Cleveland, OH

I grew up in NE Ohio, and remember a few years back I think there was a store named Hoffman's ??? However, the last time I was in there if memory serves correct they had Martin Logan SL3's running through Adcom amps and the sound was as good as nails on a chalkboard. Ridiculously poor! Especially considering I owned the SL3's at that time in Columbus, OH and had some sweet music coming from them via VTL Ultimate preamp with the Sonic Frontiers SFS-80 amp... after that experience I can see why I think I heard they are no longer in business... how can anyone expect to sell something on the sound if it sounds poor in the showroom?

Have been removed from central and NE Ohio for a few years now, so I am uncertain as to what is worth while. Progressive Audio in Columbus would be my best recommendation as of a few years ago...

Best local dealer here in NE Ohio has been Don Better of Don Better Audio. he sells the weird stuff I'm into (SET and single driver speakers) as well as some really pricey SS stuff.
Vik

I've figured it out recently. They are willing to talk to you only if you order HT instalation. That is where their income coming from. Furthermore, they don't care that much about equipment cost and quality. Dealers are looking for expensive installations - in wall speakers, all-house wiring. I was still searching for Tara Labs wire. Looked for good one ($30-$40 per ft), but after 2 weeks I still can not get price through email. So just because I needed a pair of 20 ft speaker wire they do not think I'm important prospective customer. ...It is a shame. No competitors and associates' ignorance is sky rocketing. But enough complaints. That is exactly a very good reason why we should exchange opinions and listening experiences about equipment, so we can bypass dealers and find out ourselves what configurations are making good sound. All we here, by count, most likely have better selection than all Cleveland stores together and individual knowledge is priceless. We might also start some sort of a club. I don't mind a cup of coffee and conversation on one of the subjects that make my life different and happy. (Thanks for the patience while reading my response - I am not an American and my language needs improvement, I know...)

Akron area. Shahinian speakers, Blue Circle NSCS integrated and AH! CD player.
The Shahinian's & Blue Circle replaced my Spendor 1/2's (most excellent speakers btw), Audio Research LS15 & Musical Fidelity A308cr amplifier.
The Audio stores in Akron are WORSE than those in Youngstown. And Canton is worse than Akron.

I don't know what I want. I a poor college grad that is hoping to go to Grad school in the fall.
I want my stuff to sound good, but fill both audio and video requirements.
I never had anything other than Onkyo receivers and the like. I need help.
Need quality used pieces that cost little $$$.
I feel that I have made a good start considering what I once had, but am eager to "feel the music". and relax.