The Best of the Web for iPod Users

Have an iPod? Check. Have a Mac with iTunes? Check. Use the iTunes Music Store? Check. Now what do you do? The following is a list of websites that are a must-see and a must-use for every iPod wielding, Apple loving, music fan.

1. iPodlounge
Sure, there are plenty of iPod sites out there. I am in no way detracting from the great work they do. But iPodlounge is by far the most comprehensive and robust out of all of them. With great software update info, handy user forums, valuable product reviews, and of course, the iPods Around the World picture gallery, iPodlounge is my first stop everytime for iPod information.

2. Allmusic
Okay. So you downloaded the featured Fischerspooner album from the iTunes Music Store. Now what? Well, you can read all about the band including albums, reviews, production credits, and band histories. From Fisherspooner to Death Cab for Cutie, Allmusic.com has it all.

3. Gnod’s World of Music
Want to learn about bands that you will surely love but have never heard of? Of course we all do. With Gnod’s World of Music now you can. Simply type in your 3 favorite bands and Gnod does the rest. Instantly you will receive a string of other bands you might like. Try it, you will discover bands you never even knew existed. Then look them up on Allmusic.com (see #2)

4. Live365
iTunes users everywhere have discovered a great thing called internet radio. Now you can listen to music from a more specialized genre 24 hours a day streaming from the internet. And the best part of it all is a lot of these stations are virtually commercial free. Ever want to broadcast your own radio show? It’s easy and inexpensive to do with Live365. And yes, this is also a shameless plug for my own station, Fresh Cuts from the Audiobarn.

5. Art of the Mix
The best thing about iTunes’ playlist feature is it speaks to everyone’s desire to customize their listening experience. Think you have a good mix? At the Art of the Mix, you can publish your creation (no music, just playlists) and compete for mix of the week. Get creative with the names too, this week’s winner is called,” �I am no killer, but I still hide my face�”

6. Record Store Review
Even though the digital music era is here, please remember to support the record stores that fulfilled our music needs before the MP3 revolution. With Record Store Review, you can write a review of your favorite local record store. There is always something nice about finding that great used CD you have been looking for for years. By all means, support the iTunes Music Store, but every once in a while buy the physical version too.

7. Spun
So you downloaded that great song by the Flaming Lips. Now you want the full album but don’t want to pay full price. Check out Spun.com and make a trade. Spun will give you credit for all those cds, dvds, or video games that you don�t want anymore (provided they are scratch free and have original artwork intact). Use that credit to buy that new album you want. But the best part is Spun sends you everything you need to send your unwanted discs including the box, mailing label, and packing tape. It’s easy. Now go trade in your Green Jelly CD!

8. eBay
No need for explanation. Find what you always have been looking for. Or better yet, find what you never knew existed.

9. MusicStack
This web musical marketplace allows you to put a request in for that cd, cassette, or record that you have always wanted. It will even let you list how much you are willing to pay for it. Sellers and buyers from around the world come and make deals. It’s simple, safe, and fun to just browse too.

Have a favorite place you go to on the web that is iPod or music related? List it below for others to enjoy.