I'm pretty sure no one who chooses to continue a career in Karaoke has to worry about a thing. Ever since man hit this earth, he has always looked for the chance to be hero or make a fool of himself (or herself). have a great time doing it, and get applause at the same time. This is the outlet man/women has searched for.
Manufactors who produce the karaoke product are just as the KJ's who use it. There are good ones who will survive, and bad ones who will not. As for those who operate illegally, time will eventually tell on them.
As for taxes, most will pay tax on 1099's, and put the cash in their pocket. I seriously doubt anyone pays tax on cash money, despite the claims some will attempt to make as to complete honesty. I know most KJs are pretty much legiimate with their music files, but most have shaded the edge a little at times, despite claims to the opposite. Just the way most humans are.
muzicman