2. misc-audio
  3. 181163-181

Hi-end audio is a big zero

This is no knock on dealers, It's just how hi-end audio is.

I go listen to some speakers. He has them set up like crap - jammed between 3 other pair. Running on electronics I would never choose so I have to try and compensate for what I imagine they are contributing to the sound. Then after 30 minutes, I am expected to shell out the $4,500.00.

I narrowed it down to two transports from an online retailer. And who knows if those 2 are even a good choice?  Told point blank, I am not allowed to buy both and return the one I don''t want. Just pick one and buy it. Shell out $1,000-$3,500 based on what?

One e-tailer will allow purchase 3 speakers totally $12K and return the two I don't want. Sorry, i have a conscience and can't do it to him.

Read all you want. Talk all you want. Listen at dealers all you want. But unless you listen in your own room, it's all meaningless. I'm talking even just 5 to 30 minutes can be all it takes. But that is basically impossible.

Sure you can buy and sell on A-gon or Ebay if you find what you want have the time to go through the process.

If the prices weren't so high or I did not care about sound quality maybe it would not matter.

cdc
Post removed 
chayro
2,982 posts
 

There used to be more amazing dealers who did single-speaker private demos and would even let you take something home to demo, depending on circumstances of course. There are still some around. But the audiophiles’ ability to shop on the internet caused many to close or change their business model. From a strictly audio standpoint, I think the old school was better. I had some great demos back in the day. 

mahler123
3,276 posts
 

I agree that the current environment just isn’t conducive to wanting to make expensive purchases.  It is like being asked to buy an automobile without a test drive.  Younger people being asked to do this I imagine will be more reluctant than us older enthusiasts, and it can’t be good for the long term industry outlook 

oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,751 posts
 

There are still some good dealers out there . Audio Visual Therapy in Nashua NH, Natural Sound in Framingham, Goodwin’s Waltham....

When I was young there was an audio dealer on every corner in Boston it seemed. Now they are few and far between.

I agree , demos are important and I always try to demo before buying. There are a few things I have purchased, total leap of faith that turned out to be some of the best bear I’ve ever owned.

Most of my gear is purchased locally, not really a fan of internet buying. I did have a great transaction with The Music Room. They made it easy to buy an Aurender with my trade. I’d definitely consider dealing with them again.

testpilot
918 posts
 

When shopping for audio, I go to my usual dealers and listen to their stock set up.  After I have narrowed down some choices, I schedule an appointment during off peak time requesting a certain combination of equipment to be auditioned more closely.  In my experience, retailers are receptive of this approach, especially if you are taking up some of their down time retail hours.  

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