Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the sound clips in .WAV format? Isn't that too large for a timely download?
When I started the Listening Station I was new to this whole thing and I was advised to use MP2 as the format for the sound clips. WAV files were far too large to put on the server - they sometimes took an entire Meg of space! Obviously that was impossible. Yet I was not happy with the sound of the files after they'd been compressed. I wanted to put the clips in MP3 format but that disallows any kind of editing. I was thrilled to discover a program that lets me create and edit WAVs with an MP3 compression of 13:1. This gives near-CD quality sound at a fraction of the space! It also gives me the capability to edit the WAV files, fading them in and out so that they sound cleaner. If you have any more questions about this feel free to write me. I am still learning about this whole thing so I really enjoy exchanging information with others.
How do I turn up the volume on the .WAV files?
Netscape and Microsoft Explorer tend to automatically reset the volume to a low setting when a new .WAV file is opened. Netscape's built-in player offers a volume control just below the 'Play' button. For Microsoft Explorer viewers, use the controls on your speakers or change the internal volume settings (see Control Panel).
What have you got against Netscape?
First of all, I have received scores of complaints about viewing these pages in Netscape. Whenever I try to view this site in Netscape something invariably goes wrong. From formatting to layout to the sound clips (which Netscape won't play), I have finally accepted the fact that this site can only be viewed with Microsoft Internet Explorer. If you don't have this browser then download it now!
Where can I find lyrics/ fan sites/ tour information?
That seems to be the eternal question. France has been a little slow responding to the internet craze, and many wonderful artists who should have their music seen and heard on the web are still not out there yet. I spend hours on end searching for music links and information, and I've compiled a list of artist sites and also some lyric and sheet music sites.
Do you take requests for certain artists/ albums to be reviewed?
If an artist is gaining notoriety and we feel that it is important to put some of his or her work on our site then we will do so at our discretion. We are always interested in hearing your opinions and feedback.
Why don't you have _______, they're very popular in France?
The unpleasant reality of the French music scene is that it does not exist on as large a scale as in the US. Stock does not exist forever, and albums go out of print frequently. In the case of Québecois artists the span is even shorter. We do all that we can to obtain these CDs but there is a limit to our power.
| I would like to offer a word of thanks to all of the
music lovers who keep this site going. Do not hesitate to share your thoughts and questions with me;
that's why I'm here! Matthew, music buyer |
Artist Index A - E F - M N - Z
The Listening Station Main Page
Music Sales Catalog Ordering Information