Would you rent a $14,000 DAC for $75 per day?

No!!!!!!!!  

Great idea if you were a dealer and any rent goes towards purchase. But without that... no. I wouldn't rent one... and you have so many potential liabilities.. No.

@audio_bidder 

Your comparison with rental cameras is interesting. If this is the right assumption, it seems that the likelihood of goods being stolen in HiFi is much higher than in specialty cameras for unknown reasons. Using your own equipment for this purpose and enduring the wear and tear of shipping and Joe Blo’s use may break your heart. Having experienced my equipment stolen and broken by FedEx, I would not like to pursue such a dream, as it seems to be a nightmare in-waiting. Yet, I’d love to rent or otherwise, sample gear from known friends I can drive to in my systems.

The list of possible problems is just too long, even for stores to give out gear for customers to try at home, this is rare enough. Show me a store that will lend you a Tambaqui DAC...

You need insurance (if the equipment creates an issue at the renter’s home), the equipment needs insurance (if faults develop), and the shipping needs insurance (FedEx don’t payout on their own insurance). I shake my head... nice dream though.

Even for HiFi societies or clubs to ’exchange’ or ’share’ equipment is a challenging dynamic.

“ cupgrade “,,,,, about lost it..

OP you might pose same ? on WBF…. another set of audiophiles…

No. Some people either don't know or don't care to follow the proper sequence for turning on a system (starting with the source) or turning it off (starting with the amp). Additionally, some people neglect to turn off the system before swapping out cable connections. There are many unsuspecting / ignorant individuals out there—you never know. Hi-fi audio gear is delicate, and it's best not to take any chances.