Many people all over the world are asking about “legal Zune music downloads”. Zune is unlike other popular media devices. It frees owners from DRM download requirements. DRM or digital rights management is copyright information embedded on mp3s. Most mp3s are encoded with DRM, which prohibits downloaders from distributing songs. Because of DRM restriction, it is now possible to legally download Zune music. But where can you find them?

Zune Marketplace

Zune Marketplace is like the iTunes of iPod. But don’t be confused. Playing iTunes songs on your Zune player can be a little challenging. iTunes mp3s are not compatible with a Zune device because of the embedded DRM. So, the safest way is to download a song from Zune Marketplace. The Marketplace has most of the songs available on iTunes since Microsoft, the manufacturer of Zune, has partnered with America’s biggest recording labels: Sony BMG, EMI, Warner Music Group and Universal Music Group.

Zune Marketplace works on a pay-per-download business model. Each user has to register, buy the Zune credits and pay for each song you download. Every now and then, you will come across some free legal Zune music downloads. These are normally distributed by new independent singers and musicians.

Premium MP3 Download Sites

These services are not directly linked to the portable media device manufacturers or record labels. They are online music stores that offer MP3 downloads either on a pay per download basis or a subscription basis. A lot of these sites do let you try them out during a 30 day trial period. There is often a cap on the number of songs you can download. After the trial, you will be charged according to their terms.

The songs offered on the websites are legal and you can search and find any song title easily using their download manager. Organize the songs neatly in your library and sync it with your player. But one thing you need to ensure is that the files are all compatible with your Zune.

Online Radio Stations

Streaming stations are also likely places to find legal Zune music downloads. Their pop-up players typically scroll details of the currently playing song. Below the details, you will find a link to their online store. Downloads from online radio stations are reliable since they have good connections with the major recording companies.

Free MP3 download sites are the worst places to get Zune music downloads. There are several problems associated with them. If you are not hounded by the adware, spyware and viruses that come with most of their downloads, then expect poor quality or corrupted non-working files. Use the paid services and do not freely distribute your legal Zune music downloads.