Are you having problems with Upscale Audio?


Hi All,

From memory, it seems that many are satisfied with Upscale Audio.  So, I am wondering if The Times Are A Changin?

To date, I have two interactions and both have been difficult.

a.) I purchased a $4k cartridge (see my system), using a trade-in program.  When I called to follow up, they told me that I needed to speak with someone who was unavailable (out of the office for a while).  When I called again, I was simply told that UA customer service would get back to me with an update.  That never happened.  SIX WEEKS later, I called to complain.  Apparently, they lost track of my order.

b.) Today, I am looking to buy a set (7) of tubes from AU and have a question or two before making the order.  Frustratingly, after two calls and three emails, I am continually referred to the website for all tube-related information. 

Their customer service seems to be "Don't Call Us and We Won't Call You" (just look at our website and email us).  That attitude is a sale killer.

So, unfortunately AU is quickly becoming a vendor of last resource.

Anyone seen a change in AU's level of service, or has it always been this bad?

inagroove

I had never had less than satisfactory experience with Upscale Audio. Recently I've got Technics SL-1210GME Limited "Master Edition" manual direct drive turntable from them - sent them my SoundSmith cartridge for install using DS Audio headshell they have recommended as an upgrade. There were some cartridge alighment geometry issues that were communicated to me with proper details and pictures. I believe they even contacted the cartridge manufacturer - finally everything has been resolved to my satisfaction. They followed up later to make sure everything is right.

Regarding 10% discount on assesories - I've used it a few times with no issues.

 

Looking to buy Fyne Audio speakers in a few months. I can't think of any other retailer in the U.S. to get them from, so UA is going to be THE place. Audio operates on fairly thin margins for the bread-and-butter stuff, more for the "higher end" of course. That is expected. I don't need a lot of hand holding, just let me order whatever and receive it in good shape, undamaged. If they can do that, they will have my business. 

I am going to do business with @upscaleaudio based on the response here.  Love live answering of the phone, no chats, and esp. this comment:   I’m not fond of any website chat feature, but young people don’t like calls and use chat to make purchases.  At least we usually answer live.  Chat’s too one-dimensional.  But I'm old.

These are my kind of people.

With brick-and-mortar audio retailers continuing to disappear, many audiophiles no longer have access to a knowledgeable local dealer who can answer questions or provide guidance before a purchase. As a result, I suspect companies like Upscale Audio now receive a much higher volume of inquiries from people outside their normal sales territory.

Many of those callers are likely seeking technical advice and product recommendations rather than intending to purchase directly. After gathering the information they need, they may ultimately shop online for the lowest price. While that is understandable from a consumer's perspective, it also places a significant demand on retailers who invest considerable time and expertise into helping prospective customers.