Many higher-end companies are seeing that their non-HT products are not finding a market. The local dealers are catering to Home Theater almost exclusively (excpet the big boutiques in the biggest major markets). Some mfg'ers have too small of a dealer network to begin with. In both cases, they need market coverage and in-home auditons are their only choice. I am not open to any restocking fee, but gladly pay the shipping. These costs are the mfg'ers cost-of-sale and they need to accept that. If the product comes back, make it available as a demo via their website, etc. Companies like Zu, Ridge Stret Audio and others should be applauded for generous "get-to-market" strategies that include 45-60 day in-home trials, and even include the ability to return products that were custom ordered (specific cabinet colors, etc.). Zu and RSA will pre-burn in their hi-effiency speakers before you take delivery, realizing the small SET amps will never properly prepare the speakers for a decent evaluation.
The high-end audio business is in turmoil right now, and some restocking fees are a natural outbirth. I won't go there, though.
Ted
The high-end audio business is in turmoil right now, and some restocking fees are a natural outbirth. I won't go there, though.
Ted