One thing I did not point out, which is well known to digital fans; the veritable, and in many respects literal, world of music available for a relative pittance, that is brought to my room via digital is incomparable. Would anyone disagree that this is a Platinum age of audio simply for that reason? My goodness, the limitless selection and ability to explore as a result of streaming! This variety of music has also kept my zeal going for the longer term. :)
It does go against my conservative nature to spend about $200/year for no tangible benefit, no media, no long term retrieval of an asset from money spent on audio. But, you do not get one without the other. For me, the cost is defensible, considering the cost of other hobbies for experiences which also are irretrievable. So, I could have ten albums, or 10,000 "albums" made available to me. It's not a difficult choice for me. :)
