Why is it cheaper to buy a first and second stage regulator separately?

[JackD342]

As an LDS, it is an expectation of all my suppliers that I do a bench test on every regulator I sell and adjust if/as necessary rather than assuming all is 100% okay. The customer should not find out there is a problem the hard way. (I have never had to adjust, but still...)
Can't speak for online sales. If shipped assembled, more likely was tested. If requires assembly, I would assume not.
You might also buy individual components that have been set for different IPs and require tuning. Not every reg is intended/designed/tuned for the same IP.

 

[BoatingDave]

As an LDS, it is an expectation of all my suppliers that I do a bench test on every regulator I sell and adjust if/as necessary rather than assuming all is 100% okay. The customer should not find out there is a problem the hard way. (I have never had to adjust, but still...)
Can't speak for online sales. I'd shipped assembled, more likely was tested. If requires assembly, I would assume not.
You might also buy individual components that have been set for different IPs and require tuning. Not every reg is intended/designed/tuned for the same IP.

I see thanks for the info. Very helpful.