Compatibility requirements

RFB&D’s^® AudioAccess downloaded books use Windows Media^® Audio and Digital Rights Management (DRM) technologies. In order to be compatible with the service, portable media players must meet the following criteria:

Not all media players can play WMA format files. In particular, many inexpensive MP3 players are limited to playing only the MP3 format. Note that the Apple iPod^® cannot play WMA files.

Most music files are encoded at bit rates of 128 kbps or higher. RFB&D uses the 32 kbps bit rate to minimize the size of the audio files. Some players cannot play files at very low bit rates. Check a player’s specifications to be sure.

Some players, even if they play WMA format files, cannot play protected WMA files. RFB&D uses Windows Media DRM to protect AudioAccess downloaded books. Players that can support protected WMA will often indicate “WMA-DRM” as a supported audio type.

Note: Neither the Apple iPod nor the Microsoft Zune^® can play protected WMA files.

Not all players that can play protected WMA can also play the extra DRM requirements for subscription-based services. In the past, players compatible with this technology carried the “Plays For Sure” logo. Microsoft will be phasing out the “Plays For Sure” program,  so this is no longer a reliable sign of compatibility. Typically, players that are compatible with subscription services will say so in their specifications.

To determine if a player meets these requirements, refer to the player documentation for the player specifications. The specs will usually list the file formats supported, along with the bit rates supported for each.

RFB&D does not sell, endorse, or recommend specific portable media players for use with AudioAccess. However, we have tested a number of players and have confirmed many that work with AudioAccess downloaded books. RFB&D does not make any effort to be comprehensive in its testing, nor does it test players on request.  From our testing experience, manufacturers such as Creative, Samsung, SanDisk, and Sony (among others) all produce some players that will work with AudioAccess.  It is important to note that not all players from a manufacturer provide like features and it is important for you to refer to the manufacturer's player documentation to confirm that it will meet the requirements noted above.

Please refer to the player manufacturer's website to ensure that the player you purchase meets the minimum requirements necessary to play AudioAccess downloaded books.

As of 12/8/2008

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