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The Audio Doctor makes a house call

I would like to contribute  to the discussion about Dave, the “Audio Doctor.”   I live in California but, after many phone conversations and texts where he provided advice about my system with no promise of any return, we decided a trip here from New Jersey would be worthwhile and worked out an arrangement.  Dave brought a lot of accessories for me to audition. First, we repositioned my speakers (KEF Reference 5s), which really improved the sound.  We tried a DAC (Aqua) to compare with my current Auralic Vega (first generation), wireworld interconnects and several other things.  I already had purchased an Innuous Zenith server from Dave and we set that up.  Dave was very enthusiastic about my speakers (which he sells but I already had purchased elsewhere) and my electronics (Audio Research amp, pre amp, phono stage) and never suggested buying new ones.   

At no point did I feel he was pressuring me or trying to sell me something just to make a sale.  My system is definitely sounding better now and I may move ahead with some other improvements he recommended. Of course, Dave is in the audio business and makes his livelihood that way but I think he was genuinely interested in helping me get better sound.  I know that some have objected to him and other dealers posting on this board.  Personally, I have found  his postings very helpful.  Those who don’t can always skip over them—no one is forcing you to read anything.  

Finally, I met Dave for the first time when he came here and have no connection other than as a recent customer.  
fast

Showing 4 responses by fast

fast OP
92 posts
 
As the original poster, I’d like to add some thoughts. First, it’s great to read the comments here.  People have different opinions but the discussion has remained “adult” and respectful. As for me, it’s obvious that many dealers are very knowledgeable about the products they sell and have a lot to contribute to this forum. I appreciate it when they share this knowledge.  I also agree that dealers should be cautious not to use this forum for free advertising.  The line between between helpful advice and self promotion should be kept in mind and respected, even though it may not always be clear. 

I am listening to my system as I write this and it’s sounding great—much better than before the house call. The Audio Doctor really did help with the setup and with equipment recommendations. He continues to give helpful advice, including advice on things which don’t involve the prospect of a sale.  While I did pay for his trip, he also had to leave his business for several days.  Can’t speak for him, but I think it was a very good experience.  
fast OP
92 posts
 
Original poster again.  A couple of days ago I  posted a compliment about how constructive and adult this thread was. That was then.  It really has deteriorated.  If I didn’t know better, I would think that some 12 year olds have taken over.  This is supposed to be a fun hobby!   Let’s keep things helpful and positive and stop the personal attacks, which are getting tiresome and add nothing to the conversation.  Some of you—you know who you are—should be embarrassed to take over this discussion with your personal issues.  Thank you to those who have remained on topic and helpful.  Let’s try to keep it that way.  
fast OP
92 posts
 
Wc, 
There’s obviously something personal between you and the Audio Doctor.  I don’t know or care what it is. I do care that you are clogging up this board with hostile and irrelevant posts pertaining to your personal grudge.  It would be nice if you stuck to posts which are related to audio equipment and which might be interesting and helpful to everyone else.  If you insist on continuing this feud, please take it outside...you can email bicker by email or some other vehicle and spare the rest of us. I’m saying this in your own best interest as well as the interests of so many others on this board. Based  on your posts so far, I fully expect that you will ignore this advice and feel compelled to post another snide message.  
fast OP
92 posts
 
+1. Well said, will.  The Audio Doctor has helped me a lot with equipment recommendations, system setup and troubleshooting,  His recommendations have been excellent. He has not suggested replacing equipment that doesn’t need replacing, just to make a sale.  My system sounds much better as a result of his advice.  He continues to provide help if issues arise. We can debate the issue of how far a dealer should go on this board to recommend products he sells.  As will says, dealers  are in a competitive business. But I also agree with will that the Doctor genuinely tries to help and, because he is familiar with so many products, he is a great source of knowledge. Some  of the critics on this thread seem to overlook the positives in expressing their personal opinions about his product promotion.  
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