I’ll always view this as problematic but as long as they are OK with what it means down the track, I am OK with it too.

See, folks who’ve sought my advice and then used a corner-cutter repairer or bought something I’ve recommended elsewhere, typically reach a point where they realise: “Geez, that Liquid Mike dude really is the only one who can help me with this, I need to talk to him again!” At this point, they discover that this option is no longer available…

Trust

I’m honoured that we’ve become a trusted source of advice and guidance. A lot of hard work has gone into building that reputation and because of it, we’ve had well over two million views here and people worldwide seek my advice.

Mike, I bought a vintage Pioneer turntable you recommended, and bought the cartridge and headshell you recommended elsewhere. Can you tell me how to set it all up..?

Person A

Thanks for the offer, but we don’t take on unpaid consulting work. If you’d like to book your deck with us, I’d be glad to set everything up perfectly for you!

Creators

When you support independent, specialist small businesses like Liquid Audio, you’re supporting the people doing the hard work to create unique resources like this one. Over half a million words in articles are freely provided to benefit all.

Zero-service online discounters ride on that wave of knowledge and interest, yet offer nothing more than marginally cheaper products they buy in bulk and know nothing about. Corner-cutter copycat repairers steal ideas and tips from us and then pretend they came up with them. Nothing original or good about any of that, unfortunately.

Mike I read your article about repairing xyz. I don’t want to bring my equipment to you but can you tell me what parts you used and where to get them..?

Person B

No, I’m not interested in assisting people who a) think this is a reasonable question, and b) have so little regard for our time and effort.

Relationships

As a business owner, I’m interested in long-term customer relationships. Customers are often inspired to buy interesting equipment and accessories after reading my articles or chatting with me. This ‘organic learning’ is incredibly useful and building a relationship with someone you can trust is how people really improve their systems.

If you enjoy this website, if you’ve found inspiration here or if I’ve taught you something, you can say thanks by shouting me a drink using the donate button in the footer. Better still, grab some advice and support us by giving us your business and engaging us to work on some equipment for you.

By doing these things, you’ll be building a relationship with someone who rolls up their sleeves, contributes, educates, and helps, rather than just selling boxes and cashing in on other people’s hard work.