Abstract: A method, apparatus, and article of manufacture for electronically distributing an audio recording, other media, or software. An audio player obtains an audio file that comprises an encrypted audio recording. Without an appropriate key for the audio file, the audio player may only play the audio recording in a reduced first quality. However, with the appropriate key, the audio player may play the audio recording in a second quality. The user purchases and the audio player receives the appropriate key to unlock the high quality aspects of the audio file. Additionally, an identifier for the user is written into the modified audio file to associate the audio file with a particular user. Such an association enables the system to track distribution of the particular audio file and may enable the award of points or credit to the user for such distribution.