Intricate entrances, exits and varied positions of spins are far more attractive to watch than an extra 30 seconds or more of footwork. Nor do I think it detracts from the music unless the music is not cut to enhance this aspect of the program. That's why Meryl & Charlie always do such great elements. Charlie knows how to cut the music to show an element to its best advantage.
Who ever said an extra 30 seconds or more of footwork would replace spins? That doesn't even make sense.
Here is the spin in Davis/White's FD this season: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wqB_HeOQ6PU&t=2m30s
To me, it has little/nothing to do with the music and the change of foot is particularly distracting. The exit is nice, but that movement could have been part of the choreography anyway.