Does music loaded on the Pearl play in stereo. I assume the answer is yes. Does the Pearl require special type of headset fitting? I have a regular stereo 1/8" fitting and my headsets are only playing on one side.

Very nice stereo! You need an adapter or headset with the proper four band connector (or something like that). Poke around in the forums and you'll find lots of info on this.

The sound is awesome I might add. Get a good set of stereo headsets and you won't be disappointed.

This is what you need: BlackBerry - >> 8100 - Headsets/Audio Adaptors/FM Transmitter

Search there SPECIFICALLY for the BB 8100/Pearl and you'll find 2 different connectors. One is simply a convertor from stereo mini-plug (3.5") to micro-plug (2.5") @ $9.85 and the other also has a microphone on it so you can make/receive calls in-between listening to your music and runs approx $35.

/BD

how does one get music loaded onto the pearl BB?

By connecting the BB to your PC and moving them over. You will need a MicroSD card for this... Well for anything over 2.4 megs.

How do you compress the music files? I have a 512 MicroSD Card but can only fit about 8 songs.

Just google "free mp3 converter" and things sould come up. I usually compress my music to 128 kbps. Good sound quality and doesnt take up as much space as 192 or 320 kbps.