Re: Uli Behringer of The Music Group Q&A
Yes, I usually have no trouble getting demo products and pricing through the associated independent reps or through the factory reps and to address John C's comment, that includes Presonus products via the independent reps for Presonus (and similar for Mackie, QSC, etc.). If I wanted to demo, either for myself or for a Client, a StudioLive, a QSC K8, a Mackie mixer, a SM58, a piece of bulk cable, a Neutrik XLR and so on I can contact my local rep or factory contact and usually obtain a demo or sample unit without any problem. I can also usually get a manufacturer's price list, sometimes MAP and sometimes Dealer, sent to me within hours or in some cases directly access pricing via secured areas on the rep's or manufacturer's web site.
Just to be clear, I'm not talking every consumer and end user getting demos whenever they ask but when you start marketing products to be installed in churches, theaters, etc. you are dealing with Owners, system designers, end users, etc. who need to learn about and get support for products without dealing with someone trying to make a direct sale or getting tied to a particular dealer. It is fun to watch the reaction of some manufacturers when I explain that for some projects, particularly some public bid projects, if a dealer has direct contact with the Owner or direct knowledge of the project then that dealer may be considered as having an 'unfair advantage' and prohibited from bidding on the related work or equipment. The idea that a dealer providing a product demo might be tied to their then foregoing the related sale is often a very foreign concept to those outside that market but a reality within it.
Also keep in mind that system designers and consultants may demo a product and then specify that product multiple times. It may seem outrageous to expect to demo a low cost or commodity item but if that may be related to several or even hundreds of that product being specified, the situation is a little different.
