MP3 can compress a 32MB song to 3MB for easy and quick download over the Internet.
MP3 is a form of compression developed by the Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG). MPEG is responsible of developing several compression systems for music, video data, DVD, HDTV broadcasts and DSS satellite systems. MPEG audio layer-3 or as we know it MP3 is the subsystem used to compress sound.
MP3 files are downloaded through a computer and can be listened through a MP3 player on a computer or portable MP3. As a large segment of the population are unable to take advantage of this new medium and since most MP3 players hold less than 2 hours of music, users need a recharge of new songs while on the move.
Enter ETC Music who is hoping to eliminate the above problems with their Musicteller Service. The Musicteller functions like ATMs for music files, it dispenses music files instead of money.
ETC music is stored on private, high-speed network, which is separate from the Internet. To download songs using one of these self-service machines is easy and quick to use. The user plugs his or her MP3 player; currently only supports Rio and Nike digital players connect via a special built-in USB port. Then the user will swipe their Credit Card or a Musicteller member recharge card, use the touch screen to choose the song and way it goes. The music will be transferred at a rate of six songs per minute.
Users have the option to store away their purchased music into a virtual locker called the Musicteller Locker, which can be accessed over the Internet or from another Musicteller machine elsewhere.
The music selections in the Musicteller are currently restricted to independent music. Currently ETC Music and the major record labels are in negotiations to come up with an agreement for distributing its music. Once the major music labels come on board the Musicteller music selection will expand to a greater choice for users.
Currently the Musicteller machines are tested in a select few retail shops in Boston, USA and soon ETC Music hopes to have these machines operational in retail stores, airports, gas stations and other indoor locations across the US, where majority of MP3 players are purchased.
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