My recommendation is to not deal with companies that are trying to force the old economy model onto you the consumer. It is no longer a secret wholesale price world and then a big bump up to a retail price for the consumer. The consumer is in charge and can buy from all over the world. Macintosh should be avoided until they learn that their profits come from customers, not dealers. That said, my experience has been great with Krell, BAT, B&W, and Revel. I have gotten fantastic service under warranty. I find most products very reliable but when you need someone to pay attention to an issue, those companies that do so are to be rewarded. I have had some wonderful experiences with dealers but most of my dealer experiences have been negative because a customer simply doesn't buy enough from them on a regular basis. They simply forget you. If you come in a couple of years after buying and want to upgrade they act as if you have the stink on you, and the equipment they sold you is now worthless. It really is worse than car dealers. That is why Audiogon is thriving and we have these forums. Dealers are competing with each other and the customer is merely the playing pieces on the board. It is funny how bad company behavior is always part and parcel to the music business with rare exceptions.
I wanted to buy a $22K tube amp and there was no way from the manufacturer or any dealer for me to audition the amp in my home, in my system. No one would consider any arrangement whatsoever. At any price.
Explain that to me. Would I ever consider this company's products in the future? Not a chance.
I wanted to buy a $22K tube amp and there was no way from the manufacturer or any dealer for me to audition the amp in my home, in my system. No one would consider any arrangement whatsoever. At any price.
Explain that to me. Would I ever consider this company's products in the future? Not a chance.