There are a few shops still in the Chicago area that I stop at occasionally. Nice guys who will talk with you if they can. If very busy, you won't get the usual banter. But that's fine. I see what they have plugged in and may listen a little. I am very aware not to waste their time. I have purchased a few things from them.
There are a few other 'higher-end' shops that I just don't go to anymore. Back in the day when I was just getting started I did go and listen to expensive systems. I would say up front that I wasn't interested in purchasing at the time. Everyone was pretty cool about it. But now I realize that I really would just be wasting their time.
I personally don't see the big deal with appointments. I would love to sit and listen to new gear without any distractions! If you have deep pockets have at it. Just be clear upfront what your intentions are. Or, if the thought of having to make an appointment gets your panties in a bunch, just don't do it. Pretty simple really - shop elsewhere.
The times they are a-changing. Roll with it.
There are a few other 'higher-end' shops that I just don't go to anymore. Back in the day when I was just getting started I did go and listen to expensive systems. I would say up front that I wasn't interested in purchasing at the time. Everyone was pretty cool about it. But now I realize that I really would just be wasting their time.
I personally don't see the big deal with appointments. I would love to sit and listen to new gear without any distractions! If you have deep pockets have at it. Just be clear upfront what your intentions are. Or, if the thought of having to make an appointment gets your panties in a bunch, just don't do it. Pretty simple really - shop elsewhere.
The times they are a-changing. Roll with it.