I too, would want to KNOW if someone is getting paid, or receiving something for compensation for a review. One thing I LIKE about Grimm, is that he always says IF something was given to him for review. When you get something free, your expectations and your feelings about the item, are different.
For most anyone, you need to buy the things you want to review, when you start out. Nothing like going broke as hell buying new stuff all the time, just so you can gain popularity and views, ya know?
As these guys gain views and followers (that they built on their OWN), then why shouldn't they get compensated for their hard work? You don't get free work from other ad agencies or marketing firms. Somehow, I guess, some people think it's evil that a reviewer wants PAID for his time and efforts. I don't think it is, but I expect them to be HONEST about getting paid.
I am no follower of Rip. He irritates the hell out of me the way he hollers and talks. Same with Phat Lardo. Dude rambles on and on to infinity. Not an interesting person doing reviews, IMO. But I see nothing wrong with getting compensated, provided you are upfront and HONEST.
If you are caught lying, then you should be publically flogged.