And interestingly, I can’t stand dealers and find them to be the dial telephones of the new century. But I would never use one for showrooming.Agree with the ethical posture of not taking what you don't pay for.
I have thoroughly auditioned almost everything in my system. Often I have bought used and auditioned with great satisfaction other times bought used using a review w/o audition and wasted hundreds. Reviews are only a starting point. A set of speakers can sound COMPLETELY different given different amplifiers- never mind DACS or preamps! If you skip dealer auditions you may never know how good your system might have sounded. You can also save time and money by avoiding lateral moves.
If you buy online to save $$ but SKIP dealer auditions, then I think you are fair. The risk is yours. However, what will the future look like?
Disagree that dealers are making money.
I remember when there were many more dealers and it seemed more satisfying then. Remember it's a HOBBY.
Incredible to read that dealers are making trillions and trillions with extra billions on the side- How is it that so many dealers are closing??
WE are forcing dealers to cater to wealthier customers because typical buyers are not showing up.
Audiophiles, audio enthusiasts, dealers, and manufacturers are generally very nice people. I will be very sad when there are NO dealers in my area.