2. amps-preamps
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Name brands that are not so well known are skipped

I've noticed that the lesser known brands on Audiogon's Auction and Classified listings receive significantly fewer page hits than do the name brands. It's understandable if they're being skipped due to keyword searches. What I don't know if if they're being skipped simply because people don't know who they are and simply pass over them for that reason. Gaining knowledge of the market is fun, free and takes little time. If fact, if it were me looking for a new amp, preamp, etc... I would NOT do a keyword search, but take my time and scroll down through the listings.
lamphear_electronics
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
I hear what you are saying, but great, new products are discovered in many ways, by other means. If you have a story to tell, a classified listing is proabbly not the first approach I would rely on for being discovered - sponsored ads on the site, maybe. Classifieds can be a part of your "mix", but don't count on it to get the "word" out.
magfan
1,583 posts
 
Just a thought on lesser known brands.

People shy away from some because of support or parts issues.
This is a valid concern. But, think about what CAN fail.
Are there any proprietary parts / technologies? For VacTube folks, you can source a tube from many places. All the electronic parts, likewise. Caps? Resistors?.....all common.
I suppose you could have trouble finding a transformer, PS or Output, but they are fairly reliable when run within design limits. Not much will help a lightning strike!
SS STuff is similar...many parts being chosen from say...DigiKey or other catalogue.
The problem will be proprietary semiconductors but even than there are cross reference books.
The hangup is that parts AIN'T parts and that changing some may change the sound of the equipment and not always for the better. Even Macintosh can't guarantee THAT even though they are the Gold Standard for long-term support.

At some point, you just gotta believe. And for those who do buy from 'lesser known' makers, try to get the schematic, too.
lamphear_electronics OP
9 posts
 
Actually, I don't believe small businesses deal with proprietary parts as much as big businesses. If specialized components and complex circuits are a concern, it's best to stay away from large companies. Something else: I would have to believe a small business would provide more of a 1 on 1 relationship with their customers and as a result, provide better service.

Publ57 mentioned other ways of becoming better known. I 100% agree. Listings and auctions are a good way to test the waters but do not provide all the necessary exposure outlets.
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
Does Stereophile still adhere to the dealer network policy for reviewing products? One advantage of the "new" online magazines is that they give a much broader class of manufacturers an outlet for professional quality reviews. I do think a lot of excellent products fail to "qualify" for SP based on an established dealer network; I'm not sure that policy, if still in effect, reflects the changing distribution model for high-end gear.
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