Is good customer service about dead?


I’d like to know from other members of Audiogon how they find customer service today. Not the resellers so much as the manufacturers themselves. I had a bad experience with a really late delivery. I also have a tone arm I bought in a first production run when a setup manual was not yet available – the manufacturer will not respond to my emails. I wanted to audition a rather expensive pair of speakers that were not available in my area. I contacted the manufacturer (from his own website) to ask where I could go to audition and purchase these – but no response. I have however had amazing support from the good folks at VAC and Jeff Rowland.
So I am now searching for new speakers but customer service is my first criteria and everything else is second. I'll be looking in the 5K-10K price range. I’d be very interested in other people’s experiences.
dat1
I would look at something from Vandersteen. They sound incredible and if you are having any problems, they will work with your dealer and make sure you get the best possible results. Also, Vandersteen is very picky about who they let sell their speakers. If they can't find a dealer that meets their standards, they won't let them become a dealer.
Learsfool, can you list the manufacturers from whom you've had excellent service? I think it would help the OP.
Redgum from Australia is very good. Spent enough time talikng to me and answered clearly all the questions. Sent me a spare "ignition key" for my amp for free. Yes, key instead of usual power switch. Liked their English too.
I think you should talk with Duke at Audiokenesis.
I think he falls in line with Ralph from Atmasphere in outstanding customer support.
I have received outstanding customer support from Wyetech, Wyred for Sound, Stealth Cables and Etymotic earphones. If you do your homework and buy top quality components from music-loving designers and manufacturers, you will receive great customer service.

Neal