New York - Amazon.com is gearing up to launch its long-awaited digital music service in mid-September, the New York Post reported on Friday, citing sources familiar with the situation.

The store will initially offer a catalog of around 1 million tracks in MP3 format, from labels including Universal Music, EMI and independents.

The Post reports that the decision to distribute unprotected MP3 files has stalled participation from fellow major labels Sony BMG and Warner Music, at least for now.

Pricing of songs at the store is also still being considered, and Amazon is expected to offer several different price points for songs and albums.

Amazon will reportedly offer newer and more popular songs for 99 cents, while back catalog works or songs from emerging artists will cost 89 cents; albums are expected to retail for between $7.99 and $9.99.

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