I agree with Adrian. He owns a store and is transparent that he talks about the products that he carries. It is very different if a CZcams creator acts as if he is an unbiased reviewer, and then pushes merchandise that the creator receives funding for and does not reveal that information. I have compiled a list of such scoundrels in the high end audio world and will publish them. Good for Audio Excellence Canada!
Plz do brother, am eager to know, I'm. An animator and know editing as well, If u can email me the list, I'll make a CZcams channel to expose these guys
This is why this is my favorite channel. The CZcamsr reviews have a lot less to lose and every opportunity to hide. Adrian and team here put their store on the line with their reviews - so much to lose so more to put on the line to put out transparent information.
Great topic !! As long as there is full disclosure up front that a specific review is being compensated, then I am ok with it. Since the vast majority of reviews are positive, as a consumer, I infer that the product that does not have reviews are not as good as the ones that have lots of reviews. Along the same topic, there is a publication called The Wine Advocate (has since gone online only) that I subscribe since the early 80's.... the major reason is the founder/ reviewer went to great lengths to ensure his independence from the wineries / distributors / importers etc.... and he does not accept any advertisement, that it is all user supported. I love your idea of PATREON support.
I think it is illegal not to clarify wether a video is sponsored or not. The problem is once you say bad things about a product chances are they won’t send you new stuff for review. Same with magazines. If you are bashing a product from company x that company won’t advertise in your magazine. So most only do positive revs or no rev at all. Here in Cologne it is common that Hi-Fi dealers only try to sell you what they have in store. And that is always a small range because competition is unwanted. So store a is dealing with product a b c and Store d has d e f (but none a b or c). So honest advice is not what you get. If you are lucky Store a tells you that product a is better for your needs than b or c but if they make More money selling product b (I am looking at you B&W) they often simply lie to you. So no matter where you look you have to take everything with a grain of salt.
Good points! I have a small audiophile CZcams channel and so far everything I’ve reviewed I’ve purchased, except for one amplifier that I’ve borrowed from a friend. The most important thing to me is my reputation and I believe that transparency and honesty are paramount. I’ve never had the opportunity to be paid or to receive free gear but if that were to happen, it would present a situation that I’d have to address with my viewers in order to preserve their trust and to keep my objectivity and transparency.
Having been in this hobby for 20 years and having worked in it for a few years, I would suggest that people read reviews as entertainment, but always trust your ears. I can see where Adrian is upset because is supposed to not be biased is biased. It's funny, regardless of how often he discloses that he's OK with reviews in general, that people answer based on their own agenda.
Finally we have excellent audio! I can hear Adrian clearly instead of being muffled, and I didn't have to turn up the volume. Thanks so much! Please keep this up.
Loving all the content lately - great production quality and love the passion you guys have for this. I would personally say as long as it’s FULLY DISCLOSED that it’s paid, it’s fine - you go in eyes wide open. Also people know over time reviewers they feel operate with integrity vs those that are product shills
Agree with Adrian. To be paid or otherwise compensated for a “review” by the maker of a product turns the “review” into advertising which, even on CZcams, should be disclosed upfront. Obviously to not disclose this is misleading because it colours the impartiality of the review. CZcams is a bit of an ethical mess.
How can a Stereophile reviewer not know what advertising exists in the magazine (or website). They obviously read their own stuff, so they know. They might not know if the ad is placed in the same month as the review, but they obviously know over the long term what companies advertise in their magazine.
I pay zero attention to the advertisement in the magazine. Why would I? They have nothing to do with how I am paid. And I am far too busy trying to turn in a good review to be concerned about advertising. There’s a strict wall between between editorial and sales at stereophile. Do some advertisers get their products reviewed? Sure they do. But there are many advertisers who never get their product reviewed. This is not a pay to play publication.
@@kenmicallefjazzvinylaudiop6455 That's good to know as I've always trusted your magazine to be truthful. 'Great article on the KLH Model 5 by the way.
Paid review means advertising for me. If the person don't even disclose it it's even worst. He is a scammer. Everybody should be paid for their work assuming you're providing a service. But if what you do is a scam or not trustworthy it's of no use. I only trust people who do it for fun or have a Patreon or other means to finance themselves. The moment you are in conflict of interest you're no longer valid. We can't trust you
@@bikemike1118 As always one have to be critical of anything. Even if you're legit i'm going to judge by myself how legit you appear to be ? But i must know first if you at least come correct with what you're doing ? example: New record day : i like the guy and was a patreon for almost 1 year. But too much pc stuff and too much advertisement hidden force me to stop taking him too seriously even tho i think he is one of the best at what he is doing. The problem is some times he'll review something we know is bullshit and he'll never call it that and later you learn that it was a sponsored show. That's bordeline betrayal to me.
All HiFi reviews, almost by definition, are highly subjective and this is largely due to the fact that there is no easy way to objectively prove how good or bad a product is. The best reviews and this includes those done by Audio Excellence, talk to the reviewers perception of how the products sound and what they do and don't like about them. They also make it quite clear that this is only their opinion, all be it based on many years of listening to different equipment. If you are being paid to review a product, then the perception (even if that's not the case) is that you are no longer talking about your honest opinion of a product, you are simply saying what the manufacturer wants to hear. Basically if that payment is not declared up front, the reviewer in question is simply advertising the product and disguising that fact as independent opinion.
Adrian, you are spot on. I believe in transparency and disclosure, especially in reviews on ones description of their experience. There will always be bias, but reducing by acknowledgement of the arrangement is helpful. Same with drug company "testing."
Excellent job again guys…you touched on a lot of very important area’s that can affect a purchase of some expensive gear and that plays a important role in people’s decisions especially when a in store demo is not possible
In my field of medicine, we have to disclose completely who has sponsored our research.Then it’s up to the readers to determine if there is any bias in the data and conclusions. I don’t see why a reviewer shouldn’t be different. Yes if a person does receive some kind of compensation from the manufacturer/distributor a viewer could be biased. However his or her videos will determine credibility over time. If the reviews seem very credible, reliable and objective, then even if the compensation disclosure is provided, the subscribers and viewers will STILL trust the reviews because the reviewer has earned their trust.
I can't remember who it was exactly but he is a well known Hifi CZcams reviewer, who once said he will only post reviews of products he likes. I guess that's one way round it because there are certain reviewers that do not want to trash talk other products, but instead will simply ignore it. Please also bare in mind, that ultimately the consumer are the best Judges. If a reviewer raves on positives about a particular product and in reality does not meet the expectations of the consumer, then the reviewer has his or her's reputation at peril.
I think you have a very valid point, I have a hard time trusting You Tube reviewers especially when they do not declare their financial interests. You guys do a good job. Keep it up! 👍
OK, here's my 2 cents. Adrian et al are a store. Therefore, it's their job to sell product. (I appreciate your client statement and believe it to be a cornerstone for specialty retailers.) It follows that the products they show are products they like and sell. Magazines (and their websites) are supported by advertising. This is clear. Some mags manage to keep a firewall between advertising and editorial, others less so. YT reviews present a different set of problems. Unless the reviewer clearly states whether he is receiving compensation for his/her reviews, we can't tell. Under compensation I would include any form of remuneration, including keeping the review sample. And if they are being compensated, then I'd say their "review" is actually advertising and not to be considered an objective review.
Thank you Adrian and the gang for making this video. I can see why this would be eating at someone. It's tough to find many negative reviews these days. I look at reviews now with more skepticism than I ever did back in the day. I wish I did back than knowing what I know now. If a person isn't upfront at the start of the review on how they got to review unit that's misleading. I had no idea a reviewer could request a percent of future sales $$ in exchange for reviewing a piece. How could that not be a positive review ! ? Or keeping a pricey piece of gear in exchange for a review. Again, how could you say anything bad? Chances are it will be a good review but it will be hard to convince some people of your bias. I treat each review as just one out of many reviews or data points and get a overall but feeling. The beauty of the intermet is you can go online about and find reviews of just about any piece and from the actual people that own it. Appreciate the videos as always! It's nice to hear Adriana opinion on topics like this. I wish more people were as honest.
1. As long as there is disclosure, then I will give the review at least initial consideration. 2. I like to think I can sniff out B.S., at least over a period of time. Reading their work over many reviews, I can form an opinion. Even if I’m not totally accurate it’s my choice and others may disagree, which is fine.
Good video. Both of you. I've have friends that own/used to own HiFi stores and know every trick in the book and can smell a paid YT Video from a mile (okay kilometer Eh!) away.
Adrian, I think what may be bothering you is the conflict of interests that some reviewers may have in that they are being compensated with cash or product for an interview. The conflict of interest is that if that reviewer reviews the product negatively they know that the manufacturer will not send them anymore product for reviews again which will hurt them financially. That is the issue. That is also why they don’t post negative reviews. They make up other excuses as to why they don’t post negative reviews. But I think it is at least in part to the conflict of interest above. However your suggestion of supporting reviewers via Patreon is a good one. To take that further, reviewers could post negative product reviews for Patreon patrons only. That may at least in part mitigate the conflict of interest. But I am glad that you brought up this topic. Thanks from Chicago.
Hi guys I'm all the way over here and down in Australia and l love your channel. I love it for a few reasons and the first one and probably the most important is, I feel like part of the Audio excellence family. As you said Adrian I feel like a client not a customer. One of the other very important reasons is that I feel like I can trust what you guys are saying. Because you do say very clearly that you've bought this, this is yours you have a vested interest. Your always balanced and if there's anything negative to say your always very forthcoming with that. And over the year or so now I've been watching that has allowed me to feel like I can trust what you're saying. I love my Wilson's, I have a pair of sashes and watchdog 2 Sub. So I guess there's an attraction there as well. You guys are into Wilson audio as am l. P.S Vilip I sold my Watt puppy 7's and couldn't be happier with my upgrade to Sasha's. I guess to answer the question that's posed in the video I would want to know if a reviewer was being paid in some kind of way for there review. It only seems right and the sorts of things should be transparent. If you're expecting people to trust what you say they have two first be able to trust you. Anyway guys great video and keep up the fantastic work. Your fan Aussie Shane.👍🎧😁
"And all testing of components should be blind testing." If al testing was blind, then a big chunk of the high end audio business would cease to exist, especially for cables.
Your not Crazy at all Adrian in fact you nailed it, I live in Australia and have found that there are so many promoters of a product for financial gain not just to tell a potential buyer the worts and all truth about it. I enjoy the style that you guys have it appears or comes across as a couple of guys who know their stuff talking about why they like or dislike a product options and alternatives. I do miss Jay though really enjoyed the banter between the three of you. Onwards and upwards guys.
As a consumer of High-end Hifi, I personally would like to see endusers review their purchased products rather than CZcams reviews from T&S, ZF, SG, J, S or from AR. Not to forget JD. All these reviewers are for entertainment purposes.
Thanks for clearing that up, I see it also and I completely agree. How the hell can you take what a person says literally when they are getting a cut of the sales. It's as bad as a shitty used car salesman, they know its shit, but it's all about the money not the people buying the product. Also I always wondered what you guys thought about the Golden Ear speakers you did the unboxing of. I had heard them at another store experianced something similar, where the powered sub didn't kick in until the dial was sitting at nine o'clock, then it started working a lot better. Thanks guys. See you soon
not only are these CZcams reviewers being paid to do the review and in some cases are allowed to keep the product being reviewed but these reviewers are being told by the manufacturers that if the review is positive,(and when was the last time you saw a negative review on youtube?) that they will be compensated on the back end, recieving a percentage of the increased sales...Adrian, this is easily confirmed, just ask Jay!
In the p.c gaming hardware space they do it differently a lot of the time. They do sponsored videos on specific products highlighting features and details about the product. Then they do separate videos that are reviews and they are never paid for by the manufacture. Linus Tech tips, Jays two cents and Hardware Nexus are examples. Guess what happens you end up with good reviews and negative reviews.The paid product videos always have disclosure and if the title has the word review it is not paid. Of course not everybody is honest buy usually the shady ones are discovered.The channels will get sponsorship from completely un- related companies to fund them.
The issue with saying it’s paid by the manufacturer is you will automatically assume it’s biased. I agree in transparency but I also want to hope people reviewing hifi do it for the love of it as it isn’t a huge industry on CZcams. I saw a reviewer do the Altair G1 and they said this was paid, the whole video said it was the most incredible piece they’d listened to, the best digital sound they’d heard. It was almost pointless listening to the video because it was clear how incredibly biased it was. For me, I’d avoid anyone doing paid reviews by the manufacturer and stick to the smaller guys who do it for enjoyment or those that are paid by other sponsors. No review is going to be 100% given all our tastes are different, but it’s a starting point to go out and audition.
I honestly don't see where it is a lot different than someone that sells audio gear doing a review. You are trying to sell a product, of course you are going to make the product seem good. That is not meant to be a slam on you guys so please don't take it that way. I don't know any of you and I just found this channel so I don't know jack about you. It is just an observation. This summer I went looking for a headphone amp and dac. The only place in my area that actually carried any tried to sell me a 5,000 dollar (USA) McIntosh headphone amp, said I really needed balanced cables and told me my digital cable was "noisy". Keep in mind I own 150 dollar AKG's and 350 dollar Sundara headphones. I told them I was more in the market for something in the 300 dollar price range and I could maybe stretch it to 400 if the product was impressive enough to warrant it. And that was actually a lot of money for me. And to also keep in mind I am not a huge headphone fan to begin with. I do most of my listening with speakers. Headphones are something I use when I have to, not because I want to. This guy proceeded to go to his computer and pull stuff up and said "Well we don't carry anything like that but we can order something.". I told him thanks but it is 2021, I can order something off the web myself. And probably get it cheaper. I kind of wanted to see and hear the product first. I am weird that way. I ended up going with Schiit Audio products by the way and am quite happy with my purchase. I will note they were never rude or snotty with me or made me feel like a "poor" person. Which I am lol. They just said they don't carry lower end equipment is all and they really don't even sell headphones. They mostly deal in high end home theater gear. Not sure why they had a 5k headphone amp in stock then, but they did. They said it really is a shame that Best Buy and other stores like that don't carry headphone amps. They carry decent enough headphones you would think they would sell amps to pair with them. I also agree with what the gentleman off camera said. If I look at several reviews from a person or publication and they are all glowing reviews and nothing disappoints them I tend to ignore those reviews. I understand that some people simply don't post reviews, or will refuse to review a product they don't like. They just send the product back with some feedback and say "you probably don't want us to publish a review on this.". Which I think is fair and nice of them to do. And some just won't trash a product because they don't feel good about doing it. Or in some cases with a publication it could effect advertising I guess. However I am much more impressed if I can find an independent reviewer that doesn't have problem saying he didn't like a product and describing why. Or flat out tell you the product is a rip off, not worth the money and don't buy it. It is a personal preference thing, it just isn't a good product and has obvious flaws.
If the Reviewer, CZcams or magazine, ask for product as payment does say they must think highly of the product to be willing to keep it in their main system. The question becomes how many even better products did they give a so so review to because they were not given said product.
The question is what did the reviewer do with the equipment after the review (since they don't have room for everything they review). If they sold it and kept the money (and probably don't declare it as income on their taxes), that is doubly problematic IMO.
Since I’ve been watching you guys I’ve formed a trust because you seem very honest and open. However, if I find you guys are actors just pretending to have those characteristics, I will not trust you any longer. 😞😅
There is no reason to not trust the Audio Excellence videos, so long as comparing products they sell. Since it is their policy to only discuss products they sell, I don't see any problems with this channel.
Talk about a mass generalization. I wrote for free for 20 years. Now I am paid for reviews. But I’m not paid by the manufacturer I am paid by the publication. If you’re going to make accusations that manufacturers are paying for specific reviews and that the reviewer is therefore a paid schill, you need to spell it out and not be so vague about it.
I agree that it may have been a generalization about people getting paid to do reviews, especially getting to keep very expensive gear. But I would not be surprised about Stereophile, since they are (or were) a prestigious magazine at one time, and they are known to drop vendors from their recommended list if the vendor does not send them new equipment on a regular basis.
Ken - that level of journalistic integrity certainly mostly doesn't exist on the Internet and CZcams in particular. I know there is a rate structure agreed upon online reviews by certain reviewers and manufacturers. It has become an industry. These reviewers are mostly like influencers. If you want more details, email me.
@@vilipmak3973 I understand there are pay to play publications. I used to work at one outlet where if you got advertising dollars for the product you were reviewing you got a cut of the advertising dollars. There is no way you can be objective in that situation.
I believe I will now be discounting the veracity of videos with compensated links to the products. Thanks. I also realize I won't be able to ferret out all the compensation and, yes, that bothers me.
Long ago and in a decade far far away I used to subscribe to Stereophile. I began to notice that most of the negative reviews were for companies that did not advertise. Companies that did advertise even when the reviewer obviously didn't like the product they still managed to say something positive. I canceled my subscription. A certain You Tube reviewer said he would never publish a negative review of a product so does that mean he gets paid for only positive reviews. I couldn't trust him so I unsubscribed. I use reviews as a starting point and use my ears for my final decision.
Reviewers should be compensated by their viewers, not the manufactures. If they provide accurate, honest and informative reviews, I'd pay a few dollars to see it. Taking money or products in exchange for reviews and not telling the audience is pure corruption... maybe even fraud.
There's often a lot to be said about paid reviews but I'm not sure that Adrian is the best person to say it. Adrian, and his co-workers, have surely come across multiple excellent products over the course of their careers, products which they don't carry, products which they then fail to mention on this channel, products which might have served their clients better at a lower cost. But they don't sell those products so they don't talk about them, just like they don't talk about how "much" stereo a person really needs, or what excellent hidden gems there are in the general second hand market. Often in this business a stereo system is matched to a persons wallet rather than their actual listening needs. These videos are enjoyable and somewhat informative, but let's be honest. These videos are very much "for profit" and to attract customers to the shop and to sell a specific set of brands which they carry. Touchy subject..
However, the advertising dollars derived by CZcams greatly benefits CZcams. That they give us a small percentage and that we are able to support a really deserving charity and that we match that amount - money actually coming out of Adrian's pocket - so, in the end, it works. And we can all feel better about ourselves - that we are contributing and sharing…
Dishonesty is just that…….., making money based upon lying about how great a product is, only to see said reviewers actually don’t believe in said products enough to actually own it, says it all.
There’s “Paid” reviews and then there is Sponsorship by celebrities and some of those guys are absolutely shameless not caring that they get it for free whilst customers pay in higher prices. As i get to see ( and hear sometimes Sound Sommelier or AV Audio reports) stuff that i would never otherwise i’m OK you tube is good for that . I would like manufacturers to pay for costs of sound reviews so i could “hear” gear i couldn’t otherwise hear. what is dangerous as audio groups become huge conglomerates is that they have the power to crowd out critics and by weight of advertising or influencers convince us to buy turkeys or poorer tech solutions (Beta vs VHS) thereby not advancing the industry. I have a phrase which is better in politics but works here as well “They are buying the chiefs to get the tribe for free”.
It's hard to trust people who say review product who don't show the product in there home or wherever they review them and only show pictures from adds or from manufacturers. Most reviews I take with a grain of salt. I prefer your and Vilips , I believe you are honestly to help clients and potential clients. I have never met you or Vilip and don't live near you. I hope I'm a good judge of character. Keep up the good work
What dollar level do you think they let reviewers keep the products they review? I thought they were letting them keep the stuff only for relatively inexpensive stuff, and not very expensive equipment.
Yes, only for relatively inexpensive stuff. I don’t know about tax law in the US or Canada but at least in Germany I think everything over € 30.- you have to declare….
It sure sounds like you are chatting about Andrew Robinson and all the product links, which I have heard them mention that they get something if you use those links. That doesn't seem too crazy, everything he mentions is linked and not all of it is glowing. If there are actual trades, the positive review for the equipment being reviewed, it does seem problematic.
Are you taking about the big CZcams audio reviewers.....Steve Gutenberg, John Darko and a like. I'm sure they are getting paid for all their hard work efforts but not sure who pays them. Maybe someone knows?
Are car reviewers on CZcams paid? Of course. Are their reviews honest? Yeah. Do they bash the car if it has weaknesses? All the time. They beat it up real good. Can hifi manufacturers or distributors accept their product being bashed? No way. So why do we make a huge fuss of the reviewer being paid. We just need for it to be honest and truthful.
One should always consider the source of reviews is there a bias does the reviewer profit in some way. That would also inc you guys as a biased source who could profit from positive comments on products. Not saying that such are of no use. But I would consider that you are an audio business.
Theirs a HUGE Difference when your reviewing Top End Products and average every day products (cars, TV, low to mid priced cameras or video equipment.....). With High End Products, YOUR Credibility is as Crucial as the product being reviewed. If your review is Top end but the produce is Truly just so so then eventually you Both Loose customers. With Low to mid price products people don't seem to be as upset when they don't meet expectations for several reasons - My hearing is different than yours, My living room is too big or too small for the product, The produce works OK?? but the build quality and layout is less than expected for the money.............!! That and Now Days It's a Disposable World. Most things are designed to fail over time forcing Us to buy the "Next Best Thing"!
And plus this is the way we do, so let me please interrupt you in a most positive way, no stifling here and free thought and expression, what do you say to that?
Vilip for what it's worth I often enjoy your calm tone and thoughtfully explaining your opinions in a correct way. It led me to buy one item you discussed (ifi zen streamer) If there are interreptions I only noticed Adrian interrupts you mid thought sometimes but I am sure it is not intended in a bad way. No need to feed the troll. Thanks for the effort to all of you and keep up the good work !
Adrian, your old friend Jay has 3 x times subscribers as your channel yet it is very transparent that he is owned by several Asia based makers. So who is right? The entertaining young Korean man or the folks who only talk about brands they carry?
Jay doesn't own an audio store that I know of, which is why he can review anything that he can get a sample of. Adrian can only get samples of stuff he agrees to sell, otherwise his existing dealers might drop him.
How are you doing. Listen I am interested in the Macintosh integrated amplifier ma7200. Unfortunately they don’t sell Ma7200 in the states only the receiver version which I do not want. Can I purchase from you the MA 7200. Is that possible or in possible. let me know ASAP thank you. I’ve been watching your CZcams channel as I am a subscriber already for six months. and I love your content.
I watch only for entertainment. I don't believe any of these guys. The magazine always has the best speaker, amplifier, DAC in the world for this month. The new model beats the old one by a mile. You should have waited until this year. There's an obvious incestuous relationship and conflict of interest. As an engineer I look at the measurements but they are of very limited value. Since the sound of this technology sounds nothing like live music the reviewers are deaf, lying, or both.
Well… that remains a fluid situation. Accuphase is still under consideration as something to stock at AE. We've listened to the Pre and the Power. Stay tuned!
1. Reviewers Must disclose which they abide by: None/Partial/Full disclosure.haha 2. Post all refused review item. 3.What do you really think steve? 4. Why don't you show the guy giving all info? 5. Don't take calls during your videos. 6. No negative review policy? 7. Clients- so you are acting as a fiduciary? C'mon man.
The most shocking thing about CZcams is not the sponsored videos without disclosure, but that CZcams video creators can apparently make a decent amount of money just by making a video that solely consist of someone opening a cardboard box, and that apparently a large number of people actually like those videos.
I agree with Adrian. He owns a store and is transparent that he talks about the products that he carries. It is very different if a CZcams creator acts as if he is an unbiased reviewer, and then pushes merchandise that the creator receives funding for and does not reveal that information. I have compiled a list of such scoundrels in the high end audio world and will publish them. Good for Audio Excellence Canada!
Please do so! I would like to know.
To be fair, Audio Excellence also has financial interests with the products they review but that is fully transparent. So it’s ok !!!
Plz do brother, am eager to know, I'm. An animator and know editing as well, If u can email me the list, I'll make a CZcams channel to expose these guys
This is why this is my favorite channel. The CZcamsr reviews have a lot less to lose and every opportunity to hide. Adrian and team here put their store on the line with their reviews - so much to lose so more to put on the line to put out transparent information.
Great topic !! As long as there is full disclosure up front that a specific review is being compensated, then I am ok with it. Since the vast majority of reviews are positive, as a consumer, I infer that the product that does not have reviews are not as good as the ones that have lots of reviews. Along the same topic, there is a publication called The Wine Advocate (has since gone online only) that I subscribe since the early 80's.... the major reason is the founder/ reviewer went to great lengths to ensure his independence from the wineries / distributors / importers etc.... and he does not accept any advertisement, that it is all user supported. I love your idea of PATREON support.
I think it is illegal not to clarify wether a video is sponsored or not. The problem is once you say bad things about a product chances are they won’t send you new stuff for review. Same with magazines. If you are bashing a product from company x that company won’t advertise in your magazine. So most only do positive revs or no rev at all. Here in Cologne it is common that Hi-Fi dealers only try to sell you what they have in store. And that is always a small range because competition is unwanted. So store a is dealing with product a b c and Store d has d e f (but none a b or c). So honest advice is not what you get. If you are lucky Store a tells you that product a is better for your needs than b or c but if they make More money selling product b (I am looking at you B&W) they often simply lie to you. So no matter where you look you have to take everything with a grain of salt.
Good points! I have a small audiophile CZcams channel and so far everything I’ve reviewed I’ve purchased, except for one amplifier that I’ve borrowed from a friend. The most important thing to me is my reputation and I believe that transparency and honesty are paramount. I’ve never had the opportunity to be paid or to receive free gear but if that were to happen, it would present a situation that I’d have to address with my viewers in order to preserve their trust and to keep my objectivity and transparency.
Your review of the Cornwall’s is great
@@TombstoneTube Thanks 🙏 Glad you liked it.
Having been in this hobby for 20 years and having worked in it for a few years, I would suggest that people read reviews as entertainment, but always trust your ears. I can see where Adrian is upset because is supposed to not be biased is biased. It's funny, regardless of how often he discloses that he's OK with reviews in general, that people answer based on their own agenda.
Finally we have excellent audio! I can hear Adrian clearly instead of being muffled, and I didn't have to turn up the volume. Thanks so much! Please keep this up.
Loving all the content lately - great production quality and love the passion you guys have for this. I would personally say as long as it’s FULLY DISCLOSED that it’s paid, it’s fine - you go in eyes wide open. Also people know over time reviewers they feel operate with integrity vs those that are product shills
Agree with Adrian. To be paid or otherwise compensated for a “review” by the maker of a product turns the “review” into advertising which, even on CZcams, should be disclosed upfront. Obviously to not disclose this is misleading because it colours the impartiality of the review. CZcams is a bit of an ethical mess.
I agree with what you guys say that transparency/honesty is the key to a healthy salesperson-client relationship. Thanks forsharing your intimate thoughts.
Any chance you guys can do a virtual tour of your store someday?
How can a Stereophile reviewer not know what advertising exists in the magazine (or website). They obviously read their own stuff, so they know. They might not know if the ad is placed in the same month as the review, but they obviously know over the long term what companies advertise in their magazine.
I pay zero attention to the advertisement in the magazine. Why would I? They have nothing to do with how I am paid. And I am far too busy trying to turn in a good review to be concerned about advertising. There’s a strict wall between between editorial and sales at stereophile. Do some advertisers get their products reviewed? Sure they do. But there are many advertisers who never get their product reviewed. This is not a pay to play publication.
@@kenmicallefjazzvinylaudiop6455 That's good to know as I've always trusted your magazine to be truthful. 'Great article on the KLH Model 5 by the way.
@@gregmiller3630 Thanks
Paid review means advertising for me.
If the person don't even disclose it it's even worst. He is a scammer.
Everybody should be paid for their work assuming you're providing a service. But if what you do is a scam or not trustworthy it's of no use.
I only trust people who do it for fun or have a Patreon or other means to finance themselves. The moment you are in conflict of interest you're no longer valid. We can't trust you
True but in every case you have to read between the lines
@@bikemike1118 As always one have to be critical of anything. Even if you're legit i'm going to judge by myself how legit you appear to be ?
But i must know first if you at least come correct with what you're doing ?
example: New record day : i like the guy and was a patreon for almost 1 year. But too much pc stuff and too much advertisement hidden force me to stop taking him too seriously even tho i think he is one of the best at what he is doing. The problem is some times he'll review something we know is bullshit and he'll never call it that and later you learn that it was a sponsored show. That's bordeline betrayal to me.
All HiFi reviews, almost by definition, are highly subjective and this is largely due to the fact that there is no easy way to objectively prove how good or bad a product is. The best reviews and this includes those done by Audio Excellence, talk to the reviewers perception of how the products sound and what they do and don't like about them. They also make it quite clear that this is only their opinion, all be it based on many years of listening to different equipment. If you are being paid to review a product, then the perception (even if that's not the case) is that you are no longer talking about your honest opinion of a product, you are simply saying what the manufacturer wants to hear. Basically if that payment is not declared up front, the reviewer in question is simply advertising the product and disguising that fact as independent opinion.
Are they talking about their former employee?
Adrian, you are spot on. I believe in transparency and disclosure, especially in reviews on ones description of their experience. There will always be bias, but reducing by acknowledgement of the arrangement is helpful. Same with drug company "testing."
Now I'm wondering which review that $10K product was.
Excellent job again guys…you touched on a lot of very important area’s that can affect a purchase of some expensive gear and that plays a important role in people’s decisions especially when a in store demo is not possible
Good subject guys. I tend not to trust reviews that don’t compare products as well as those who I believe are sponsored by the manufacturer.
In my field of medicine, we have to disclose completely who has sponsored our research.Then it’s up to the readers to determine if there is any bias in the data and conclusions. I don’t see why a reviewer shouldn’t be different. Yes if a person does receive some kind of compensation from the manufacturer/distributor a viewer could be biased. However his or her videos will determine credibility over time. If the reviews seem very credible, reliable and objective, then even if the compensation disclosure is provided, the subscribers and viewers will STILL trust the reviews because the reviewer has earned their trust.
You are just a great guy with great common sense, rarity in these times
I can't remember who it was exactly but he is a well known Hifi CZcams reviewer, who once said he will only post reviews of products he likes.
I guess that's one way round it because there are certain reviewers that do not want to trash talk other products, but instead will simply ignore it.
Please also bare in mind, that ultimately the consumer are the best Judges. If a reviewer raves on positives about a particular product and in reality does not meet the expectations of the consumer, then the reviewer has his or her's reputation at peril.
I think you have a very valid point, I have a hard time trusting You Tube reviewers especially when they do not declare their financial interests.
You guys do a good job. Keep it up! 👍
OK, here's my 2 cents.
Adrian et al are a store. Therefore, it's their job to sell product. (I appreciate your client statement and believe it to be a cornerstone for specialty retailers.) It follows that the products they show are products they like and sell.
Magazines (and their websites) are supported by advertising. This is clear. Some mags manage to keep a firewall between advertising and editorial, others less so.
YT reviews present a different set of problems. Unless the reviewer clearly states whether he is receiving compensation for his/her reviews, we can't tell. Under compensation I would include any form of remuneration, including keeping the review sample. And if they are being compensated, then I'd say their "review" is actually advertising and not to be considered an objective review.
Thank you Adrian and the gang for making this video. I can see why this would be eating at someone. It's tough to find many negative reviews these days. I look at reviews now with more skepticism than I ever did back in the day. I wish I did back than knowing what I know now. If a person isn't upfront at the start of the review on how they got to review unit that's misleading. I had no idea a reviewer could request a percent of future sales $$ in exchange for reviewing a piece. How could that not be a positive review ! ? Or keeping a pricey piece of gear in exchange for a review. Again, how could you say anything bad? Chances are it will be a good review but it will be hard to convince some people of your bias. I treat each review as just one out of many reviews or data points and get a overall but feeling. The beauty of the intermet is you can go online about and find reviews of just about any piece and from the actual people that own it. Appreciate the videos as always! It's nice to hear Adriana opinion on topics like this. I wish more people were as honest.
1. As long as there is disclosure, then I will give the review at least initial consideration. 2. I like to think I can sniff out B.S., at least over a period of time. Reading their work over many reviews, I can form an opinion. Even if I’m not totally accurate it’s my choice and others may disagree, which is fine.
Good video. Both of you. I've have friends that own/used to own HiFi stores and know every trick in the book and can smell a paid YT Video from a mile (okay kilometer Eh!) away.
Adrian, I think what may be bothering you is the conflict of interests that some reviewers may have in that they are being compensated with cash or product for an interview. The conflict of interest is that if that reviewer reviews the product negatively they know that the manufacturer will not send them anymore product for reviews again which will hurt them financially. That is the issue. That is also why they don’t post negative reviews. They make up other excuses as to why they don’t post negative reviews. But I think it is at least in part to the conflict of interest above. However your suggestion of supporting reviewers via Patreon is a good one. To take that further, reviewers could post negative product reviews for Patreon patrons only. That may at least in part mitigate the conflict of interest. But I am glad that you brought up this topic. Thanks from Chicago.
Hi guys I'm all the way over here and down in Australia and l love your channel.
I love it for a few reasons and the first one and probably the most important is,
I feel like part of the Audio excellence family.
As you said Adrian I feel like a client not a customer.
One of the other very important reasons is that I feel like I can trust what you guys are saying. Because you do say very clearly that you've bought this, this is yours you have a vested interest.
Your always balanced and if there's anything negative to say your always very forthcoming with that.
And over the year or so now I've been watching that has allowed me to feel like I can trust what you're saying.
I love my Wilson's, I have a pair of sashes and watchdog 2 Sub. So I guess there's an attraction there as well.
You guys are into Wilson audio as am l. P.S Vilip I sold my Watt puppy 7's and couldn't be happier with my upgrade to Sasha's.
I guess to answer the question that's posed in the video I would want to know if a reviewer was being paid in some kind of way for there review.
It only seems right and the sorts of things should be transparent. If you're expecting people to trust what you say they have two first be able to trust you.
Anyway guys great video and keep up the fantastic work.
Your fan Aussie Shane.👍🎧😁
Reviewers should be compensated by their employers. And all testing of components should be blind testing.
"And all testing of components should be blind testing."
If al testing was blind, then a big chunk of the high end audio business would cease to exist, especially for cables.
Buyer decision, reviewer is to give his feedback on his experience, no endgame product.
I love to hear me some Adrian rant ! close to right time after time
Isn't it the same as you promoting a product that you have distributorship for?
Who pays the piper calls the tune. It really is that simple, always has been and it always will be.
Love the charity match program. Maybe a recap of how much has been donated would make a good video. This one you should pull.
Your not Crazy at all Adrian in fact you nailed it, I live in Australia and have found that there are so many promoters of a product for financial gain not just to tell a potential buyer the worts and all truth about it. I enjoy the style that you guys have it appears or comes across as a couple of guys who know their stuff talking about why they like or dislike a product options and alternatives. I do miss Jay though really enjoyed the banter between the three of you. Onwards and upwards guys.
I agree about importance of supporting your local dealer. Which I do!
Integrity.. Cubed...!!!! Thank You............
As a consumer of High-end Hifi, I personally would like to see endusers review their purchased products rather than CZcams reviews from T&S, ZF, SG, J, S or from AR. Not to forget JD. All these reviewers are for entertainment purposes.
Thanks for clearing that up, I see it also and I completely agree. How the hell can you take what a person says literally when they are getting a cut of the sales. It's as bad as a shitty used car salesman, they know its shit, but it's all about the money not the people buying the product. Also I always wondered what you guys thought about the Golden Ear speakers you did the unboxing of. I had heard them at another store experianced something similar, where the powered sub didn't kick in until the dial was sitting at nine o'clock, then it started working a lot better. Thanks guys. See you soon
not only are these CZcams reviewers being paid to do the review and in some cases are allowed to keep the product being reviewed but these reviewers are being told by the manufacturers that if the review is positive,(and when was the last time you saw a negative review on youtube?) that they will be compensated on the back end, recieving a percentage of the increased sales...Adrian, this is easily confirmed, just ask Jay!
In the p.c gaming hardware space they do it differently a lot of the time. They do sponsored videos on specific products highlighting features and details about the product. Then they do separate videos that are reviews and they are never paid for by the manufacture. Linus Tech tips, Jays two cents and Hardware Nexus are examples. Guess what happens you end up with good reviews and negative reviews.The paid product videos always have disclosure and if the title has the word review it is not paid. Of course not everybody is honest buy usually the shady ones are discovered.The channels will get sponsorship from completely un- related companies to fund them.
The issue with saying it’s paid by the manufacturer is you will automatically assume it’s biased. I agree in transparency but I also want to hope people reviewing hifi do it for the love of it as it isn’t a huge industry on CZcams. I saw a reviewer do the Altair G1 and they said this was paid, the whole video said it was the most incredible piece they’d listened to, the best digital sound they’d heard. It was almost pointless listening to the video because it was clear how incredibly biased it was. For me, I’d avoid anyone doing paid reviews by the manufacturer and stick to the smaller guys who do it for enjoyment or those that are paid by other sponsors. No review is going to be 100% given all our tastes are different, but it’s a starting point to go out and audition.
Can we get a store tour?
I honestly don't see where it is a lot different than someone that sells audio gear doing a review. You are trying to sell a product, of course you are going to make the product seem good. That is not meant to be a slam on you guys so please don't take it that way. I don't know any of you and I just found this channel so I don't know jack about you. It is just an observation. This summer I went looking for a headphone amp and dac. The only place in my area that actually carried any tried to sell me a 5,000 dollar (USA) McIntosh headphone amp, said I really needed balanced cables and told me my digital cable was "noisy". Keep in mind I own 150 dollar AKG's and 350 dollar Sundara headphones. I told them I was more in the market for something in the 300 dollar price range and I could maybe stretch it to 400 if the product was impressive enough to warrant it. And that was actually a lot of money for me. And to also keep in mind I am not a huge headphone fan to begin with. I do most of my listening with speakers. Headphones are something I use when I have to, not because I want to. This guy proceeded to go to his computer and pull stuff up and said "Well we don't carry anything like that but we can order something.". I told him thanks but it is 2021, I can order something off the web myself. And probably get it cheaper. I kind of wanted to see and hear the product first. I am weird that way. I ended up going with Schiit Audio products by the way and am quite happy with my purchase. I will note they were never rude or snotty with me or made me feel like a "poor" person. Which I am lol. They just said they don't carry lower end equipment is all and they really don't even sell headphones. They mostly deal in high end home theater gear. Not sure why they had a 5k headphone amp in stock then, but they did. They said it really is a shame that Best Buy and other stores like that don't carry headphone amps. They carry decent enough headphones you would think they would sell amps to pair with them.
I also agree with what the gentleman off camera said. If I look at several reviews from a person or publication and they are all glowing reviews and nothing disappoints them I tend to ignore those reviews. I understand that some people simply don't post reviews, or will refuse to review a product they don't like. They just send the product back with some feedback and say "you probably don't want us to publish a review on this.". Which I think is fair and nice of them to do. And some just won't trash a product because they don't feel good about doing it. Or in some cases with a publication it could effect advertising I guess. However I am much more impressed if I can find an independent reviewer that doesn't have problem saying he didn't like a product and describing why. Or flat out tell you the product is a rip off, not worth the money and don't buy it. It is a personal preference thing, it just isn't a good product and has obvious flaws.
If the Reviewer, CZcams or magazine, ask for product as payment does say they must think highly of the product to be willing to keep it in their main system. The question becomes how many even better products did they give a so so review to because they were not given said product.
The question is what did the reviewer do with the equipment after the review (since they don't have room for everything they review). If they sold it and kept the money (and probably don't declare it as income on their taxes), that is doubly problematic IMO.
Since I’ve been watching you guys I’ve formed a trust because you seem very honest and open. However, if I find you guys are actors just pretending to have those characteristics, I will not trust you any longer. 😞😅
There is no reason to not trust the Audio Excellence videos, so long as comparing products they sell. Since it is their policy to only discuss products they sell, I don't see any problems with this channel.
Talk about a mass generalization. I wrote for free for 20 years. Now I am paid for reviews. But I’m not paid by the manufacturer I am paid by the publication. If you’re going to make accusations that manufacturers are paying for specific reviews and that the reviewer is therefore a paid schill, you need to spell it out and not be so vague about it.
I agree that it may have been a generalization about people getting paid to do reviews, especially getting to keep very expensive gear. But I would not be surprised about Stereophile, since they are (or were) a prestigious magazine at one time, and they are known to drop vendors from their recommended list if the vendor does not send them new equipment on a regular basis.
Ken - that level of journalistic integrity certainly mostly doesn't exist on the Internet and CZcams in particular. I know there is a rate structure agreed upon online reviews by certain reviewers and manufacturers. It has become an industry. These reviewers are mostly like influencers. If you want more details, email me.
@@vilipmak3973 I understand there are pay to play publications. I used to work at one outlet where if you got advertising dollars for the product you were reviewing you got a cut of the advertising dollars. There is no way you can be objective in that situation.
I believe I will now be discounting the veracity of videos with compensated links to the products. Thanks.
I also realize I won't be able to ferret out all the compensation and, yes, that bothers me.
Long ago and in a decade far far away I used to subscribe to Stereophile. I began to notice that most of the negative reviews were for companies that did not advertise. Companies that did advertise even when the reviewer obviously didn't like the product they still managed to say something positive. I canceled my subscription. A certain You Tube reviewer said he would never publish a negative review of a product so does that mean he gets paid for only positive reviews. I couldn't trust him so I unsubscribed. I use reviews as a starting point and use my ears for my final decision.
Reviewers should be compensated by their viewers, not the manufactures. If they provide accurate, honest and informative reviews, I'd pay a few dollars to see it. Taking money or products in exchange for reviews and not telling the audience is pure corruption... maybe even fraud.
There's often a lot to be said about paid reviews but I'm not sure that Adrian is the best person to say it.
Adrian, and his co-workers, have surely come across multiple excellent products over the course of their careers, products which they don't carry, products which they then fail to mention on this channel, products which might have served their clients better at a lower cost. But they don't sell those products so they don't talk about them, just like they don't talk about how "much" stereo a person really needs, or what excellent hidden gems there are in the general second hand market. Often in this business a stereo system is matched to a persons wallet rather than their actual listening needs.
These videos are enjoyable and somewhat informative, but let's be honest. These videos are very much "for profit" and to attract customers to the shop and to sell a specific set of brands which they carry. Touchy subject..
We get much less out of this than you think. You for instance have never shopped with us. So where's that upside?
However, the advertising dollars derived by CZcams greatly benefits CZcams. That they give us a small percentage and that we are able to support a really deserving charity and that we match that amount - money actually coming out of Adrian's pocket - so, in the end, it works. And we can all feel better about ourselves - that we are contributing and sharing…
Dishonesty is just that…….., making money based upon lying about how great a product is, only to see said reviewers actually don’t believe in said products enough to actually own it, says it all.
There’s “Paid” reviews and then there is Sponsorship by celebrities and some of those guys are absolutely shameless not caring that they get it for free whilst customers pay in higher prices. As i get to see ( and hear sometimes Sound Sommelier or AV Audio reports) stuff that i would never otherwise i’m OK you tube is good for that . I would like manufacturers to pay for costs of sound reviews so i could “hear” gear i couldn’t otherwise hear. what is dangerous as audio groups become huge conglomerates is that they have the power to crowd out critics and by weight of advertising or influencers convince us to buy turkeys or poorer tech solutions (Beta vs VHS) thereby not advancing the industry. I have a phrase which is better in politics but works here as well “They are buying the chiefs to get the tribe for free”.
It's hard to trust people who say review product who don't show the product in there home or wherever they review them and only show pictures from adds or from manufacturers. Most reviews I take with a grain of salt. I prefer your and Vilips , I believe you are honestly to help clients and potential clients. I have never met you or Vilip and don't live near you. I hope I'm a good judge of character. Keep up the good work
What dollar level do you think they let reviewers keep the products they review? I thought they were letting them keep the stuff only for relatively inexpensive stuff, and not very expensive equipment.
Yes, only for relatively inexpensive stuff. I don’t know about tax law in the US or Canada but at least in Germany I think everything over € 30.- you have to declare….
@@bikemike1118 In the USA, it should also be declared, but tax fraud is common in the USA.
@@mark9118 this is not completely „unknown“ in Germany either (tax fraud) 😂
To answer your question, I don't think so. I might pay attention to the review but I'll regard it as entertainment only.
Which ones?
Agree Golden Ear is very non-coherent. The BRX however has a pretty good sound.
Depends how much they got for the review. If they got paid a one week all inclusive vacation in Detroit, Michigan..😳
It sure sounds like you are chatting about Andrew Robinson and all the product links, which I have heard them mention that they get something if you use those links. That doesn't seem too crazy, everything he mentions is linked and not all of it is glowing. If there are actual trades, the positive review for the equipment being reviewed, it does seem problematic.
Hi please consider the dynaudio speakers wonderful sound 🔊🎶🤘
Are you taking about the big CZcams audio reviewers.....Steve Gutenberg, John Darko and a like. I'm sure they are getting paid for all their hard work efforts but not sure who pays them. Maybe someone knows?
Does Angus think Angus is better than Wagyu? Unbiased opinion, please. 😂
Are car reviewers on CZcams paid? Of course. Are their reviews honest? Yeah. Do they bash the car if it has weaknesses? All the time. They beat it up real good.
Can hifi manufacturers or distributors accept their product being bashed? No way.
So why do we make a huge fuss of the reviewer being paid. We just need for it to be honest and truthful.
One should always consider the source of reviews is there a bias does the reviewer profit in some way. That would also inc you guys as a biased source who could profit from positive comments on products. Not saying that such are of no use. But I would consider that you are an audio business.
Theirs a HUGE Difference when your reviewing Top End Products and average every day products (cars, TV, low to mid priced cameras or video equipment.....). With High End Products, YOUR Credibility is as Crucial as the product being reviewed. If your review is Top end but the produce is Truly just so so then eventually you Both Loose customers. With Low to mid price products people don't seem to be as upset when they don't meet expectations for several reasons - My hearing is different than yours, My living room is too big or too small for the product, The produce works OK?? but the build quality and layout is less than expected for the money.............!! That and Now Days It's a Disposable World. Most things are designed to fail over time forcing Us to buy the "Next Best Thing"!
The real question is why Adrian pays Vilup to keep interrupting him (and everyone else) on Audio Excellence CZcams videos.
You could at least spell my name correctly…
And plus it's a give and take in a spontaneous unplanned way as in real life, don't you know…
And plus this is the way we do, so let me please interrupt you in a most positive way, no stifling here and free thought and expression, what do you say to that?
And actually I don't get paid to do these videos.
Vilip for what it's worth I often enjoy your calm tone and thoughtfully explaining your opinions in a correct way. It led me to buy one item you discussed (ifi zen streamer) If there are interreptions I only noticed Adrian interrupts you mid thought sometimes but I am sure it is not intended in a bad way. No need to feed the troll. Thanks for the effort to all of you and keep up the good work !
Adrian, your old friend Jay has 3 x times subscribers as your channel yet it is very transparent that he is owned by several Asia based makers. So who is right? The entertaining young Korean man or the folks who only talk about brands they carry?
maybe they're former friends now
Jay doesn't own an audio store that I know of, which is why he can review anything that he can get a sample of. Adrian can only get samples of stuff he agrees to sell, otherwise his existing dealers might drop him.
How are you doing. Listen I am interested in the Macintosh integrated amplifier ma7200. Unfortunately they don’t sell Ma7200 in the states only the receiver version which I do not want. Can I purchase from you the MA 7200. Is that possible or in possible. let me know ASAP thank you. I’ve been watching your CZcams channel as I am a subscriber already for six months. and I love your content.
Are you sure no USA dealers will sell a MA7200 (instead of MAC7200)? Even if they don't stock it, they can probably special order it).
Buy an MAC7200 - remove the tuner card - it becomes an MA7200.
@@vilipmak3973 Would that void the warranty at all?
@@gregjun5011 Just have the dealer do the work.
I like only a few reviewers for that very reason!
And #4-Why am I not getting paid?
I watch only for entertainment. I don't believe any of these guys. The magazine always has the best speaker, amplifier, DAC in the world for this month. The new model beats the old one by a mile. You should have waited until this year. There's an obvious incestuous relationship and conflict of interest. As an engineer I look at the measurements but they are of very limited value. Since the sound of this technology sounds nothing like live music the reviewers are deaf, lying, or both.
Too many shill " reviewers" on CZcams it's actually insane.
@vilip mak
Does this also mean there will be no Accuphase review? 😭😭😭 🤪
Well… that remains a fluid situation. Accuphase is still under consideration as something to stock at AE. We've listened to the Pre and the Power. Stay tuned!
You must have watch one of andrew robinson Klipsch reviews lol. What total BS that guy spews.
Click click 😂
1. Reviewers Must disclose which they abide by: None/Partial/Full disclosure.haha 2. Post all refused review item. 3.What do you really think steve? 4. Why don't you show the guy giving all info? 5. Don't take calls during your videos. 6. No negative review policy? 7. Clients-
so you are acting as a fiduciary? C'mon man.
The most shocking thing about CZcams is not the sponsored videos without disclosure, but that CZcams video creators can apparently make a decent amount of money just by making a video that solely consist of someone opening a cardboard box, and that apparently a large number of people actually like those videos.