Is good customer service about dead?


I’d like to know from other members of Audiogon how they find customer service today. Not the resellers so much as the manufacturers themselves. I had a bad experience with a really late delivery. I also have a tone arm I bought in a first production run when a setup manual was not yet available – the manufacturer will not respond to my emails. I wanted to audition a rather expensive pair of speakers that were not available in my area. I contacted the manufacturer (from his own website) to ask where I could go to audition and purchase these – but no response. I have however had amazing support from the good folks at VAC and Jeff Rowland.
So I am now searching for new speakers but customer service is my first criteria and everything else is second. I'll be looking in the 5K-10K price range. I’d be very interested in other people’s experiences.
dat1

Showing 1 response by bondmanp

As far as speakers are concerned, which is what the OP was looking for, I can recommend two from personal experience.

First is Vandersteen. Both the dealerships I have dealt with and Vandersteen itself are exemplary when it comes to customer service. Quick response, often by founder Richard Vandersteen personally, excellent knowledge level regarding their products, and very helpful regarding set up assistance. Excellent owners manuals and web site, as well.

Second is Ohm Acoustics. This direct-only seller also provides very quick replies to questions. I had cosmetic issues with some speakers I purchased from Ohm and was immediately given the choice of repair (all shipping at Ohm's expense) or a partial credit. I had voiced my unhappiness with the fit and finish of the caps on the speakers I bought, and without asking, a new, better quality set appeared at my door. Founder John Strohbeen is usually available to answer questions and make helpful recommendations. My experience has given me the impression that Ohm wants its customers to be very happy with their purchases. They do not advertise much, they never display at shows, and have no dealer network, so word of mouth is Ohm's main source of business. Ohm's 120-day home trial period for their products is among the best in the industry, AFAIK. They get it - they have to provide a top notch customer experience, and they do.