The state of high end audio as far as local stores is really sad. Not only have the number of dealers declined, but to me it seems that the ones that are not all that great and are still in business stick out more. Many have also gone to cheaper rents in industrial parks with a policy of appointments vs. regular business hours. Some of those are in quarters which don't have the capacity for as many listening rooms (and many also do more custom audio and home theater installations vs. deal in strictly equipment) as what many are accustomed to. There seems to be more vendors that sell consumer direct and regional audio shows have increased to allow consumers to hear things they would otherwise not have an opportunity to do. Some of those venues make it a bit more difficult to get a good audition (unless one stays at the venue and arranges an after hours session). It's just the way it is.
