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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

Showing 6 responses by viridian

viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
Why yes, you are a retail wretch. Showrooming is stealing IMHO.
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
GW thank You. I think that my post in that thread has no bearing on your showrooming, and you are free to define any word in the English language any way that suits you.  But, of course, we all have our right to differing opinions. 

You asked if you could be a retail wretch and I answered the question in the affirmative, as some others here have as well. Nothing in your response changes my opinion.
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
I do just that. When I am thinking of buying an auto I try to rent one for a day or two. No salesperson in the seat next to me and I can drive wherever I want. You should try it. If you are going to have to live with a vehicle for a few years the more time you spend behind the wheel the better IMHO.
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
Asking a question and then telling the respondents that they are incorrect is disingenuous, at best, IMHO, and akin to trolling.

If your original question was rhetorical in nature perhaps it should've been framed in such a way that it did not require answers.

And yes, if I rent a car, and decide that it is for me I will always negotiate for price, but I have a relationship with one dealer, and as long as they are in the ball park, I will give them the business, as their service is stellar.

The other part of the question is speculative, as they are always willing to sell the car at market, but no, I would not pay sticker price. Nor did I take a test drive in their vehicle I might add. And exactly what does this have to do with your retail wretchedness?
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
Ha ha, like the drowning man that trys to drag everyone down with him, LOL. I not your kind, but you are too blind to see that.

 You are not audio wretched for negotiating; you are audio wretched for stealing time and energy. But you knew that and your intentional attempt to twist the circumstances is not going to play.
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
I have no idea of your race or your eyesight, though I have a very clear understanding of your vision. Sure, whatever you say, twins.
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