true. some people do enjoy the actual merchandise itself (artwork, etc.). but I would like to suggest this, buy the CD you've been wanting through eBay or half.com. you'll save a lot and if you buy from someone with high feedback, you'll get exactly what you was looking for.
or even better, support your local mom & pop used CD store. you'll get better service too.
btw...acutally, the artist is usually responsible for studio time, artwork, promotions, etc.
read this letter from Courtney Love sent to her peers
http://www.boycott-riaa.com/courtney.html