Did I Expect too much?


I purchased a pair of speakers from a US manufacturer who I shall not name.  The speakers are beautiful and the sound exceeds my expectations (after a minor upgrade).  So why would such a reputable company use six dollar binding posts?  It makes no sense.  I replaced them with Cardas binding posts and decent 12 gauge wire between the driver and posts.  My system is valued for clarity and clean highs.  The difference was audible.  I know, snake oil.  But it wasn’t.  I don’t think that spending $15K for speakers is nothing.  So yes, I was disappointed.  

langla4

Showing 1 response by knittersspouse

Parts cost vs. total item selling price is always a black art. 

Back in the early '70's, I was a salesman in a small but decent audio shop. One of the perks was the discount offered to guys like me by manufacturers - want to know a product better?  Buy it for yourself at half the retail price.  It was my "after work" job and I never took a penny out of the store, but got quite a few items I still have and love. 

One was a speaker we sold for about $300 each. Nothing special, but I liked the sound dispersion because of a second tweeter on the back of the cabinet.  We had  a pair on display with the grills off, and some inquisitive patron decided to try seeing how much travel the 12" woofer had by just pushing on the cone.  We ordered a replacement driver and were amazed when it came in with a billed cost of $4.00!