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Originally Posted by Tierran
So what you're saying is that comparison shopping still is a smart thing to do. :roll:
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I think the point is that the eBook doesn't drop in price corresponding to the paper book. When a paperback is available and 1/3 the cost of an eBook, who's going to buy the eBook except for someone who wants the book in that format?
I still think that this pricing is one of the factors that keeps sales of e-books from being a success. Yes, it's cheaper than the hardcover when it first comes out. However, once I can get even the hardcover for less due to sellers wanting to move the hardcover out to make room for more books or whatever - it just doesn't make sense to buy an e-Book at that point pricewise. Add in the DRM restrictions of most formats (I think eReader has this DRM about as good as it gets - who wants to share their CC#?) and it's just not worth it for the consumer.
If it's not worth the price for the consumer, why should publishers support the format? They won't see sales and won't bother investing in the technology.
However, give me an e-Book when it comes out at close to paperback prices and/or drop the price accordingly with the current retail price of the book and I'll be interested. Don't try to sell me a book that's years old and available in the bargain bins @ bookstores at 4x the price.
I really wish I had some data about the actual costs involved to compare. I still think that the overhead would be much lower for an eBook just by getting around all of the middle-men and the difference in cost could be justified.
Interesting thread and concept. I'll be watching to see how the new technology develops as well.
-Pete