There are some genuine differences, but these are probably only discernible to a relatively small subset of humans, who have genuinely superior hearing to the rest of us - especially as we age. However, to the best of my understanding, the magic of vinyl also has to do with how some individuals consume music. From the appreciation of larger artwork on a physical medium to the act of making time for the process of listening to an album, almost like a little ritual - arguably helping the mind switch to “and now I’ll listen to good music and give it full attention” mode. While I don’t fit that demographic, I can definitely respect it.
Your totally on point. From an audio quality stand point, people will argue to the bone that it’s better because there is “infinite” resolution. In reality that doesn’t really matter because of the resolution things are pressed at, and since most music now a days comes from a digital source.
The way sound can differ from a digital release is in the mixing. (Since the stylus is physically moving, a mix that’s too “hot” can actually throw the needle off.) This mixing can sound better from a digital release (It could be because these engineers have more practice, or because of those physical constraints). The medium also generally sounds warmer.
As for me personally, I have a handful of records. I don’t really listen to them, but I like supporting the artist, along with having something physical to show off.
The "warmer" sound I kind of disagree with. When music is played from vinyl in clubs, I would describe the sound as slightly metallic. Digital is neutral.
I think digital is best for fidelity (it's pretty much a scientific fact), and I see vinyl playing as an effect like an effect pedal and there is nothing wrong with that. If the mastering of the LP is better, I'll prefer it, too.
