why you should own both digital and analog music
June 23 2023 - back
The other day I went with some friends to a bunch of Goodwill stores, among other activities, HUGE blast btw had a lot of fun. Among several goodies I got this awesome CD player which came with these decent speakers, not studio quality per se but a lot better than aux. It just reminded me of how analog is still a viable media in 2023 despite the widespread existence and usage of digital platforms.
Personally I accept the benefits and downsides of both. Digital platforms like spotify and youtube give you a wide range of music that you can access instantly, and can be recommeded to you according to an algorithm trained by your music listening trends. However, this music is ONLY available through these platforms, and you need an internet connection (as well as a paid subscription if you don't want ads, or at least some wacky quasi-legal method of circumventing this paywall) to access it. Plus, something that is of increasing concern in this age of massive online companies is the morality of the company itself; what if you don't like the way that Spotify pays artists?
These points are where analog comes superior, as you can access your music without using the internet, and without going through a 3rd party service (except for a store i guess). Plus, acquiring a CD, tape or big-boy disc is a one-time purchase, and as long as you don't donate it to Goodwill or play it in a slightly suspicious tape deck, it'll be around for a long while.
Indeed, I'm aware that not everybody just has a CD player or cassette deck lying around. But in that case... get one? I'm sure you'll find something decent at your local Goodwill or
I have yet to even mention probably the greatest benefit of analog music, and it's not one that a layman may think of; analog almost ALWAYS is higher quality. Don't get me wrong, aux is amazing technology, and Bluetooth is impressive, but once you've heard California Gurls blasting through your speakers, you can never really go back. It's like living your life drinking nothing but Kroger-brand cola and then trying Pepsi for the first time.
So, uh, try it I guess. Or don't if you prefer to suck Neal Mohan's massive dong.