Businesses are free to set their terms and their prices(within the law), then live with how the market responds. I certainly see the reason for restocking fees, and agree with the practice. If you are not seriously interested in purchasing, you should not order. Dealers cannot fund tire-kickers without losing profit, or raising the prices for the other folks who actually purchase, and I can't agree with the concept that since we pay too much in taxes we should not be obligated to reimburse dealers for their expenses. However, on-line dealers might consider alternate methods of showing their products such as auditions at various audio clubs around the country, and perhaps a traveling demonstration tour similar to what bicycle and snow ski manufacturers do. One thing will never change, we vote with our wallets, then the market sorts itself out.
restocking fees
More high end manufacturers are selling direct and offering home auditions, and many are charging restocking fees of up to 20%. I absolutely respect the right of any manufacturer to charge whatever he sees fit. It's expensive to have product in the field, and companies want to discourage tire kickers, but I see no reason to risk paying a restocking fee when the market offers me so many other choices. Do restocking fees discourage you from trying a product, or is the risk worth taking.