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Where to buy Metrum Octave?

So I was denied a Metrum Octave by Hifi Heaven because I couldn't return their call the same day to make the purchase. This after waiting patiently for 6 weeks for something that they supposedly had 3 of in stock at time I made my order. I waited patiently as they explained that it was in customs each of the 3 times I called them fully agreeing that it was out of their control and not their fault. Then when they did receive it, they left me a message to call them back on their last unit. Unfortunately due to a work deadline I was only able to call them back the following day at their opening time. They tell me "I wished you called back sooner because it's already been sold".

While the individuals I spoke to were nice, I'm very disappointed that they didn't reciprocate a smidgeon of the patience I asked of me. Come on now, I'm made to wait for 6 weeks but they can't even wait a full day?

So now I'm seeking suggestions for an honest and reliable dealer that have or might have the Metrum Octave for sale.
huynhh1
vicdamone
850 posts
 
I'm wondering if the Amazon interface may be at fault?
huynhh1 OP
11 posts
 
Amazon reporting that there were 3 available was probably a due to a delay between dealer and Amazon. Regardless, Hifi H was completely aware of my order each of the 3 times I called them.

I think the confluence of 6-weeks in customs, Amazon's auto cancel of order after 37 days, Hifi customer service procedures, and my work schedule are to blame. Before Amazon cancelled the order, I talked to Hifi customer service and asked them if they can guarantee me a unit on their next shipment even if Amazon cancelled my order. They said yes, no problem, but they didn't take my card - so in the end, that conversation translated into just being a courtesy call.

I got a reply from Metrum Acoustics, they will sell direct but the lead time is 6 weeks plus the time in customs. Shipping is 26 euro for post and 125 euros for UPS. They said UPS is faster and more reliable. Anyone know if UPS's rates are really worth 100 euros more?
vicdamone
850 posts
 
Huynhh1, Aren't you saving almost $400 buying it direct from Metrum?

They quoted me at least six weeks and it arrived in the fourth week.
huynhh1 OP
11 posts
 
More like $200 if I use standard post: 668Euro ($825) + shipping 26E ($32) + paypal fee 23E ($28) = $885(compared to Hifi H $1095).

* 668E comes from their pricelist page for the 14V power supply and in silver

Vicdamone, did you use standard post? I haven't bought anything from Europe for a decade now. Has standard post gone downhill that I should consider UPS?
huynhh1 OP
11 posts
 
I decided to go direct and ended paying $904 (with today's exchange rate).

It would be interesting to see how far behind my order is compared to Sibelius' order from Hifi.
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