Musicians Tell How to Beat System

Sony BMG is now releasing U.S. titles on cds that have digital rights managment. These rights select which file formats consumers can to copy the music and how many copies can be made. Right now MP3 is not one of the formats. Currently, the software on the cds is only compatible with Microsoft Windows Media programs, which means that Apple users cannot use these protected cds to rip music on to iPods. Many artists whose cds are protected are unhappy with this new regulation. Artists such as Dave Matthews Band, Foo Fighters, and Switchfoot, are making posts on their websites to let fans know how to get around this new technology. There have been many complaints to Sony BMG, and the result of compaints? Sony directs customers to a website that shows how to get around the DRM protection. In essense, SonyBMG is only hurting itself by angering the consumer.

My question is will this have an impact on the sales of cds by Sony? Will they lose business from consumers who own iPods and Apple products, or will there be any affect on the company since many artists are showing consumers the way around the DRM regulation?