2. amps-preamps
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Charging A Fee To Demo An Amplifier In A Brick & Mortar Store

I Saw a pair of pre-owned tube monoblocs for sale on an onlline forum for around $17k.
The seller has a retail store for hiigh end audio. The seller mentioned that there will be an up-front fee for the demo if a prospect comes to the store the amps are not purchased. The demo fee may also be used for credit towards any purchase in the store.

This is the first time I’ve ever heard of this. Is this now a common occurance in high end audio stores? I sent a note to the seller asking what the demo fee amount was....two weeks and I didn’t get a response.

Does anyone know what amount of fees are charged for a demo?
128x128mitch4t
hilde45's avatar
hilde45
4,783 posts
 
@mitch4t is talking about norms and best practices, here, not about "rights." FWIW.
nonoise's avatar
nonoise
10,547 posts
 
I hope this doesn't become a trend in other industries. Imagine going to a car dealer for a look see and test drive and being told, "Nah, it's gonna cost you to test drive this rust bucket."

All the best,
Nonoise
tablejockey
3,772 posts
 
Yup, know where this place is. Weird store layout. No rooms, just  gear everywhere, in an open floor plan. I'd only buy from there if it is something you know you want at the price you want to pay. Better get everything in writing too.


ebm
9,311 posts
 
I never in my entire life paid a fee however today there are to many tire kickers out there.There is no set fee as this is a big ripoff i would buy nothing from that dealer.Good luck with that one.
mapman's avatar
mapman
21,838 posts
 
I could understand it if the item is not on display and the seller has to perhaps acquire the product first or even just set it up just for that.   

Even then, one can just say no whenever vendor terms are not acceptable.
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