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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
inna
7,296 posts
 
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.
gwbeers OP
76 posts
 
@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. 


uberwaltz's avatar
uberwaltz
13,381 posts
 
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.
djones51
4,947 posts
 
The last new car I bought I researched what I wanted and looked up the best price in my area for the model I was looking for. When it got down to the " hard " negotiating the salesman did the usual figuring on his paper and showed me his price but when  I was ready to respond I hesitated looking sort of silly. The salesman just smiled and said we have the internet too. B&M stores better get with the program or go the way of the buggy whip. 
atownkeep
19 posts
 
I personally think that you are fine doing what you are doing as long as you ask the brick and mortar store to price match. If they wont then that is on them and their business practices. 

I think we all know that the price is not really the price on just about anything. There is always room to negotiate. 

Why pay $25k for CLX Arts when another dealer is will to sell them for $15k. Cost to the dealer is only about $13k. So if a dealer wants to move equipment they will be aggressive and make money. If a consumer wants the next best piece in the chain in the search for SOTA they should be conservative and thrifty because the next SOTA piece is just around the corner. 


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