Will Internet Distroy High End ?


The internet has been a godsend to those who wish to trade used equipment. It has also been ok for those dealers who care to do internet business. In the long run however, I don't envy local high end dealers. As more people jump on the used equipment bandwagon it may have a serious detrimental effect on new equipment sales. That in turn may distroy or shrink the cottage industry we call "High End Audio." We would then be left with all the mass merchandisers who want to reduce us all to mid-fi garbage. What do you think ?
stokjoc
This IS an interesting thread to read from nearly 20 years!

The take away.....?

Less B/M stores. Survivors, or newer stores have to be  adaptable to the Nth degree. Buyers have even more options. 

Anyone considering to get into audio retail needs a boatload of cash, ready to be flushed down the toilet of your ridiculously high priced, leased building.

Otherwise, it's a great time to be an audio consumer. 
My take away also includes more options on the lower to mid price side that 20 years ago would have been considered top tier gear.