[techtalk] WEB TOOL - What Music Streaming Service Should You Choose?

Tue Dec 17 14:51:50 PST 2024

Welcome to the latest issue of Tech-Talk!

Reminder: When accessing resources at the Tech-Talk website<https://www.tech-talk.com/login/oregon>,
use ORLIBTECH for both the username and password when prompted.

Tech-Talk is a paid subscription service for staff of Oregon libraries and is supported in whole by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) through the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA), administered by the State Library of Oregon.
Are you streaming?

[https://files.constantcontact.com/ee1208b4001/34916cb2-412f-43fa-8294-1f7ecb0e9a3d.png]

[Gingerbread cookies cooling on a rack with a red button overlay saying "View the Tech Tip Video Here."]<https://opiayfbab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001QkRsA-UJSwuwtUMgkEfSxryCaYoEScZy1E4BEV3BEV4Qwng7Zh36_I629HE7elrihl0Ciyr30cx4WyxF4wTesQO8s6K4R9olvKuNwZysOt9dZDsnIs571Kwkm5099N1LNhbQweuPx0lbk1xyv5X17AmiNhVI9U9qckOHCsZuTh8ZtiNxjxUG4hgDb9BEgSA9rVjG7KUN0kp5BtkhOEbH2BYMEZSNIUrI&c=QItmi8gVDCm-ku4qcfXkLI6wsqXXhKv_NxAqutdge3n8UZaQpSRGpQ==&ch=gj5CiODNfIKyyJeskvcfdCBPADCTBK_ni8aNm9lPsmZM8mqxZo57Jw==>

Photo by Michael Carruth<https://opiayfbab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001QkRsA-UJSwuwtUMgkEfSxryCaYoEScZy1E4BEV3BEV4Qwng7Zh36_I629HE7elriOb0JJZyxUV9WGJ5mLfV3pXSXuuaUHsoh6TnezA5MXksfuQoYkxs-S1FDqn2VB71WJZgl62TPUJgSlqoms2aBKIauf6_uRfxcyqXUOBwJulyh28HxII6v6g3_iGYLSEP83cQsOlUkw05wU9NVCfj1nPG_ARlR8bfiq-d0ZX8T24A1Xi_3c8wRVpjjW-nhgJ25L_vZn8p2zHt5z2EMvMXYcQ==&c=QItmi8gVDCm-ku4qcfXkLI6wsqXXhKv_NxAqutdge3n8UZaQpSRGpQ==&ch=gj5CiODNfIKyyJeskvcfdCBPADCTBK_ni8aNm9lPsmZM8mqxZo57Jw==> on Unsplash<https://opiayfbab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001QkRsA-UJSwuwtUMgkEfSxryCaYoEScZy1E4BEV3BEV4Qwng7Zh36_I629HE7elrilOYIHheAitAfeG4vW7DiTvfgOBUqWL8i0FXE6FCHkC5QOkkZO68Eo8nt4Grzv7VlwdcC_HnZUEVMtscHscJAqYDnw1BkVRHnPZKA0BUX5TfvkAnXK693S7OhRAU5PoWU1GCoYV5etSofx195TrNHENh4kQv0Jdvn9fjUtuo6jd2t-f_bHVgtUxWq04KJ6KHObxc6dhcAwHbWO0vVXyIIgMiEDe6xfA5aAVSvC1pNWyRTwVHaxwmp4CHDwNLLq47Bl-PJY5bMhe0=&c=QItmi8gVDCm-ku4qcfXkLI6wsqXXhKv_NxAqutdge3n8UZaQpSRGpQ==&ch=gj5CiODNfIKyyJeskvcfdCBPADCTBK_ni8aNm9lPsmZM8mqxZo57Jw==>

[https://files.constantcontact.com/ee1208b4001/e25f6bcf-26a8-4e59-91f2-cc248962042d.png]<https://opiayfbab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001QkRsA-UJSwuwtUMgkEfSxryCaYoEScZy1E4BEV3BEV4Qwng7Zh36_B31aWz6fv5383Ff3DvH3064R-qM-5ZnpGs9CvvxalE3vVT3EVndSvoMG-SPo-vplsHz6VrhBHJ4SRneu0FrfSUvuXKJ5E6XEUKKv69ghZIR&c=QItmi8gVDCm-ku4qcfXkLI6wsqXXhKv_NxAqutdge3n8UZaQpSRGpQ==&ch=gj5CiODNfIKyyJeskvcfdCBPADCTBK_ni8aNm9lPsmZM8mqxZo57Jw==>

Webinars for You

NOTE: Webinars begin at 3 pm ET / 2 pm CT / 1 pm MT / 12 Noon PT and are one hour long.

Dec 18: [GRAPHICS] Finding No-Cost Copyright-Free Images, Videos and Music Why attend? Save money with these resources.

Jan 8: [MOBILE] WhatsApp: Stay Connected with This NO-Cost Mobile App. Why attend? Learn how this app can be a communications tool.

Jan 22: [EXCEL/G-Sheets] 9 Powerful Chart Types to Tell Your Story Why Attend? You want to spruce up your spreadsheet data with visuals.

Feb 12: [INTERNET] Simple Steps for Password Protection & Authentication Why attend? Learn more ways to protect your accounts.

View Webinars and Register Here<https://opiayfbab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001QkRsA-UJSwuwtUMgkEfSxryCaYoEScZy1E4BEV3BEV4Qwng7Zh36_MrPgUK3gtPXlN_URsVUIBE0GH6uLvh1gdTgzB7dCnbzJ_wvvU_2DHRQ6i8ITfPEQaFkATt-NzjzfOYmWlJcDfvJfeghVf0iiFvwBDOXuVN8_Wv1GhpkTz4=&c=QItmi8gVDCm-ku4qcfXkLI6wsqXXhKv_NxAqutdge3n8UZaQpSRGpQ==&ch=gj5CiODNfIKyyJeskvcfdCBPADCTBK_ni8aNm9lPsmZM8mqxZo57Jw==>

What Music Streaming Service Should You Choose?

Intermediate

[Smartphone displaying a music app with a woman singing into a showerhead. Wireless earbuds sit beside it on a textured surface.]

The other day I asked my husband for gift ideas. He said he'd like an iTunes gift card. I had to chuckle as he hasn't yet transitioned to streaming music and likes to purchase individual songs (or albums) and download them to his playlist. You might consider this "old school" -- like how we used to buy records or cassettes.

In the digital age, streaming services have revolutionized how we listen to music and audio content. You have access to literally millions of songs. It's like you have your own customized radio station just for you!

If you're not 100% sure what I mean…streaming refers to listening to music over the internet without downloading the audio files to your device. Instead of storing the songs locally, the music is delivered to your device (such as a smartphone, computer, or smart speaker) through a continuous stream from a remote server. You get to pick the songs you listen to and can curate (create) your own playlist.

Some Key Features of Music Streaming

Instead of purchasing individual songs or albums, you get access to a massive library of music with streaming. This is done be subscribing to what is called a "streaming platform" (like Spotify). Depending on the platform you choose, you get:

·     On-Demand Access - Choose from millions of songs and playlists whenever you want, without needing to purchase individual tracks or albums.
·     No File Storage Required - Music is played directly from the internet, so you don't need to use up storage space on your device.
·     Subscription or Ad-Supported Models - Most platforms offer free levels with ads ... and paid subscriptions for additional features like offline playback and higher sound quality.
·     Customization and Discovery - Streaming services often use algorithms to recommend music based on your preferences and listening history.
·     Cross-Device Syncing - You can access your account and playlists when you sign into any of your devices (e.g. phone, tablet, laptop).

[A woman with braided hair listens to music using white headphones, smiling against an orange background. She wears a denim jacket.]

With countless options available, from globally recognized platforms like Spotify and Apple Music to niche offerings like Tidal and Freegal, choosing the right service can feel overwhelming. Each platform boasts unique features, pricing tiers, and content libraries, catering to different needs and preferences.

Whether you're a casual listener who loves discovering new tunes, or a budget-conscious user exploring free options, there’s a streaming service tailored for you. Let's break down the most popular platforms, their key features, and who they're best suited for, helping you make an informed decision on where to tune in.

NOTE: At the bottom of this article you'll find definitions of audio tech terms that we use. They are marked with an asterisk (*).

[Spotify logo featuring a green circle with three curved white lines and the word "Spotify" in green text.]
1. Spotify

For general music lovers and podcast listeners. https://spotify.com<https://opiayfbab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001QkRsA-UJSwuwtUMgkEfSxryCaYoEScZy1E4BEV3BEV4Qwng7Zh36_I629HE7elrizvgrXk6i9MLOka0bj1jOOZpt5UiumDPfV--udZIfX28n8xck1lNfF9tHoskXUTZDbQNAMarBXFfiyUJP01UhQg==&c=QItmi8gVDCm-ku4qcfXkLI6wsqXXhKv_NxAqutdge3n8UZaQpSRGpQ==&ch=gj5CiODNfIKyyJeskvcfdCBPADCTBK_ni8aNm9lPsmZM8mqxZo57Jw==>

Key Features:
·     Extensive music library and personalized playlists (e.g., Discover Weekly, Daily Mixes).
·     Strong podcast integration with exclusive shows.
·     Collaborative playlists and social sharing.

Pricing (as of 12/2024):
·     Free (ad-supported, lower quality, limited skips).
·     Premium: $11.99/month (ad-free, offline playback, high-quality streaming).
·     Family, Duo, and Student plans available.

Strengths:
·     Best for music discovery and playlist curation.
·     Excellent cross-platform compatibility.

Weakness: No lossless* audio quality.

[Apple Music logo featuring the Apple logo and the words "Music" in bold, black font on a white background.]
2. Apple Music

When you want direct integration for iOS devices. https://music.apple.com<https://opiayfbab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001QkRsA-UJSwuwtUMgkEfSxryCaYoEScZy1E4BEV3BEV4Qwng7Zh36_I629HE7elrifdIR3qOha8e8cFYbklWTjFnpduiGpMJagjtZDBazBYY_0VaSe6x0yubl6Ef-gK7EuSIrw9uFUfFHsM5rUxt4Kg==&c=QItmi8gVDCm-ku4qcfXkLI6wsqXXhKv_NxAqutdge3n8UZaQpSRGpQ==&ch=gj5CiODNfIKyyJeskvcfdCBPADCTBK_ni8aNm9lPsmZM8mqxZo57Jw==>

Key Features:
·     Lossless and spatial audio (Dolby Atmos)*.
·     Integration with iOS devices and Siri.
·     Robust music catalog and radio shows

Pricing (as of 12/2024):
·     Individual: $10.99/month.
·     Family: $16.99/month.
·     Student: $5.99/month.

Strengths:
·     High-quality audio streaming.
·     Seamless integration with Apple devices.

Weakness: Limited free version (only trial).

[Amazon Music logo in light blue text on a white background.]
3. Amazon

Music for Prime members and casual listeners. https://amazon.com/music<https://opiayfbab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001QkRsA-UJSwuwtUMgkEfSxryCaYoEScZy1E4BEV3BEV4Qwng7Zh36_I629HE7elriivkmWCvzix0hX7caJDnZbcM1ihnJvN9r7plTNlPal9QvmPt14BUdi2NWoAIneg1HxP1TU2YitQVkmzJARhl4qLjKKM_4W9xp&c=QItmi8gVDCm-ku4qcfXkLI6wsqXXhKv_NxAqutdge3n8UZaQpSRGpQ==&ch=gj5CiODNfIKyyJeskvcfdCBPADCTBK_ni8aNm9lPsmZM8mqxZo57Jw==>

Key Features:
·     Two tiers: Amazon Music Free/Prime (limited catalog) and Amazon Music Unlimited (full catalog, HD and Ultra HD audio).
·     Hands-free voice control with Alexa.

Pricing (as of 12/2024):
·     Prime Music: Included with Amazon Prime.
·     Unlimited: $10.99/month or $8.99/month for Prime members.

Strengths:
·     Great for Prime users.
·     High-quality audio included in Unlimited.

Weakness: Smaller user base compared to Spotify/Apple Music.

[Tidal logo featuring a geometric wave-like symbol followed by the word "TIDAL" in bold black letters.]
4. Tidal

For fans of exclusive content.

https://tidal.com<https://opiayfbab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001QkRsA-UJSwuwtUMgkEfSxryCaYoEScZy1E4BEV3BEV4Qwng7Zh36_I629HE7elriJfKpMV3Kup-BDokMfdFTPbGdCfwX4Vstbh_s24w8AH2Uq4I1NUwE6tW36xb_gaLlqvm-9bk2KVptKp0KCVNQ3Q==&c=QItmi8gVDCm-ku4qcfXkLI6wsqXXhKv_NxAqutdge3n8UZaQpSRGpQ==&ch=gj5CiODNfIKyyJeskvcfdCBPADCTBK_ni8aNm9lPsmZM8mqxZo57Jw==>

Key Features:
·     Lossless and HiFi* Plus tiers with MQA (Master Quality Authenticated)* audio.
·     Exclusive artist content and music videos.

Pricing (as of 12/2024):
·     Individual: $10.99 USD/month.
·     Family plan (for you and up to 5 other family members): $16.99 USD/month.
·     Student plan: $5.49 USD/month.

Strengths:
·     Best sound quality.
·     Artist-friendly revenue model.

Weaknesses:
·     Less intuitive interface.
·     Limited podcast offerings.

[Red circle with a white play button next to the word "Music" in bold black letters.]
5. YouTube Music

For visual-oriented listeners. https://music.youtube.com<https://opiayfbab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001QkRsA-UJSwuwtUMgkEfSxryCaYoEScZy1E4BEV3BEV4Qwng7Zh36_I629HE7elri7wSePDldN1rXKe42UyyNnIuAQjB1uV479N2N05LmCM8g8dQCh4Doyr5ZCSaPBWZ49FmC4OssumkB9eCQfTuo1A8QIIwJUle_&c=QItmi8gVDCm-ku4qcfXkLI6wsqXXhKv_NxAqutdge3n8UZaQpSRGpQ==&ch=gj5CiODNfIKyyJeskvcfdCBPADCTBK_ni8aNm9lPsmZM8mqxZo57Jw==>

Key Features:
·     Includes official tracks, remixes, and live performances.
·     Smart search features (e.g., search by lyrics).
·     Video integration.

Pricing (as of 12/2024):
·     Free (ad-supported).
·     Premium: $10.99/month (ad-free, offline).
·     Family: (for you and up to 5 other family members): $16.99/mouth.
·     Student plan: $5.49 USD/month.

Strengths:
·     Huge catalog with rare and unofficial content.
·     Integrates with your other Google apps.

Weaknesses:
·     No lossless* audio option.
·     Heavily tied to video content.

[Deezer logo with purple sound wave symbol on the left and bold black text on the right.]
6. Deezer

For music enthusiasts globally.

https://www.deezer.com<https://opiayfbab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001QkRsA-UJSwuwtUMgkEfSxryCaYoEScZy1E4BEV3BEV4Qwng7Zh36_I629HE7elri-cfjGD7qk3lgnGxaaLbGZvKCElDlxLiZVHM-4lAj0j6Sb168pxWtSfz4UzxwGGFDlAHhZ9Ycg8g0bWlQXIxdjDzcUKxrHE0q&c=QItmi8gVDCm-ku4qcfXkLI6wsqXXhKv_NxAqutdge3n8UZaQpSRGpQ==&ch=gj5CiODNfIKyyJeskvcfdCBPADCTBK_ni8aNm9lPsmZM8mqxZo57Jw==>

Key Features:
·     Flow (personalized playlist feature).
·     HiFi* tier with FLAC* audio quality.
·     Extensive international catalog.

Pricing (as of 12/2024):
·     Premium: $10.99/month.
·     HiFi*: $14.99/month.

Strengths:
·     Great for global music discovery.
·     Lossless* audio at a lower price point than Tidal.

Weakness: Limited podcast and exclusive content compared to competitors.

[Logo of Freegal Music featuring three red arcs above the text "freegal music" in black.]
7. Freegal

For library and casual listeners. https://freegalmusic.com<https://opiayfbab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001QkRsA-UJSwuwtUMgkEfSxryCaYoEScZy1E4BEV3BEV4Qwng7Zh36_I629HE7elriyLxGZs1K-dn3hahBHtd4msIfVVLvWE2YLJ3XsS7iyBHKUBwKJXrBTNxgwe6MiHil9H8ZjtgxRagKLc-aJ07FFw==&c=QItmi8gVDCm-ku4qcfXkLI6wsqXXhKv_NxAqutdge3n8UZaQpSRGpQ==&ch=gj5CiODNfIKyyJeskvcfdCBPADCTBK_ni8aNm9lPsmZM8mqxZo57Jw==>

Key Features:
·     Free music streaming and downloads via participating public libraries.
·     Large collection of music, particularly classical, jazz, and older pop hits.
·     Ad-free experience.

Pricing: Free with a library card from a participating library.

Strengths:
·     100% free, legal access to music.
·     Offline downloads included at no cost. No ads.

Weaknesses:
·     Limited catalog compared to major platforms.
·     Requires a library card from a supported institution.

Streaming Service Comparison Summary

[Table comparing music platforms: Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Tidal, YouTube Music, Deezer, Freegal, and their features, prices, and tiers.]

*Audio Terms:

FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec) - A musical file format that uses lossless compression to remove unnecessary bits of data from an audio file, reducing its size by up to 50%.

HiFi (High-Fidelity) - Refers to audio playback that closely replicates the original recording, maintaining high clarity and detail with minimal distortion.

Lossless - Preserves all the data from the original recording, resulting in high-quality sound without any loss of detail during compression. Formats like FLAC and ALAC (Apple Lossless Audio Codec) are lossless.

MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) - An advanced audio codec designed to deliver studio-quality sound in a file small enough for streaming.

Spatial audio (Dolby Atmos) - Creates a 3D sound experience, making it feel like the music or sound is coming from all around you, not just from the left and right.

[https://files.constantcontact.com/ee1208b4001/e565d7d1-215e-487a-8e78-f332113e7825.jpg]

Communications: Videos

Creating 1-Min. Videos

You know all to well, that videos are getting shorter and shorter, right?

Not only is nano-learning the trend now, but popular social media sites like YouTube (Shorts), TikTok and Instagram offer greater visibility by being quick and to the point.

These very brief communication segments are a powerful tool for organizations to attract and engage audiences. Here are a few compelling reasons to create short videos:

1. Grab Attention Quickly. Reach busy people more easily because they prefer short, easy content.

2. Showcase Services. Highlight new materials, announce events, and provide quick tutorials.

3. Engage the Community. Introduce new staff members, share news of how you are supporting local initiatives.

4. Provide Educational Content. Recommend a “Book of the Week” or offer a fun fact such as “Did you know you can borrow a Wi-Fi hotspot?”

5. Encourage Visits. Create intrigue with teasers, such as “What’s behind the secret door in the library?” and highlight new areas or upgrades such as a renovated reading space or makerspace.

Get in the habit of thinking short, pointed communications.

[https://files.constantcontact.com/ee1208b4001/b13a7a6a-7445-4d8e-b741-4b475385ef5b.png]<https://opiayfbab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001QkRsA-UJSwuwtUMgkEfSxryCaYoEScZy1E4BEV3BEV4Qwng7Zh36_E1WAfLwknu6GyktnB5mzgXG-F5VLKSWiLCruEyRcKeG7oG2rtz5hJHJDkUmZJsCuc1qRsG_SjPCxnCaJ2X3gklYnyS59zSBuqbcIyZ4AcFkVd4u7W4dULw=&c=QItmi8gVDCm-ku4qcfXkLI6wsqXXhKv_NxAqutdge3n8UZaQpSRGpQ==&ch=gj5CiODNfIKyyJeskvcfdCBPADCTBK_ni8aNm9lPsmZM8mqxZo57Jw==>

[Ask a question]<https://opiayfbab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001QkRsA-UJSwuwtUMgkEfSxryCaYoEScZy1E4BEV3BEV4Qwng7Zh36_EkJKJ-zjNCQubZmmr2IE1Err35veTBn46R9fHvl9XiGXOWBfGTftYspI958ChRvfGFjTmO_i0K-CGKVVpHYhW853IvTE4k1t4ZLlo-hdmgIsVbXRBWYVR0=&c=QItmi8gVDCm-ku4qcfXkLI6wsqXXhKv_NxAqutdge3n8UZaQpSRGpQ==&ch=gj5CiODNfIKyyJeskvcfdCBPADCTBK_ni8aNm9lPsmZM8mqxZo57Jw==>

Copyright 1996-2024 Shared Results International. Published weekly. Distribution is limited by license. For information on how to include additional recipients, contact support at tech-talk.com<mailto:support at tech-talk.com> 585-615-7795.

Cheers,
Darci Hanning, MLIS (she/her/hers)
Public Library Consultant / CE Coordinator
Continuing Education Resources: https://libguides.osl.state.or.us/conted
State Library of Oregon | Library Support and Development Services
971-375-3491 | darci.hanning at slo.oregon.gov<mailto:darci.hanning at slo.oregon.gov> | www.oregon.gov/library<http://www.oregon.gov/library>

[State Library of Oregon (Logo)]

[https://res.public.onecdn.static.microsoft/assets/bookwithme/misc/CalendarPerson20px.png]<https://outlook.office.com/bookwithme/user/a59abb0a2327467fac503ddb3913cf5e@slo.oregon.gov?anonymous&ep=signature>
Book time to meet with me<https://outlook.office.com/bookwithme/user/a59abb0a2327467fac503ddb3913cf5e@slo.oregon.gov?anonymous&ep=signature>

-------------- next part --------------
An HTML attachment was scrubbed...
URL: <https://omls.oregon.gov/pipermail/techtalk/attachments/20241217/3cb64575/attachment-0001.html>
-------------- next part --------------
A non-text attachment was scrubbed...
Name: image001.png
Type: image/png
Size: 15548 bytes
Desc: image001.png
URL: <https://omls.oregon.gov/pipermail/techtalk/attachments/20241217/3cb64575/attachment-0001.png>