What is Zune Pass? Is Zune Pass the new way to legally download music on the internet? How does Zune Pass work and can you really download unlimited music by using it? Here are the common questions about Zune Pass.
Zune, the music player from Microsoft, launched a music subscription service wherein you can enjoy unlimited monthly pass in the Zune music store - thus, the Zune Pass. I've searched for reviews and reactions for this service, and here's what I've gathered:
Zune Pass vs iTune Store
Advantages:
- The Zune Pass costs $14.99 per month.
- It gives you unlimited downloads which you can play on your Zune device or PC/Mac.
- These music downloads can be placed on up to three PCs/Macs and up to three Zune devices.
- You can select the file format and you can select the bit rate.
- Every month, 10 songs can be chosen which you will have permanently.
Disadvantages:
- You cannot burn the songs from Zune Pass onto a CD.
- Not all songs have subscription-based rights.
- And the Zune Marketplace doesn't clearly state which songs/albums/artists have subscription-based rights.
- And once you cancel your subscription, all the other songs you did not choose to keep will not be playable again after it expires
Sounds bad? Well, financially speaking, it really is a good deal. But it all depends on how you use music in your life. For someone who spends more than $15 a month in iTunes and never uses a CD, then the Zune Pass is good for you. But if you rarely buy music from iTunes and likes making audio CDs, then better stay with iTunes.
Anyway, here's the Zune Pass ad with Wes Moss, the financial planner:
And oh, they're offering a 14-day free trial just in case you want to try Zune Pass. I'd suggest you give it a go and see if you like it, specially if you already have a Zune player already.