Not being set-up to handle digital downloads yet, I am indifferent to the increase in download sales. There's a bunch of threads out there that bespeak the virtues and tribulations of digital downloads. I have only one view --it is still unclear to me that the music industry has settled on a standard format or quality standard.
As an fyi, ARC just released a Ref DAC that purportedly can decode every known format known to man, including the Captain Crunch decoder ring format. If you think I'm gonna drop $16K on that toy -- you'll need to double your meds.
Until formats and audiophile grade standards are adopted, I respectfully decine to play. Thank goodness I can still buy CDs and vinyl (used or new). Sh*t, I'd be glad if there was an industry consensus on SACD that equals or exceeds vinyl. And even here, numerous Forum posts are "to'in" and "fro'in" about SACD, which has been around for a while.
So, until that time comes, I patiently wait and enjoy what I have. FWIW/IMHO.
As an fyi, ARC just released a Ref DAC that purportedly can decode every known format known to man, including the Captain Crunch decoder ring format. If you think I'm gonna drop $16K on that toy -- you'll need to double your meds.
Until formats and audiophile grade standards are adopted, I respectfully decine to play. Thank goodness I can still buy CDs and vinyl (used or new). Sh*t, I'd be glad if there was an industry consensus on SACD that equals or exceeds vinyl. And even here, numerous Forum posts are "to'in" and "fro'in" about SACD, which has been around for a while.
So, until that time comes, I patiently wait and enjoy what I have. FWIW/IMHO.