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View Full Version : Richer Sounds and the impact (if any) on brand credibility / image



Neil McCauley
10-07-2008, 08:03
Does a brand, audiophile or otherwise, automatically lose brand credibility if it is stocked and represented by Richer Sounds and if so, why? Or put differently, if brand 'A' was initially on your short list, and then you discovered it was stocked by Richer Sounds, would you delete that brand from your short list and if so, why? Thank you.


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Mike
10-07-2008, 08:18
Hmmm... No. (assuming said brand is what I'm looking for).

Marco
10-07-2008, 08:24
Interesting one, Howard. What prompted this? :)

No, I don't think so. Obviously if a respected and established hi-end manufacturer started selling their gear through Richer Sounds then it probably would lose "credibility" in the eyes of audiophiles, and it certainly wouldn't be the right way to sell that type of equipment, but with mainstream stuff, no.

Although I don't buy anything from Richer Sounds I think they fulfil an important role in the hi-fi industry because they get people into 'real' hi-fi instead of non-descript plastic crap like the midi systems and suchlike sold in places like Dixons or your average supermarket these days. I'm sure many people here have bought entry-level gear from Richer Sounds and then gone on to use more hi-end equipment. I'd rather people bought hi-fi equipment from Richer Sounds than Asda or Tesco!

Although some don't like their heavy discounting, I think Richer Sounds help keep the industry and people's interest in hi-fi alive. For anyone after a decent new budget system that's the first place I would recommend them to go. They stock some decent stuff these days, particularly the Cambridge Audio range of equipment which I think is quite excellent for the money, and the staff in general are knowledgeable (about what they sell), friendly, and helpful.

What's your view?

Marco.

Neil McCauley
10-07-2008, 08:42
Thanks Marco. I am in full agreement with what you say.

As to what prompted this, well a few weeks ago I needed to buy some speaker stands and I went to my local Sevenoaks. Very polite, competent and efficient. I bought from them. The store was on a high street, mid week – and empty. A few days later I wandered into the Richer Sounds in New Oxford Street in London – on a Sunday.

The street was very far from busy. But the Richer store was packed. People were handing over money. Moreover the harassed staff still looked happy and the sort of po-faced customers you might see in Linn / Naim specialists and similar places were totally absent. It looked like fun! The contrast was striking, and is lingering on.

As for me, well I'm finding it very difficult to look at this as a ‘civilian’ – by which I mean it cannot properly disassociate my in-the-trade perspective. My best guess is that no, I wouldn’t be put off the brand if it were at Richer Sounds.

Incidentally, given the curious perspective of me working as a retail marketing consultant for a number of audiophile brands (none of which I stock, thus avoiding a conflict of interests) I truly believe that the promotion of the Cambridge brand by Richer Sounds, and the apparent high value of the equipment, is one of the shrewdest and most well executed marketing strategies I’ve seen in many years. And I congratulate them!


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Filterlab
10-07-2008, 08:44
In my opinion Richer Sounds have done nothing but good for the hi-fi industry by offering very good prices on budget hi-fi, getting separates into the high street and I'm sure they've started many folk on the audiophile road. They're also under no illusion about what they sell - budget components at low prices.

My first new hi-fi component purchases were made in Richer Sounds in the early nineties when I finally had enough money not to have to buy second hand. I went down a familiar route; Sony CD player, Kenwood amp and Mission speakers - a 'get me started' system which I got for a couple of hundred notes including a proper interconnect and some speaker cable (you've guessed it - QED 79 strand). This system got me into a hobby that remains at the top of my hobby tree today and it's all because RS was a way I could afford 'proper' hi-fi at the time, I got very decent sound quality for not much moolah and I resultantly discovered that component swapping was half the fun.

I still have my little Mission speakers that I bought years ago (they're the rear channels of my cinema system), my Marantz decoder was also purchased from Richer Sounds eight years ago even though at £1,500 it wasn't quite a budget component and the most recent item I got from them was my Panasonic 50" plasma - they were £400 cheaper than the next nearest price!

Do Richer Sounds reduce credibility of the brands they sell? No. Marantz are still well regarded as are Sony as are Mission as are Kef etc etc. As RS only sell the budget end, the top end (and the audiophile's opinion of such) is unaffected by their existence in my opinion. Most of the audiophiles in my age bracket will have bought their early hi-fi there and a lot will have no doubt climbed the ladder so to speak. For some of course, RS is as high end as need be, and therefore a great place to buy.

Filterlab
10-07-2008, 08:46
Damn fine question by the way. :)

Neil McCauley
10-07-2008, 08:48
In my opinion Richer Sounds have done nothing but good for the hi-fi industry by offering very good prices on budget hi-fi, getting separates into the high street and I'm sure they've started many folk on the audiophile road. They're also under no illusion about what they sell - budget components at low prices.

Do Richer Sounds reduce credibility of the brands they sell? No. Marantz are still well regarded as are Sony as are Mission as are Kef etc etc. As RS only sell the budget end, the top end (and the audiophile's opinion of such) is unaffected by their existence in my opinion. Most of the audiophiles in my age bracket will have bought their early hi-fi there and a lot will have no doubt climbed the ladder so to speak. For some of course, RS is as high end as need be, and therefore a great place to buy.

Excellent!

Togil
10-07-2008, 09:25
Last weekend the Financial Times did a short piece on the Mordaunt Short Performance speaker , I noticed I'd have to go to our local Richer Sounds for that which is exactly opposite our trusted Absolute Sounds dealer which is quite funny, it doesn't look as if they could provide a decent audition but I may be wrong - I'm going to give it a try !!

Marco
10-07-2008, 09:53
Howard,


As to what prompted this, well a few weeks ago I needed to buy some speaker stands and I went to my local Sevenoaks.


Wouldn't it have been cheaper for you to buy at trade price direct from the manufacturer? If not, that tells its own story! ;)


The store was on a high street, mid week – and empty. A few days later I wandered into the Richer Sounds in New Oxford Street in London – on a Sunday.

The street was very far from busy. But the Richer store was packed. People were handing over money. Moreover the harassed staff still looked happy and the sort of po-faced customers you might see in Linn / Naim specialists and similar places were totally absent. It looked like fun! The contrast was striking, and is lingering on.


An excellent point, especially the "fun" part. I think that's half the problem for people with buying 'specialist' equipment from most dealers (not you). There is rarely any 'fun factor' in evidence during the buying process of what is after all supposed to be a fun purchase...

One is so often, on entry of a 'hi-end' hi-fi shop, greeted by salesman/dealer who looks as though he's chewing a wasp and gives the distinct impression you've disturbed him from doing something far more important than serving you. When he (grudgingly) comes over to talk if the sneering, condescending, attitude doesn't put you off (usually in evidence if you're not spending in excess of £10k TODAY) then his dog breath and 'fragrant' armpits will have you heading for the door sooner rather than later. I am of course being somewhat facetious, but this scenario is more common than you might think!

This is the complete opposite in my experience of the atmosphere and 'vibe' inside a Richer Sounds premises, where one is met by smiley sales people who obviously enjoy their job and are suitably ‘incentivised’ - and they appear to familiarise themselves with soap and water regularly, too. There's no doubt that Julian Richer is an entrepreneur par excellence.

For me, the hi-fi scene is about knowing exactly who your target market are and having the confidence to stick with it rigidly, how to reach them, how to empathise with their buying requirements, how to then select and stock the gear, and then how to try and make a profit from it all!

Seems simple enough, eh? :eyebrows:

And Richer Sounds do it better than most.

Marco.

Neil McCauley
10-07-2008, 10:06
Howard,



Wouldn't it have been cheaper for you to buy at trade price direct from the manufacturer? If not, that tells its own story! ;)

Interesting point. Marco The rationale was this. First, I cost out my time at £n per hour. To have set up a trade account, then agreed to purchase 'y' pairs per months, and then consider the situation would take 'z' hours x £n = £zn

Against this, in this specific instance, going to Sevenoaks cost me 0.25 x £zn. The margin I would have made, had I gone for the trade purchase route was about 20% x (0.25 x £zn) i.e I couldn't be arsed.

And there was the added benefit of checking out a different type of retailer.

Best

H



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Filterlab
10-07-2008, 10:14
And Richer Sounds do it better than most.

This has everything to do with Julian Richer's philosophy, if the enthusiasm and commitment is at the top, it filters down right to the guys on the ground. We have the same philosophy at my company which is why we're the leaders in our market for customer service and completely error free operation. Julian has remained in control and in contact with his customers - I would imagine via his personal feedback form on the receipt, and this has given RS the edge over many other dealers. Saying that, Sevenoaks are also good on customer service (in my experience) and seem to be a higher end version of RS. Audio T on the other hand seem to be the most miserable bunch of fuckwits I've ever encountered.

Colinx
10-07-2008, 10:27
Richer, and more like them are needed if decent sound quality in most homes is going to make a come back. The difference in attitude of most of the staff to customers is very marked. They seem to be pleased you are in the store, nothing is too much trouble, and they offer, especially with the CA range a very good sound per pound level. Some of the stores have decent dem facilities, but they have the 30 day money back scheme any way.

When you think that as a new convert to 2 channel you can buy a very respectable sounding system for £500, and much better for £1k they offer a easy way from the ASDA all in one to real sound at what a number of dealers regard as cable money.

If the sound is what I am looking for, then if Richer sell it, I would buy it, I am pleased to say that brand name and place of purchase matter little to me.

Togil
10-07-2008, 13:18
. Audio T on the other hand seem to be the most miserable bunch of fuckwits I've ever encountered.

They used to (still have ?) a policy of " no delivery" and certainly no home trials. Awful.

snapper
10-07-2008, 13:48
I've got a real soft spot for Richer Sounds.

12 or so years ago I bought a s/h Nakamichi cassette deck from them,for £80.00.

Unfortunately it wasn't working properley,so I returned it thinking I'd get a replacement to the same value.

Not at all.I was given a replacement until the Nak came back from repair.
(B&W)?

Gavin,the manager,couldn't have been more apologetic and sent me on my way with the repaired deck (which still works faultlessly) and 25 TDK SA's.

I think a lot of people with more expensive equipment than Richers sell will still use the shop for various reasons.

Blank media,maybe some entry level gear for their son or daughter or just for a decent 2nd or 3rd system as I have done.

Must give a special mention to the store in Glasgow who have given me better advice than some so-called hi-fi specialists.

http://www.richersounds.com/information.php?cda=locationdetails&locationid=38

Filterlab
10-07-2008, 13:55
They used to (still have ?) a policy of " no delivery" and certainly no home trials. Awful.

A couple of years back I walked into Audio T in Epsom with £2,500 to spend on a CD player. The chap was so rude to me that I walked out and went straight across the road to Sevenoaks. I spent £1,000 there and then spent £1,500 on a secondhand DAC. How many customers have spent money elsewhere as a result of their attitude I wonder.
____________________________

It seems like Richer Sounds has found a place in many people's hearts - and rightly so. :)

Marco
10-07-2008, 14:01
Indeed, David. Some of their 'Special Purchases' are phenomenal value, and I have to say I've had nothing but good experiences with Richer Sounds.

I bought a Nakamichi DR-2 from the Glasgow store in 1999 for £200 brand new and boxed (something which normally retailed for £800). I also bought a Teac T1/DT-1 transport and DAC (another of their 'SPs') around a year earlier which I used to great effect until buying a Naim CDX in 2000.

One of their fall downs is sometimes advertising kit for sale in their adverts in the hi-fi press which isn't actually in stock at the stores specified. It's like a 'pre sale' advert. The stuff is coming in but it's not arrived yet. Once you phone up though and express an interest they tell you when it's coming in and when it arrives put a red 'Reserved' sticker on the item with your name on it, then phone you to say it's in.

The only other thing is getting the buggers to answer the phone, as they're always too busy serving customers!

Marco.

Filterlab
10-07-2008, 14:06
You know what, I may abridge this thread when it's run its course and send it to Julian Richer, I think he may be really pleased with what the high-end folk think of Richer Sounds. :)

tfarney
10-07-2008, 14:15
I had to look up Richer Sounds to know what you're talking about. Wrong side of the pond, you know. Anyway, I'm a pretty unapologetic midfi guy. I think the high end of midfi/low end of hifi is very, very good. So good, in fact that the cost of improving on it, in anything but transducers, is too dear. A matter of hitting the point of diminishing returns. My quick trip to Richer Sounds online revealed exactly the kinds of brands I think balance perfectly at the top of that point. I wish I had one here in my home town in the US. I might even settle for an internet version with pricing in dollars and no international shipping. It looks like a great store. If I saw a higher-end brand show up there, I would assume that Richer Sounds was reaching up, not that the hifi brand was reaching down.

Tim

Filterlab
10-07-2008, 14:20
If I saw a higher-end brand show up there, I would assume that Richer Sounds was reaching up, not that the hifi brand was reaching down.

Now that's an interesting way of viewing it.

Marco
10-07-2008, 14:24
A couple of years back I walked into Audio T in Epsom with £2,500 to spend on a CD player. The chap was so rude to me that I walked out and went straight across the road to Sevenoaks.


Thanks goodness there are no branches in my neck of the woods. If I was subjected to that treatment they would have heard all about it!!! :steam: :steam:

I take no shit from people in shops - I don't care if it's a hi-fi shop or a supermarket. As a customer I EXPECT and DEMAND politeness and courtesy from staff as a given anywhere I go. It's how I operate my business and there is no excuse not to give it.

You won't *believe* some of the 'battles' I've had in shops, restaurants, etc, where I've received shoddy or rude service...

I just don't take it. I think the majority of Brits are too soft and let some of these cretins get away with murder. Italians, French, Germans, etc, just wouldn't put up with it.

Did I tell you about the time I told the owner of a posh hotel up in Inverness after the most shocking and dreadful experience I've ever had, particularly his snotty refusal to do decent vegetarian food for my wife, and all manner of nonsense, that I would return and firebomb his hotel? :eyebrows:

And believe me, the mood I was in it came across as pretty serious and intimidating! You should have seen the look on the twat's face. I doubt he slept that night :lolsign: :lol:

And I've had a few other 'crackers', too.

Operate a zero tolerance policy I say for bad service and/or rude sales staff!!!

Marco.

tfarney
10-07-2008, 14:44
Now that's an interesting way of viewing it.

Well, consider the source. It's a marketing pro's point of view. If I had a client who was a high-end manufacturer and he was offered a slot at a place like Richers (assuming one existed in North America), I would bear in mind brand image and all of that, but if it were a fairly large-scale, high-profile manufacturer (and it would have to be), as his marketing consultant, I would find a way to position the brand appropriately in the venue (flagship brand of England's largest hifi outlet, perhaps) and gain access to that huge market. And I'd tell him to start gearing up his production capacity.

The exception would be boutique brands with small production numbers and huge snob appeal. But the small production numbers would keep them out of the running anyway.

Tim

Prince of Darkness
10-07-2008, 21:02
Anyone remember this.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZutcPUd_AVQ

Perfectly parodies the attitude of staff at some dealers.

alb
10-07-2008, 21:42
If Richer Sounds can keep the general public interested in audio, then the demand for the music industry to turn out half decent recordings may be sufficient to maintain the supply.
It might even make them realise that mp3 isn't good enough for everyone.
Some chance!

Yomanze
10-07-2008, 21:59
Am a big fan of Richer Sounds way of doing things & they are a credit to the industry, but why do they stock such shitty speakers, when they stock amps that could clearly do with something better? I have never been remotely impressed when listening to a Richer Sounds store system despite seeing some decent kit behind the speakers.

RobHolt
10-07-2008, 23:50
My amplifier, CD player and tuner are all made by Cambridge Audio and were bought new from Richer Sounds.

Bloody good kit and a refreshingly non hard-sell or biased experience from some very friendly staff a the Hounsditch Richer outlet.

So to answer the question, yes it does impact but it shouldn't.

Beechwoods
11-07-2008, 06:12
I made all my early Hi-Fi purchases at Richer Sounds. Just like most folks, starting with the really cheap stuff and working upwards. I don't often buy there now but only because I consider it more interesting putting together a system from older gear. I have never felt comfortable in 'high end shops' because I don't have the money to spend or the ears to justify the kit, and the couple of times I've gone into these places the snooty attitude described by others has been very obvious.

I'm sure that there is a clique of audiophiles who would be offended to find that their preferred gear was being stocked by Richer Sounds, just like we all have bands that we consider to be better before they got famous. For some there may also be the 'cool bag' factor where it's as important which bag something came in as what you paid for it. Then again I have no idea what kind of person spends £10k on an audio system these days. It's nice that Art of Sound welcomes all sorts who love sound reproduction.

While I'm on it, my Richer Sounds 'good service' story... I bought a flat-screen bracket from them, got it home and opened it to find it was completely wrong for my TV (my mistake). Despite the fact that the 'tamper proof' packaging had been ruined they took it back without any quibble, and replaced it with one that was right. There's no way that they could have sold the one I returned, except un-packaged.

Filterlab
11-07-2008, 08:37
Anyone remember this.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZutcPUd_AVQ

Perfectly parodies the attitude of staff at some dealers.

:lol: Straight from the Audio T book of training. :)

Yomanze
11-07-2008, 08:48
My amplifier, CD player and tuner are all made by Cambridge Audio and were bought new from Richer Sounds.

Bloody good kit and a refreshingly non hard-sell or biased experience from some very friendly staff a the Hounsditch Richer outlet.

So to answer the question, yes it does impact but it shouldn't.

Not your speakers I notice :P

RobHolt
11-07-2008, 11:23
Not your speakers I notice :P

No, they don't sell 1970s vintage Tannoys.

Mike Reed
11-07-2008, 20:59
Richer Sounds is a 'stack 'em high, sell 'em cheap' audio supermarket; you need to know what you want (are there full dem. facilities?). They are surely the Lidl/Aldi/Netto of the hifi retailing world.

Nothing wrong with that, and they're very successful. However, I don't think you should compare them to your average specialist dealer; not least because of the limited audio range they sell.

If you're starting on the hifi trail and want various well-known budget boxes, they're ideal. For anything else, you'll need a dealer, I guess, who's analogous to Sainsbury's or Waitrose (Can't stand Tesco!).

Excellent find, Kevin. Don't think I've seen that clip for a few decades. Priceless!

RobHolt
11-07-2008, 21:17
Richer Sounds is a 'stack 'em high, sell 'em cheap' audio supermarket; you need to know what you want (are there full dem. facilities?). They are surely the Lidl/Aldi/Netto of the hifi retailing world.

Nothing wrong with that, and they're very successful. However, I don't think you should compare them to your average specialist dealer; not least because of the limited audio range they sell.

If you're starting on the hifi trail and want various well-known budget boxes, they're ideal. For anything else, you'll need a dealer, I guess, who's analogous to Sainsbury's or Waitrose (Can't stand Tesco!).

Excellent find, Kevin. Don't think I've seen that clip for a few decades. Priceless!

They do offer demo facilities (not sure about all stores) and some brands such as the Cambridge is offered on 30 day return terms if you don't like the item.

Where they fit in the grand scheme of things is open to debate.
I see much 'hi end' audio as overrated - often selling by dint of a good story made up by the manufacturer to help flog it to the gullible.

That's not to say that all expensive hi-fi is crap because clearly it isn't, but much of it, particularly electronics offers no benefit over cheaper stuff.

Marco
11-07-2008, 21:52
Richer Sounds is a 'stack 'em high, sell 'em cheap' audio supermarket; you need to know what you want (are there full dem. facilities?). They are surely the Lidl/Aldi/Netto of the hifi retailing world.


Mike that sounds a bit snooty, which is not like you...

Whilst I am unlikely now to buy anything from Richer Sounds (or to be fair any 'High Street' dealer) they are undoubtedly an asset to the industry for reasons already specified, particularly because they're responsible for putting many people on the road to 'proper' hi-fi.

As for your quip about Lidl and Aldi, do you honesty think the food items they sell, particularly fresh produce, are inferior to what's available in Asda, Sainsburys or Waitrose? If so, you're way off the mark, Mike!

"Stack 'em high, sell 'em cheap" doesn't necessarily mean poor quality.

We shop in Aldi and Lidl every week for lots of bits and pieces, particularly fruit and veg. The fact is their food produce is often far higher quality, and much cheaper, than any of the mainstream supermarkets. They also do a great range of German beer and some superb wines at shockingly low prices considering the quality on offer. I'm also a pretty serious 'foodie' who insists on quality and fortunate that I can afford to shop wherever I like ;)

My apologies though if I've read you wrongly :)

Marco.

Mike Reed
11-07-2008, 22:22
Mike that sounds a bit snooty, which is not like you...


Nothing snooty; I was trying to make a (rather poor) analogy; principally, though, to say that I didn't think COMPARING R.S. with other dealers was comparing like with like.



As for your quip about Lidl and Aldi, do you honesty think the food items they sell, particularly fresh produce, are inferior to what's available in Asda, Sainsburys or Waitrose? If so, you're way off the mark, Mike!


I stand corrected, Marco. Press coverage alone of late indicates that Aldi and Lidl at least have upped their image a great deal. They WERE, though rather down-market a decade ago. I never mentioned Asda.


"Stack 'em high, sell 'em cheap" doesn't necessarily mean poor quality.

Of course it doesn't. Branded goods are branded goods!. However, my phrase surely describes Richer Sounds' philosophy and practice; lower margins (or end-of-line bulk-buying), faster turnover. If I were in that market I'd make a bee-line for our local store. They've recently moved to larger premises, so presumably are doing OK


My apologies though if I've read you wrongly :)

Yup! Accepted!

Marco
11-07-2008, 22:33
Excellent :)

I just wanted to nip that one in the bud.

You're right about Richer Sound's policy but I don't think it necessarily diminishes the quality of the buying experience in any way, certainly when in the market for budget equipment, and particularly considering the shocking service evidently occurring all too often in hi-end dealerships.

Marco.

RobHolt
11-07-2008, 22:40
Richer remind me of Laskys which in turn reminds me of my childhood and walking around the store in Tottenham Court road all those yeas ago.

That's probably the real attraction :)

Marco
11-07-2008, 22:44
Laskys? Ah, a blast from the past! And a fond one at that :)

I used to love that place. Some of the staff were a little odd though as was their apparel!

It was the 1970s, though...

Marco.

Filterlab
12-07-2008, 09:24
...However, I don't think you should compare them to your average specialist dealer...

I don't think they are compared to specialist dealers, certainly in terms of offered product. However in terms of service they leave many retailers on ANYTHING trailing in their wake.

Mike Reed
12-07-2008, 09:26
Steady on! I used to work there, and don't remember any specific 'uniform'. Maybe it was in the sixties that I was there.....such a blur of disconnected recollections; but fun!

I do remember buying a wooden arm (Acos?) which was beautifully simple and made, from Laskys. I also remember Micro-Seiki decks flying out of the door. They must have been the budget rave forerunner of the Pioneer PL12D in the seventies.

The West End was an absolute Mecca in those days. Imhofs, just round the corner, were a magnet. As were the myriad record stores in that general area.
Edgware Road was more for the DIY enthusiast and components. I remember Studio T opening their first place in Oxford Street above a shop.

Ahhhhhhhh!

snapper
12-07-2008, 11:54
As for your quip about Lidl and Aldi, do you honesty think the food items they sell, particularly fresh produce, are inferior to what's available in Asda, Sainsburys or Waitrose?

We shop in Aldi and Lidl every week for lots of bits and pieces, particularly fruit and veg. The fact is their food produce is often far higher quality, and much cheaper, than any of the mainstream supermarkets.
I'm also a pretty serious 'foodie' who insists on quality and fortunate that I can afford to shop wherever I like ;)


Marco.

Can't argue about that.

I also find the staff extremely pleasant,helpful and efficient.

sastusbulbas
12-07-2008, 12:25
I have used Richer Sounds in the past, my Pioneer DVD player came from there and it saved me £250 over the price down the road in Sevenoaks, and I got an extended guarantee and a 5m Cambridge Audio premium Scart.

And this was after buying a cheaper Marantze DVD player, and returning it because I felt it not good enough.

The Edinburgh branch used to have a demo room, and a reasonable amount of ex dem and second hand items too, but things seem to have changed and it's more AV now.

But one also has to be realistic, why do places like Richer Sounds do so well, why can they undercut most audio retailers, and who would pay an extra £400 for a bling TV from a high End retailer, when Curry's or Richer Sounds can offer the same product with an extended guarantee for less in many cases. They even used to sell Technics 1210's at less than any other retailer.

RobHolt
12-07-2008, 14:45
Thinking about this some more, I should qualify what I've said.
I see RS as the high street outlet for Cambridge Audio Azur products - stuff that simply isn't supplied to other retailers. Certainly wrt hi-fi components I see the Azur stuff as their stand-out product and a range which could quite justifiably take a place on the shelves of traditional audio dealers.

In other words, I've used RS to get access one particular company's products but discovered that they are a pretty decent retailer in the process.

MartinT
15-03-2010, 17:10
Ah Laskys and Lindair (later Lion House?) were regular haunts of mine. I remember hearing some Altec Lansing speakers that I absolutely fell in love with. I did buy my first true hi-fi component, an SME3009-II, from Laskys. Anyone remember their newspaper-style brochure/price list?

I also used to buy components from the Soho branch of Laskys, which sold individual resistors and transistors and all sorts of bits.

Coming back on-thread, I do think that Richers Sounds fulfil an important need and I don't think any less of brands that sell through them.

DSJR
15-03-2010, 17:18
As a continuation of my feelings about Google Street and my indulging in my past haunts, I looked at my "HiFi Virginity," now the long shut Acoustic Arts in Watford (the business is now run from the proprietor's home). The premises are empty although the signage is still there. Just up the road (in the old car-spares shop site IIRC) is Richer Sounds. I don't know how they're doing, but Richer and Sevenoaks today remind me of KJ and Herts HiFi from the seventies.

I've heard numerous stories of the generally excellent and quite knowledgeable service from Richer too, as well as the availability of what I regard as some genuinely innovative products. I don't think you'd get ripped off there, put it that way...

Macca
15-03-2010, 17:41
No-one mentioned the fact that in the early or mid-nineties RS changed from being an outlet for bin-end (mainly Jap) discontinued models to selling its exclusive brands like Cambridge and Eltax. As I understand it other dealers complained to the manufacuturers (Sony, Pioneer, Marantz etc) that it was costing them sales and so supplies of bin-end were cut off to RS, forcing them to start their own brands. That changed the whole experience of a visit to RS for me.

Back in the 'eighties the RS store in Liverpool was tiny but piled to the ceiling (literally) with all manner of budget Jap kit at give-away prices. I bought my first system there (£100 total for a TT, amp and speakers, brand new 12 months guaranteed) in 1988. It's not as much fun now its more like a 'proper' dealership and you wouldnt get a new CD/amp/speakers system for less than about £350 now. I miss the champage gold Marantz tape decks and Kenwood linear tracking turntables and all the other crazy stuff they used to sell back then:(

I went to the Stoke RS 18 months or so back intending to buy a cheap stop-gap CD player to replace my old and loved Sony which had died. Ended up buying the 840c which they had just got in. Good demo room but the 'speakers not to my taste (I think they were Mordaunt Short floorstanders) - tiny drivers, a bit 'clashey and bangey' for my tastes (£900 though so not cheap...) so they let me take the 840 home for a fortnight to make up my mind. Very helpful and polite staff - In fact I've never had poor service in RS in over twenty years and neither has anyone I know...

MartinT
15-03-2010, 17:47
I bought a Toshiba Aurex tuner from them, upside-down in a pile of gear, for £25. That was a superb sounding tuner.

The Grand Wazoo
15-03-2010, 18:01
The original business model was spot on I think. Small shops, selling bargain priced gear in university towns populated by poor students with a crisp shiny grant cheque burning a hole in the pocket.
Brilliant - right place, right time!

Macca
15-03-2010, 18:12
The original business model was spot on I think. Small shops, selling bargain priced gear in university towns populated by poor students with a crisp shiny grant cheque burning a hole in the pocket.
Brilliant - right place, right time!

Yep I would never have got into hi-fi without them - As a student there was no way I could afford to buy even the budget stuff from a proper dealer - the cheapest current model Rotel amp back then was £120. There was also a place in Essex called Hyper-fi that did the same sort of 'cheap bin-end' stuff - had a Sony tape deck from them £50 delivered in about 1990 - still going strong!

DSJR
15-03-2010, 20:05
In the early 90's, Hyperfi had the Sony 777 Cd and its replacement **7ES IIRC for around half price. This was the last time that official top end Sony came into the UK, as their "top model" CD player after this was £500..

I understand that mosr RC stores enjoy brisk business even now. Good luck to 'em and ignore them at your peril...

Alex_UK
16-03-2010, 07:36
Julian Richer is a bit of a business hero of mine - his approach to running a business being very Branson-esque - his book (The Richer Way (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Richer-Way-Julian/dp/0953441512)) is a good read if any of you are interested in business books, especially on how to treat and motivate your staff, which is why his stores are so successful IMO.

DSJR
16-03-2010, 08:29
What about a Richer Sounds in Ipswich or Bury St Edmunds then Alex???? Is it a franchise operation, or is it a wholy owned branch?

MartinT
16-03-2010, 08:32
Also a very good business book (sorry, a little off-topic) and a fab read is Wide Body: the Making of the Boeing 747. Boy did they put everything they had into that protoype, it really was all or nothing. Brill book.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Wide-body-Making-Boeing-Clive-Irving/dp/0340599839/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1268728177&sr=1-6

Alex_UK
16-03-2010, 17:14
What about a Richer Sounds in Ipswich or Bury St Edmunds then Alex???? Is it a franchise operation, or is it a wholy owned branch?

I did look into this 20 odd years ago, when they didn't have one in Norwich - they are all wholly owned branches (unlike Sevenoaks which are franchises I believe. I used Sevenoaks in Bury St Edmunds for my first "proper" kit in 1996, he subsequently moved to bigger posher premises in Ipswich and then closed down about 5 years ago(?) )

I reckon there would be room for an Ipswich Richer these days, as they sell lots of TVs and AV too, I guess 2 channel is subsidised to a degree, but there is no other competition for budget separates- doubt even Currys or Comet stock any at all these days, do they?

DSJR
16-03-2010, 18:02
My old mate at Eastern Audio closed last year and now informs me he's sold the premises. Apart from "The Edge" which sells custom multi-room (I think) and your local radio/TV shops like Matthews and Hughes stay at the bottom end mostly.

I think there's room for a Richer Sounds...

By the way, the Sevenoaks shop was costly to rent I understand and I reckon they perhaps should have stayed in Bury, although Cambridge isn't far down the A14.....

sondale
16-03-2010, 20:07
Sorry but I am going to have to disagree about Audio T.

Many years ago (early Seventies) I used to go religiously to West Hampstead to learn about what was good, how to get the best out of what you had, the importance of power supplies (fond memories of Alan Harris demoing a Radford ST25 with a box of capacitors with a couple of wires which he would hold on to the appropriate point in the amp - "Do you hear the difference?").

They were into modding bits of kit - I am not sure who it was who built the frames for mounting two sets of quads - but Audio T had them.

They were the ones who fuelled my love of audio - all the people who worked there were always friendly, helpful and seemed to be really enjoying themselves.

And after Audio T you could always go down the road and talk to Howard.

Nice to see you still going!

Alan

DSJR
16-03-2010, 20:32
Today's Audio T isn't the same thing as the old West Hampstead shop, but there are some good ones still I think.... ;)

giorgino
17-03-2010, 01:22
Yeah - Even though I haven't visited a Richer Sounds shop in years, I have a real soft spot for the company. They introduced me to "hifi separates" and I bought my first system from them. I got great advice from staff who were down to earth (unlike some of the snotty hi end stores I've visited) who stuck me as true hifi enthusiasts. The Cambridge Audio product range has great Bang for Bucks value. Shame I've gone all weird and esoteric.....

I might just make a visit just for the fun of it. :)

goraman
17-03-2010, 01:39
They should sell internationaly,It's like our Fry's Electronics only different.
With out affordable Mid Fi there would be no place to move up from.
The only fault I see with Ritcher Sounds is There selection is a little thin.
They would do very well in the U.S. market as an on line store.
I also think they could offer a little higher grade of compnets in a premeir Hi Fi section.
Mabey in a few years they will offer Audio Note Level 5 gear at huge discount prices.
Moveing it out cheap like Bose after Christmass sales.
Just kidding a little,but they should get some higher end brands.
If Peter Q. is reading this," It's ok Peter don't blow a gasket" just kidding.

DSJR
17-03-2010, 08:15
Some have said that the upper Cambridge Audio range is pretty well top end solid state as it is, just lacking the snob value of huge US behemoths using dated technology giving often worse performance..

Why should Peter Q worry? he caused havoc over here and does the same in the US????? :lol:

bigmoog
17-03-2010, 09:10
I bought my first 'proper hifi' in late 78 from the London Bridge branch of Richer...the original store.....the whole experience was a pleasure, exciting and wonderful, it was a marantz amp, some dd tt, some speakers and wire. Later I rounded it out with a tuner and cassette deck. You never felt like you felt when you were in some hifi shop (ie, you werent brainwashed into linnnaimhififorpleaseurefranklandstewardflatrespon sefoottap bull$hit).

But later, I still ocassionally shopped at RS balanced with flatearth stores and KJ.

Now, 32 ears later and I still frequent richer sounds (guildford branch), as well as guildford audio (imo, best in UK:)). Richer is still buzzin'.....I know its a lot of HD TV and blu ray, but for excitement, good staff and fair advice they are hard to beat. and the top end cambridge stuff is very very nice indeed for good prices.

DSJR
17-03-2010, 09:26
How's it going BM? Are you back to normal now? I can't afford all of Edgar's current releases so don't feel I have anything to offer on the TeeDee forums, although I miss you guys.

bigmoog
17-03-2010, 14:26
How's it going BM? Are you back to normal now? I can't afford all of Edgar's current releases so don't feel I have anything to offer on the TeeDee forums, although I miss you guys.

normal as in :eek:.....just taking each day as it comes dave, waiting for referral to heart specialist: the NHS is brilliant but things just take so long:rolleyes:

get on the TD forum when you can......most fans are off in two weeks to see the band at RAH. Im smuggling in my revox ;)


might pop in to Richer sounds guildford soon as I need another TV:mental:

Marco
17-03-2010, 15:04
TD forum? :scratch:

Marco.

Stratmangler
17-03-2010, 15:07
TD forum? :scratch:

Marco.

I thought the same, so I followed the trail left by the odd clue here and there and found out what was going on.;)
I even found BigMoog in the members list.

Marco
17-03-2010, 15:18
And this is where? Link please :)

Marco.

bigmoog
17-03-2010, 15:23
http://www.tangerinedream-music.com/forum/index.php


a few are HIfi nutters, mostly its about music :cool:

Stratmangler
17-03-2010, 15:24
The clue is this
most fans are off in two weeks to see the band at RAH

Stratmangler
17-03-2010, 15:25
http://www.tangerinedream-music.com/forum/index.php


a few are HIfi nutters, mostly its about music :cool:

BigMooG - you're too generous - I was trying to string Marco along for a bit;)

bigmoog
17-03-2010, 15:32
BigMooG - you're too generous - I was trying to string Marco along for a bit;)


:doh:

oh like "TD forum " as in Terrible Digital, Totally Decca, Tiny Dimples, Titanic Derrieres, Tasty D Cups......:)

Stratmangler
17-03-2010, 15:33
:doh:

oh like "TD forum " as in Terrible Digital, Totally Decca, Tiny Dimples, Titanic Derrieres, Tasty D Cups......:)

Could have stood for any of the above:eyebrows:

Marco
17-03-2010, 15:41
Hehe...Lol - madness! :eyebrows:

How long's it been going for? Seems like a decent site (I like the colour palette chosen) :)

Marco.

bigmoog
17-03-2010, 15:51
Hehe...Lol - madness! :eyebrows:

How long's it been going for? Seems like a decent site (I like the colour palette chosen) :)

Marco.

in its current form since december 2006, they have had a forum/mailing list on and off since the 90s...if you like electronic/prog/interesting musik its a funplace

madness oh yesh:mental:

Alex_UK
18-03-2010, 20:54
He only asked because he was getting excited - he thought it was "Transvestite Dressing" :eyebrows:

bigmoog
19-03-2010, 15:17
just been into Richer Sounds, Guildford Branch....its friday and it was very busy...I popped over to PJ Hifi (Linn,Naim Home 'Cinema' etc) on Bridge Street and as ever it was quieter than a nunnery.:scratch:;)

DSJR
19-03-2010, 18:21
My car CD packed up some time ago, so my daily dose of Phaedra has been put on hold :(. I've bought me car compilations indoors and shall give 'em a spin.

Won't be at the RAH I'm afraid, so the pints owed will have to be put on hold.. Please give best wishes to those that know (of) me and hope Colin's had his back op by now.......

hifinutt
20-03-2010, 22:07
i was very impressed that richers sounds when i was in there recently had a dali speaker

also one of the loveliest systems at the wigwam show had a cambrifge audio integrated.

its important not to become snobby when it comes to hi fi , all systems be they 100k or 100 quid have their place and can be treasured

DSJR
20-03-2010, 22:56
If you can get a Chinese computer maker to make your audio for you as well, top quality needn't cost loads, not in that kind of quantity manufacture.