Media Jukebox's biggest asset is its powerful multimedia organizer. Files can be categorized by artist, album, and playlist, and automatically filed by info extracted from them. The program also categorizes Top 40 media files, along with files which have recently been added. A very cool feature is the SmartList, which is essentially a playlist based on sets of rules. SmartLists can be set to play files which are of a certain artist, album, genre, etc.

The CD ripper and MP3/WMA/OGG encoder are an absolute breeze to use. Both are extremely fast, however, both also lack a few crucial features. In the CD ripping mode, rip offset and track fade in/out are missing options, while the MP3 encoder only includes one codec (the average GoGo encoder). Other external encoders can be used, although a much better included encoder (such as the Fraunhofer codec) would have been appreciated. Another feature, a "converter," can change a number of files to a different format simultaneously. The line-in recorder is also a nice addition, with options for splitting tracks and automatically encoding audio to MP3.

Media Jukebox comes bundled with a basic CD writer, which can make data CDs, and audio CDs from MP3 or WAV files. In the newest version, there is also an excellent 10-band equalizer and 4 visualizations. More visualizations can be added through Media Jukebox's plugin system, which can also use DSP and input plugins. Other cool features include a special "Mini-Mode" (a compact version of the media player), a "Party Mode," and a skinnable interface.

Media Jukebox doesn't just utilize MP3s. It can also play numerous video, audio, and image types, and even manage portable MP3 players such as the Diamond Rio or Creative Nomad. With all this, J. River can truly call their unique product a Media Jukebox.

I highly recommend trying out this superb software. It easily rivals MusicMatch Jukebox (link below), and since it costs nothing, it's a whole lot cheaper, too.

MusicMatch Jukebox : http://epinions.com/cmd-review-153B-165564B6-3A35B0E7-prod4



Recommended: Yes