Just FYI. Again, I'm not registered there, just lurking for specific info recently. Yes, that one of those sites that get into big fights. But I love people there who have a sense of humor. Like this thread: http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/read. ... e=23006636 And especially this post: http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/read. ... e=23007482
Ooooweee am I concerned at the idea of Amazon purchasing a site I rely on for hardware reviews. He says the arrangement will allow him to continue to be independent.. but I have to ask why Amazon has an interest in purchasing the website if they're going to let it continue to run as it, but just throw money at it. At what point do they expect to get a return on the investment?
I'm going to bet that those "shopping" links at the end of the review(s) will be going to amazon.com If they do too much to the site and/or make Phil's reviews seem tainted, their 'investment' is going to sour very quickly.
I don't think Amazon will interfere with Phil's editorial independance. Amazon doesn't really care what products you buy, just that you buy products. If Phil slams the Nikon and pushes the Canon, Amazon doesn't care one way or the other - as long as all the product links go to them. That's why they don't care, and don't interfere with, user reviews. Amazon pioneered the user feedback, and I have never had them edit a single review I've ever done, even when I slam a product. They simply don't care ... and by allowing users unfettered ability to leave reviews, they create a sense of community that makes them the "go to" source for online purchases. By purchasing dpreview, they automatically get a well respected, well trafficked inroad into the serious photography market that can steer a heck of a lot of traffic their way. And better yet, dpreview has a worldwide audience, so it can push business to all of the Amazon subsidiaries across the globe. I've always bought a lot of gear through Amazon because I found their prices extremely competative, and because I have an Amazon Prime membership (so I get free 2nd day delivery) ... but Phil's site steered a lot of traffic to other retailers, like Ritz, BHphoto, etc. With Amazon buying it, they capture all those "referrals". Overall, I'm optimistic this is one of those rare "win-win" scenarios.
