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Very Bad purchase from upscale audio Acoustic Zen Adagio

This was not my first purchase from Kevin Deal at Upscale audio. I am a entry level audiophile. My PrimaLuna Dialogue Premium HP and Dialogue Premium Preamplifier have given many hours of enjoyment. I have purchased well over 1K in tubes from Kevin. This purchase took me over the 10K mark with Upscale Audio. I am not a rookie to audio or tube amplification. I have had a successful tube amp repair and design shop since 1993. 
My concern.
Here is the description of the Acoustic Zen Adagio from Upscale audio's website.
This pair of Adagio's from our demo room are also the last pair of Adagio's in our inventory. The Adagio is such a sweet sounding speaker and is perfect for those who really like to get inside the music. The pair we have are in the stunning Figure Red wood finish. The baffle style is the original (and better sounding) non-tapered baffle, as pictured. Price $2499.00 plus shipping
Ok.
I called Kevin and talked to him on the phone.  I asked him if he would entertain an offer. I told him that I had seen the same speakers offered on Audiogon and Audioasylum for considerably less.
He said I am a retail store and back my products. He also said this and I quote " Those people are just guys in their underwear scratching their asses." I am a store.
I trusted the description of the speakers and I trusted Kevin.
Total price. $2839.  $2499.00 plus $340.00 shipping to NC.
The speakers arrived and I couldn't wait to unpack them and hook them up. The packing was great. My anticipation was greater.
Left speaker Tweeter DOA. The same speaker had a shameful reject finish.  The lacquer was so clouded you can hardly see the wood figure. The back of the speaker was loaded with black specks under the lacquer. These speakers are seconds, rejects. I sent Kevin Deal 4 emails referring to the fact that this really was a bad deal.  It has been 3 days and no response.
On the other hand Robert Lee ( Owner of Acoustic Zen)  responded immediately to my email asking for help with the DOA Tweeter. I sent it off next day air to him and today responded that it is on it's way back  to me.
Somehow Kevin Deal's Train ran off the tracks so don't ask for your money back

rbogartr
audioman58's avatar
audioman58
4,193 posts
 
Did keven take or show any quality photos? That should be Automatic.
he is a Liar. Acoustic Zen DoNot make a redwood veneer.
these cabinets are made in China their burl was decent the red I doubt is even a 
veneer most likely a print the poly coat is heavy sprayed  .
orange peel is Very common .i had them I know a true professional 
would light sand between spray coats ,then 1,000. Paper at the end and look like glass.these are production speakers luck of the draw the top model is much better .  His Ego is way out of control .because of all his lines the $$
in the $Millions he no longer gives a Shite .Time to find someone who still 
believes in  an eye for an eye , and treat others as yourself !!

corelli
1,004 posts
 
Just talk to Kevin sometime and decide for yourself.  My  prior post was deleted when I simply quoted what he said to me on the phone once. He's rude and crude.  Much rather send my money to someone who is decent and doesn't treat you like you're a moron 
slaw's avatar
slaw
21,774 posts
 
Kevin (Deal)...

California...

Common' that's just too rich!
deepee99's avatar
deepee99
86 posts
 
I third or fourth the endorsement of Andy Bowman at Vintage Tube Services. Been very satisfied with every purchase and consult with him: there is no greater nor knowledgeable tube junkie on the planet. One caution with Andy: don't bother with emails. I don't think he even reads them. Visit his site at: http://vintagetubeservices.com/
and when you find a range of what you're looking for, give him a phone call. It will be time well spent. Unlike KD, he won't attempt to unload junk on an unsuspecting newbie.
rotarius
431 posts
 
I have spoken to Kevin in the past on 2 occasions and I had no problems with the man or his products.  They do not answer emails promptly, I know that for a fact.   In this particular case, I am going to say the problems with the finish did not occur at the showroom floor.  I am going to guess these cabinets are made in China and the QC at AZ (if any) is lacking.  If the entire production and testing is done in the PRC, then it would explain the defective tweeter as well.  The manufacturer needs to replace the pair and Kevin should not be in the business of trying to defend the shoddy workmanship.
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