HYIP question - can't find answer anywhere

[Invested]

I've been interested in HYIPs for years, finally opened a LR account to get started. Since I've been curious for so long I've definitely done a lot of research, and lately I'm noticing an odd trend when I look at monitors and forums...it seems that some HYIPs are only paying out a fraction of what they claim to pay out. Some people seem irate over it, while others seem to be happy with it. Here is an example of what I mean:

http://www.bestvotesite.com/?a=details&lid=1413#vote

and another: http://www.bestvotesite.com/?a=details&lid=1421#vote

granted, I'm sure the heck not going to put my money with these HYIPs but it isn't just these that I've seen this with.

I don't mean to sound dumb here but were these other people right in expecting 10 times what they were paid, or are they (and me) missing something (other than it being risky in the very first place)

The reason why I even questioned this in the very first place is because I figured if an HYIP is going to make off with everyones money, then why give even a few dollars and why not just disappear with it all?

[kalida]

From my point of view, all HYIPs are Ponzis! They would all run away with their members' money ...

if an HYIP is going to make off with everyones money, then why give even a few dollars and why not just disappear with it all?

Because they want more! So they have to give out a part of dollars to some of its members, so that the got paid members will be happy and promote the program, they will say like "xxxxx is paying", "xxxxx is great" ...balabalabal...
then more members will be joining, and more fund will be invested in ..... when the amount reaches what the program owner's desired/expected, it's time for the program to be disappeared ...

[kleon]

I started my HYIP adventure this year. In most cases I have invested amounts between $100-$1500. Of course I know what is ponzi and this is what I expect from all HYIP's sooner or later but if you enter in good moment, you can earn a lot. Almost each new started hyips pays within first weeks to attract more investors.