Fee for home audition


I am in the market for a music server/streamer. I was discussing with one of the authorized dealers for a streamer. He had a demo unit and was willing to bring to my home for an hour and let me try. He is located around 10-15 minutes from my home. He wants to charge 5% for home demo. Is this the industry standard? I am not meaning to disparage anyone so not going to name the dealer. I am just trying to see what the standard practice is. 

svenjosh

@svenjosh 

Looking forward to your impressions on different AES cables. I have been out of conventional digital (AES/Coax and USB) cable pursuits but still like to keep up. 

@ghasley I did not name my current dealer as he requested me not to. He is aware of this thread. The Grimm dealer network is small and he is shipping from another region, he does not want to seem like stepping on someone’s shoes.

If anyone is interested in buying the Grimm Mu1, PM me, I can get you in touch with couple of very good dealers. 

@svenjosh I don't think you should've told a story like this. You should've just asked about the industry standard and keep it simple. 

While I appreciate good courtesy of dealers going out of their way to accommodate. I would not put anyone on the spot like this. He's spending his time, his gas, and his effort on you. He should get something in return. This is at the end of the day, a business meeting, not a casual friend meeting. 

I side with the dealer. There's no such thing as a free lunch. I go out to eat and I get charged 20% tip. That's why I don't go out to eat anymore. 

You have to ask yourself. What would you do if there was no dealer? You buy from a place that hopefully has a free trial and you pay back and forth shipping. Which one is better? That or the 5% fee in the story where he brings it to your room?

Full transparency, I only side with the dealer based on what you initially said. I'm not a fan of the 15% restocking fee or whatever hidden fee awaits me. 

@samureyex I appreciate your input. I was just trying to find the norm in these situations rather than decide who is right. I actually now purchased the Grimm Mu1 from another dealer. So all good

Just fyi, there are a good number of dealers who send in a demo to your home for 2 weeks with only return shipping paid by the potential buyer. This will be waived if you end up buying the product. Most are in the west coast or Midwest. If anyone is interested, PM me.