But he said it was not clear that the evidence would support taking action against the recording companies.

The public will have to do without - perhaps for a long time - before a big recording company comes along with a similar offer.

As a result, he said, the major recording companies have never reached agreement for their works to be produced in China.

At this point, the recording companies and their customers do not need more lawyers.

Tear made over 250 records for many major recording companies.

The traditional six major recording companies have already been reduced to four and perhaps even fewer in the coming year.

But associates say she was also seeking more support from the recording companies.

The deal does not resolve the legal challenge by the other recording companies, though they may follow along.

And the recording companies shouldn't see this as a threat to their business.

But are the recording companies prepared to manage the music industry's transition to an online world?