Help with Sound Clips

This site has been optimized for use with Netscape Communicator/Navigator and Microsoft Internet Explorer.  If you are not using one of these products, the sound clips may not stream properly. 

How do I play RealAudio streaming sound clips?

First, you need the latest RealAudio player software from RealNetworks.  To get the player, go to their web site at www.real.com.  Once you get there, follow the instructions to download either their free player or full featured version.  Either one will work with this web site's sound clips.

If you have an older version of RealAudio, it may not work.  You will need at least the G2 player to listen to these clips.  If you have problems with your older player, download the latest version and try again.

Streaming sound clips start playing very quickly.  But, your internet connection must be at least 28.8 Kbps to enjoy jitter free streaming audio.

What are MPEG (MP3) files and why are they better than streaming sound clips?

The MP3 file format is the latest MPEG file format that is near CD quality.  At roughly 1/10 the size of an uncompressed audio file, it downloads quickly and sounds much better than the highly compressed streaming sound clip.

To listen to an MP3 file, you will need the latest RealAudio player or your favorite MP3 player.  Most older versions of the RealAudio player CANNOT play MP3 files, so be sure to upgrade first! 

Once you select the file, the clip MUST download to your computer first.  For a typical 28.8 Kbps connection, this may take a few minutes so do not be surprised if it does not begin playing immediately.

Once the file is downloaded to your computer, your MP3 software should open automatically and begin playing the clip.  If it does not begin automatically, you may need to open your MP3 software manually and open the sound file on your hard drive.

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