Answer: c. a "fair use" exception to the provisions of the act.
Explanation: such digital sampling has been found by some federal courts to be a "fair use" exception to the provisions of the act. Fair use as a legal concept allows the reproduction or copying of copyrighted material without obtaining permission from the makers of such material and without paying fee or royalties. Purposes such as reviews, teaching, news reporting, etc. are all considered under the act.