What are some good things to do when going to an audition

Bring head shots.

@hilde45 

This is not something I can agree with.

I said: Don't audition anything you are not willing to purchase.

Not the best choice of words, please allow me to re-phrase/explain: I meant price range. It's so easy to get a broad sense of what is appealing from a personal cost / benefit analysis before going in. Then look around, ask some questions, and make an appointment to come back and dive deeper.

If it goes well, make a deal.  

@mofojo 

20% is not out of the ballpark at all and even more sometimes. I would start with something like 30% and get down to an agreement from there. Why would audio equipment be different from buying a car, house or anything else?

This model will make the dealer go broke unless you're shopping at BestBuy or Costco. 

At the retail level, high-end audio doesn't have the margins jewelry or furniture does: 500% vs 40% give or take.

And new car margins are even slimmer. The money is in the maintenance. 

As for houses, in desirable markets buyers are often paying over asking price. 

Demonstrations at a HiFi Store are limited to the equipment of interest in a certain Price Bracket.

It is best to bring a owned item along wanting to be exchanged if this is practical and acceptable.

Demonstrations of equipment are not only limited to a Dealership Premises. 

Sharing musical encounters with likeminded friends who are creating a HiFi System works, Being a Forum Member and using arranged events, as well as being a Local HiFi Club member has created many friendships and has got me access to numerous demonstrations of a variety of equipment, with no need to appear as interested customer. 

Some of the equipment I use today and am totally wed to, are a result of meeting like-minded friends, meeting individuals presenting their equipment at a Forum Event or the Membership/Interaction with the HiFi Club.  

This is not something I can agree with.

I said: Don't audition anything you are not willing to purchase.

Not the best choice of words, please allow me to re-phrase/explain: I meant price range.

With all due respect -- still disagree.

Listening to gear at all levels can benefit both customer (hears new things they can at least appreciate if not purchase right away) and store (gives customer an aspirational path, builds loyalty).

In most stores I have auditioned and purchased, the store rep auditioned better gear for me. Helped me, helped them.