Would an Audiofile really download music?

First, thank you for the link Albert. Now in regard to the question. Being an audiophile is separate from my love of music. In the days of Napster, I downloaded quite a bit of oldies that I was unable to find for purchase or didn't care about purchasing more than the single song. I wouldn't download pieces that I wanted for serious listening. I view the interest in vinyl and what seems to be an increased availablity as a sign that there will always be good quality recordings in different formats for critical listening for those who want them.

Sure. It's just another tool to discover new music. You do seek out new music, right? ;-) (wink, wink)

It's the most efficient way I've found to discover music I might like but would otherwise never hear. Another excellent source for at least some types of music is emusic.com.

It's subscription based and inexpensive, provides samples, and delivers regular mp3's so that you're not limited to any particular playback device.

Can an audiophile own an MP3 player? I can't really work out with a 70 lb tube amp on my back. My ipod doesn't burn me either.

I download songs - listen a few times - and then erase. The amazon samples don't play the whole song and since there is an easy alternative, why not use it.

If there is something I really like. I'll get the CD.