[nzlug] 'MS Tax' versus Commerce Commission

[Matthew Poole]

On Mon, 2 Jul 2007, Michael Field wrote:

> When was the last time you tried to buy:
> - A PC without a power lead? (aka The Cable Tax)
What's the value of a "jug cord"? Dick Smith has them for $13.99, and I'm 
sure they can be had a lot cheaper. How's that compare to the value of a 
full computer system?

> - A bicycle without any handlebars?  (aka The Euston Tube Tax)
Denise already shredded you on that, but to further clarify things, 
top-tier handlebars can cost as much as a good motherboard, or more. Don't 
make the mistake of thinking that how you buy a bicycle is how everyone 
buys them - which seems to be precisely the crux of this thread.

> - A car without any wheels? (aka the crappy alloy tax)
If you buy new, most dealers will do nearly anything you want within the 
range of feasible options. And if you happen to bring along your own 
wheels (that will fit the car), they'll likely fit them for you too. Of 
course that's inadvisable, because you're then driving on un-balanced, 
un-aligned wheels, but so be it.

> - A MP3 player without ear-buds? (aka The ear-bud Tax)
>
I love this one, because someone else brought up how most MP3 players come 
with really crappy buds that you're expected to replace. Beautiful analogy 
for this situation, no? :P
For the record, my Creative Zen came with quite good buds, and I just 
bought some $9 buds from the Warehouse that sound very nice indeed - 
especially when one considers the price.

-- 
Matthew Poole
"Don't use force.  Get a bigger hammer."