Although 85% of audiophiles are genuine and potentially serious buyers, in my experience there is a full 15% that are tire kickers, audiophile nervosa merry-go-rounders, or just individuals unwilling to pay reasonable discount prices. Some are even looking to try out well reviewed new gear in their home, even if unaffordable....and know they're not keeping it before the manufacturer or dealer even approves the home audition. A 15% restocking fee IMHO is reasonable and the only way these non-local sellers (direct manufacturer sales or online or non local dealers) can avoid these individuals and stay solvent. If you don't agree, as said by others, find a local dealer willing to loan his demo unit for a weekend, even if you have to reserve that weekend 4 weeks in advance....have patience or go to shows to audition gear that interests you, or buy used. Let's please remember that dealer cost is usually 55-60% retail for electronics and 50-60% retail for loudspeakers, depending on whether a distributor is involved. Yes, there are some unethical dealers and resellers out there but most are just trying to make a living.
Restocking Fees, 30-Day Free Trials
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You are really curious about that $25k amp. The online dealer will send it to you on a trial basis with a 15% 'restocking' fee if you decide not to keep it. $3750 gone...if you decide to send it back.
Do you think there should be a cap on restocking fees? Say for up to $25k in equipment, the maximum restocking fee is $1,000? Or, say a flat %5 fee across the board with the buyer paying shipping both ways?
It seems it would be more profitable just to send equipment out on a trial basis and hope it comes back.
What do you think is a fair way or fair fee to let audiophiles try out internet purchases?
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You are really curious about that $25k amp. The online dealer will send it to you on a trial basis with a 15% 'restocking' fee if you decide not to keep it. $3750 gone...if you decide to send it back.
Do you think there should be a cap on restocking fees? Say for up to $25k in equipment, the maximum restocking fee is $1,000? Or, say a flat %5 fee across the board with the buyer paying shipping both ways?
It seems it would be more profitable just to send equipment out on a trial basis and hope it comes back.
What do you think is a fair way or fair fee to let audiophiles try out internet purchases?
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