I am just amazed that there are brick and mortar stores.
Visited a Store and was shunned
I live in an area where brick & mortar stores are not easily assessable to demo equipment. While traveling for business, I decided to stop by an establishment on the U.S. West coast. My interest was in the Dynaudio Confidence 20 since I’m looking to upgrade from the Contour 20i. I’m not here to name names or throw anyone under the bus, just purely to voice my frustration and disbelief on how I was treated.
I was greeted with skepticism and a general lack of interest in discussing the product. There were two gentlemen working that day and neither had any interest in answering questions or providing a listening demo. As a matter of fact, when I asked to listen to the Confidence 20 speakers one of them immediately said “no way”. Both speakers were on stands sitting next to several amplifiers so it wouldn’t have taken much time to setup.
I was intent on making a purchase that day and having the speakers shipped to my residence, but decided to leave the store based on my experience.
It’s a shame that most of us have to relay on equipment reviews when establishments such as this lack interest in the customers that support the hobby.
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- 147 posts total
@mahler123 - Speakers alone would make it worthwhile; probably not too many people not professional reviewers wanting to have big floorstanders shipped to them from online retailers to audition and then have to send back if they don't pass. |
I've worked as both a salesman and manager of a "stereo store". People come in and dream about what they would buy if they had any money. Funny thing happens though when the blue collar guy gets hit with the audiophile bug. He decides he doesn't need a boat, new furniture, or a good working washer. He will be willing to donate blood, pawn his mother, become a hit man ....all to acquire that dream system. I know, because I am that guy. So even though a customer may look under funded, I've had many change their commitment level after being introduced to the real thing audio wise. My first Macintosh buyer was guy that lived in a single wide trailer without enough room for a boom box. But he said "System comes first then bigger house to live in!" As a salesman, to inspire the desire is key to growing sales. Enthusiasm is very infectious. |
I live in Florida and my impression after visiting House of Stereo in Jacksonville was the opposite of the OP's experience. The owner was courteous and helpful. He took the time to show me around his listening rooms and just listening to his gears. I didn't end up buying anything but have them in my short list if I were to need anything. |
I have to compliement and rave about LMC Entertainment in Tempe and Scottsdale, Arizona. Every time I'm visiting either showroom, the sales people are always happy to chat and showcase their equipment. They're super professional and very friendly. I've bought a few items from them in the past, but even before hand - they always treat me right. |
- 147 posts total