Nowhere to hear speakers and amps anymore!

@aldermine You are correct.  I bought a pre-amp from one of the advertisers here and on AudioMart.  We had various phone calls about my system and what I was looking for.  I was in the middle of an out of state family trip and our calls were after hours to accomodate my schedule.

The exchange of information gave me a sense of confidence and I bought the pre over the phone.  It came with a note to call him when i received and was ready to install it, which I did.  It was a great experience and a fantastic purchase.

@aldermine You are spot on with the manufacturer supported "listening hubs" throughout the US.  I have often thought that would be the solution to the paucity of dealers.  The reason it won't happen is it would likely kill off the remaining dealer network. This industry is in need of disruption.

@skinzy Thats for sure; disruption is long overdue in this space. 

Consumers have voted with their money; very accurate Chinese counterfeits at aliexpress for a fraction of the price including many popular cable brands, buying out of state from small mail order dealers to avoid local sales tax, plenty of great gear on the used market with a lot more to come at the next recession, many great kit and DIY options and the recent trend towards high value factory direct with little or no dealer mark up (Schiit, PS Audio). I also believe this relatively small market can’t possibly support all the brands and models available now. Many will fold in the upcoming recession and there goes your warranty, used value and repair options.

In a way the secondary market has become the primary market. I have bought and sold many more used items then new. It’s a huge hassle though, I think I liked shopping better before the internet. Things were more expensive but you bought less stuff and held onto it until it broke or became obsolete. The buying process was actually enjoyable and bringing something new home was much more exciting. And you didn’t have to save the box. I mean who among us doesn’t have a pile of empty boxes in their garage? It’s kind of depressing feeling like you never really own your stuff and maintaining it in perfect condition for the next guy.