Not a musician. Not an audiophile. Just a casual listener. And can't speak to other services. But the $36 for Pandora is worth every penny. Feed a few songs or artists, and let it roll. No ads, no obnoxious DJs, no endless repetition, and no blaring stylistic departures (and if occasionaly its a bit of a stlyistic stretch, the thumbs down helps refine its choices). And we get to hear music that is enjoyable but not likely to be purchased. Great for "white noise" music while working.