two channel speaker/equipment consultant

Hello, @mikeyb9115 Many of us love our favorite advisors and dealers.  For me, Bill Parish at GTT Audio stands way out.  He is honest and knowledgeable, very friendly and helpful, available by phone, and oh yes has the very best equipment!

Good Luck!  There is so much great stuff out there...hard to decide on your own!  My system today would be nowhere what it is without Bill's guidance.

fastfreight, 

I couldn't disagree more....most dealers push what they sell and he's no exception. An individual's ears are their best consultant.  

Most dealer carry brands that they think their customers will like, subject to availability if the brand in the area. So a dealer will carry a portfolio of brands to please as many of his target clientele. His job, and to be successful, is to sell equipment that fits the needs and desires of his customers, to make them really happy and come back. I know a few of these. They will go so far as to recommend something to a client that they don’t sell.

Now what happens at Best Buy and poorly run low end audio stores, that’s a different story.

ricred1, hssssss.

Bill doesn't push anything on me.  But, I certainly like what he sells.  Perhaps his taste in equipment and sound matches mine; and he plays at a high level.  One could wander aimlessly for years and never end up where they truly want to be.  And, BTW, my ears are my best consultant, and I have been in many shops auditioning 'exactly what they sell'.  I stand by my comments about Bill and the manufactures he represents.  Merry Christmas!

@mikeyb9115 -- Since you describe yourself as a "novice"--i highly recommend you first read Jim Smith's book "Get Better Sound" -- it's an excellent book and simplifies many basic things audio (and does get into more complicated details later) but one of his chief focus' is how important the room is to your sound--and as well to your speaker selection--and why.  Jim also offers consulting services in the form of phone time for a certain price--i availed myself of his expertise this way and he is (or was) also available to come to your home and provide services--you cover airfare and hotel if applicable + a consulting fee.  If you're talking "considerable investment" i can't help but think he would be a valuable resource if he still does this.  Jim has set up many audio shows and is widely renowned for that.  Good luck