I initially became interested in high end audio after spending time with my local dealer, listening and learning. And while today we have excellent online information available, as well as audio shows, I fear that the younger folks just getting into the hobby won't have the benefit of a relationship with their local dealer.
Example, I tried to make an appointment at a local dealer for my Nephew and I to audition a new turntable, with a budget of $5,000. I spoke on the phone with the salesman and we narrowed the selection down to 1-2 turntables in our price range. He knew that we would be buying it after the demo.....no "kicking tires."
I have purchased a lot of stuff from the store over the years, so the salesman proceeded to tell me about some great $25K+ turntables he had. I said I was happy with what I'm currently using but would keep it in mind if I decided to make a change.
He never called back to schedule a time to bring my Nephew in. I guess the $5K sales was not worth his effort.
We ended up buying a turntable, tonearm, cartridge, record cleaner, cabling and all the necessary accessories from another dealer that I've worked with in the past.
The store not only lost my Nephew as a current and ongoing customer, but I won't be going back either.
Is this the level of investment we want to make in the next generation of audiophiles?