I'm no expert.  Far from it.  However, I see distinct advantages of
pneumatic systems used in musical instruments over newer electronic
systems.  I've been in electronics for thirty years.  Over that time
I've repaired and maintained, to the component level, computers of all
sizes, from room-sized main frames, desk-sized mini-computers, and
personal computer systems, even pocket-sized portables.  The main
reason those systems become obsolete is not necessarily because newer
systems are faster but because components are no longer manufactured.
I've observed the same thing in pipe organs.  Electronic relays from
the 1980s and 1990s are being replaced in toto because the integrated
circuits (chips) from that vintage are no longer available.

So, we go from a sophisticated system with simple components, where
someone with reasonable skills can re-manufacture components and
restore operation of the complete system, to a sophisticated system
with microscopic components that require highly technical equipment and
skills.  It is economically impractical to restore an electronic system
that is twenty or thirty years old.  While it is possible for someone
familiar with electronics to replace a few transistors, capacitors,
resistors, etc., it is virtually impossible to repair integrated
components.

Another issue is durability.  I've read reports of instruments that are
40, 50, 100 years old that are still playable.  On the other hand,
anyone who gets twenty years out of modern electronic systems should
consider himself extremely lucky.  I know there are exceptions.  I
imagine there are even a few Pianocorders out there that still work.  I
would bet, though, that most of them do not.

Recording media is another issue.  Floppy disks are rarely available
(give up trying to find any 360KB versions).  Cassette tapes may still
be available for the foreseeable future, but then again?  CDs are
available for the time being.  None of these types of media will last
100 years, as a paper roll will.  According to research done by the
Library of Congress, with luck you will get three to five years from a
CD you record yourself.  Yours may still work, but--trust me--the data
on them are not long for this world! 

Comments or criticisms on these thoughts are welcomed.

Bill Budenholzer