Abstract: A digital audio system and method for accessing digital audio broadcasts and files over a computer network. The digital audio device of the present invention provides an apparatus for connecting to and receiving digital audio broadcasts and files without the need for a personal computer. A method is provided for simplifying access to the broadcast and file addresses. Each address is assigned a channel number for entering into the digital audio device in lieu of its URL. With the system and method of the present invention the digital audio device provides features much like a standard radio, but when connected to the Internet it is capable of accessing any radio station in the world that broadcasts over the Internet. The digital audio device can also provide features similar to that of a jukebox, in that individual songs or programs can be purchased for single or multiple uses.