Questions about music on YouTube

First, how is the SQ? 

Sounds great on my laptop.

Second, do the artists get a cut when their video/recording is played?

Depends. Most artists get promoted and paid just fine. One conservative word or theme will get you demonetized and dropped to the bottom of the search results. But its YouTube. You knew that.

how can you tell what the resolution is?

Click on the little gear-shaped symbol (lower right).  

Good recordings sound great on my desktop PC system.

Two Audioengine A2+ speakers. For headphones, an Audioengine DAC and Grado RS-1s. Lots of Perfect Path Technologies "Alpha E-Cards" spread around on the modem and PC, and Perfect Path Technologies "Total Contact" on all connections.

Spotify sounds great too. 

Frank

The audio I get listening to YouTubes through the hi-fi is usually more than good enough.  And it's certainly better than what I get from my drecky laptop.

Just in case anybody wishes to be able to purchase the Perfect Path Tech goodies, my company Marigo Audio was an authorized stocking dealer of Tim's PPT products. I have inventory of most PPT products here. Brand new. My pricing is a bit lower than direct pricing from PPT when in operation. I offer a 2 week in home trial with full refund less shipping if returned. So feel free to try products you haven't yet. Payment is through Paypal. Send me a PM. I'll give a list and pricing.