Of course your friend is correct when he told you the local hifi dealers feel used when people shop, listen, question then buy elsewhere. Finding a retailer that does not survive off the teat of the Home Theatre sow is rare. Mostly they have folded. Gig Harbor Audio, Brooks Berdan and Hawthorne Audio -Seattle, love that sign out front which announces that the store is "a nice place" are some of the few I have enjoyed spending time in. But honestly I never bought anything there. Someday perhaps but that won't pay their bills.
It was my very great fortune to meet "Blake" three and a half years ago at Audio/Video Choices in Phoenix. My last stereo purchase had been in 1985 at Definitive where they sent me home with NAD and Polks.
Last week the owner of AV Choices closed his doors after 13 years to retire.
We threw a retirement party at the store two Saturdays back.
I am going to miss that place. Even more I will miss the ridiculously
honest, unbiased and totally accurate information Blake shared with me.
I now enjoy a system (following Blake's tutelage) put together for about $9k that creates what I call that 'magic' sound. As to OP's question, be patient and you will be rewarded. Make it an educational journey. You may enjoy the learning process. Go to Axpona if possible. Join a local club if one exists. If not join the nearest one and read the newsletters.
Many manufacturers have gone "direct" and as such offer a trial period.
You pay freight both ways. Cheaper to fly/drive there sometimes.
It was my very great fortune to meet "Blake" three and a half years ago at Audio/Video Choices in Phoenix. My last stereo purchase had been in 1985 at Definitive where they sent me home with NAD and Polks.
Last week the owner of AV Choices closed his doors after 13 years to retire.
We threw a retirement party at the store two Saturdays back.
I am going to miss that place. Even more I will miss the ridiculously
honest, unbiased and totally accurate information Blake shared with me.
I now enjoy a system (following Blake's tutelage) put together for about $9k that creates what I call that 'magic' sound. As to OP's question, be patient and you will be rewarded. Make it an educational journey. You may enjoy the learning process. Go to Axpona if possible. Join a local club if one exists. If not join the nearest one and read the newsletters.
Many manufacturers have gone "direct" and as such offer a trial period.
You pay freight both ways. Cheaper to fly/drive there sometimes.