A BIG PLUS

They cost more, yet sound better and are not limited to one portable device.

They're the thousands of songs free of digital-rights management (DRM) that Apple made available today (May 30) as part of its iTunes Plus launch.

We're talking songs by major artists -- including The Rolling Stones, Frank Sinatra and Norah Jones -- that can be played on an iPod or other digital devices, as well as computers.

The DRM-free tracks from iTunes Plus reportedly have better sound quality, and each one costs $1.29 -- roughly 30 cents more than what other online stores charge for copy-protected songs.

Every little step toward total digital compatibility is a good one.