Which format should I download?

All audio can be downloaded in at least one of three different digital formats: WMA (DRM WMA), MP3, or M4B.

- WMA format is only compatible with Microsoft Windows Media Player and machines running Windows (XP, Vista, 7, etc.). This format can be converted to mp3 or WMA automatically when using the ‘import’ or ‘drag-and-drop’ technique in Apple’s iTunes media software. However, we do not recommend downloading WMA unless this is the only option available.

- DRM WMA format is only compatible with Microsoft’s Windows Media Player (on a PC) and has a DRM (digital rights management) protection feature to disallow sharing of the files. This format is required due to our agreements with the original print publishers and must be downloaded using the newest and most up-to-date (full-release) version of Internet Explorer and can only be played with Microsoft’s Windows Media Player on a PC (not compatible with a Mac). This file type cannot be transferred to Apple’s iPod or any other mp3 media player (unless the device supports DRM acquisition) and it cannot be converted to any other file format.

- MP3 format is the universal format and it will play on any computer system or any media player. Download MP3 if you are unsure which format to download.

- M4B format is the newest and most optimized format for downloading. This format will work only in iTunes, Quicktime, or on an iPod. M4Bs are optimized to bookmark – or keep track of where you are in your audiobook – and allows easy access to chapters without having to fast-forward or rewind.

No matter which format you decide to download, be sure you are using the latest and most up-to-date version of your operating system, internet browser, and media playing software to be sure download errors are minimized. We do not recommend using a beta release of any internet browser as this can sometimes cause errors. We use Firefox and Safari here in our offices for testing and would recommend either of them.