Business Ethics in the Audio Industry


I wonder if anyone else has run into problems with audio manufacturer/retailers that raise ethical (if not legal) issues. In mid-April, I ordered a Schiit Freya on Schiit's website and authorized credit card payment. The website said that shipment would be delayed until April 30th. After that, I received another email message from Schiit saying shipment would be delayed until May 15. I made one further inquiry after that, and Schiit responded that I would have to wait a little longer. Then, just yesterday, I received a message from Schiit saying that the Freya had been replaced by two new models, and I could choose between them. Either way, I'd have to pay $100 to $200 more than for the Freya I had ordered in mid-April.

Before yesterday, there was no sign on Schiit's website or anywhere else that the Freya was being discontinued in favor of the new model (with two options). Nor did any of the email messages I received from Schiit indicate that the Freya was being discontinued and that I would have to pay more than previously agreed for what I had ordered. The messages only ever referred to shipping delays.

Do you consider this a fair business practice on the part of Schiit? I feel like it's a bait-and-switch, which they tried to justify by noting that my credit card charge was reimbursed three days after the initial order, as per company policy. But I assumed that was only because of the delay in shipping, and that the card would be charged once shipping occurred. I don't know whether this rises to fraudulent misrepresentation, but it certainly seems to amount to a dishonest business practice. I'd be interested to hear what others think about this.
dancole
They should have given you the new model at the same price of the discontinued one! A small price for them for the inconvenience they caused you!
I disagree completely that they owed anyone a new one at the old price.

If that were the case what's good must be good for both parties.  If the price had dropped rather than increased then should the buyer have to pay the old price to get the new model? Even though the new one was less money?

Besides...it only went up about $100 bucks when you consider the upgraded Tung Sol tubes are now included in the base price rather than an upcharge as in the past. Man, maybe I don't feel entitled enough!
+1 @yogiboy . 
I had the same situation with one of our favourite vendors on Audiogon. I ordered an item, then was notified said item was replaced by an upgraded model. I was offered the new item at the original price.
The owner of the shop saved me $250. A real class act.


I agree.
It would have been nice if Schiit offered the new Freya at the original price, seeing as you had already placed the order.
I doubt they would be loosing too much money, but instead gaining greater customer loyalty.
Just think if you posted that they gave you the newer model at the old price, instead of what has happened?....
Bob
They should have upgraded you for free. No brainer. Could be a blessing as I am not a fan of their products and think you can do better.