Great topic , with gentlemen responding. I’m glad to read this thread . I live in Clovis, Ca. Fresno has zero audiophile shops ! ZERO ! Magnolia is high end here. 1 million people in this county and zero . I am totally dependent on you guys for advice . However, I have a local friend that is a former shop owner . He moved into estate law and closed his business. Recently I wanted an item from Rogue . He contacted them on my behalf and asked for dealer price . Being honest, he stated that is was not for him . Rogue politely declined and said “ they support their dealers “. So I went on line and contacted a Midwest dealer . I asked for a “ discount “, and stated there was not a dealer in my area . As a new customer , the rep paused and offered “ 10% off and free shipping “ . Dealer price is about 60%. I thought that was very fair and made a purchase from an authorized dealer with a full warranty . Now to the question of the thread . If I use a store for an audition and advise on compatibility, I buy from them . This pays off too if I have a problem requiring service or repair . I’ve also found that by politely asking , most stores will give a modest discount . Also I lack the knowledge and skill that an expert possesses and the help is well received. So I try to be frugal , but I support the Local Guy, where applicable, like the Local Trek bicycle dealer and the local Gunsmith . Regards , Mike.
