I've submitted a few reviews and tried to be very honest and candid. Some seem to be submitted by neanderthals and prepubescent future rock stars but many reviews seem decent and I do find them helpful in narrowing down the playing field when I choose gear.

I will admit that most of the stuff I check out is high end, boutique, or obscure which may slant the reviews to a different population.

And your thoughts?

I feel that many give out 10's like they're giving out candy at Halloween. I do find some reviews very helpful but you have to sift through them and find the experienced musicians point of view. Some younger individuals may buy a Boss pedal and think it's the most fantastic thing since sliced bread. I believe they are being honest but they haven't delved into the world of high end yet to know the difference. Furthermore, as one gets older your ears mature and become more in tune with buying equipment that suits your needs. Rather than buying the coolest pedal that will get you laid at your next gig. You can often tell a reputable reviewer by the language that they use and other gear they own, but it's obviously more complex when you get into different styles and taste.

a lot of this stuff is subjective anyways, but I've found the harmony central reviews an invaluable resource, and I always read the reviews of every product I consider buying, be it pedals, pickups, amps, guitars. Of course as u mentioned if u look at some products (especially those catered towards the 'lower caste' of guitar players), you'll invariably run across a few:

"mY ZoOm 505 ROX!!! tHe DiStORtIon iS PeRfEct fOr BLINK182!!"

But in general they're very helpful.