Could I be a Retail Wretch?


I started a discussion here this morning to get some feedback on whether an external DAC would make an appreciable improvement over an internal processor’s DAC. During the discussion, I said that I typically visit a local audio dealer, to experience the equipment and then, comparison shop to find the best deal. The particular dealer I was referring to, emails me weekly, sends postcards monthly and catalogs quarterly. It’s always with an invitation to “see and hear the difference”. So I visit, and occasionally buy some small ticket items. But, when it comes to spending thousands on nationally available equipment, I don’t feel any obligation to limit my shopping to that one location.

When I shared my buying habits with the forum, I received responses that said using any brick and mortar stores to demo and then buying elsewhere “cuzz” it’s cheaper is just plain wrong…

I was surprised at that statement. I’m a value oriented person. I enjoy quality items. But I search for them at the best price - is that wrong? If there’s no competitive pricing or added value, why should I feel obligated?


gwbeers
@jperry 
Why would you feel embarrassed - why shouldn't they, for asking more money than the item was worth?
@gwbeers,

No real reason to ask your initial question as you just answered it for yourself.

I think the owner of your local Hi Fi shop has his spider sense tingle when you walk in the shop. 

Good luck with your hi fi system

Best Regards
I am not guilty. I never audition unless I consider buying from them. Since I don't usually buy new even on-line, I cut myself off.
It's not about dealers, I don't care about them, it's about myself maintaining high style, as I see it.
However, my 'audiophile instinct' appears to be quite good, so far I haven't made big mistakes buying equipment unheard.
@jdjones51 
I'm never without my iPhone or iPad. So whenever a salesperson tells me a price, I compare it online and ask if they'll match the listing price. 


I cannot say I condone the practice of using a dealers time to test some equipment already knowing I am going to be buying it elsewhere at a lower price.
So I try not to do so,helps in my location as we have no dealers who carry any product I have interest in.

But this is just the same as I see people do in Best buy for past few years, handle the goods, check out specs etc.
Then buy from Amazon.....

We all would like our money to stretch forever but principles should still hold high.