I don't think "ethics" are a nuisance, it is just that everyone has a different standard of what ethics should be - and an application that doesn't always relate to the circumstance.

Our friends on the other side of the ocean have different laws.   I'm also a bit surprised by what seems to be a philosophy that "the ends justify the means" - an effort to preserve overlooking the rights and common courtesy that should be extended.   Alan's mention of a concertina recording is a good example - if it becomes a "hit" (probably when pigs learn to fly!), then the same "O Brother Where Art Thou" scenario takes effect. (I stand corrected on the Library of Congress efforts to pay royalties. There are other examples of these efforts as well.)

I do believe if there is concern, a copyright lawyer should be consulted, not a bunch of us altercockers here on Mudcat. It is all opinion,loosely based on personal experiences, and it is obvious that each of us have different experiences.   Going back to the original post, I don't think that in the U.S. a "hobby" type archiving is going to ruffle any feathers or land anyone in jail for infringement on rights issues.