How funny; I was just thinking about this. I have noticed this here in the San Jose, CA area too. Most stores have consolidated multiple locations or changed their focus to home theater. A couple have closed altogether. One store has remained focused on analog and tube electronics, and used vinyl at high prices. He's doing ok I think. I rarely go there. The one store where I felt really comfortable "hanging out" and listening to equipment, and where I made most of my purchases is now a custom installer closed to the public.
The last piece of electronics I purchased - a Meridian G61 processor - I had to order. There was no store demo to audition.
The last piece of electronics I purchased - a Meridian G61 processor - I had to order. There was no store demo to audition.