Since you've addressed the issue, I'll ask you, have you ever received any audio products for a reduced price or for free to use for your reviews? Have you ever received any compensation of any sort from any audio equipment manufacturer or retailer?
I have purchased every VD cable I've owned. I wait for their sales to buy cheap or I buy them used on audiogon.
I do get sent products "free" from time to time by various manufacturers to see if I want to review them. If I don't like it, I send it back. However, if I end up liking it, I have to buy it like anyone else.