Robm321, I don't agree with you about a 10+ year timeline, and this has never been part of the discussion as far as I'm aware.
I believe we have a disconnect because of semantics here. Let me be clear, and then I'm going to call it a day on this topic.
I'm not debating the necessity for creation of a new Hi Rez recording format. I don't necessarily believe the recording format used to create SACD silver discs - DSD, or whatever it is - is going to fade away, although in time it could be supplanted by a superior method. What I'm specifically referring to is the silver disc delivery method of the DSD recording...the SACD (Super Audio Compact Disc). I believe DSD audio could be, and will be delivered via another, less expensive method , in a very short amount of time...months, and certainly less than a year, and I base my supposition based on the current delivery of HDTV. All that is holding back delivery of DSD audio via broadband is available bandwidth and an apppropriate music file format. You're right, though, this is guesswork on my part. Isn't the bulk of what is being discussed here based on guesswork? Thus far, I have not read a single post written by an expert in marketing, production or delivery of music.
In my view, the SACD silver discs will decline, and eventually disappear as will Redbook CD silver discs, and DVD-A silver discs, and DVD silver discs, especially concerning audio-only recordings. Broadband delivery is the wave of the future, in my opinion. None of us knows how soon the transfer will be completed, but I'm betting it's sooner rather than later. One only has to look at the availability of USB connections on commercially produced DVD machines like those from Denon, and Cary (someone here mentioned the Cary, I believe) to know that even the hardware manufacturers are covering their bases and assisting the consumer with the inevitable transition.
So, to recap; I don't believe DSD recordings, on which SACD silver discs are based, are going away. I do believe production of the discs themselves will decline, as will Redbook CDs and other silver dics. And, I believe delivery of the DSD recordings (or other Hi Rex formats) will be done via broadband methods.
I hope I've made my position clearer.
This is not a Save-The-World discussion. It's been brain massaging entertainment, but it's time for me to change the channnel.
Click.
:)