Supporting Local Audio Stores are we?

I believe we are seeing the end of an era. Setting aside the used market issue, and focusing on new sales, I think there will be a time soon when only the very high end dealers in large markets will survive by selling to folks with more money than time. In the smaller markets, most people will either purchase from big boxes, or direct through internet sales. This is a phenomenon not exclusive to audio, but that is also occuring in many retail markets as buyers trade price for service. I think this is also related to the wealth of easy information on the internet, compared to the days when a main source of information was the retail dealer. Now, you can get on-line and see detailed images of what you are looking for, learn about it, read feedback from other users, and compare prices all from the comfort of your easy chair. Many savvy direct sellers offer free auditions for everything from cables to components and speakers. Then you can purchase directly from the manufacturer at a competitive price, still get support and a warranty, and have it shipped directly to your home. Hard for brick and mortar to beat that.

Many in this thread have focused on price. While equipment price is a major factor in this discussion, I believe other issues have significantly contributed to the reduced number of B&M stores. Those who are lucky enough to have maintained a great relationship with great audio shops are fortunate. I remember what it was like to go into an audio shop in the 70's; part fantasy, part retreat, part culture, and always something to look forward to. However, the internet has made things very hard for B&M retailers in many businesses, primarily due to the availability of information. Because of the internet, buyers no longer have to rely on sales people or their monthly Stereophile magazine for information about new equipment. This is compounded since the cost of maintaining a strong experienced sales staff has become too great in mid-sized (mainly HT) markets, so service suffers as buyers rely even less on their local shop for information. Also, small to mid sized shops cannot carry more than a few main brands of gear, so they push what they carry and buyers don't have the selection they can get by simply logging on and purchasing used or direct from manufacturers, or from internet dealers who handle a large number of brands. This factor becomes more important when you look at the number of small audio manufacturers putting out high quality, great sounding gear that even 10-15 years ago, without the internet, would not have had enough exposure to become viable in the marketplace. Even service is no longer benefitted by having a local dealer. I remember when the dealer maintained technical staff and I could have gear serviced by technicians "in the store." Now, you take your gear back to the dealer who simply forwards it on to the manufacturer or to an authorized service center. Anyone with access to a FedEx store can do that themselves. Therefore, I believe price is only one component and other factors such as deterioration of quality sales staff, limited selection, lack of technical service, and mostly proliferation of available information on the internet have eroded the mystique and viability of the once thriving B&M audio shop.