The store is only let down by the ineffective integration of its back end processes such as inventory reporting. If CDNow can fix this then they will be a serious contender for the best store on the Web. This store is really well put together. The visually attractive pages load fairly quickly without the need for any plug-ins, although RealAudio is needed to listen to the wide selection of sound clips available. Most pages are frame-free and a text only version is available.
Navigation is straightforward and consistent through out the store.
And incredibly, the store is available in no fewer than ten different languages. The site includes some of the most comprehensive search facilities we have seen. As well as a search engine that can search on artist, title, song title, record label or soundtrack, there are also two extended features, The Lexicon and the Album Advisor. The Lexicon enables the whole of CDNow's extensive catalogue to be browsed, whilst the Album Advisor recommends records based on users inputting the names of their favourite artists. Another great feature is the Lunchbox.