Who is the WORST Audio Shop?


There seems to have been quite a bit written over the past several years regarding the myriad of reasons one can attribute to the demise of the brick and mortar audio shop. Rarely have I read however one of the most obvious reasons, which based on my experience, has got to be the simple fact that for the most part, they just didn't offer a high end listening experience. That, along with an elitist and careless attitude towards customer service, buried them as much as anything else. So here's my question. Who is the WORST audio shop/dealer you've ever encountered?
jayh31

My philosophy is simple.  I refuse to pay for bad service.

I'll simply walk away. 

People of color have experienced this for generations.  people "size you up" the minute you walk in the door, anywhere.

However, in this day of mega rich people, entertainers, sports stars, etc. it is rare that business treat people this way.  Still happens in the audio industry.  Not so much for clothing, watches, and autos.  They don't know who and what you are and aren't willing to lose out on a big sale anymore.  The Pretty Woman scenario rarely happens today.

But, for audio....well.... I was in Stockholm a few years back and when I travel I try to visit high end audio stores. 

I was wearing jeans and definitely wasn't from Sweden.  but, I'm older and carry myself pretty well.

well, the sales man looks me up and down and comes to a conclusion immediately.  completely ignores me.  I was interested in a all in one type unit for my girlfriend.  It was Rotel, I believe. But, they also sold higher end equipment and some Martin Logan equipment also. 

So, I tried to ask about the Rotel unit.  The salesman in a very condescending manner asked me, so, what equipment do you have?

I said my amps were Audio Research and Mark levinson and I have Martin Logan Monolith III speakers, with Audio Research pre-amp, dac, etc.

His manner and eyes changed immediately. 

don't get me wrong, he wasn't rude at all, just initially condescending and stand offish.

But, we got along fine after that exchange.

Same is true for high end watch dealers I've dealt with, and auto dealers.  I have found that it isn't their initial impression that matters, but how you respond to it.

Some people are just asses and my response is to walk away.  but, others, work within their comfort zone and rarely leave it unless you take them by the hand and show them how wrong or incorrect they can be.

enjoy

polk432...Buy those PB tix...if you win big, follow through on that threat, and I'll come work for you. ;)

"Hi there.  I see you're looking at (X) amp.  It's really nice, but (Z) amp here is better, and we sell it for less that anyone in This galaxy.  Care to hear it through those MB101's?  Sure...sit on down.  Care for a drink?"

It'd almost not be work...;)
Years ago, I purchased a pair of speakers by phone from Audio Classics in NY. When they arrived at my home, I found that the cosmetics were nowhere near what had been claimed (damage in several places). I loved them and so I kept them anyhow. A couple of years later, I order two pieces of electronics from them...a CD player and an tuner. One of the pieces arrived first and did not work properly. I called them and they agreed to take it back and cancel the entire order. I have not dealt with them since that time.
To be fair, they are a well known business and many people seem to have satisfactory dealings with them. My experience was less than good.
Norbert,
I'm currently here Monday through Friday, 9 to 6, although once our formal showroom grand opening happens in the coming weeks I expect I'll be here on Saturdays and probably off on Mondays.

Brian
Sound organization here in Dallas was one mile away from where I live and would not let me come by and demo. They let another guy demo a week later. It was a shame I was interested in Dali at the time and had the cash to pay for them. Very disappointed in them!