I actually got very close indeed to writing a column for a certain audio mag a few years ago, but I dropped out once I realised I would be subject to very strict editorial control so as not to upset advertisers, some of whom I considered to make truly appalling products! (I won't name the mag).

There is far more freedom and diversity of opinion on audio forums, and this definitely frightens the audio mags ââ'¬â€œ they fully realise that we are the future and in a few years they will be totally obsolete. Who are you going to believe a reviewer pushing a product with a full page advertising spread or a real punter who has shelled out their hard earned on something. Add to this the many manufacturs and electonics professionals who contribute to forum dialogue and actually answer your direct questions and it truly is game over. I rest my case!

Roy Gregory really hates internet forums (I've met him on several occasions and he has told me this at least once each time!), I strongly suspect he can see into the future - not everyone wants to pay a fiver a month for what is effectively a glossy advertising brochure when far wider and less commercial viewpoints are available freely elsewhere.

Tony.