Yeah thats also how I do it.

I have a cool 16 DVD/Bluray ripping rig. Even have scripts that convert ripped images into MKV's with all audio and subtitles, art, etc. Uploads into my Jellyfin.

And yes, I do buy VHS, DVDs, and Blurays. I have probably 3000 movies in physical format, and 10000 audio CDs. I also rip old VHS, which you usually cant find any torrents of. Again, I specialize in rare stuff you cant buy retail or find.

There's also illegal shows, like the old WKRP in Cincinnati. They licensed for TV only multiple songs. Pink Floyd and other artists refuse to license now. Nobody can legally sell them, even if you have the money. Piracy is the only way for the complete show.

There's also a lot more shows that languished in licening hell for decades, or theyre still unobtainable at any price. Some you can get redacted versions, but the originals are illegal no matter what. And as an (well, illegal, but I DGAF) archivist, having shows intentionally lost due to pervasive greed is just... more wrong.

The Wonder Years - finally published in 2021, LOTS of cuts made

China Beach - published in 2013 after clearing hundreds of songs. 17 segments were cut due to licensing fuckery

Northern Exposure - multiple songs redacted on republishing

Pee-wee's Playhouse - multiple songs redacted on republishing

Beavis and Butt-Head - DVD was a hackjob with dozens of songs changed/parodied.

Cold Case - too much licensed content, cant republish

Third Watch - too much licensed content, cant republish

The Drew Carey Show - massive music rights issues, cant republish

Malcolm in the Middle - massive music rights issues, cant republish

Little Monsters (1989) - massive music rights issues, cant republish

Heavy Metal (1981) - tons of rights issues, cant republish

Kids Incorporated / Class of 1999 2 - tons of rights issues, cant republish

I'd like to add Daria to that list. Most of the music has rights issuses and the DVD release has had it all replaced with generic 90s music-like filler.

This.

Once you're into not-currently-selling stuff, as in some original cuts for example, piracy is the only way possible and is in every way better on top of that. It works. And it does not preclude you from paying original creators. Want to send some btc to someone? Want to help with a road trip? Want to help shooting the next season of whatever? Want to fund it outright? No problem.