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Describe the way you use file sharing

I've had this debate too many times, and wanted to get an opinion from others. I know this is a totally unobjective crowd on the subject, but where else can i ask the question? Anyway, here it goes:

With file sharing sites, the ones Like Kazaa and Limewire... etc, do you download songs to:

1) prevent yourself from having to buy the cd if the rip is a good quality rip
2) demo a cd before you buy, but definitly buy the cd; or look for new artists before you buy
3) sometimes buy the cd and sometimes don't.

If you fall into category #2, and you find a musician you really liked, would you then be encouraged to buy more of that musician's cds based on your downloads?
mdomnick
curbach
84 posts
 
I only use these sharing services to acquire rare songs that are not readily available by other means (e.g., the cd is out of print, bootlegs, etc). I'll also download new/previously unreleased songs that are only available on otherwise useless greatest hits albums --I consider that fighting fire with fire.

Otherwise, I will always buy the cd.
jeffloistarca
1,004 posts
 
I've heard it all..."I only download the two songs that are worthwhile, why buy the CD?" and my favourite "everyone does it, the recording industry has to adapt". Don't pay artists; they will find other ways to support themselves, it's not too tough to figure out. I'll climb off my soapbox. On a related note have you noticed the huge jump in CD prices lately? No wonder people steal the music. Recording companies are their own worst enemy.
aroc
760 posts
 
Out side of college radio, it's the only way for me to hear new stuff. I guess I tend to fall into #2. Since the rips are free, you get what you pay for (i.e., the rip quality is generally poor). If it's worth buying the music, I'll buy it. Else, I forward it to my brother. I know he likes free music without having to pay for it (he falls into #1). But I've been known to keep a few things around as background music on my $20 computer speakers.
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