Walking Into A Brick & Mortar High End Audio Store

Kick tires in the store then buy on Audiogon.

It's only controversial to a small number of audiophiles, in other words .01% of the general population. Everyone else understands that people walk into stores and just look around to see what's interesting. If that's a problem for the store owner he should run his business by "appointment only" with a qualification questionnaire and pre-appointment credit check.

"It's only controversial to a small number of audiophiles, in other words .01% of the general population."

That's probably true. Best to learn to better just ignore this kind of noise I suppose.

Best simply to listen to one's conscience, IMO.

I think it depends on your expectations. If you just show up at a store and expect to demo a particular combo of gear that isn't already set up, you aren't likely to get the time and attention that you need. For starters, the owner or salesperson may already be busy with another customer.
If you are just browsing, fine, but I've still found that, unless the dealer knows you, you are better off making contact and arrangements first. Obviously, one can do whatever makes them happy, but if people complain about not being treated 'right' at a dealer's, they should consider how to approach the process in a way that will maximize service and minimize attitude. At least that's been my experience over many years, dealing with a variety of so-called 'high-end' products, in audio and other things. And, I've ruled out some dealers simply based on my experience in talking to them over the phone.