Audiobook Downloads and Rentals FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Audiobook Downloads and Rentals

    What are the advantages of an audiobook rent-by-mail service?

    Besides the cost-per-title advantages, rent-by-mail services usually offer the original CD program, meaning you get the highest quality recording available. You also don't have to worry about file formats with a traditional CD, as long as you have a CD player. CDs can also be better for individuals with slow Internet connections, particularly those with dial-up service. One service that we reviewed offers both traditional CDs and MP3-CDs. MP3-CDs must either be played from a computer or a CD player that can read MP3 files.

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Top Audiobook Downloads and Rentals

Audible

Bottom line: Membership plan saves frequent readers money on the biggest download library in the audiobook business
Booksfree

Bottom line: Fast, free shipping with the biggest rental library makes this a great service for frequent listeners
eMusic Audiobooks

Bottom line: Cheapest plans and good selection, though it may lack some high-profile titles; audio quality is not top-notch
Simply Audiobooks

Bottom line: There are two plans to choose from, but the rental service is by far the best bargain
iTunes

Bottom line: Better for casual listeners; not as cheap as subscription services; must use iTunes/iPod/iPhone
Barnes & Noble

Bottom line: Good selection, often cheaper than iTunes, but checkout, download, and audio are disappointing

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