What a thread, haha. Speaking on behalf of SDTM: a pinball show alone (Greg and I), we are not given a cut for promoting a discount code for Pin Stadium Lights.
I personally purchased the product early on, reached out to Scott and asked if he was interested in sponsoring the show, because I love the product. In the process, we got to know Scott and really appreciate his enthusiasm and dedication to the hobby. He is now a friend. Greg and I didn’t want to add to the back and forth of this discussion because a) not really our place because we are biased no one can argue that, and b) it wasn’t the most tactful way of discussing an issue in the pinball community that we all love.
SDTM’s sponsorship with Pin Stadium Lights is super simple. We only team up with sponsors who provide products that we support AND are run by people that we support. No bullshit, we will never push what we don’t wholeheartedly think is bad ass for us all as collectors. That way, Greg and I can truly geek out on pinball shit that we love. The coupon code is a way for fans to save on the product while increasing the exposure to our SDTM channel. The product will sell itself without the coupon code, but Scott wanted to make it a nice benefit for our viewers.
Having said that, we get it. It’s a controversial product on many levels.
1) The initial release and marketing of Pin Stadium Lights was heavy and Scott quickly learned how to balance his advertisements while still staying true to how he wants to present his idea.
2. The controversy of LED lighting will always be present here in the community.
The issue truly is that Scott is a good guy. If you talk to him at shows, he is a huge pinball fan and is dedicated to the growth of this hobby. It did kinda hurt to see the guy get kicked around when he’s on everyone's team. He is one of the good ones.
This is my own personal opinion, but I believe the style of marketing frustrated some, but instead of giving that feedback, some are taking it out on the product instead. You guys, the product is cool. For some, there are not enough benefits to purchase a set, that’s fair. Claims of it being too bright, too colorful, etc. is liking saying companies providing LEDs are the reason for blown-out colored GI in machines. The system can be turned down to minimal levels but many of us (guilty here) turn them up high because we like the effect.
Our apologies for going on and on here just felt like offering a true perspective once accusations came out about people getting a cut for providing a discount code, which is a reflection on SDTM: a pinball show, as well as others. We respect and enjoy dealing with many in this forum and can respect the discussion about a pinball product. One can only hope that personal attacks be moderated and jokes can be laughed at. I have a couple sets of lights on my machines and if anyone truly wants more information, pros and cons, of the system I would enjoy the conversation. I freaking love this hobby! Just shoot me a text or private message here on Pinside. Thanks again guys and gals.
- Zach
SDTM: a pinball show