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
One interesting point about WHY one 'should' sell to folks who are going to go elsewhere to get a lower price...    
You are going below the price you think you need to make a living. However it is not below the price you actually paid for the item.The plus is you AND NOT SOMEONE ELSE sold this person the device.            
I know some have the mental block about "if I sell this to him I have to sell it to everyone at the same price". No you don't .   
                               
I guess if you have no talent at reading people, this will not work, since you cannot really know who is going to go buy it someplace else. But if they say to you.. Haggling.. I can buy this at Joe's Junkyard for $xxxx. And you say goodbye.. You are not a smart businessman.

".. shameful monikers I’ll wear to the bank. ;-) "

If you value your self respect so low, that's your business.

terry9

Anyone who would accept being overcharged and become so meekly obedient to a salesperson that they allowed their self respect to be influenced, would be both a schmuk and a wimp.


Great topic. I would love to be all warm and fuzzy about dealers. I walk into my local dealer and they act as if I am  imposing on them just to listen to something. Dealers need to understand that they are selling high dollar products and you might take a few months to finally pull the trigger on a sale. I'm sure it's frustrating for them though.