Hard disagree. Most niche hobbies, the discoverability for discord is impossible. That means amassing enough people in the server is hard, it’s usually 1 really dedicated person responding.

Reddit was also the best place for product (gadgets, gear, clothes etc) reviews. Some retailers have gotten clever about astroturfing but you just need to look at multiple posters. My usual routine of aggregating 4-5 Reddit threads worth of opinions has consistently rewarded me.

Now your only option is go to Wirecutter or hope you have friends who have the product you’re interested in.