2. amps-preamps
  3. 160032-79

Charging A Fee To Demo An Amplifier In A Brick & Mortar Store

I Saw a pair of pre-owned tube monoblocs for sale on an onlline forum for around $17k.
The seller has a retail store for hiigh end audio. The seller mentioned that there will be an up-front fee for the demo if a prospect comes to the store the amps are not purchased. The demo fee may also be used for credit towards any purchase in the store.

This is the first time I’ve ever heard of this. Is this now a common occurance in high end audio stores? I sent a note to the seller asking what the demo fee amount was....two weeks and I didn’t get a response.

Does anyone know what amount of fees are charged for a demo?
128x128mitch4t
skypunk's avatar
skypunk
499 posts
 
I think they are very clear and upfront about it.

they said in the ad that they are packed away and stored so it will require unpacking, and setup.

My my hats off to them because they are weeding the tire kickers out.

Got to pay to play......
rlb61
787 posts
 
@skypunk ... And, that's likely why he's still stuck with super expensive amps that he can't move.
last_lemming
638 posts
 
Their time is paid for by the mark up.
Just like cars.

i wouldn’t dare purchase from this person. 

Brick and Mortar is dying, he’s just making it happen quicker. 
skypunk's avatar
skypunk
499 posts
 
When I worked for HRC we did the same thing when homologating the Honda RC45. You paid $1000.00 came out to the track, I briefed you on the controls and nuances of the motorcycle. You then got 10 hot laps. Wreck it you own and G note went to your purchase.

we sold 800 of them in 2 weeks. 
gordon
133 posts
 
@tubes444 

does the name of the sf dealer have sf in it?  And maybe audio and vision?
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