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Try before you buy?

So, I've been a part of the audiophile community for a long, long time now. A major part of the hobby, IMHO, has been gear rolling: trying new stuff, deciding if you like it, and then moving on to the next thing. Cable rolling is probably second only to tube rolling.
When I was at MIT all those years ago, I decided the industry really needed a true lending library. So, I've been building one and have had huge support from cable companies like MIT and Cardas. It's good for them to let people try their cables out to see how much they like them, if at all. Consumers who really fall in love with a pair of cables will eventually buy, either on the used market here on AudiogoN, or on the new market through authorized resellers.
Anyway, I wondered how many of you would use such a library, and, if so, how you think it might change the way you buy audio gear (if at all). I'd love your feedback.
gavn8r
gavn8r OP
17 posts
 
@nonoise - That’s a terrific point. To address this issue I have a trust system that I built to weed out the people who abuse the system. Time will tell how effective it is. I’m sure it will evolve in the same manner that The Cable Co’s policies did.

@lowrider57 - Yes, I require a credit card to be on file in order for people to borrow my stuff. I offer them a choice to purchase accidental damage protection to protect themselves and me in case something happens.
@sbank - That’s really the point of this; to make an online audio club. :)

gavn8r OP
17 posts
 
BTW, if anyone wants to check out what I've built so far, you can download the app for free from the App Store. For now, I've just got an iOS version, but Android is in the works. :)
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/lendi/id1296139839

tastyfreeze's avatar
tastyfreeze
94 posts
 
Many fine companies will let established customers audition in the home.  The customer pays all shipping.  Easy sales.
meadowman's avatar
meadowman
124 posts
 
What is the sales path in your model?  Let's say that I borrow a pair of Cardas Clear xlrs and like them enough to buy.  Do I get to buy the borrowed pair?  Who do I pay? Cardas? A Cardas dealer? You?  What is my price? Is it set before I borrow the cables?  Who sets the price?  Playing devil's advocate:  I borrow them, like them but return them so I can find a deal on a used pair or I call 20 dealers asking for a big enough discount that I actually buy them.  How does that benefit you?  What if i call Cardas direct and want to have them certify that your loaner cables are authentic?  Not down on the idea, i just see a lot of room for abuse.  How would you know if someone bought cables after returning your loaners?
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