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Very Bad purchase from upscale audio Acoustic Zen Adagio

This was not my first purchase from Kevin Deal at Upscale audio. I am a entry level audiophile. My PrimaLuna Dialogue Premium HP and Dialogue Premium Preamplifier have given many hours of enjoyment. I have purchased well over 1K in tubes from Kevin. This purchase took me over the 10K mark with Upscale Audio. I am not a rookie to audio or tube amplification. I have had a successful tube amp repair and design shop since 1993. 
My concern.
Here is the description of the Acoustic Zen Adagio from Upscale audio's website.
This pair of Adagio's from our demo room are also the last pair of Adagio's in our inventory. The Adagio is such a sweet sounding speaker and is perfect for those who really like to get inside the music. The pair we have are in the stunning Figure Red wood finish. The baffle style is the original (and better sounding) non-tapered baffle, as pictured. Price $2499.00 plus shipping
Ok.
I called Kevin and talked to him on the phone.  I asked him if he would entertain an offer. I told him that I had seen the same speakers offered on Audiogon and Audioasylum for considerably less.
He said I am a retail store and back my products. He also said this and I quote " Those people are just guys in their underwear scratching their asses." I am a store.
I trusted the description of the speakers and I trusted Kevin.
Total price. $2839.  $2499.00 plus $340.00 shipping to NC.
The speakers arrived and I couldn't wait to unpack them and hook them up. The packing was great. My anticipation was greater.
Left speaker Tweeter DOA. The same speaker had a shameful reject finish.  The lacquer was so clouded you can hardly see the wood figure. The back of the speaker was loaded with black specks under the lacquer. These speakers are seconds, rejects. I sent Kevin Deal 4 emails referring to the fact that this really was a bad deal.  It has been 3 days and no response.
On the other hand Robert Lee ( Owner of Acoustic Zen)  responded immediately to my email asking for help with the DOA Tweeter. I sent it off next day air to him and today responded that it is on it's way back  to me.
Somehow Kevin Deal's Train ran off the tracks so don't ask for your money back

rbogartr

Showing 2 responses by audioman58

audioman58's avatar
audioman58
4,306 posts
 
Did keven take or show any quality photos? That should be Automatic.
he is a Liar. Acoustic Zen DoNot make a redwood veneer.
these cabinets are made in China their burl was decent the red I doubt is even a 
veneer most likely a print the poly coat is heavy sprayed  .
orange peel is Very common .i had them I know a true professional 
would light sand between spray coats ,then 1,000. Paper at the end and look like glass.these are production speakers luck of the draw the top model is much better .  His Ego is way out of control .because of all his lines the $$
in the $Millions he no longer gives a Shite .Time to find someone who still 
believes in  an eye for an eye , and treat others as yourself !!

audioman58's avatar
audioman58
4,306 posts
 
Do one of two things , if you paid PayPal they will back you .
or inform your credit card company ,you were scammed product not 
as described and speak with a supervisor get  a name and case number for 
who ever deals with the claim.  This way you are covered and 
tell him also you will put in a claim with BBB which if he does not respond 
then first get money  back  if bought on credit card you can get Shippjng  both ways if on PayPal I doubt he wants to get shut down. Take pictures for sure.
best of luck
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