That is essentially the sole reason I (edit:used to) read cycle world (plus the Kevin Cameron tech articles). Oftentimes the ads would be almost as interesting as the articles, since it was one of the most effective ways of keeping track of any interesting new models.

And there is an excellent reason equipment manufacturers send electronics test equipment to the EEVblog channel. Even though there's a good chance it will be reviewed harshly, that channel definitely drove my last scope purchase.

And I don't have a problem with this, since I don't find the content objectionable. I DO have a problem when the promotion is disguised or not disclosed, it is deceitful to not mention the product was free or that the company has compensated you. And there's no good reason not to, in fact I become suspicious otherwise.