For the same reasons everyone charges for their time.

Free vs Specialist

Whether it’s an accountant, doctor, electrician, or lawyer, people consult with specialists when they need the highest calibre of expertise, guidance and insight. Our advisory consults deliver serious expertise and factual information, without the usual conflicts of interest, bringing numerous benefits to recipients.

Some considerations:

• A university-educated human provides their energy, expertise and time to drive this service
• This is how all specialists earn a living
• I’ve not worked for free since I was 10!

“So, you charge for advice?”

No, I charge for my time, as you do.

“But I can get free advice on the internet!”

You can, so let’s see what the internet itself says about that advice, via Google AI:

“Free advice offers accessibility but risks being unspecific, unreliable, or lacking depth, whereas a specialist provides tailored, expert guidance for complex or high-stakes situations, though it comes at a cost … For simple or less critical matters, free advice might suffice, but for important decisions, investing in a specialist is often the more effective and safer choice.”

Google AI, October 2025

Time is needed to engage and respond to questions, analyse equipment and use cases, research and calculate technical answers, and provide robust solutions and guidance. This is work that I have to do, and that must be paid for.

Get the best advice you can find from Mike, and please, stop quoting forum posts as authorities. Only the guys who actually work, live and breathe this stuff really know.

Jon S

Entitlement

Some believe they are ‘entitled’ to assistance, which I addressed in an article that received overwhelming community support – thank you for that. People who don’t generate any business seem to expect my help the most, as though I have nothing else to do but waste time discussing equipment I’m not even selling!

To be clear, I’ve been contributing to the hi-fi community for 15 years, I don’t owe anyone anything, but look at these examples:

G: ‘G’ sought assistance with his expensive Sansui amplifier after enjoying my articles. When I suggested he purchase some discussion time, G exploded: “F*** you, I’m not going to pay you.” G became more upset after realising he’d become an example of entitlement.

K: ‘K’ read my KD-600 turntable articles, received free phone advice, and then sought detailed KD-600 improvement guidance. When I suggested he purchase a consult, K threatened that he knew “Someone in the Australian Tax Office.” K tried to obtain my help some years later, hoping I’d forgotten. I haven’t.

M: ‘M’ purchased a 30-minute consultation, yielding a game-changing Accuphase amplifier purchase. Later, M ranted that he’d “Paid for 60 minutes but only received 20”. I sent proof of his 30-minute purchase and the 50 minutes of assistance he received. Imagine being so rude and disrespectful to someone who’d helped you, and then not apologising. That’s M.

Fairness and Integrity

These are important concepts here @ Liquid Audio. Our advisory service is designed to provide expert advice and guidance specifically tailored to the unique needs of our customers, in a way that’s fair for all. Our pre-paid consults reduce time/energy/goodwill-draining interactions and foster positive, beneficial exchanges with decent people. Customers receive the highest calibre of assistance, saving them time and money and delivering outstanding results.

Mike … you, of course, are a gem. We are so lucky to have someone as passionate, intelligent, ethical and hardworking in little ol’ Perth.

David H