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How to Download Albums to Computers

Albums used to be distributed on vinyl records, then they became available on compact discs. Now they are largely available through digital software. Downloading albums onto your computer makes it easy for you to travel with your entire music library. Additionally, it provides a back-up, in case your albums are stolen or damaged. You should hang on to those albums, though, since the album art and liner notes are invaluable.

Things You'll Need

  • Computer
  • Music management software
  • Album
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Instructions

  1. Instructions

    • 1

      Download a music management program. A few of the most common are Napster, iTunes and Helium Music Manager. Each program has strengths. If you own an iPod, the iTunes software is a natural choice since it coordinates with that mobile device quickly and efficiently.

    • 2

      Place the CD album into your computer's disc drive tray. The CD should be flat on the tray, and the bottom surface should be wiped clean of any dust or dirt. Push the dish drive tray into the computer.

    • 3

      Open the music management program. The program should recognize that a CD has been placed into the disc drive. For instance, in the iTunes program, the CD is recognized below the "Store" heading. If connected to the Internet, the program will automatically search for the CD through an online database.

    • 4

      Correct the information on the disc. It is easier to correct the name of the artists, the album and the individual tracks before downloading the CD. Be sure that the spelling is accurate so that you can locate the music quickly.

    • 5

      Download the album by pressing the "download" button. It should take between 10 and 30 minutes to fully download. Once the album is downloaded, eject the disc and remove the album. Play a song to make sure the production quality is adequate.

Digital Music

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