I've thought about offering that as an option only (I've seen mandatory paid subs go both ways; they can either kill a forum or make it successful). With an option though, there would have to be some kind of value added for that which goes beyond just having the banner ads turned off. But I'm not sure just what that would be yet.

The software is 3.5 currently. We're about to switch servers, and once that's done, then we'll upgrade to the most recent version of 3.6 and get to work on these issues. I've been reluctant to mess with it until we've migrated to our new host. Stay tuned for that,

Will someone please take my money!? ;-)
 

I hear you, but I sorta disagree. Make it totally optional. One thing you could do it create a series of private forums or one, and literally make the subscription give you access to that forum -- but the other option is just to give us way to chip it - that's it. No bonus, no requirement - just a "Hey, here's 5 or 10 bucks a month." Even "Hey - here's $1 a month" - really - that's it.

Perhaps see where the "Tip Jar" gets you and build on it from there. If you want more, add a subscription based forum, where all you Guru's go FIRST... ;=) Either way, I'm in for a couple bucks a month...

Roger that!

Jeff

Hey guys, I moderate a forum that has >380,000 members.

An option for a paid membership subscription with benefits is definitely the way to go. You don't want to close the door to regular members who may not want the paid membership, and all that it includes.

Our paid membership offers a "For Sale/Classifieds" area, and a private chat area as well. Other power buy deals as well.

This forum is great! I look forward to seeing it grow.

Mike