Well, I might as well throw down, though I doubt it will be instructive. As a relative computer newb (I'm still trying to figure out how to "host" pictures of album covers so I don't flood the user galleries with useless pics) i'm still getting my sealegs with the concept of file types and compatability. This would then throw me in the camp of those concerned with quality and user friendliness.
As far as ethics go, I agree, to an extent, with JRA. Assuming that we're talking about downloading an entire album, or even the majority of one, I fell it is sending a bad message. The artists, afterall, have labored long and hard and deserve to make their scratch. Now, if yer talkin' about fan-made comps with multiple artists, I don't think that's such a bad deal. I've had some characters send me comps that have resulted in my buying five or seven cds to get more of some specific artists. As I might never have been exposed to these artists, I fail to see the harm and the record companies got more money in the end.
If the original artist is dead, then in my book all bets are off. What do I care if Artist X's wife's second cousin's son gets a royalty check because he's listed in the "estate". As someone who stands to lose a pretty penny due to this country's "Death Tax" I have a hard time singing a song of woe for the estates.

At the end of the day, it's really a wash for me. I still like going brick and mortar, and the thrill of the hunt is invigorating. A lot of times, when I am not hunting something in particular, I buy labels. I've found some great gems that way, and with Chesky, Telarc, et al. I've heard some pretty amazing sq that I have not heard rivalled by somebody's pc.

I guess, as of now, I remain not-so-blissfully ignorant and on the fence...