2. analog
  3. 184037-76794

Was I Expecting Too Much

Hi everyone.  I'm looking for a heading check with a situation I encountered yesterday.  

Background:

I'm planning to upgrade my turntable later this year - Q3 is my target.  After my research, I've narrowed down to AMG and Brinkmann.  I was able to audition an AMG Viella yesterday, and was looking to audition a Bardo or Taurus for comparison.  I know my thought of trying to fit in a Brinkmann demo was last-minute, and some dealers are particular when it comes to appointments and allowing them time to setup their demo.  

The Situation:

So I called the local Brinkmann dealer and inquired to see if a bardo or taurus happened to be setup.  The salesman I spoke with said they had both, and he was going to check if a demo was possible.  After a few minutes, I get a phone call back from the owner who seemed rather dismissive of my request.  I explained that I'm currently doing my research and looking to hear some demos to help down-select, and that my purchase would be a few months from now.  He asked for my budget which I found strange as I already stated what I was interested in demoing.  Then the conversation turned to what gear I already own, which I understand sort-of.  Then the owner basically said it doesn't make sense for me to demo anything now and to call back when I'm ready to purchase.  

How am I going to know what I want to purchase without demoing the options?

Was I expecting too much by asking to hear equipment that I'm interested in?  My opinion is a sale isn't guaranteed and an audio dealer, just like any other dealer, needs to invest some reasonable amount of time to capture a sale.  You don't capture all the sales, but I didn't think I was being unreasonable in my request and certainly was not trying to waste anyone's time.  I was pretty transparent with where I'm at and I guess he was reciprocating my transparency by telling me to go away.  I felt "less-than" by this experience.  As if I wasn't worth investing any time into.

Thoughts?

 

cbl117
rdk777's avatar
rdk777
572 posts
 

Another thought - for $16k +/-, I'd look into the Stabi R and Kuzma 4P - there are good Kuzma dealers in the greater Los Angeles area where you might be able to audition the table/arm.  At that price point, the tables are pretty comparable.

tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,914 posts
 

I know the dealers in question, it’s not difficult… High end audio… especially analog shops are a relatively SMALL world… and in LA.. other than…MAYBE judging by the leased car…. well… who knows…

i should mention, i have a Bardo, etc. I frequently hear the next models up ( and the $ competitive Kuzma )  I might also strongly suggest a trip to San Diego… the dealer there… earns most of my California business… i drive a ratty GL-550 with 180 k miles on the ticker…. i enjoy them and they provide a relaxing environment w about 20 k records for sale…its an analog crack den…

Bardo w HRS class isolation, a suitable arm and cartridge are about $20k. i run a Triplaner and either a Lyra Delos or Kuzma CAR-40. at the low end the combo is $20 ish… The heavy Taurus, does sound better …. it’s subtle….and supports the additional arm = $. While the Brinkmann arms offer excellent value…i obviously went a different way.

Hopefully this helps a bit.

tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,914 posts
 

I also get the opportunity to hear a Kuzma TT w a 4point on a minus K…. not side bt side against the Brinkmann… i think blind many would struggle to find a super clear winner…i don’t believe it fits but a 4point on a Brinkmann would be fun…. ha

oldaudiophile
314 posts
 

I agree with those who've already, much more politely, characterized the dealer you referenced as a pugnacious, arrogant schmuck. It doesn't matter where his or her shop is or which clientele he caters to. There's no excuse for that kind of behavior. I wouldn't buy a thing from such a curmudgeon. I'd also suggest contacting Brinkman and informing them of this experience. I'm certain they'd want to know and, more importantly, they may be able to help you schedule a demo with a dealer with an infinitely better disposition and offer a financial peace offering, to boot. Good luck!

boxcarman
422 posts
 

That is the mark of a retailer actually telling you he doesn't need your business.  Pure and simple laziness.  Go to the next audio show near you and you will hear all of those you wish to audition.  Bring a record or two along.

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