While I agree to some degree, the issue with private sources (of many) is accountability. They brush issues under the rug before they are ever public, and that allows many others to get scammed before a HUGE blowout happens (ALWAYS happens). Better to be a public, yet discerning, source like 24K was.
I feel we shouldn't allow sources to hop on our board unless they offer 100% reimbursement for testing done by members POST reception of the goods. Do NOT tell your source you plan to test the product, before buying it. The margins on gear are so ridiculous that the source can absolutely afford to reimburse the occasional test that a member will perform. We have
@Analyzer at our disposal, and I'm certain he would be glad to post results and explain them when we send out samples.
If you want to get ripped off, then sent allegedly good gear, or have your PMs on blast some day, go ahead and use your private sources. It becomes your word, versus theirs, when shit gets bad, and it will. You will be bombarded by who knows how many reps/friends of theirs that're getting free or cheap products in exchange for positive reviews or defense of the private lab when things go south.
If a member comes to you, unsolicited, offering up a private source, be very weary of what they're offering... There are truly some good sources out there, and members that genuinely just want to help lead you in the right direction, but still proceed with caution.