I am sorry for my previous rant, which the moderators felt was over-the-top. (That is, they removed my post.)
I have been screwed by high-end manufacturers and audio dealers over the years, though none of that occurred on Audiogon nor indirectly with unscrupulous manufacturers and dealers who communicate with consumers on Audiogon forums.
In my experience, when a manufacturer or dealer fails to honor a basic promise, pledge or warranty, there’s is really nothing one can do. I once attempted to take one Michigan audio dealer to task with the Iowa State Attorney’s Office on Consumer Protection when I lived in Des Moines during my college years. My contact there (face-to-face meeting) was pretty much a waste of time and did nothing.
I recognize the value of a group of disgruntled consumers venting about their collective, negative, experiences with a common manufacturer. Group cathartic discussions can bring some benefit to those affected, though not necessarily in the form of pocketbook refunds nor products delivered.
There is no reason why consumers adversely affected by the actions of one or two bad apples should continue to be teased with the prospect that just compensation is on the horizon. The potential danger of having manufacturers contribute consumer forums, wherein promises made appear suspect at best or illusory at worse, is something that moderators should be mindful of and attempt to curb.