MusicMatch is an impressive all-in-one audio player that offers a lot more than most. Whether you want to play, encode, rip or record, you can do it all from within this one player.

It supports a variety of file formats including MP3, WMA, WAV, internet streams and CD audio. Its MP3 radio service provides access to numerous stations and even lets you create your own. Enter an artist and MusicMatch will create a station based on similar sounds.

It works rather well, returning tracks that suit your taste. However, it only caters for the mass market – try entering a less well-known artist and MusicMatch will draw a blank.

MusicMatch recommends other music to you, which some may found annoying. It does, however, provide a great deal of info on each artist played, such as discography, artwork etc.

New features in version 8 include a simplified interface, a Portable Device Manager (for transferring tracks to your MP3 player), and a Music Center that groups together rip, burn and edit functions.

Upgrade to the ‘Plus’ version for $19.99 and get lots of extra features, including faster CD burning, label printing and free technical support.

Version 9.0 introduces the MusicMatch “On Demand” service – unlimited strwming access to thousands of songs for around $8 per month.

Verdict

An impressive audio player that offers a great deal – as long as you’re into major artists.

Other Information

• Type: freeware
• Platform: Windows 2000, Windows ME, Windows NT, Windows XP
• Manufacturer: MusicMatch
• Size: 7.4Mb

Download MusicMatch Jukebox 9.0