Really? And why is that? And what is "the iPod format"?
If you're referring to AAC, what's wrong with it? I'm all for AAC and the loose restrictions it has. You can burn off as many copies as you want. You can toss em on an an iPod, and plug it into a computer that has iTunes and listen. You might have to authorized the computer... god forbid! Just type in your password and let it do it.
The only problem I have is with the iTMS, which doesn't let you re-download if the files are lost, which is shitty, but I don't care. I keep everything safe.
This foolish opposition to *any and all DRM* is a block to legitimate uses. This ridiculous fight will never end until the hollywood pigopolists are appeased. They're not going anywhere, so you might as well just FUCKING COMPROMISE ALREADY. The tech industry is doing their part in creating fair DRM like Apple's AAC. Shit, even the policies I've seen MS propose are very fair and open.
So, I've got a great idea... stop bitching about how bad "this DRM shit is"... and get your lazy ass out there and fucking do something. I'm going to throw my lot in with the compromise so that *I TOO CAN BE PROTECTED*.
I guess I have a unique perspective, being an independent musician. I don't want to have anything to do with the RIAA, and I certainly don't have any need to CONTROL things. I, and many other musicians would just like a little security.
If you ever hope to move beyond tapes and CDs into a new "digital age" then you have to accept some compromises. If you can't, then go back to the 19 fucking 90s, that shitty ass decade.
(Yes I know that was probably a sarcastic comment, WMD, but it was the perfect leaping-off point. I'm not yellin' at you.)
[ January 13, 2004: Message edited by: Jimmy don't give a shit about MS ]