Planning to learn Japanese or French? These two Living Language courses point in different directions: one is a comprehensive Japanese program, the other a focused French audio course. Your language choice comes first; only after you've decided which language to study does the format comparison become useful. The real question here is whether you want a broad, multi-part syllabus or a direct audio-led introduction.
Quick verdict
If your priority is Japanese and you want an all-in-one course that can carry you from basics through advanced study, the Living Language Japanese Complete Edition is the stronger fit. If French is the language and you want a compact, audio-centric start, the Living Language French 40-Lesson CD Basics is the more direct choice.
At a glance
| Product | Listed Price | Price Bar | Key Attributes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Living Language Japanese Complete Edition Beginner-Advanced Box Set Books & CDs | USD 49.99 | Language: Japanese; Box Set; Quantity Pack, Book, Audio CD; Beginner to Advanced; Brand New | |
| Living Language Complete Course Basics: French 40 Lessons on 3 Audio CDs Bl3 | USD 17.50 | Language: French; Audio CD; Language Course; 40 Lessons on 3 CDs; Very Good |
Where each product wins
- For a structured, long-term plan, the Living Language Japanese Complete Edition gives you a complete course in one package.
- For a short, listening-based start, the Living Language French 40-Lesson CD Basics keeps the entire course in audio form.
Product notes
Living Language Japanese Complete Edition
The Japanese set is a full study package: a quantity pack of books paired with audio CDs. Published by Random House in 2011, it spans beginner through advanced levels, so you could work through the whole program without needing another course. The condition is listed as Brand New, and the unused packaging means you are getting an untouched set. The limitation is the scale: because it covers so much ground, casual learners may find the full syllabus more than they need for a quick introduction to Japanese.
Living Language French 40-Lesson CD Basics
The French basics course condenses 40 lessons onto three audio CDs, keeping the format simple. It is listed as Very Good condition and described as lightly used, so you know the discs have been handled. That makes it a practical pick if you want to practice French by listening during commutes, walks, or other routines. The limitation is the level: this is a basics course rather than a multi-level program. If your goal is advanced French proficiency, you would eventually need to add more advanced study materials.
Final choice by use case
- Choose Living Language Japanese Complete Edition Beginner-Advanced Box Set Books & CDs, listed at $49.99, if you want a full course in a box set and a long-term Japanese study plan.
- Choose Living Language Complete Course Basics: French 40 Lessons on 3 Audio CDs Bl3, listed at $17.50, if you want a focused French audio course and prefer a compact lesson set.
