Trouble Auditioning Hi-fi Components?

I am currently planning to upgrade my stereo system. One of the specialist hi-fi dealers in my area is apparently so busy with Home Theater and other clients that they do not have time to spend with me. I cannot get an appointment after a month of trying. After all, I am only looking at spending a few thousand dollars on components. They can make much more money selling complete, custom installed Home Theater systems for $100,000+ and put them into zillion dollar houses. Unfortunately this dealer is the only one for several hundred miles that carries several brands that I plan to audition. I think it may be easier in the very large markets such as New York and Los Angeles. Has anyone else had trouble auditioning components in their local area due to the increasing demands of the custom installed and Home Theater markets? Do you feel like a second rate customer at you local shop when you want to buy ONLY audio components and don't care that much about your TV, video and don't want megabuck custom installation?