if, as you suggest, your main objective is to most efficiently discover music (as opposed to collecting discs, achieving the best possible sound, etc.), i'd opt for spotify premium--it has the largest library, excellent recommendation software and very streamlined interface. granted, tidal sounds better (though for me it wasn't a night-and-day improvement), but spotify is much better than mp3 quality and works with many more devices.
Balancing time for music: Discovery/acquisition vs. listening
I have limited time to devote to my music/audio hobby. I love listening to music on my server whenever I get a chance (and this is listening as a destination activity). But I am also aware there is an incredible amount of music out there to be discovered. Liking many different genres only expands the music I want to discover. So, I have to decide how best to use my time: Listening, or discovery/acquisition. I discover music largely via internet radio (nearly infinite choices). I acquire it through a variety of means, from recording music from various sources to buying CDs on line or visiting record shows. But every minute spent adding music to my collection is a minute spent not listening to music on my system. What to do? What do you do? I know many will suggest Tidal as a way to eliminate the acquisition phase, but I am reluctant to pay a monthly fee, and I have been able to stump Tidal when I have had access to it (stump it, meaning I was able to find music not offered on Tidal - mostly obscure stuff, but, there you go). I'd appreciate any input you can give me on how you handle this dilemma. TIA!