granted, even if i were one to buy files, i would be opposed to monopolies, but i will download a free mp3 or sampler on amazon because it's so easy. i'm not sure that effectiveness is the problem. the music that can't be found on iTunes or amazon mp3 is pretty fringe, and even most of that has specialty sites where it can be legally purchased. the problem is that a lot of people consider downloads to have no monetary value. changing distribution isn't going to change that.