Am I asking too much?


I’ve  been looking to finally buy the cartridge my turntable - a restored Garrard 401 with Reed 3P tonearm - deserves.  So I sent a note to a local Koetsu dealer - wanting to support them over your typical big names (e.g., Music Direct, Upscale Audio, etc.) particularly during covid.  Though I’ve never bought from this local place,  I’ve visited them before a couple times, and live less than 10 miles away.   When I asked the dealer if they provide turntable set-up — remember, this is for a $7000 cartridge — he told me that they refer people to a local company for that (which means of course at an additional charge).

wtf?  So the only service provided by the local dealer is to order the cartridge that I can get cheaper on-line and then refer me to someone else to provide actual service.  Anybody else have a reaction to this?
128x128mdalton
Maybe this is why your local guy isn't a big name. Or maybe he just doesn't need the business as much as you think. Instead of complaining here, tell him what you think. Maybe he'll foot the set-up bill as a discount. Make sure whoever touches your gear has insurance.
Had it restored by Woodsong Audio - motor rebuild, new precision eddy brake disc, original thrust bearing replaced, new gorgeous plinth, etc.
I agree with noromance. Ask him why they don't offer the service for such a large purchase.