How to play SHN files
In this guide we will look at playing files with an .SHN extension. These are compressed audio files (not lossy compression and therefore, much larger than MP3 for example). These files are still widely available online despite Shorten being outdated by newer formats such as FLAC.
Introduction & Requirements
Winamp ---> Download and Install Winamp.
ShnAmp ---> This is a plug-in for Winamp to play Shorten audio files. Download it.
WinRAR ---> You will need WinRAR to extract the SHN plug-in.
Download all of the above. The installation of WinAMP is briefly covered below the details of Shorten.
What are SHN files?
SHN files contain compressed audio data. Shorten is what is known as a lossless compression; where the compressed audio can be completely restored to original quality later on. Shorten is no longer under development, yet there are still plenty of SHN files around the Internet for people to download and listen to. This article exists because SHN is still in use, and there are fewer ways of playing it nowadays.
Winamp Installation

Skins, File Associations and Feedback

When you are done, click Finish.
Winamp Player

Shnamp Plugin

Open Windows Explorer or My Computer. Either way, Navigate to C:\Program Files\Winamp\Plugins, as seen below.
Winamp Plug-in's Folder

Your plug-in is now installed. Re-start Winamp.
Success?

Finally
Hopefully now you will be able to listen to any SHN files you acquire from now on. Perhaps converting the SHN files to MP3 might also be a good idea. If you have any problems or need further assistance, please visit our Discussion Forums and ask for help.
Version History
v1.0 --- First Version Online -- Dela (24/07/2008)
Written by: James Delahunty