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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
oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,797 posts
 
Like everyone, I want a good deal.   However I also value personal service.  I"m looking at my rack of equipment and there's only one item I didn't buy new locally .

That item is a Magnum Dynalab MD102 that I bought direct from MD after I sent my MD 90 in for service. They took my unit in trade and I was into the 102 for cheap.   

My amps were used but everything else was new and I paid less than I would have on line.   My last few purchases were with Audio Visual Therapy in NH where theres no state sales tax.  Great guys to deal with .When I bought my speakers they pulled out several amps, including a pair of amps that I owned along with setting up a sub with them.  They spent time, were not pushy , and it was a fair price,  not to mention saving $120 in tax .  But most importantly they spent time with me so they earned my patronage and loyalty.
mmcelyea
60 posts
 
You write "If there’s no competitive pricing or added value, why should I feel obligated" 

Don't you think being able to audition and talk to a knowledgable rep is added value. 

I enjoy being able to go to my local store so I shop there hoping they don't go out of business because other people are just using them and giving their money to anyone online that hasn't provided any service
oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,797 posts
 
Exactly, added value...   when I had a driver fail my dealer did all the legwork to get me a warranty replacement ....they took care of me a year after the sale.

I live in the Boston area, 20 years ago their were dealers everywhere around here, now most are gone.   Amazon, eBay, online grey market all contributed to their disappearance
inna
7,296 posts
 
No-one forces people to buy on-line, just don't buy new equipment on-line.
gwbeers OP
76 posts
 

This might be the time to start a local Audio Dealer fund raiser. What better way to assure the longevity of our local retailers than by giving them our continuous support. For just $19 dollars a month. just 63 cents a day, you can be a savior. You’ll be able to visit your local dealer anytime, during business hours, sample any piece of equipment and all without any guilt, because you are a member of the Audio Sustainability Society. As a member you’ll receive courteous, knowledgable, service with value-added decor and perhaps a generous selection of mints at the register. Of course you will still need to purchase at list price. Your membership fee won’t be deducted at the time of purchase as it is considered a donation for preservation. To extend the value-added experience, retailers could place donation boxes outside their front doors, for when they aren’t open. Just imagine the joy we can bring to every local audio retailer - when they realize that their community will support them and they will be able to survive charging full list price! 


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