering 30% off Chandos downloads til roughly the end of the month. Any suggestions?

The Ben-Haim Symphony 1, Ginastera PC 1, Korngold Symphony (Wilson), Casella Symphony 3, the Halvorsen and Atterberg series.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Pohjolas Daughter on January 18, 2021, 04:30:40 AM
I've heard wonderful things about Bavouzet's Debussy recordings; they've been on my Wish List for some time.  I have other recordings by him that I enjoy:  his Bartok PCs and also the one of Ravel, Debussy and Massenet.

PD
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: stingo on January 19, 2021, 05:29:41 AM
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on January 18, 2021, 03:26:48 AM
I see this currently on their website:  https://www.chandos.net/dailyoffer  Is there something else (or elsewhere) that I'm missing?

Ah, I see it there, under their January sale....I'll give it a think.  Any particular type of music that you enjoy or are interested in exploring right now?  Favorite composers?

PD

Nothing particular comes to mind, though I was rather hoping to pick up their Opera in English Ring, but it's unfortunately only available as the individual operas.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: stingo on January 19, 2021, 05:36:48 AM
Quote from: Daverz on January 18, 2021, 04:07:50 AM
The Ben-Haim Symphony 1, Ginastera PC 1, Korngold Symphony (Wilson), Casella Symphony 3, the Halvorsen and Atterberg series.

Thanks! I definitely will look into them!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: stingo on January 19, 2021, 05:41:19 AM
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on January 18, 2021, 04:30:40 AM
I've heard wonderful things about Bavouzet's Debussy recordings; they've been on my Wish List for some time.  I have other recordings by him that I enjoy:  his Bartok PCs and also the one of Ravel, Debussy and Massenet.

PD

I have Debussy's complete piano works with Kimiko Ishizaka which I very much enjoy, so I will likely put them on my wish list too. Agreed on the Bartok. Will check out the other French recording. He's also on a delightful collection of Pierne's music. (Heard one of the pieces on the radio and had to get the disc).

As a side note, I was rather hoping to get the Dvorak symphonies digitally, but at $46 US the price is a bit high.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Pohjolas Daughter on January 19, 2021, 06:54:04 AM
Quote from: stingo on January 19, 2021, 05:41:19 AM
I have Debussy's complete piano works with Kimiko Ishizaka which I very much enjoy, so I will likely put them on my wish list too. Agreed on the Bartok. Will check out the other French recording. He's also on a delightful collection of Pierne's music. (Heard one of the pieces on the radio and had to get the disc).

As a side note, I was rather hoping to get the Dvorak symphonies digitally, but at $46 US the price is a bit high.
Do you happen to remember which Pierne work it was?  I'll then check to see whether or not I can find it on youtube.  Don't recall having heard any of his music before but am curious.

PD

EDIT:  I'm guessing that this is the album that you purchased? (https://www.chandos.net/artwork/CH10633.jpg)Oh!  I see that there is also a second volume of his works too.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: stingo on January 19, 2021, 08:28:37 AM
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on January 19, 2021, 06:54:04 AM
Do you happen to remember which Pierne work it was?  I'll then check to see whether or not I can find it on youtube.  Don't recall having heard any of his music before but am curious.

PD

EDIT:  I'm guessing that this is the album that you purchased? (https://www.chandos.net/artwork/CH10633.jpg)Oh!  I see that there is also a second volume of his works too.

I believe it was one of the Ramuntcho Suites that I heard on the radio, but I don't remember which one. If you have spotify, here's the link: (If you don't have spotify I believe you can still listen to music for free but I'm not entirely sure about that.)

https://open.spotify.com/album/49NyS62sKy2SiSNd8FfQxn?si=SzLOrQ4VQpOcuI_gnjXf2Q

And yes, I saw there was a volume 2, which I am considering picking up in the sale.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: stingo on March 25, 2021, 07:30:21 PM
Quobuz has 10 Harmonia Mundi albums for free just now.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Klavier on September 08, 2021, 09:54:10 AM
Quote from: Papy Oli on April 30, 2020, 07:05:52 AM
Quick question for the Qobuz users please:

I have played around with Qobuz since yesterday in three different ways since setting the account:

1 - their Web player as a tab in my Opera browser on the laptop
2 - their android app on my phone
3 - their windows 64-bit app on the laptop as well

I used (1) most of yesterday for the searches and that worked perfectly. Same for (2) today. e.g. If i do a search for "Naive Vivaldi", click "See All Releases", I get a first set of 20-ish results and then go arrow down to load the next page of results and so on.

In (3), the windows app, however, the second page of results does not load up when i scroll down. I am only left with the first 20 results.

Are you or have you experienced anything similar please ?

Thank you.
I haven't had that particular problem with their app. Mine was worse: it kept freezing or would simply shut down on my Windows-based laptop! I eventually switched to Audirvana's software for streaming and hi-res downloads. No problems at all. I understand their new Studio version is not as good, so I'd recommend Audirvana 3+ if they still offer it. Before Audirvana I tried Roon, which worked better than Qobuz's app, but it's rather expensive and doesn't allow users to create playlists, which was a deal breaker for me. I don't know if the current version offers that option or not.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: dhibbard on November 16, 2022, 07:02:14 AM
OLARI ELTS CONDUCTS THE WORLD PREMIERE OF ERKKI-SVEN TÜÜR'S WORK IN PORTUGAL
19.10.2022
Erkki-Sven Tüür's "Mare Lacrimarum" for big band and large ensemble will be performed by Orquestra Jazz de Matosinhos and Casa da Música's in-house group Remix Ensemble under the direction of Olari Elts on October 23 at the Casa da Música concert hall in Porto.

The history of the work goes back to 2019, when Olari Elts conducted Tüür's 5th Symphony at the Casa da Música, after which the artistic director of the concert hall, António Jorge Pacheco, expressed an urgent desire for a new work that – like the 5th Symphony – would involve a big band. With a new work, composer had the idea to pay homage to his onetime inspirers – British prog rock bands. "Mare Lacrimarum" ("Sea of Tears") is dedicated to the victims of war crimes committed by the Russian army in Ukraine. The concert program also includes works by Magnus Lindberg, Lotta Wennäkoski and Anders Hillborg.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: badflautist on April 11, 2023, 02:10:07 AM
I haven't done any downloading yet, but am considering it seeing more and more on Presto not available on cd any more, and the temptation of hi res flac files.
I would download to Windows 10 laptop, store on USB stick, play with Windows media player via USB to usb-b input on my Dacmagic 100.
Would that work or are there technical complications I am unaware of?
Eg, would that mean that Media player would do the analogue conversion although I want the digital data input to the dac?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Spotted Horses on April 11, 2023, 06:15:42 AM
Quote from: badflautist on April 11, 2023, 02:10:07 AMI haven't done any downloading yet, but am considering it seeing more and more on Presto not available on cd any more, and the temptation of hi res flac files.
I would download to Windows 10 laptop, store on USB stick, play with Windows media player via USB to usb-b input on my Dacmagic 100.
Would that work or are there technical complications I am unaware of?
Eg, would that mean that Media player would do the analogue conversion although I want the digital data input to the dac?

Probably that would be fine (assuming media player supports FLAC). When I was using a PC I didn't use media player, I used foobar2000, which is a free program for streaming audio. I think it is better at allowing you to pick streaming options, rather than assuming the operating system knows best. For instance, I am setup so that my media player sends my audio files straight to the DAC at their native resolution, while all of the operating sounds (various clicks and pings when I open files etc, audio from web sites) go the computer's built in speakers. (Disclaimer, I'm using a Mac now, but I think similar considerations applied to a PC.)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: badflautist on April 11, 2023, 10:10:17 AM
Quote from: Spotted Horses on April 11, 2023, 06:15:42 AMProbably that would be fine (assuming media player supports FLAC). When I was using a PC I didn't use media player, I used foobar2000, which is a free program for streaming audio. I think it is better at allowing you to pick streaming options, rather than assuming the operating system knows best. For instance, I am setup so that my media player sends my audio files straight to the DAC at their native resolution, while all of the operating sounds (various clicks and pings when I open files etc, audio from web sites) go the computer's built in speakers. (Disclaimer, I'm using a Mac now, but I think similar considerations applied to a PC.)

Thank you for the encouragement. Maybe I'll have a look at foobar, though media player does support flac, I found a couple of test files online to download and gave it a try. How media player knows I want the digital output I have no idea, unless the connection to the dac tells it somehow.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on April 11, 2023, 10:18:11 AM
Quote from: badflautist on April 11, 2023, 10:10:17 AMThank you for the encouragement. Maybe I'll have a look at foobar, though media player does support flac, I found a couple of test files online to download and gave it a try. How media player knows I want the digital output I have no idea, unless the connection to the dac tells it somehow.


The reason to use foobar is that you can enable a mode called "wasapi exclusive" which prevents notifications from chiming when you're playing music and also bypasses processing that Windows would do.  I also find foobar to be much easier than wmp to use.

Another thing to consider is buying a streamer.  You can then plug in your thumb drive into the streamer and select what you want to listen to on a phone or tablet.  It is far less work than using a laptop but it will set you back $$$.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: premont on April 11, 2023, 11:13:09 AM
Quote from: badflautist on April 11, 2023, 02:10:07 AMI haven't done any downloading yet, but am considering it seeing more and more on Presto not available on cd any more, and the temptation of hi res flac files.
I would download to Windows 10 laptop, store on USB stick, play with Windows media player via USB to usb-b input on my Dacmagic 100.
Would that work or are there technical complications I am unaware of?

Welcome from me too. :)

I do much downloading but burn the music to CDR. 
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: badflautist on April 11, 2023, 11:47:01 AM
Quote from: premont on April 11, 2023, 11:13:09 AMWelcome from me too. :)

I do much downloading but burn the music to CDR. 
I'd  be tempted to do that, I like having the actual physical disc, but my old laptop with a disc drive is in even worse health than I am, and the new one has no drive.
For that I assume you have to stick to 16 bit/44.1khz?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: premont on April 11, 2023, 12:38:50 PM
Quote from: badflautist on April 11, 2023, 11:47:01 AMI'd  be tempted to do that, I like having the actual physical disc, but my old laptop with a disc drive is in even worse health than I am, and the new one has no drive.
For that I assume you have to stick to 16 bit/44.1khz?

Neither do my new laptop have any drive built in, meaning an external drive was the solution.

As to resolution I use preferably flac or wave files.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: badflautist on April 12, 2023, 12:49:19 AM
Quote from: premont on April 11, 2023, 12:38:50 PMNeither do my new laptop have any drive built in, meaning an external drive was the solution.

As to resolution I use preferably flac or wave files.
One sees external drives on ebay for less than £20, are they capable of producing a decent cd or does one need a better drive?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: premont on April 12, 2023, 01:09:40 AM
Quote from: badflautist on April 12, 2023, 12:49:19 AMOne sees external drives on ebay for less than £20, are they capable of producing a decent cd or does one need a better drive?

I'm not experienced enough in these matters to answer this question. So to my new laptop I purchased a new drive (recommended by my it-consultant), cost about 100 euros.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Roasted Swan on April 12, 2023, 02:30:38 AM
Quote from: badflautist on April 12, 2023, 12:49:19 AMOne sees external drives on ebay for less than £20, are they capable of producing a decent cd or does one need a better drive?

External CD reader/writers are very cheap - literally just plug into a free USB port and away you go.  Loads of choice for £20 and up. I use one to rip any/all CD's to FLAC files and have never had an issue with either reliability or quality (as far as I can tell!) with the rips.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: badflautist on April 13, 2023, 08:03:03 AM
Quote from: Roasted Swan on April 12, 2023, 02:30:38 AMExternal CD reader/writers are very cheap - literally just plug into a free USB port and away you go.  Loads of choice for £20 and up. I use one to rip any/all CD's to FLAC files and have never had an issue with either reliability or quality (as far as I can tell!) with the rips.

Thanks for the reply, that is encouraging.
I would be going the other way though, does anyone have experience of burning cds with these cheaper drives?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Spotted Horses on April 13, 2023, 08:53:49 AM
This is one of those releases which seems to have disappeared without leaving much of a trace.

(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41yastonolL.jpg)

I only see one amazon marketplace seller offering it for an inappropriately high price, no one seems to have it for lossless download.

I have bought downloads from:

prestoclassical
qobuz
chandos.net
hyperion
eclassical

Are there any other sites where I can look for a lossless download for sale. Is there someplace else where I should be looking?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DaveF on April 13, 2023, 09:58:56 AM
Quote from: Spotted Horses on April 13, 2023, 08:53:49 AMAre there any other sites where I can look for a lossless download for sale. Is there someplace else where I should be looking?

Both Presto and Qobuz offer a FLAC download of the Martinon in the UK, although it may be different where you are.  The former is cheaper.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Spotted Horses on April 13, 2023, 12:20:38 PM
Quote from: DaveF on April 13, 2023, 09:58:56 AMBoth Presto and Qobuz offer a FLAC download of the Martinon in the UK, although it may be different where you are.  The former is cheaper.

Odd. It doesn't appear when I search either web site from the U.S. I did find the CD version available on the amazon.ca web site.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on April 13, 2023, 05:24:13 PM
Quote from: badflautist on April 13, 2023, 08:03:03 AMThanks for the reply, that is encouraging.
I would be going the other way though, does anyone have experience of burning cds with these cheaper drives?

It is fine but if you're going to rip hundreds or even thousands of cds you will really feel the time delay at 8x.  I would say shop around for a 24x.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Roasted Swan on April 14, 2023, 11:13:35 PM
Quote from: badflautist on April 13, 2023, 08:03:03 AMThanks for the reply, that is encouraging.
I would be going the other way though, does anyone have experience of burning cds with these cheaper drives?

That's exactly the kind of drive I use - although as DavidW suggests the capacity for higher speed does (usually) result in fast ripping.  I use/paid for dBpoweramp

https://www.dbpoweramp.com/cd-ripper.htm

there are LOTS of rippers but I like this because its stable, error-checks its own rips, has pretty good database for classical recordings, its easy to add/import album art etc and of course you can choose the settings for the ripping that you prefer.

If you have not done much ripping before - its easy - literally pop the disc in the CD drive, it will read it and prompt you to open the ripper etc.  You WILL quite often need to tweak/change/occassionally add ALL of the track information that you want to see.  When I have several discs to rip I just load one on in the background and then go on with whatever other work on the computer I happen to be doing.  It will rip away in the background quite happily.....
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on April 15, 2023, 06:39:02 AM
+1 for dBpoweramp.  Worth the money.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Todd on April 15, 2023, 06:49:05 AM
dBpoweramp is my go-to for ripping.  EAC is the backup that I still use for some error-laden discs/tracks.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: badflautist on April 16, 2023, 12:34:48 AM
Quote from: Roasted Swan on April 14, 2023, 11:13:35 PMThat's exactly the kind of drive I use - although as DavidW suggests the capacity for higher speed does (usually) result in fast ripping.  I use/paid for dBpoweramp

https://www.dbpoweramp.com/cd-ripper.htm

there are LOTS of rippers but I like this because its stable, error-checks its own rips, has pretty good database for classical recordings, its easy to add/import album art etc and of course you can choose the settings for the ripping that you prefer.

If you have not done much ripping before - its easy - literally pop the disc in the CD drive, it will read it and prompt you to open the ripper etc.  You WILL quite often need to tweak/change/occassionally add ALL of the track information that you want to see.  When I have several discs to rip I just load one on in the background and then go on with whatever other work on the computer I happen to be doing.  It will rip away in the background quite happily.....
Thanks for troubling to answer in such detail.
However my main interest would be going the other way, burning/writing to cd from downloads. Have you used these drives for that?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Roasted Swan on April 16, 2023, 02:56:31 AM
Quote from: badflautist on April 16, 2023, 12:34:48 AMThanks for troubling to answer in such detail.
However my main interest would be going the other way, burning/writing to cd from downloads. Have you used these drives for that?

yes indeed (I think they would all do read and write as standard) but worth checking it says the max read speed and max write speed in the specofocations before you buy.  Again there are plenty of programmes to do just that.  I use Nero Burning.  No idea if this is a "good" programme - its just the one I've used for years, it seems to work fine and I'm used to it!  The interface is an easy drag and drop from the download file folder into the Nero Burning folder.  I tend to use standard CD-R for this - worth buying a good quality ones but these are still cheap for a pack of 25 etc online.  Obviously when you download the music files do them as lossless/WAV options otherwise you are just burning lo-res mp3's to CD.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: premont on April 16, 2023, 10:09:42 AM
Quote from: Roasted Swan on April 16, 2023, 02:56:31 AMyes indeed (I think they would all do read and write as standard) but worth checking it says the max read speed and max write speed in the specofocations before you buy.  Again there are plenty of programmes to do just that.  I use Nero Burning.  No idea if this is a "good" programme - its just the one I've used for years, it seems to work fine and I'm used to it!  The interface is an easy drag and drop from the download file folder into the Nero Burning folder.  I tend to use standard CD-R for this - worth buying a good quality ones but these are still cheap for a pack of 25 etc online.  Obviously when you download the music files do them as lossless/WAV options otherwise you are just burning lo-res mp3's to CD.

Sound advices, which are completely consistent with what I've been doing for years with good results (incl. Nero).
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: badflautist on April 17, 2023, 03:05:31 AM
Quote from: Roasted Swan on April 16, 2023, 02:56:31 AMyes indeed (I think they would all do read and write as standard) but worth checking it says the max read speed and max write speed in the specofocations before you buy.  Again there are plenty of programmes to do just that.  I use Nero Burning.  No idea if this is a "good" programme - its just the one I've used for years, it seems to work fine and I'm used to it!  The interface is an easy drag and drop from the download file folder into the Nero Burning folder.  I tend to use standard CD-R for this - worth buying a good quality ones but these are still cheap for a pack of 25 etc online.  Obviously when you download the music files do them as lossless/WAV options otherwise you are just burning lo-res mp3's to CD.
Quote from: premont on April 16, 2023, 10:09:42 AMSound advices, which are completely consistent with what I've been doing for years with good results (incl. Nero).
Thanks to both. No, I wouldn't touch mp3, 16 bit FLAC at least.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: stingo on September 18, 2023, 11:22:47 AM
qobuz has a sale on Erato downloads until October 15th.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: 71 dB on September 18, 2023, 12:05:39 PM
Quote from: badflautist on April 17, 2023, 03:05:31 AMNo, I wouldn't touch mp3,

Depends on the bitrate. If it is 320 kbps, you are in real challenge to tell it apart from lossless formats. If it is 192 kbps, hearing the artefacts is about training your ears to detect them.

Quote from: badflautist on April 17, 2023, 03:05:31 AM16 bit FLAC at least.

You don't need anything more than 16 bit FLAC. Anything higher doesn't give any audible benefit unless it is a different master in which case it is about comparing masters rather than formats.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Fëanor on November 21, 2023, 03:48:57 AM
Quote from: 71 dB on September 18, 2023, 12:05:39 PMDepends on the bitrate. If it is 320 kbps, you are in real challenge to tell it apart from lossless formats. If it is 192 kbps, hearing the artefacts is about training your ears to detect them.

You don't need anything more than 16 bit FLAC. Anything higher doesn't give any audible benefit unless it is a different master in which case it is about comparing masters rather than formats.

OK, so it's not just me  ;D

I decided a decade ago that 16/44.1 sounded as good to my (aging) ears as any higher rez. I also agree about 320 kbps.

... And also agree that mastering is 90% of good sound no matter the medium or resolution -- figured that one out back when vinyl was still king.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: 71 dB on November 21, 2023, 06:05:46 AM
Quote from: Fëanor on November 21, 2023, 03:48:57 AMOK, so it's not just me  ;D

It's not just you. It's everybody critical to the snake oil BS by audio industry.

Quote from: Fëanor on November 21, 2023, 03:48:57 AMI decided a decade ago that 16/44.1 sounded as good to my (aging) ears as any higher rez.

You don't need aging ears for that. People with young good ears hear hi-rez being better because of

(1) confirmation bias/placebo effect
(2) hi-rez version is actually different master!

Quote from: Fëanor on November 21, 2023, 03:48:57 AM... And also agree that mastering is 90% of good sound no matter the medium or resolution -- figured that one out back when vinyl was still king.

Well, good sound is the cumulative end-result of many things from what mics are used to record the instruments to mixing and master. Great mastering alone can't turn crap into gold, but maybe it can turn silver into gold. However, if we already have the mixed songs and all there is to do is master it and choose the format of delivery, mastering is easily 90 % of what matters. Near 100 % even.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Roasted Swan on February 02, 2024, 03:07:15 AM
As part of the Chandos website Winter Sale they have the entire Naxos catalogue downloads as 60% off.  However what is extra value is that the 60% is coming off a "regular price" of £5.30 which means you can download a full Naxos album (including the newest releases) as FLAC for just £2.30.  Given that the regular RRP of a Naxos CD is now over £10 - some places significantly more - this is a genuine bargain.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on February 04, 2024, 11:28:51 AM
I've found the following sets (which are my respective favorites) on Qobuz for about $10 each:

(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61D8vQ-CieL._UF1000,1000_QL80_.jpg)
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61UKP+Uv0zL._UF1000,1000_QL80_.jpg)

If you're a downloads type of person and haven't heard these, then wow are you in for a treat!
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Papy Oli on February 04, 2024, 01:31:25 PM
Quote from: DavidW on February 04, 2024, 11:28:51 AMI've found the following sets (which are my respective favorites) on Qobuz for about $10 each:

(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61UKP+Uv0zL._UF1000,1000_QL80_.jpg)

If you're a downloads type of person and haven't heard these, then wow are you in for a treat!

The complete Skrowacthingy boxset (28CD) is on Qobuz for £8 and a bit  ;)

https://play.qobuz.com/album/4260034860902 (https://play.qobuz.com/album/4260034860902)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Spotted Horses on February 04, 2024, 11:15:53 PM
Quote from: Papy Oli on February 04, 2024, 01:31:25 PMThe complete Skrowacthingy boxset (28CD) is on Qobuz for £8 and a bit  ;)

https://play.qobuz.com/album/4260034860902 (https://play.qobuz.com/album/4260034860902)

Unfortunately the 28CD box set is not available from qobuz in the U.S. It is available on presto-classical as a FLAC download for $253. :(

Does anyone here have experience with a VPN which would give me a UK IP number? :)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Daverz on February 04, 2024, 11:23:15 PM
Quote from: Spotted Horses on February 04, 2024, 11:15:53 PMUnfortunately the 28CD box set is not available from qobuz in the U.S. It is available on presto-classical as a FLAC download for $253. :(

Does anyone here have experience with a VPN which would give me a UK IP number? :)

I had no problem adding the set to my cart (I'm in California and have the Studio subscription to Qobuz) for $9.89, though I didn't try to buy it (I already have this set).
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DaveF on February 05, 2024, 01:03:01 AM
Quote from: Spotted Horses on February 04, 2024, 11:15:53 PMUnfortunately the 28CD box set is not available from qobuz in the U.S. It is available on presto-classical as a FLAC download for $253. :(

Does anyone here have experience with a VPN which would give me a UK IP number? :)

I don't know if this will work for you, but right at the bottom of every Qobuz page is a dropdown box that allows you to choose a country.  If I search with it set to Netherlands (which is where my VPN takes me anyway), I can find the box with a price of €10.  (Having said which, I can also find it with the country set to US for $9.89).
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Roasted Swan on February 05, 2024, 02:18:07 AM
Quote from: Papy Oli on February 04, 2024, 01:31:25 PMThe complete Skrowacthingy boxset (28CD) is on Qobuz for £8 and a bit  ;)

https://play.qobuz.com/album/4260034860902 (https://play.qobuz.com/album/4260034860902)

I have this set on CD - it is uniformly excellent.  Cycles of core repertoire for sure but very well done.  Bruckner is probably the highlight.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Spotted Horses on February 05, 2024, 06:30:33 AM
Quote from: Daverz on February 04, 2024, 11:23:15 PMI had no problem adding the set to my cart (I'm in California and have the Studio subscription to Qobuz) for $9.89, though I didn't try to buy it (I already have this set).

Duh, incompetent searching on my part.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Spotted Horses on February 05, 2024, 12:43:59 PM
I did go for the 28 CD Skrowaczewski box for a bit under $10 on Qobuz. I listened to some of the Bruckner and I though the performance and recording were satisfying. Then I tried to download with their app. Nothing. I complained to their customer service, who said they know of the issue and it is expected to be fixed by Thursday. It used to work! I'm not downloading 28 CDs of tracks one by one. I guess I'll wait until Thursday. So much for instantly available downloads.

The problem is on Mac, maybe I can try to get it to work on a PC.

Note added: The windows app is working.


Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: NorthNYMark on February 10, 2024, 10:54:52 PM
Yeah, I use a Mac and the downloader won't work. I got that Skrowaczewski set there a while ago for the $9.99 price, and it seriously must be the best bargain ever. I haven't listened to all of it yet, but what I have heard (the Bartók, all of the Brahms, most of the Bruckner, and some scattered Beethoven) has been uniformly excellent to outstanding. He seems to have a very warm, tastefully tuneful style that reminds me a little of later Bruno Walter (which, to me, is a GREAT thing). The sonics are very good as well.

I'm also eyeing that Petrenko Shostakovich set, but I think I'll wait until they fix the downloader issue.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Spotted Horses on February 11, 2024, 09:58:10 AM
Quote from: NorthNYMark on February 10, 2024, 10:54:52 PMI'm also eyeing that Petrenko Shostakovich set, but I think I'll wait until they fix the downloader issue.

Confirm, still doesn't work as of today (across multiple MacOS versions) although I've used it in the past. I certainly won't consider streaming from Qobuz, consider how inept they are.

Resorting to my work computer to download, which is a windows machine.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on February 11, 2024, 11:39:02 AM
Quote from: Spotted Horses on February 11, 2024, 09:58:10 AMConfirm, still doesn't work as of today (across multiple MacOS versions) although I've used it in the past. I certainly won't consider streaming from Qobuz, consider how inept they are.

Resorting to my work computer to download, which is a windows machine.

It is inexcusable!  This is not the 90s, there have to be almost as many Mac users as Windows users out there.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Karl Henning on February 11, 2024, 11:48:54 AM
Quote from: Spotted Horses on February 04, 2024, 11:15:53 PMUnfortunately the 28CD box set is not available from qobuz in the U.S. It is available on presto-classical as a FLAC download for $253. :(

Does anyone here have experience with a VPN which would give me a UK IP number? :)
If you have Norton, you can select to use a UK VPN. This is how I watch some of the BBC streams.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Karl Henning on February 11, 2024, 11:54:09 AM
Quote from: Spotted Horses on February 04, 2024, 11:15:53 PMUnfortunately the 28CD box set is not available from qobuz in the U.S. It is available on presto-classical as a FLAC download for $253. :(

Does anyone here have experience with a VPN which would give me a UK IP number? :)
Turn off secure vpn. in switching it back on, select the UK as a region. Re-start.
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Karl Henning on February 11, 2024, 12:26:17 PM
BTW, how does one pronounce Qobuz?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on February 11, 2024, 12:40:53 PM
Quote from: Karl Henning on February 11, 2024, 12:26:17 PMBTW, how does one pronounce Qobuz?

I always pronounce it ko-buz but mostly because I know nobody would correct me if I was wrong!

It is a Kazakh stringed instrument, so don't try to frenchify the name.  kobyz probably pronounced ko-bees??

(https://as2.ftcdn.net/v2/jpg/02/36/06/01/1000_F_236060184_7rNIKaMGnWNMNEdtEnHxokpyh6JUDfyA.jpg)
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Roasted Swan on March 11, 2024, 07:50:38 AM
The current free FLAC/MP3 download from Classic Selections is the excellent version of Rach. Symphony No.2 by Vernon Handley and the RPO

(https://d3crmev290s45i.cloudfront.net/content/1002996xxx/1002996089/1002996089-size-exact-300x0.jpg)

This is the original release cover but its been licenced to various companies with various covers since.  But it remains a version well worth hearing - and for free not to be missed....
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on March 11, 2024, 01:51:03 PM
Quote from: Roasted Swan on March 11, 2024, 07:50:38 AMThe current free FLAC/MP3 download from Classic Selections

Classics section of what site?
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on March 12, 2024, 08:52:33 AM
I received a code from eclassical for half off participating labels for half off, just use march 50.

    BIS
    Pentatone
    Harmonia Mundi
    Naxos
    Alpha Classics
    Chandos
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: Pohjolas Daughter on March 12, 2024, 09:57:20 AM
Quote from: DavidW on March 11, 2024, 01:51:03 PMClassics section of what site?
From ClassicSelect World.

PD
Title: Re: The Classical Download Thread
Post by: DavidW on March 12, 2024, 11:35:42 AM
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on March 12, 2024, 09:57:20 AMFrom ClassicSelect World.

PD

Thanks.  I never heard of them before.  I see that they also have the magnificent Gewandhaus Q set of Beethoven SQs for a cheap price.