There are so many brands that you can only buy through a dealer unless you're buying used (often without a transferable warranty). Are all of y'all just sticking to the direct selling manufacturers and the Music Direct's of the world? I do sometimes buy direct from the distributer when there is a product with no dealer in my state (eg Kuzma). I'm kind of disturbed by the anti-dealer sentiment I'm reading above, suggesting there is no value to use them. I get great advice from them, I get loaners for free if my gear ever needs service, and I get nice discounts for regularly sending business their way - show me the last time Music Direct or Crutchfield sent you a loaner.