I don't think Amazon will interfere with Phil's editorial independance. Amazon doesn't really care what products you buy, just that you buy products. If Phil slams the Nikon and pushes the Canon, Amazon doesn't care one way or the other - as long as all the product links go to them. That's why they don't care, and don't interfere with, user reviews. Amazon pioneered the user feedback, and I have never had them edit a single review I've ever done, even when I slam a product. They simply don't care ... and by allowing users unfettered ability to leave reviews, they create a sense of community that makes them the "go to" source for online purchases.
By purchasing dpreview, they automatically get a well respected, well trafficked inroad into the serious photography market that can steer a heck of a lot of traffic their way. And better yet, dpreview has a worldwide audience, so it can push business to all of the Amazon subsidiaries across the globe. I've always bought a lot of gear through Amazon because I found their prices extremely competative, and because I have an Amazon Prime membership (so I get free 2nd day delivery) ... but Phil's site steered a lot of traffic to other retailers, like Ritz, BHphoto, etc. With Amazon buying it, they capture all those "referrals".
Overall, I'm optimistic this is one of those rare "win-win" scenarios.
