meanwhile, in Melbourne Dance Music forum news..........

[mrj]

Lifted this from the TS forums, some interesting developments in relation to the world of music forums

--------------------------------

Melbourne, 23rd March 2006 – destra Corporation Limited (ASX: DES) has become the largest independent music network in Australia with the acquisition of two music community websites; www.thescene.com.au and www.tranzfusion.net announced today.

“The acquisitions are part of destra’s strategy to acquire consumer focused entertainment websites. We believe these sites offer an excellent environment for advertisers, in addition to the revenue generating potential from digital music downloads,” said Domenic Carosa, destra Corporation CEO.

“These sites are the new entertainment “homes” of the highly desirable 12 – 30yr old demographic, who are becoming increasingly elusive for advertisers to connect with. We won’t compromise the integrity of these sites, ensuring we only permit appropriate products and services are represented on our sites in a way that does not detract from the consumers’ online experience. ” Carosa added, “As part of our strategic review, the Board has decided to divest destra’s joint venture interest in Musicpoint [B2B service] to our joint venture partner, Radio Computing Services of Australia (RCS) for a consideration of $500,000 cash plus the payment of dividends and loans.” destra continues to maintain a strategic relationship with Musicpoint which allows for priority promotion of its independent artists including the recently acquired Rajon Music Group.

The acquisitions were made for a total of 1.2 million destra shares.

As announced last week, destra Media has expanded its MP3 Music network division by launching into eight new markets (USA, UK, NZ, UK, Canada, Spain, Italy & France) as the world's first provider of multi-channel MP3 music download service. The multi-channel services are already available in Australia via the web and the country’s largest 3G operator 3 mobile through a $3 per month subscription service. Through the company’s partnership with Intel, its music service is now also accessible via the television with Intel Viiv technology-based PCs.

In February 2006, MP3.com.au was awarded the prestigious Hitwise Online Performance Award

for the # 1 website among internet users in the 'Entertainment - Multimedia' category.

[lynt]

Chan, how's the new Lexus treating you?

[lucas]

The acquisitions were made for a total of 1.2 million destra shares.

Destra closed at $0.33 per share yesterday.

$396,000

[same o]

Chan, how's the new Lexus treating you?

lol

[lucas]

Somehow I don't think those corporate folk would be very interested in our little corner of the interweb.

The mind boggles.

[T MONEY]

QUOTE: We won’t compromise the integrity of these sites, ensuring we only permit appropriate products and services are represented on our sites in a way that does not detract from the consumers’ online experience. ”

Yeah Right, so how long will it be til MBC sells out???

Still, to be able to do downloads is a good thing.

Here's my Idea, why doesm't MBC have an online radio, so that each thread has different Choons. ie: D'n'B forum has D'n'B, Breaks threads has Breaks etc. Whadayathink?

[lucas]

And as if I'd buy a fricken Lexus.

OMG.

Emission Reductionist.

[lynt]

QUOTE: We won’t compromise the integrity of these sites, ensuring we only permit appropriate products and services are represented on our sites in a way that does not detract from the consumers’ online experience. ”

Yeah Right, so how long will it be til MBC sells out???

Still, to be able to do downloads is a good thing.

Here's my Idea, why doesm't MBC have an online radio, so that each thread has different Choons. ie: D'n'B forum has D'n'B, Breaks threads has Breaks etc. Whadayathink?

We would, but Chan and I are off on a World holiday for 6 years. Just feels right, you know?

Don't mind the ads, either, pretend they're not there.

[breaksRbest]

The acquisitions were made for a total of 1.2 million destra shares.

Destra closed at $0.33 per share yesterday.

$396,000

that'll drop as soon as people find out they bought thescene

[lucas]

[lynt]

The acquisitions were made for a total of 1.2 million destra shares.

Destra closed at $0.33 per share yesterday.

$396,000

that'll drop as soon as people find out they bought thescene

omg.

[T MONEY]

QUOTE: We won’t compromise the integrity of these sites, ensuring we only permit appropriate products and services are represented on our sites in a way that does not detract from the consumers’ online experience. ”

Yeah Right, so how long will it be til MBC sells out???

Still, to be able to do downloads is a good thing.

Here's my Idea, why doesm't MBC have an online radio, so that each thread has different Choons. ie: D'n'B forum has D'n'B, Breaks threads has Breaks etc. Whadayathink?

We would, but Chan and I are off on a World holiday for 6 years. Just feels right, you know?

Don't mind the ads, either, pretend they're not there.

Jeez, that was fast! Knew you guys would dump us first chance....HAHAH

[system]

man, I can remember when Carosa was selling NES mods from the front room of his parent's place!

seems like mp3.com.au needs a propup.

[system]

[lucas]

Yeah Right, so how long will it be til MBC sells out???

The revenue model at MBC is quite simple.

We make no money. At all.

Oh, and the hosting fees come out of my own pocket.

Not exactly acquisition material. We couldn't sell out even if we wanted to.

[T MONEY]

Yeah Right, so how long will it be til MBC sells out???

The revenue model at MBC is quite simple.

We make no money. At all.

Oh, and the hosting fees come out of my own pocket.

Not exactly acquisition material. We couldn't sell out even if we wanted to.

Start makin money then i say!!!!
Host online radio, with a small membership fee of say, $9.99 a year, full access to all threads, offer cheap tickets only available here, merchandising.
Remember, it's not selling out if you're selling in.

[Little Evil]

Somehow I don't think those corporate folk would be very interested in our little corner of the interweb.

The mind boggles.

You'd be suprised mate.
Anything to make a buck, fuck us little guys into obscurity, and destroy our scene, with no regard for future consequences.
I'm no fan of the corporate side of dance music.
That's why I like Melb Beats - no advertising, just dance music - talked about by people who really dig it, and live for it - with a healthy regard for the scene.
As it should be.
Keep to your guns guys.

[great_magnet]

12 - 30 year old demographic?



No, wait



That would explain a LOT of the conversations on here...

[system]

12 - 30 year old demographic?



No, wait



That would explain a LOT of the conversations on here...

I'm telling Daddy on you.

[lynt]

Yeah Right, so how long will it be til MBC sells out???

The revenue model at MBC is quite simple.

We make no money. At all.

Oh, and the hosting fees come out of my own pocket.

Not exactly acquisition material. We couldn't sell out even if we wanted to.

It's OK Lucas, I'll still hug you in the morning.

[AJ]

with a healthy regard for the scene

Yeah, we all love The Scene.

Sorry, couldn't resist.

[great_magnet]

12 - 30 year old demographic?



No, wait



That would explain a LOT of the conversations on here...

I'm telling Daddy on you.

I know you're still upset because Hardy told everyone to "fuck the system in the arse" so I'll ignore that comment...

[mrj]

QUOTE: We won’t compromise the integrity of these sites, ensuring we only permit appropriate products and services are represented on our sites in a way that does not detract from the consumers’ online experience. ”

Yeah Right, so how long will it be til MBC sells out???

Still, to be able to do downloads is a good thing.

Here's my Idea, why doesm't MBC have an online radio, so that each thread has different Choons. ie: D'n'B forum has D'n'B, Breaks threads has Breaks etc. Whadayathink?

T-Money

Heres my understanding

Tranzfusion and Destra have been closely linked from day 1. My understanding is that Tranzfusion was initially developed as a site for testing music streaming software, software that was included in the Destra stable. Tranzfusion was started by Derrick who was one of the original Destra employees. Those kids go way back, and the reality is this is probably more about formalising a relationship that has always existed from day one.

I can't really comment on the TS stuff only to say that Destra people have always been involved with TS too (through friendships etc).

I don't see it as selling out, rather it gives these sites the resources to do some new stuff. I believe the comment from Destra around not compromising the integrity of those sites, and I don't think I'm being naive.

As for MB.C selling out - I think that's a pretty offensive comment.

[mrj]

By the way, I posted this because I thought it was an interesting and possibly positive development. I was never implying anything about selling out.

[Little Evil]

GM - Don't make me break a switch off a tree and give you a whipping.(like I used to get when I was a kid)

Jokes.

Some of those pre-pubescent knowitalls on the other sites need a good 'treeing' though IMO.
Anyone been on ITM lately? What a complete shitfight that is.
And the Scene - pffft.

(Thing was though, when I got beaten by the old man, on very rare occasions - I ALWAYS deserved it. )

Fuck, I think I'm due for one now actually.

[system]

12 - 30 year old demographic?



No, wait



That would explain a LOT of the conversations on here...

I'm telling Daddy on you.

I know you're still upset because Hardy told everyone to "fuck the system in the arse" so I'll ignore that comment...

cheeky!

still telling Daddy on you.

[lucas]

Actually, I would like to echo the sentiment regarding TranZfusion. Derrick and the rest of the TranZfusion crew are lovely people. He's put a lot of hard work into that site so I'm really glad it's starting to pay off for him.

[great_magnet]

I'm telling Daddy on you.

I know you're still upset because Hardy told everyone to "fuck the system in the arse" so I'll ignore that comment...

cheeky!

still telling Daddy on you.

COME TO DADDY!

[lynt]

He didn't go to ANYTIME and is mad.

[system]

I know you're still upset because Hardy told everyone to "fuck the system in the arse" so I'll ignore that comment...

cheeky!

still telling Daddy on you.

COME TO DADDY!

[great_magnet]

[/img]

[system]

[DBoy]

i don't understand? When did we all become promoters for workshop?

[Miss Bee]

QUOTE: We won’t compromise the integrity of these sites, ensuring we only permit appropriate products and services are represented on our sites in a way that does not detract from the consumers’ online experience. ”

Yeah Right, so how long will it be til MBC sells out???

Still, to be able to do downloads is a good thing.

Here's my Idea, why doesm't MBC have an online radio, so that each thread has different Choons. ie: D'n'B forum has D'n'B, Breaks threads has Breaks etc. Whadayathink?

T-Money

Heres my understanding

Tranzfusion and Destra have been closely linked from day 1. My understanding is that Tranzfusion was initially developed as a site for testing music streaming software, software that was included in the Destra stable. Tranzfusion was started by Derrick who was one of the original Destra employees. Those kids go way back, and the reality is this is probably more about formalising a relationship that has always existed from day one.

I can't really comment on the TS stuff only to say that Destra people have always been involved with TS too (through friendships etc).

I don't see it as selling out, rather it gives these sites the resources to do some new stuff. I believe the comment from Destra around not compromising the integrity of those sites, and I don't think I'm being naive.

As for MB.C selling out - I think that's a pretty offensive comment.

Josh is on the money. Tranzfusion and Destra have always been closely linked (destra runs the back end of the digital section) And if I was going to buy another site I would of gotten the scene as well because it covers not only music - but fashion, movies, etc.

Tranzfusion has recently started up an australian underground dance chart (thats going to run very similar to the balance chart in the US) which I think most of you are already aware of and there are a lot more exciting things in the pipeline.

Neither site have sold out, destra is a fantastic company which will support the sites, not turn them into an inthemix spam beast.

[lynt]

i don't understand? When did we all become promoters for workshop?

Once bitten...

[sneaky hands]

The revenue model at MBC is quite simple.

We make no money. At all.

Oh, and the hosting fees come out of my own pocket.

Not exactly acquisition material. We couldn't sell out even if we wanted to.

not suggesting anything here..but actually the IP in melbourne beats would be worth something. You guys have built a membership base that have to supply their email addresses, so at the very least you have a nice database of personal information that you could sell. In addition to email addresses you have demographic information based on the fact that they are here, hell you could even data mine the posts if you were that much of a fiend.

again not suggesting anything, just pointing that out.

[system]

The revenue model at MBC is quite simple.

We make no money. At all.

Oh, and the hosting fees come out of my own pocket.

Not exactly acquisition material. We couldn't sell out even if we wanted to.

not suggesting anything here..but actually the IP in melbourne beats would be worth something. You guys have built a membership base that have to supply their email addresses, so at the very least you have a nice database of personal information that you could sell. In addition to email addresses you have demographic information based on the fact that they are here, hell you could even data mine the posts if you were that much of a fiend.

again not suggesting anything, just pointing that out.

FYI, to comply with current data legislation the T&Cs would have to be changed prior to that happening, with every existing member having to agree to it prior to using the currently aggregated data.

[lucas]

again not suggesting anything, just pointing that out.

Well, it's good that you're not suggesting anything, because MBC is not about to go down that path.




It would probably be very easy to turn MBC into some kind of revenue generating monster. But to be honest; even if I liked the idea, I have neither the energy or enthusiasm for it.

The (somewhat-selfish) fact is, I love having zero responsibility. People get what they pay for, and If I don't accept money from anyone for this thing then I don't owe them anything, and that's just the way I like it.

Enjoy the freeness. It helps me sleep easier at night.

[shepherd]

Lifted this from the TS forums, some interesting developments in relation to the world of music forums

.

you're missing the point - destra are not buying into the forums, they are buying into the lifestyle content areas that are developed or have scope to be developed.

they are also buying into a database, that as system pointed out will probably need to opt-in again to comply with the Spam Act.

advertisers do not like forums (generally) as it is an environment that cannot be controlled.

with both of these sites you will see them (imo and I think i'm right) morph more into social networking sites with user generated content and interest groups that can be targeted.

destra also need music specific sites to bolster their debilitated (sp) digital distribution channels that are suffering at the moment.

can't see it working personally but I can see what they're aiming at.

[fooishbar]

that is possibly the most disgusting thing I have ever seen.

[fooishbar]

The revenue model at MBC is quite simple.

We make no money. At all.

Oh, and the hosting fees come out of my own pocket.

Not exactly acquisition material. We couldn't sell out even if we wanted to.

not suggesting anything here..but actually the IP in melbourne beats would be worth something. You guys have built a membership base that have to supply their email addresses, so at the very least you have a nice database of personal information that you could sell. In addition to email addresses you have demographic information based on the fact that they are here, hell you could even data mine the posts if you were that much of a fiend.

again not suggesting anything, just pointing that out.

the email database wouldn't be worth a great deal; it's too small. unless, of course, someone actually wanted a targeted database of breaks fans, dnb heads, and professional whiners, in which case this would do nicely ...

[obliveus]

I cant believe I read all of this. mrj, I'm holding you responsible for making my head hurt. Play some breaks...

[sneaky hands]

FYI, to comply with current data legislation the T&Cs would have to be changed prior to that happening, with every existing member having to agree to it prior to using the currently aggregated data.

there are ways to get around it.

and fooish thats kinda what i meant.

anyways, big ups to no ads, no spam, and most of all personal responses to requests for assistance from moderators!

[system]

big ups to no ads, no spam, and most of all personal responses to requests for assistance from moderators!

damn straight.

[Polecat]

Start makin money then i say!!!!
Host online radio, with a small membership fee of say, $9.99 a year, full access to all threads, offer cheap tickets only available here, merchandising.
Remember, it's not selling out if you're selling in.

Online radio stations in Australia are NOT cheap to run. Those APRA fees that must be paid are very expensive!

[Miss Bee]

Start makin money then i say!!!!
Host online radio, with a small membership fee of say, $9.99 a year, full access to all threads, offer cheap tickets only available here, merchandising.
Remember, it's not selling out if you're selling in.

Online radio stations in Australia are NOT cheap to run. Those APRA fees that must be paid are very expensive!

Poley is right, they are very $$$ - I remeber being very suprised when I found out how much tranzfusion had to pay to have a few mixes streaming on the site, let alone running a radio station 24/7.

[mrj]

Some more interesting developments in this area. Tranzfusion has up until recently run a free e-mail service with membership (which is also free). A nice little bonus and one I have used quite a bit.

Anyhoo, went to check my account today and noticed this.

---------------------------

ATTENTION: Due to the transfer of ownership of Tranzfusion, this free webmail service will no longer be operational. We will however, forward email to a nominated account for 6 months. To forward your email - Click Here and enter your email address in the "Forward all mail to the following address" field. We recommend Google's gMail.com
Unfortunately, all saved mail will be lost, so make sure you forward any important email to another account.

------------------------------

This is not a critsicm of Tranzfusion, hardly can have a go at anybody as it was a free service after all. However it is interesting to see that the service has closed, obvioiusly as a result of Destra now owning.

Most interestingly is the recommendaiton of Googles gMail, my guess would be Destra has an outstanding agreement with the kids at Google, although I'm only hypothesising.

anyways, posted it here for anyone who was interested, or who has a 'fusion address that they need to get forwarded.

Again, I'm not saying its a bad thing, its interesting to watch changes in how the site is run due to change on ownership

[lucas]

Hrm....

*ponders*

[sweetcheeks]

And as if I'd buy a fricken Lexus.

OMG.

Emission Reductionist.

[JAMESSSS]

Most interestingly is the recommendaiton of Googles gMail, my guess would be Destra has an outstanding agreement with the kids at Google, although I'm only hypothesising.

I really doubt that.

It's just a good, free, publically (sorta) available option.