Hi-- I've been using Limewire for about 2 years with no complaints.

Recently, using LW 4.9.30, on playback, some of the sound quality seems deteriorated, and not just for very old performances (60+ years ago) or certain genres. All my hardware is the same and in good working order. I use WinAmp 2.95 and/or Real Player for playback.

I assume that when a clip is 128 or above, it will be listenable even if I have to adjust the volume, but there are often skips, scratchy sounds, and distortions.

Any ideas? Would LW Pro help? I use a 56 K modem to connect and usually have connection speeds of 50-53K.

Thanks for any help.

PS Other than supporting open networks and fostering research, what practical benefits does LW Pro offer? I can't tell from its website.