I think my ability to meet and do business with a guy who may have a great idea, but lacks the backing for a full-blown roll-out coast to coast is a fantastic advantage.
The internet has killed the small shop in many cases, but I also think we are still adjusting. The next phase may be more of an audio consultant who shows people how to get, assemble and install bargains and is paid for his services.
In the past, some of the gear was so outlandishly priced, you just could not afford many of the little tweaks. With the net, you find alternate items for a fraction of the price you used to pay at a shop.
I think more choice is always a good thing. This site has been good for my audio. Since the net has taken off and become an integral part of buying my gear, what I can afford has been upped to a whole new level.
Used gear is no longer only available at a few shops within driving distance. Even spending all day on phone calling shop after shop could not get you the deals you find on sites like this daily.
Maybe not good for audio shops, but REALLY good for audio.
The internet has killed the small shop in many cases, but I also think we are still adjusting. The next phase may be more of an audio consultant who shows people how to get, assemble and install bargains and is paid for his services.
In the past, some of the gear was so outlandishly priced, you just could not afford many of the little tweaks. With the net, you find alternate items for a fraction of the price you used to pay at a shop.
I think more choice is always a good thing. This site has been good for my audio. Since the net has taken off and become an integral part of buying my gear, what I can afford has been upped to a whole new level.
Used gear is no longer only available at a few shops within driving distance. Even spending all day on phone calling shop after shop could not get you the deals you find on sites like this daily.
Maybe not good for audio shops, but REALLY good for audio.