How-To:
The browser will usually include a basic audio
player. Netscape includes Live Audio, Internet Explorer
includes Media Player. If a site requires something
different, a message box should come up asking if you would like
to go to the origination site to download a plug-in.
Sometimes the browser will take everything automatically, other
times you need to search in the site's plug-ins area and select
the version needed for your computer platform (Mac or PC) and
what version. (Beta versions are in the testing stage). Plug-ins
are usually free downloads.
After downloading, you may need to install and
check to see that the plug-in is in the plug-ins folder of your
browser. For Mac, find the plug-in and physically drag it to the
plug-ins folder of your browser. (An alias pointer may not
work). Finally, you may need to set preferences so that the
browser knows to use this plug-in, then check to make sure they
are enabled in the browser. (See Musicstream Guide to Internet
Music and Sound for visual help).
Musicstream Guide
to Internet Music and Sound
Author is professional musician and composer,
specializes in music for the web, film and video.
Straightforward descriptions (without technical jargon) of
audio issues on the web. Sonic First Aid section includes
screen pictures of how to configure plug-ins and set preferences,
helpful for the visual person! Guide offers information for
both Macintosh and Windows platforms, Netscape and Internet
Explorer browsers.
Helpful table comparing web audio formats at
Musicstream.com.
MIDI Manufacturers Association
General MIDI Instrument Patch Map, Percussion Key Map
Two magazines for the electronic musician that feature articles dealing with technical material, helpful if one can get through the technical jargon:
last updated: 5/2/08