Copyright Law, the interpretation of Options

[sadolakced acid]

Alright, let's keep this a debate, not just stating opinions. that's important.
don't just state your opinion, support it

alright. here's some background

Copyright law prohibits the copying of Digital audio for commercial use. Copying of audio for personal use is allowed, but only first generation copies may be made (copies of the original) second generation copies are illegal (copies of copies). however, computers allow this, and thus the RIAA has said that using your computer to copy digital audio, no matter first or second gen. copies, is illegal. this was ruled as incorrect and not what the law says by a court.

First off, the obvious, is whether or not ripping your CDs to MP3s is illegal

also, is downloading music from online illegal? (copyright law only mentions distributing, not taking)

and, do new CDs that prevent ripping to MP3s, and DRM (digital rights management) WMAs violate the user right to copy?

[*mipadi*]

First off, the obvious, is whether or not ripping your CDs to MP3s is illegal

No. I believe copyright law allows a person to shift their music or film to another medium. Even if that's still a grey area, I think that if I buy a CD, I should be allowed to shift it into whatever form I wish.

also, is downloading music from online illegal?  (copyright law only mentions distributing, not taking)

I believe so. At any rate, I think it is immoral to take something without just compensation from the creator, unless they expressly waive their rights.

and, do new CDs that prevent ripping to MP3s, and DRM (digital rights management) WMAs violate the user right to copy?

Yes, I believe so. DRM limits the rights of the consumers in numerous ways, especially violating the "fair use" provision of US Copyright Law.