Making the trip can yield extra benefits. I live in a remote area of Wyoming, where there are only a few audiophiles (one fantastic hi-fi shop though). I drove 500 miles roundtrip for my Mirage MRM-1's and met another junkie in the process. I demo'd his rig and we have become friends since. He turned me on to other used deals from guys in his audio club. Now I'm getting a killer analog setup at entry-level prices. It pays to drive.
Shipping: A lesson learned
I purchased a pair of Apogee Stages from a person who lives approx 150 miles from me. The speakers were shipped FedEx Express Saver (similar to UPS 3 day), at a cost of $115. I used this as I was once told by a Fedex employee, they were wrong, that Fedex ground doesn't have COD. Well, for some strange reason, Fedex Express Saver, although more expensive, takes longer than Fedex Ground. Ground would have taken 1 day, while Express Saver is "guaranteed" in 3 days or less. I was hoping that I would get the speakers today, but they didnt arrive
So for a short ride, it pays to pay less.
So for a short ride, it pays to pay less.