The Digital Music Revolution Evolves: Who deserves the upper hand in DRM?

HEY, online music consumers! I buy my songs from iTunes (and in full disclosure, I really like the iTunes works), as you can see from nearly every Nick'd post that concerns music. I dare you to search through my posts and challenge me otherwise.

As soon as I heard that EMI was going to be releasing its songs without DRM (Digital Rights Management) on iTunes, I was excited. Usually, I download the song, pay my $.99 and then, if I want to share it or have another file format, I have to burn the songs to a disc then rip them back to my iTunes, leaving me with two versions of the each song and then because of my mild obsessive compulsive disorder, I have to decide if I want to delete the original AAC Protected Audio File (iTunes proprietary music files that can't be shared without my aforementioned "sneaky" work around). Of course, I don't delete it because that's the file I paid for and what if I need it for some reason. It's just taking up room on my computer, not on the floor in my apartment or anything.

So, needless to say, I was excited that I wouldn't have to go through this ordeal with the new EMI plan. It wouldn't be all of my favorite artists, but it is a huge step in right direction. On top of that, the sound quality will be improved. Not CD quality, but closer.

However, there is a catch. The music on iTunes that features these thrilling new qualities will come at a small increase from $.99 to $1.29 per song. Wha...?!?!? No, actually, it's fine to me. I think if you improve your product you're allowed to escalate the price, especially when it's a matter of digital pocket change.

While I'm sure I'm not the only one excited about this announcement, Reuters/Billboard c/o The New York Times says, "Higher Digital Music Prices Not A Good Deal." Well, that clears that up. Right. For a moment after reading (and, admittedly, some skimming of) the article, I decided I disagree with the fancy news article and I'd post my response here.

I'm excited. The deal is Nick'd. Where do I buy? Oh, right, iTunes. Thanks.

UPDATE:

Basically, adult digital music consumers think the $.99 price is fair. So, $1.29 may be too much. Time will tell.