Would you trust a local dealer to help you put

Mr. Tennis:

I know how to paint but I can not paint a masterpiece.

Best,
Burt

And, metaphorically speaking, dealers don't tell you what movies to watch or which music that you should prefer.

Still metaphorically speaking, we introduce you to new movie technology, new studios, movies (classics, foreign films, independent film makers), actors, cinematographers, writers, etc.

AND if you can inform us as to which genre you prefer, your favorite cinematographer, actors, directors, etc. then we're likely to make recommendations that you would love...perhaps even replacing your current favorite movie.

Mr. Tennis,

You're cordially invited to join me on a hifi adventure. Please take a trip with me to a number of manufacturers so that you can see how many different models of speakers an average hifi amplifier manufacturer owns or borrows to test his or her equipment. Or, how many different types of amplifiers that an average high-end loudspeaker manufacturer uses to design, develop, and test their speakers.

How much money do you really think they budget to spend on other people's gear for the sake of testing and exploring compatibilities?

I promise you enlightenment on this journey as, in my opinion, coming from someone who has already taken it, your faith is misplaced.

Manufacturers know about THEIR products and to this point I do not argue. However, when you start talking about how their product will perform within a system comprised of many products, or with another manufacturer's product, or in a specific room, or with a new control system, then they will most likely only reference the specs and make assumptions regarding engineering compatibility and not sonic compatibility. The two are not the same and I'm sure you realize this.

And, I'll be the first to admit if I don't know what to expect by pairing brand X with brand Y if I have never done so.

As a dealer that some manufacturers have turned to for beta-testing, I can tell you that most products are finalized in the field and dealers provide a considerable amount of field testing and data. When problems develop, manufacturers often turn to their dealers and integrators for suggestions and solutions.

So you see, it's not a one or the other type scenario. The relationship between manufacturer and dealer is symbiotic.

And, as such, I would recommend involving both. What's the harm in doing so?

Best,
Burt

i guess i am a somewhat different kind of audiophile. i only like panel speakers and have not found a solid state amp that i have enjoyed listening to.

thus i will select tubed amps and preamps, panel speakers and probably a tubed digital source.

since i pretty much know what i want, a dealer is somewhat unnecessary.

and yes, when it comes to integrating all the components of a stereo system and the room and the ac, a manufacturer may not have the last word.

but a dealer doesn't know about the customer's ac or his room "problems.

point is as, i have said, the more a consumer is unsure of his preferences, the more a dealer adds value. the more a customer has a very good idea of what he wants, the more the customer is self sufficient.

i tend towards components that are not in production, so a dealer could not sell them to me.

live and let live. there is room enough for the direct approach and a dealer network.

let the buyer decide if a dealer adds value or not.

there is however, a certain appeal and fun factor in trying out components bought from manufacturers who provide a home audition period.

part of the fun in this hobby is the quest--trying components until one has had enough.

i think a dealer will have limits as to how many components
he or she will let a consumer audition.

Wow Mr t, you really want to make that statement above? You make yourself sound like a narrow minded no it all. I apologize if you've had a stroke or some such.