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I notice a lot of reviewers buy the sample piece

When I read Absolute Sound or Stereophile I notice quite a few reviewers will buy the sample gear. Do they get the piece at dealer cost or even below that? I wonder if they have to keep it for a period of time before they can resell it?

taters
jl35
2,244 posts
 
They often use that as the ultimate endorsement. I have read in many places that they get a great price, but there is a time limit before they can sell. 
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jafant's avatar
jafant
10,525 posts
 
The reviewers get an "endorsement" discount. I feel confident that it is at a cost or below price.
jea48
2,944 posts
 

jafant said:


The reviewers get an "endorsement" discount. I feel confident that it is at a cost or below price.


For most high end equipment manufactures that would be 60% of MSRP.

Mid Fi 50% of MSRP.

Shipping? I would imagine none. The manufacture would have paid for shipping for his/her product to be reviewed.

zavato's avatar
zavato
903 posts
 
Industry accommodation pricing, which is below dealer cost (dealer cost typically is 60% of msrp). 

Includes a a commitment to keep the gear for a period of time, at least a year. Some gear is shipped to reviewers under extended loan. 

Not it all reviewers are Boy Scouts, though.

Buying the gear is a critical endorsement-.ie, putting your money where your mouth is, but it's not entirely genuine. The phono cartridge which just got a rave may cost you $5000 but it might cost the reviewer $2000. 
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