Though the Dave Matthews Band is much better known to the casual music fan, Phish has assumed Dead-like proportions for the hard-core jam band fan. Following the Dead ethos of emphasizing live over recorded music, Phish is now offering downloads of many live shows via their LivePhish.com site. Phish may be hippies but they are very much corporate hippies: this music is not free by any means. Here are a few of their FAQs:

What are Live Phish Downloads?
Live Phish Downloads are an extension of the multi-CD Live Phish series launched in October 2001. As with the CDs, the downloads feature complete, unedited, mastered shows from Phish's extensive archives. The download format is a natural progression for the serious collector and the new fan alike, offering an opportunity to listen not only to older shows, but to shows from a current tour very soon after they've happened, mastered directly from the soundboardHow much does it cost?

How much does it cost?
The price of each show is based on format and length. Each show is available in two formats: MP3 (standard) and Shorten aka SHN (premium). Most shows are two sets, but some (like New Year's Eve for example) are three sets. Two set shows cost $9.95 for MP3 format and $12.95 for SHN. Three set shows cost $14.95 for MP3 and $18.95 for SHN. Batches of shows may be offered at a discounted price. For example, you can preorder all four shows from the New Year's Run 2002/2003 at one discounted price.

What do I get?
After completing the purchase process you may download the entire show in the format you've chosen. Individual tracks or sets are not available separately - you may only purchase shows in their entirety. For those who wish to burn the shows to CD, we have created printable PDF files for the CD labels, booklet and tray liner. You'll need to use a PDF reader such as the free Adobe Acrobat Reader to print the files. The color files are printable on ink-jet and laser printers, and use NEATO templates, available from Phish Dry Goods or directly from Neato. In addition, jewel cases, ShowCase binders and ShowCase sleeves - all the supplies that you'll need — are also available from Phish Dry Goods at the above link.

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