Would you trust a local dealer to help you put

Thanks for the responses, everyone. But of course, a dealer can make suggestions/recommendations, but the ears and judgement of the customer is the final arbiter and decision maker on what sounds good or not good. I suppose one simply trusts the dealer to make reasonable recommendations.

Very well thought out post Cmalak! Thank you for the excellent perspective.

Whart, and everyone, in my original post, the premise is whether or not to trust a dealer to "help" put together a system for around 10k. Once the dealer does this, then the decision is made whether the sound of the system warrants a purchase. This would require much listening /auditioning. Andrew, my reference sound goes back several years to a McIntosh and Paradigm S8 system I heard, and also to a system I had in the 80's consisting of a Nikko integrated, Dual turntable and ESS AMT 2 speakers. But I realize I need to get out to some dealers and hear some systems.

if a person doesn't want to expend time, effort and emotion, then a dealer may be the answer. 08-11-12: Mrtennis

These are things I have spent, including money. But now I'm considering a different path to get some assistance, since doing this with no friends or associates in audio and in a vacuum has not provided enough musical enjoyment, and it's always been about the music for me, not the gear.

After some time went by, I finally went by a dealer in my area today. For the first time since my first year in audio years ago, I actually talked to another living soul who is an audiophile and interested in this stuff.. First such conversation I've had in person after years of emailing other philes. Although this fellow is the owner, I remember him from the past as always being an amiable, pleasant fellow who loves to talk audio. It was good to see this dealership still owned by the same gentleman and still in business. And what surprised me, is that he owns a pair of the same speakers that I do! So I got some advice and encouragement. It was a good experience that has motivated me to hang in there with my current setup. So glad I had a talk with him. By the way, the parking lot and the dealership was empty, other than one salesman and the owner. I thought the place was closed except I saw an "Open" sign on the door. I guess Monday evenings in August are slow, or perhaps this exemplifies the state of audio. This dealer sells home theater too and I'm sure that's what keeps his doors open.

I'm curious what specifically was said that motivated you to hang in there?

The dealer used to carry the OMD line of Mirage speakers and owns the OMD 28 speakers that I have. He said his OMD-28 are the last speakers he will own. From all that he says about them, I have not heard their true potential.

Does that mean that you may be better off than you thought?

Yes. He suggested that placement is my issue. I may have to change my family room around.

Any chance of "getting off the merry go round"?

There better be. The dealer is familiar with all my gear; Bryston-Classe-Mirage. He said there is no reason why my system shouldn't sound great.