Michael Goldberg, longtime editor in chief of sonicnet.com and founder of pioneering webzine Addicted to Noise, resigned from sonicnet.com Wednesday in what he described as a power struggle over the music Web site's direction.

Goldberg said he has been losing autonomy over decisions such as structuring and hiring since former VH1.com Senior Vice President Fred Graver recently assumed the role of general manager at sonicnet.com, a move that is expected to be announced officially soon.

"As little changes happen, you go from point A to point B," Goldberg said. "By the time you get to point B, which is a little ways down the line, suddenly things are really different."

"It's almost impossible to measure the effect of Michael's contributions to sonicnet and Addicted to Noise," Graver said. "We'll be benefiting from his work for years to come."

Graver declined to discuss the circumstances surrounding Goldberg's departure.

Goldberg said he has not decided his next move, although one insider who asked not to be named said he has met with top brass at music site Artistdirect.com. Goldberg said his next position will be with an online company but not necessarily with music news.

The 46-year-old's departure is a notable turn for the editorial division. While other departments at sonicnet.com have seen significant turnover in the past year, editorial has maintained a comparatively loyal staff for several years.

Sonicnet.com Managing Editor Matt Melucci has been put in charge of the editorial department temporarily.

Goldberg, previously an editor and writer at Rolling Stone magazine, launched sonicnet.com's sister publication, Addicted to Noise, in December 1994. ATN was one of the first Net magazines to offer audio samples with album reviews, plus video interview clips and a daily slate of music news.

In 1997 the magazine merged with sonicnet.com, which in turn was bought by MTV Networks last year. Sonicnet.com is now a part of the MTV Interactive Group, which also includes MTV.com and VH1.com.