Digital Music FAQ
(Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: What is a zip file and why are my free songs delivered that way?

A: A zip file contains one or more files that have been shrunk, in order to reduce their file size. Because your free album contains 10 songs, we had to "shrink" the overall file size so they could be delivered via email. If you cannot unzip, you may need to download software. You can do so by visiting www.winzip.com.

Q: Where are the safest and most reputable sites to download music?

A: There are many, but some of the most well-known are iTunes, Amazon.com, Rhapsody.com and Napster.com.

Q: Can I purchase individual songs?

A: Purchasing music digitally gives you the option of buying songs individually or as an album, so you’re never buying songs on a album you don’t want.

Q: Is downloading music cheaper than buying a CD?

A: The short answer is yes! Most digital albums cost around $10, while most individual songs cost around $1.

Q: Does digital music ever run out of stock?

A: No. Once an album is made digitally available, it can be purchased an infinite number of times.

Q: Is it safe to enter credit card information online?

A: Yes. If one sticks to reputable download sites, like iTunes, Amazon.com, Rhapsody.com, etc, then one’s credit card info is safer than everyday use in a grocery store or restaurant.

Q: Can downloading digital music harm my computer?

A: By sticking to reputable download sites, the chance of getting a virus is virtually zero.

Q: I saw a site where I can download one of your songs for free. Is that ok?

A: Probably not. It's highly likely that any site like that is illegal! Unless the giveaway is sponsored by us (or through an authorized retailer), downloading free Canaan music is illegal.

Q: But I prefer CDs, so what kind of benefit does downloading music hold for me?

A: One major advantage is being able to make custom CDs with your choice of songs to play in your car, at home, wherever!

Q: How do I make custom CDs?

A: When you download a song, you will need to open it up in a digital media player like iTunes or Windows Media Player (which often come pre-installed on your computer). There you can organize your music and create custom playlists that you will burn to a CD or transfer to your MP3 player.

Q: What is “burning” a CD?

A: Remember how you used to “dub” old tapes? Today most computers come equipped with CD burning hardware. By using your digital media player (i.e.Windows Media Player) to create playlists, you can then “burn” or copy this music directly to a CD to play almost anywhere.

Q: What is an MP3 player and is it the same as an iPod?

A: An MP3 player is a portable music device designed to store, organize and play thousands of audio files. Think of it as a much more advanced walkman. An iPod is a very popular brand of MP3 player.

Q: I’ve never really used a walkman, why should I get an MP3 player?

A: The biggest factor is convenience! Because you can often store thousands of songs on an MP3 player, you can consolidate your whole music collection in one place, create customized playlists, and much more. Plus, most devices can now be adapted to play music from your MP3 player, such as stereo systems, boom boxes and car radios.

Q: Anything I do on the computer is too confusing. Is downloading music difficult?

A: Once you’ve downloaded a song or two, you realize it’s extremely easy. You can usually be listening to a song or album in five clicks or less. Our suggestion: Find your closest teenage friend or relative and have them guide you through it the first time. They just have a way with these things!

Q: Where can I find online help on digital music downloading if I get stuck?

A: Each reputable downloading site has their own help section of easy-to-follow guidelines. For example: visit www.iTunes.com/tutorials for easy short video tutorials on iTunes.