Version 5.0 is a huge update for MusicMatch Jukebox. For the first time users of the free edition can record in true CD quality at rates of 128 Kbps or 160 Kbps with oversampling. Previously, these rates were only available to users of the $29.99 Plus edition of MusicMatch Jukebox. The new release also allows you to burn MP3s and other music formats to audio CDs (this feature requires a rewritable CD-ROM drive).
Although the Plus edition no longer offers exclusive access to CD-quality recording rates, MusicMatch Jukebox Plus 5 gives users new incentive to upgrade to the commercial release with faster buring speeds. The freeware edition is limited to burning audio CDs at speeds of either 1x or 2x, but with the Plus release users can record at 4x or even 8x.
The 5.0 Plus edition also has a new feature for printing CD-R jewel case inserts. You can print standard album artwork on your printer, or you can customize the insert look with your own designs. The Jukebox will also print of list of tracks and their running times on the back insert for you.
Additional new features in MusicMatch 5.0 include:
· MusicMatch Guide for finding new music and receiving personal recommendations; · An online track info window that will display song and artist information for you; · The ability to print playlists and contents of music library in the Plus release; · Enhanced MP3 graphic equalizer with custom presets and genre-based presets; · The ability to "tag" songs with user-based prefences for creating your own genres and musical moods; · Portable MP3 player support with current support for RCA Lyra, Creative Nomad, Diamond Rio, and Memcorp SoulMate players; · ShoutCAST and IceCAST enhancements; · Complete support for Windows 2000; · Streaming capabilities for ID3 v2; · and much more.
A complete listing of new features and enhancements in version 5.0 can be found at the MusicMatch Web site.