>>The internet is a beast of a different color, and I think this is where the whole "you can't make money on the web unless it's by selling ad space" scheme is slowly dying without really killing its host. Other modes will be found.
>
>Netflix is certainly one mode.
>In addition, two cable channels are now offering live streaming versions of their programs as a "premium" version of their web sites. The fees seem reasonable and I can turn them on and off easily.
>If this trend continues, I'll be able to pay for just the channels I want when I want them instead of the bundles of useless channels I have to buy in order to get the one program I want.

Exactly what I was proposing here ten years ago.

I'd check the contract and make sure that a strict no ads clause was in, including no self advertising, with the stipulation that for every minute of advertising they owe me a month of unlimited content for free. Then I'd just ask where to send the money... if I'd like the content. OTOH, paying by the hour is also something I'd go for.