I think the way forward is for artists to sell their own directly via the internet.

I dont think selling compressed audio formats like MP3s to people is the way forward. If you own a MP3 you dont own the whole song, you own a compressed version of the song which means there is lots of audio information missing which will effect sound quality. Theres something not quite right about it... Its like buying a new car but a part of the engine is missing (but u might not notice so its ok)... lame.

Artists could sell CDs or distribute uncompressed .wav/.aiff files of tracks online, they will obviously take longer to download but at least your getting the real deal , I think anyone who values music will be more than happy to download / buy uncompressed audio directly from the artist including me...