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
".. 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.
The customer that took home my gear had already decided to buy the one on audiogon....if it sounded good. He didn't come in out of the blue just to see what I had. After he got his amps in from the seller in California I got an email form the seller to ask if I had an owners manual for those amplifiers...obviously for the buyer in Denver. I was surprised he didn't ask me to go help the guy put his tubes in. .

I think that dealers are on the way out. Guys used to come in to my shop or my room at the RMAF and fall in love with the sound....then they go on line and see what other people think. No one can make a decision on their own...lets see what the reviews think...I have a friend with a good ear. Some how we are weeding out the really good products in favor of the really good advertisers...A little sad...