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Could I be a Retail Wretch?

I started a discussion here this morning to get some feedback on whether an external DAC would make an appreciable improvement over an internal processor’s DAC. During the discussion, I said that I typically visit a local audio dealer, to experience the equipment and then, comparison shop to find the best deal. The particular dealer I was referring to, emails me weekly, sends postcards monthly and catalogs quarterly. It’s always with an invitation to “see and hear the difference”. So I visit, and occasionally buy some small ticket items. But, when it comes to spending thousands on nationally available equipment, I don’t feel any obligation to limit my shopping to that one location.

When I shared my buying habits with the forum, I received responses that said using any brick and mortar stores to demo and then buying elsewhere “cuzz” it’s cheaper is just plain wrong…

I was surprised at that statement. I’m a value oriented person. I enjoy quality items. But I search for them at the best price - is that wrong? If there’s no competitive pricing or added value, why should I feel obligated?


gwbeers

Showing 9 responses by inna

inna
7,132 posts
 
No-one forces people to buy on-line, just don't buy new equipment on-line.
inna
7,132 posts
 
I am not guilty. I never audition unless I consider buying from them. Since I don't usually buy new even on-line, I cut myself off.
It's not about dealers, I don't care about them, it's about myself maintaining high style, as I see it.
However, my 'audiophile instinct' appears to be quite good, so far I haven't made big mistakes buying equipment unheard.
inna
7,132 posts
 
Anyway, I am someone on a tight budget with expensive taste so I'll have to buy used. Except maybe new tonearm and couple of cables and of course cartridge. But I don't need to audition them.
inna
7,132 posts
 
Bill, would you like to name those dealers in New York area that you mentioned ?
When they start charging fees for audition, I'll go listen to a few pieces. But I would expect them to be quiet and not challenge me, this could be hazardous to their mental health.
inna
7,132 posts
 
Just don't try this in France, Michael, or you'll get a fist across your jaw.
inna
7,132 posts
 
I could also add that I don't think that dealer is under any obligations to sell you anything, he can throw you out. 
inna
7,132 posts
 
Bill, thank you. You are certainly right about two way street. I keep hearing good things about High Water Sound. Good dealers should be supported even if they charge more. After all they have the right to and they need to keep their salespeople. Unfortunately this is not my path because I can't and won't be able to afford new that esoteric stuff I am interested in.
But New York has its own economy, there are many people, including audiophiles, who can afford $30k amps easily. I wish those dealers well.
inna
7,132 posts
 
I am willing to pay MSRP if I consider it fair. It doesn't matter what they call it.
inna
7,132 posts
 
About a year ago, mostly out of curiosity, I asked Gryphon distributor for a current price list thru email. Next day I got the complete price list and also another email from a local dealer inviting me to come listen to Gryphon. Now that's different, they invited me. So if you come to a dealer and say that you have no intention to buy anything at the moment and you are still invited to audition that's alright.
No, I still didn't go to listen to Gryphon because I was not going to buy anything but I could have.
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