Has the internet been good for audio?

I have solved this dilemma by buying used gear only from people who bought the product from a local dealer to begin with.;)

for me, absolutely. I was able to do in home demos of many different products over the course of 2 year only because of Audiogon and eBay. I have more system for the $ I spent.

The internet has been very good to me. For one thing, it has allowed me to continue being an active dealer even though I live in a small town.

I'd say about 3/4 of the sales I make depend on the buyer first being able to sell something to finance the purchase. Some dealers grumble about Audiogon, but if it weren't for Audiogon there are many sales I'd never make.

When I put on my manufacturer hat, the internet benefits me even more. I imagine myself to be sort of like that guy Gumbydammit is talking about, enabled by the internet to offer an alternative when otherwise the huge costs of an effective advertising campaign would have been an insurmountable barrier.

Duke

Yes, yes, yes, for equipment and software. As in any marketplace, the more information you have and the wider your net, the more realistic the prices are. It has done away with 'trade-ins', given exposure to new artists. In summary, it has made the 'hobby' much more enjoyable.

once you can tell the difference between advice and advertising, its all good.