When did you last visit a HiFi dealer ?

[Mr.Ian]

With all the high street closures I have been wondering what the future holds for the traditional HiFi dealer. My distant memory is that the old way of buying HiFi was to find a dealer who would let you try at home, with a fall back of listening in their demo room. Personally the first way never worked for me, I guess I was never spending enough; the second, yes tried it several times but I never found things sounded the same when I got back home.

The last piece I bought from a traditional dealer was an Mdac when they first came out so that must have been a good 5 years ago.

It was soon sold one, which makes me think that my approach of using the second hand market to buy try and sell on gives far more opportunity, with far less depreciation, than buying new. I appreciate that its difficult to get the latest gear this way but emperors new clothes and all that, maybe its better to wait a while.

But longer term if nothng new is bought will the second hand market dry up and where does this leave the traditional HiFi dealer

when did you last buy some new gear from a traditional dealer

[2fastgt4]

Late 99'.
I use the internet and used marked. Anyway as you mentioned I need to try it at home.

Tommy

[Michael loves music]

I prefer to get advice from the gentlemen on here

[Roy S]

Audio T in Brentwood, couple of months back.

I've never purchased anything from there but they set up my 401 for me, very friendly, helpful service.

[Oddball]

If you mean Currys :eyebrows:, then if no - never !!
That probably explains why I have a collection of old shyte , in the main :)

But I love it

[Dave W]

Acton gate in Wrexham 2 days ago. Trying out some ATC's, but they are not for me.

[montesquieu]

Helped an elderly friend carry a rather special and extremely heavy valve amp - a Mesa Baron - into Fanthorpes in Hull for repair a few months back as the bias circuitry had packed up (common fault with them apparently). Some lovely stuff in there, Luxman, Sugden and the like.

However without my knowledge my friend traded it in and it was sold on before I got wind of the fact that it was coming available. Fanthorpes sold it to someone who will be using it with a solid state Audiolab preamp - totally unsuitable and no way to get the best out of the amp.

I was actually a bit upset as I'd had my eye on it for years and had been up front that I wanted first dibs. But such is life. At least I have my Radford STA100 back now.

[AJSki2fly]

Well I last visited Tavistock Audio to audition a pair of ex-demo Wilson Benesch Arc's (the last pair built). Bob was very helpful and after minimal negotiation we struck a deal. I still have them and am very pleased, to be honest they were a bit of a bargain. Sadly Bob had to close the shop, which was lovely, as the business rates had become extortionate. He was trading as Devon Audio from home, but it looks like he has closed down.

I tend to alternate between them and my 2nd hand 20+ year old Impulse H2's.

I try and keep away from HiFi shops as I usually get tempted otherwise. Dealers always seem to be able to demonstrate some piece of equipment that gets you itching for a change, or makes you feel you can improve your system.:doh::eek:

[Oddball]

Well I last visited Tavistock Audio to audition a pair of ex-demo Wilson Benesch Arc's (the last pair built). Bob was very helpful and after minimal negotiation we struck a deal. I still have them and am very pleased, to be honest they were a bit of a bargain. Sadly Bob had to close the shop, which was lovely, as the business rates had become extortionate. He was trading as Devon Audio from home, but it looks like he has closed down.

I tend to alternate between them and my 2nd hand 20+ year old Impulse H2's.

I try and keep away from HiFi shops as I usually get tempted otherwise. Dealers always seem to be able to demonstrate some piece of equipment that gets you itching for a change, or makes you feel you can improve your system.:doh::eek:

Joking apart , you probably have hit on the reason I dont actively seek out good audio shops;)

[ReggieB]

I like to drop into Audio T in Cheltenham when I'm in town. They are friendly and don't mind a short chat. I brought my Spendor S3/5R2 speakers from them (lovely - but recently sold on) and Rega Apollo CD player (which they recently repaired). They also fitted a Heed Orbit to my Linn LP12 and gave the deck a service. However, most of my recent purchases have been second hand.

When I started out and was paying around £200 a piece for my Hi-Fi kit, I bought most of my new kit from Richer Sounds. When I started to spend more the opportunity to hear before I bought made the likes of Audio T more attractive. Nowadays I have to admit to really liking the buy try and sell on if you don't like, second hand route as Ian seems to. There are occasional dalliances with new - my Schiit Saga for example, where it seems (and is) too good a bargain to miss. The result is that I now have a Hi-Fi system that is far better than I could afford to buy from a high street shop. Though saying that, I have had the odd second hand bargain from a shop (the Teac VRDS 7 that preceded the Rega Apollo for example).

I also really like both supporting and enjoying the fruits of the garage industry Hi-fi that this site has brought to my attention. So at the moment I'm thoroughly enjoying listening to some Tchaikovsky via a Phonomac arm and Firebottle phono amp.

Another related question would be how often do you visit a music shop? I don't buy CDs very often nowadays. It's usually downloads from Qobuz, Presto Classical, or Linn; or a second-hand LPs from a very friendly local dealer.

[Macca]

But longer term if nothng new is bought will the second hand market dry up



No is the simple answer. For example Jensen Motors ceased trading in 1976 but there is still a second hand market in Jensens.


The second hand market only eventually dries up for items with a finite life that are no longer made. I think for hi-fi the only thing that would qualify would be styli and lasers for cd players.

[Clive197]

I have a good relationship with Paul & Wendy at HiFi Lounge in Biggleswade, having purchased my Bryston Pre/Power and Chord Qutest a few months ago. Also Paul at Moorgate Acoustics’s in Sheffield who supplied my Aries G1 and David at MCRU in Huddersfield who loaned me a PS Audio NuWave Phono Converter which I’ve just ordered and am awaiting delivery.
A lot of driving around the country but a good relationship is important to me.

[struth]

last one i was in was in Falkirk. Forgot the name. They were not especially helpful tbh. certainly wouldnt buy anything from them due to it.

edit...hifi corner..

[Crackles]

I have bought stuff from dealers in the last few years but not so much now. The last thing was my Audionote Otto from Audio Counsel is Saddleworth about a year ago. Before that a Chord cable from Hifi Stereo in Manchester. Oh and a Dali Bluetooth speaker and a pair of B&W PXs from Superfi in Stockport.

As others have said, Audio T staff are very friendly and the Manchester branch is no exception. Can't say the same about Richer Sounds branches though, they can be quite dismissive and rude.

I do buy more second hand stuff these days and I wonder how hifi shops survive in the internet age.

Sent from my SM-G920F using Tapatalk

[doodoos]

Been to the Hi-Fi lounge so often the car knows it’s own way. Support your dealers.

[CageyH]

Last time I went was back when I lived in the U.K.
I have made a few purchases on the internet through dealers since, but the local dealer does not have much I fancy.
They would probably also turn their noses up at my SL1200 if I turned up with it for a demo of some equipment.

[Pigmy Pony]

I have bought stuff from dealers in the last few years but not so much now. The last thing was my Audionote Otto from Audio Counsel is Saddleworth about a year ago. Before that a Chord cable from Hifi Stereo in Manchester. Oh and a Dali Bluetooth speaker and a pair of B&W PXs from Superfi in Stockport.

As others have said, Audio T staff are very friendly and the Manchester branch is no exception. Can't say the same about Richer Sounds branches though, they can be quite dismissive and rude.

I do buy more second hand stuff these days and I wonder how hifi shops survive in the internet age.

Sent from my SM-G920F using Tapatalk

Not my experience with Richer Sounds in Preston - over the last few years I have bought several small value items (AKG 'phones, Bluetooth speaker, Wharfedale Diamonds, Sony AV amp) and they always had plenty of patience and made me feel valued.

Last big purchase was my Zu Omen Defs from Audio Counsel, and although I'm happy with them, I know that when (if) I sell them on, what I will get for them won't even cover the extra £1800 :eek: I paid for the 'special' finish. So second hand every time from now on.

[Ninanina]

I have a good relationship with Paul & Wendy at HiFi Lounge in Biggleswade, having purchased my Bryston Pre/Power and Chord Qutest a few months ago

I visited Paul & Wendy at HiFi Lounge on Tuesday to listen to the Maggies and they are running a lovely place. I would highly recommend them. Easy to deal with and definitely no pressure selling involved :)

[Crackles]

Not my experience with Richer Sounds in Preston - over the last few years I have bought several small value items (AKG 'phones, Bluetooth speaker, Wharfedale Diamonds, Sony AV amp) and they always had plenty of patience and made me feel valued.

Last big purchase was my Zu Omen Defs from Audio Counsel, and although I'm happy with them, I know that when (if) I sell them on, what I will get for them won't even cover the extra £1800 :eek: I paid for the 'special' finish. So second hand every time from now on.

That's fair enough. I remember Richer Sounds used to be like that about 20 years back but whenever I have been in any branch in the last few years they have always seemed a bit arrogant.

Those Zu Omen Defs must be a bit special. Wouldn't mind having a listen to a pair.

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[Pigmy Pony]

Mrs. Pony would only allow the Zu's through the door if I got them in piano gloss black. For my ears they do more things right than wrong, but honestly, if I had that 6 grand again I would spend a lot more time shopping around, might have saved some money. For one thing I'd be all over Andy's NS1000M's for sale in the classifieds -I've had a crush on them since the seventies.

I suppose like everything else, Richer sounds stores will only be as good as the people staffing them - I visited one at Prestwich a few times in the 90's, and they always made me feel like I was interrupting something.

[Barry]

Last time I visited a dealer? Probably over twenty years ago to buy a pair of Sennheiser headphones.

[hifinutt]

My dealer came to me with demo stock , then they drove 6 hours to deliver the stuff I ordered. Superb service and highly commended. Before that I went to be audio who sadly closed down

[foxysounds]

Today! And I came away with a new pair of speakers and a smile on my face :-)

[rmcin626]

Recently went into one of the Glasgow dealers after my CD player died, although very friendly they were not interested in selling me a new CD player but only demonstrated Streaming products that were all over my budget.
Also visited Richer Sounds who very fine showed a few different products and options but would need to arrange a demo at a later date.

[Yomanze]

Around 6yrs ago. Some good dealers around here though, like Doug Brady in Warrington.

[Audio Al]

I have never visited a hifi stealer :)

[Beobloke]

I have never visited a hifi stealer :)

You'd probably walk out bankrupt if you did! :D

[Haselsh1]

April of last year I bought a pair of B&W CM8 S2's so that would be my last time. I live in a part of the country where the nearest decent Hi-Fi shop would be over 40 miles away.

[Haselsh1]

Around 6yrs ago. Some good dealers around here though, like Doug Brady in Warrington.

I remember Brady's when they were down Smithdown Road. I bought a Naim 42/110 from them and a Lentek Entre 1 cartridge. Can't remember exactly when but must've been around 1979.

[Audio Al]

April of last year I bought a pair of B&W CM8 S2's so that would be my last time. I live in a part of the country where the nearest decent Hi-Fi shop would be over 40 miles away.

Nice and local then ;)

[Audio Al]

You'd probably walk out bankrupt if you did! :D


Can't face paying through the nose on new prices :eek:, Much rather buy good used , that way you can buy twice as much :)

[Mr.Ian]

I wonder if AV installs and TVs are keeping dealers afloat

[Haselsh1]

Nice and local then ;)

lol, I guess it depends on your individual concept of local. Once you've added fuel costs and in my case, bridge fees, the cost of travel is a bit steep. Without knowing any better I'd say my best hi-fi alternative would be in Sheffield, maybe 70 miles each way. For purchasing Croft or anything of that ilk I cannot imagine the distances and costs involved. Even my Prima Luna pre/powers had to be bought from a place in Peterborough. I tend to think that if you don't really want mainstream then the level of difficulty is quite big. Has it always been that way..? Maybe it has but my home town used to have two good hi-fi showrooms, it now has none.

[Mr.Ian]

Nottingham seems to be holding up well, the only dealer I can remember closing was Forum HiFi - many many years back. I think all of the following are still going, appologies if I have missed anyone:


Retail
Castle sound and Vision
Definitive Audio
John Kirk HiFi
Nottingham HiFi
Richer Sunds
Sevenoaks Sound and Vision
Superfi ( Nottingham HiFi)


Manufacturers
Art Audio
Audio Synthesis
John Wood Audio
Nottingham Analogue

[greygoose]

I drove from Ireland to Southern England to demo HIFI over 7 years ago, you are so spoilt for choice...
40 miles I would do that for a takeaway!!
I actually do not know how a hifi dealer would survive, most of my purchases have been off forums and bought on good advice from here and other forums.

[Dubmart]

When Radford's were still going I'd be in there at least once a week and also spent a lot of money, these days I visit Paul Roberts most weeks, although mainly because they now share the space with a record shop that I sell some doubles to, I have bought a couple of Teac DACs from them and got them to order me a Roksan armboard and the odd cart, but they don't really stock much for me. The local Sevenoaks have always been friendly and helpful when I've popped in, perhaps once every couple of years, likewise Richer Sounds have been consistent for the last thirty years or so, although they don't really stock what I want these days. I haven't been in our local Audio T in many years, used to be in there all the time in the eighties when it was Absolute Sound And Video, but got put off in the nineties by poor staff and have never gone back, I really should give them another go, we also have at least one interesting used store which I have yet to make a visit to. There are a few things I want to eventually purchase when funds allow, I'd prefer to buy them new and I have a couple of shops I'm happy to deal with mail order, plus I plan on spending some more money with Hugo at Ammonite sometime in the future. I do miss having a good shop on my doorstep, seeing and listening to a wide variety of gear was a fantastic learning opportunity and resource, buying online is no substitute.

[Vrajbasi]

Interesting thread the days of the so called hi street dealer that you could visit and see interesting bits has gone. I remember the good old days I used to visit Subjective audio in the 80,s and there was so much interesting esoterica, you could go to audio T and the the likes who had some of the wall equiptment, you have to admire our very own David Wren of Radlett Audio who was like a pioneer back in the day selling nice quirky gear whos shop in wattling Street was amazing haven with so much interesting bits lurking around I remember being mesmorised by what was on offer, then Vinyl Tube Audio in London so many great Valve amps and lovely turntables. These sort of outfits hardly exist these days even good old Walrus had to shut shop.

We still have some fantastic dealers who stock some interesting great bits but most of them are forced to work from home for economic reasons, the likes of Radlett audio, guildford audio, acoustic arts all work from home still managing to supply some great gear and provide fantastic knowledgable service but as for high street retailers nah they either are forced to sell AV or boring run of the mill gear. I visit a rather quirky dealer in Watford regularly Unique Audio who works from from and is able to demo gear that would simply not be possible to listen to in a normal shop as the market is just so small and specialised. Because he is passionate and small with low overheads he is able to invest in some great items that would not be possible.

We do have the odd wonderful dealer who has a commercial premises who are able to stock some high end maybe more mainstream gear but we have the the likes of Midland audio and definitive audio who are trying to facilitate the market which is simply no easy. My hats of to all these dealers who are trying there best to make a living in a hard market.

I often visit Hong Kong and singapore the markets are very different in asia where there are so many dealers who can demo all sorts of weird and wonderful bits even there many dont work from conventional shops. Uk hifi shops to me are the thing of the past and I as a punter have to be very selective as to where I spend my dosh. Compared to some countries we are forunate that we have some choice and because the UK has some great history and is established many dealers try and stick it out one way of the other.

[hifi_dave]

Thanks Nari for the plug.

Fortunately, I still have a steady influx of customers to my little haven. Of course, it's not like it was in the good ol' days but enough to keep me happy and amused.I enjoy demonstrating Hi-Fi to nice people - after all, it's just a bit of plugging and unplugging whilst putting the world to rights and playing music..:) What's not to like !!!

[Vrajbasi]

Thanks Nari for the plug.

Fortunately, I still have a steady influx of customers to my little haven. Of course, it's not like it was in the good ol' days but enough to keep me happy and amused.I enjoy demonstrating Hi-Fi to nice people - after all, it's just a bit of plugging and unplugging whilst putting the world to rights and playing music..:) What's not to like !!!

Was not really meant to be a plug ;) but I do remember the wonderful shop and going down the to the basement and starring at Tom Flechers Mentor reference and how even back then when no one cared you had a bastin 301 in the corner, I also appreciate what it takes for good dealers like yourself to stay in business and also motivated as getting rich is certainly what it is about as you say it passion for what you do and this passion deserves a influx of customers. Sadly I never purchased anything from you as I was already heading into another direction, I also remeber the Holly Well Hill shop which was nice but to me wattling street had a special feel.

[Bosley]

I recently joined the Harbeth users forum (and that’s an interesting exercise in itself!) where the principal moderator is the guy who designs the speakers and presumably runs the company. He posts a lot of threads himself and it’s apparent that Harbeth and specialist Hifi manufacturers in general are concerned about the rate of closures of specialist shops from the high street. One other concern they have is the age demographic of hifi enthusiasts, apparently we are all old and wrinkly (true in my case!). Young people don’t buy system separates, their music is on the go, iPods, iPhones etc.

The internet has radically changed how we shop, if you go to a specialist dealer he will carry in stock only a few brands so your decision making choices are limited. On forums like this one you get unbiased and informed opinions based on experience. I’ve been a member of this forum for only a few months, but in that time I have changed how I access Tidal and upgraded my interconnect cables, all based on the experiences of other members and this has resulted in a significant improvement in the sound quality from my system for not much cost. Not something you would get from Richer Sounds.

Maybe one way forward is through regional Hifi shows and audio fairs where dealers and manufacturers can get together to demonstrate their products.

[Spectral Morn]

Interesting thread the days of the so called hi street dealer that you could visit and see interesting bits has gone. I remember the good old days I used to visit Subjective audio in the 80,s and there was so much interesting esoterica, you could go to audio T and the the likes who had some of the wall equiptment, you have to admire our very own David Wren of Radlett Audio who was like a pioneer back in the day selling nice quirky gear whos shop in wattling Street was amazing haven with so much interesting bits lurking around I remember being mesmorised by what was on offer, then Vinyl Tube Audio in London so many great Valve amps and lovely turntables. These sort of outfits hardly exist these days even good old Walrus had to shut shop.

We still have some fantastic dealers who stock some interesting great bits but most of them are forced to work from home for economic reasons, the likes of Radlett audio, guildford audio, acoustic arts all work from home still managing to supply some great gear and provide fantastic knowledgable service but as for high street retailers nah they either are forced to sell AV or boring run of the mill gear. I visit a rather quirky dealer in Watford regularly Unique Audio who works from from and is able to demo gear that would simply not be possible to listen to in a normal shop as the market is just so small and specialised. Because he is passionate and small with low overheads he is able to invest in some great items that would not be possible.

We do have the odd wonderful dealer who has a commercial premises who are able to stock some high end maybe more mainstream gear but we have the the likes of Midland audio and definitive audio who are trying to facilitate the market which is simply no easy. My hats of to all these dealers who are trying there best to make a living in a hard market.

I often visit Hong Kong and singapore the markets are very different in asia where there are so many dealers who can demo all sorts of weird and wonderful bits even there many dont work from conventional shops. Uk hifi shops to me are the thing of the past and I as a punter have to be very selective as to where I spend my dosh. Compared to some countries we are forunate that we have some choice and because the UK has some great history and is established many dealers try and stick it out one way of the other.

Vinyl Tube Audio in Fortress Road was a lovely shop.

[hifi_dave]

I would agree that the average customer is male of a certain age but I have been encouraged, recently, by an influx of 'youngsters' buying their first turntable, usually a Rega P1 or P2.



PS. It's my 6000 post. Yippee..:yay:

[Dubmart]

I think there is hope for a new generation of enthusiasts, I recently cleared out my stash of Pioneer PL-12Ds, two went to people in their twenties and one to someone in his thirties, (all men, then last weekend my 15 year old nephew told me he wanted to get a record deck, we're still discussing it, but he will likely end up with a modded SL-1210 and pair of Tannoys I have lying around just need to find him an amp, if he shows further interest we'll take it from there. I guess the problem for the future is a smaller percentage of young people are into physical formats, there are less shops for them to wander into and no cassettes to buy which is why myself and some of my friends started venturing into real hi fi shops, plus what pass as entry systems are plastic crap and decent entry systems seem to cost a lot more than when I was a teenager. There will always be some people who appreciate better sound and are willing to search it out, we just have to find and encourage them.

[montesquieu]

My dealer came to me with demo stock , then they drove 6 hours to deliver the stuff I ordered. Superb service and highly commended. Before that I went to be audio who sadly closed down


This is a really good point. I haven't been to many high street shops lately, but over the last few years I've had a few 'dealers' - and indeed 'makers' - round with stuff to demo, discuss or deliver: Hugo from Ammonite, Greg from G-Point, Paul from RFC Audio, Mario from Audio Note, Trevor from Guildford Audio, David from AD Audio, Russ from Layers of Beauty - I'm sure I could think of a few others.

If you are a serious buyer and at least occasionally willing to pay 'new' prices rather than always second hand, then this sort of thing is normal now, but to a large extent it didn't really exist in past times where the buyer generally made the trip and the dealer was the one with all the knowledge. The world has changed.

[Vrajbasi]

This is a really good point. I haven't been to many high street shops lately, but over the last few years I've had a few 'dealers' - and indeed 'makers' - round with stuff to demo, discuss or deliver: Hugo from Ammonite, Greg from G-Point, Paul from RFC Audio, Mario from Audio Note, Trevor from Guildford Audio, David from AD Audio, Russ from Layers of Beauty - I'm sure I could think of a few others.

If you are a serious buyer and at least occasionally willing to pay 'new' prices rather than always second hand, then this sort of thing is normal now, but to a large extent it didn't really exist in past times where the buyer generally made the trip and the dealer was the one with all the knowledge. The world has changed.


I remember purchasing a brand new Voyd and audio innovations 2nd audios and Snell E speakers for Mario when he ran a dealership I think Audio South it was called in the late 80,s great service.

[Bourney]

Musicraft in Derby a few weeks ago to buy a turntable and phononstage.
Definitive audio a few times in the last 5-10 years for various bits of kit. Mainly LVs and the odd valve amp/ sugden.

[Qute Beats]

Two weeks ago, got my TT fixed up to play the old records again :)

[hifinutt]

Sevenoaks sound and vision in Solihull, great bunch of guys and a great variety of kit.

[Pigmy Pony]

I think there is hope for a new generation of enthusiasts, I recently cleared out my stash of Pioneer PL-12Ds, two went to people in their twenties and one to someone in his thirties, (all men, then last weekend my 15 year old nephew told me he wanted to get a record deck, we're still discussing it, but he will likely end up with a modded SL-1210 and pair of Tannoys I have lying around just need to find him an amp, if he shows further interest we'll take it from there. I guess the problem for the future is a smaller percentage of young people are into physical formats, there are less shops for them to wander into and no cassettes to buy which is why myself and some of my friends started venturing into real hi fi shops, plus what pass as entry systems are plastic crap and decent entry systems seem to cost a lot more than when I was a teenager. There will always be some people who appreciate better sound and are willing to search it out, we just have to find and encourage them.

I think decent hifi, even starter stuff, is cheaper than ever before in real terms. My first system, bought by my parents for my 19th birthday (BSR deck, Bush Arena amp, Wharfedale Denton speakers) cost about £120. This was 1975, when average wage in my trade was about £50 a week. That would be equivalent to about £1000 today, which should buy something pretty good.

Even records, allowing for inflation, are probably slightly cheaper than they were then.

[alphaGT]

It’s been a while. 1989 maybe? Those were some great times for Hi Fi, the wonderful things I saw and heard!

In recent years, I’ve bought all my equipment used, from online sellers. Some came from nice Hi Fi shops, but I didn’t actually go there. One of my favorite shops in Richmond VA, last time I checked, had moved into a house in a residential neighborhood? I may need to investigate.

Russell

[Haselsh1]

2017 in Hull when I bought a pair of B&W CM8 S2's.

[thingfish]

Can't remember the year, but I walked out with a (New on the market) Audiolab 8000A.

[rmcin626]

Been in a couple recently in my search for a new turntable, which was an interesting experience

[walpurgis]

Can't recall last visit specifically, but last time I bought from a dealer was probably around 2003 and it would have been either Harrow Audio, where I bought a Denon DL-304 or Audio T in High Wycombe where I bought a Meridian 507 CD player and Dynaudio Contour 1.3 Mk.II speakers. I still have the 507. Excellent bit of kit!

[Roy S]

Often pop into Brentwood Audio T for a chat with Paul but I've never bought anything from them.

[Spectral Morn]

Often pop into Brentwood Audio T for a chat with Paul but I've never bought anything from them.

Not Paul Toal (https://uk.linkedin.com/in/paul-toal-71010819). I used to work with him years ago in a local store now long gone. If the same person he is firstly a really nice guy (wicked sense of humour), secondly very knowledgeable and thirdly very good at setting up turntables.

[Roy S]

Not Paul Toal (https://uk.linkedin.com/in/paul-toal-71010819). I used to work with him years ago in a local store now long gone. If the same person he is firstly a really nice guy (wicked sense of humour), secondly very knowledgeable and thirdly very good at setting up turntables.

That's the fella! Yes, really nice bloke & always has time for you. He sorted & set up my poorly Garrard 401 &, I'd forgotten, my other half bought me a record cleaning machine for Xmas from there & said Paul was really helpful.

[Martyn Miles]

1996.
Westwood’s of Oxford, not long before they closed.

[Puffin]

Richer Sounds (I suppose they count as a HiFi Dealer:D) in around 2005 and bought the new style Dacmagic Dac. There was a competition to win back the purchase price......and I won!....Yes really. £230...so a free Dac that I am currently using and very happy with.

[Spectral Morn]

That's the fella! Yes, really nice bloke & always has time for you. He sorted & set up my poorly Garrard 401 &, I'd forgotten, my other half bought me a record cleaning machine for Xmas from there & said Paul was really helpful.

Excellent. Last time I saw him was at NAS a few years ago, it was lovely to bump into him, same Paul I worked along side in the late 80s and early 90s. His system back then was Quad 57s, an Alphason Sonata, HR100s, and a Marantz CD94/DA94. I cant recall what amplification. I very much enjoyed visiting his home and hearing that system. He was also an important factor in my music education, without him I would not have got into Dance and Chill Out. He is also a very good singer.

Anyone looking for anything in that shop should ask for him.

[Roy S]

Excellent. Last time I saw him was at NAS a few years ago, it was lovely to bump into him, same Paul I worked along side in the late 80s and early 90s. His system back then was Quad 57s, an Alphason Sonata, HR100s, and a Marantz CD94/DA94. I cant recall what amplification. I very much enjoyed visiting his home and hearing that system. He was also an important factor in my music education, without him I would not have got into Dance and Chill Out. He is also a very good singer.

Anyone looking for anything in that shop should ask for him.

He’s still got 57s apparently with Quad IIs. His beard is a lot longer than in his LinkedIn picture, approaching ZZ Top lengths. Didn’t realise he was actually 5 years younger than me! Will probably be giving him some business soon as I’ll be downsizing & will probably be looking to get some smaller speakers. The shop is nicely appointed with 2 good demo areas &, handily, adjacent to a car park. I’ll remember you to him next time I pop in.


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[Manicatel]

Flip-side of the coin type question.....
I wonder how many dealers would say they get contacted about gear that’s not working, or asking about how to set it up properly etc even though the gear has been bought off eBay/ 2nd hand etc.
I would guess that there’s a few people who go to dealers, have demos, maybe even borrow stuff to try at home, only to return it & buy it 2nd hand somewhere else.
And then we wonder why the high street is dying.

[alphaGT]

Flip-side of the coin type question.....
I wonder how many dealers would say they get contacted about gear that’s not working, or asking about how to set it up properly etc even though the gear has been bought off eBay/ 2nd hand etc.
I would guess that there’s a few people who go to dealers, have demos, maybe even borrow stuff to try at home, only to return it & buy it 2nd hand somewhere else.
And then we wonder why the high street is dying.

I do believe it to be unscrupulous to waste a salesman’s time to go by online elsewhere. Many do it without a second thought, and often for a few dollars difference. Then, they wonder why their’s doesn’t perform like it did in the store? Due to improper setup, etc.

Russell

[Vrajbasi]

Excellent. Last time I saw him was at NAS a few years ago, it was lovely to bump into him, same Paul I worked along side in the late 80s and early 90s. His system back then was Quad 57s, an Alphason Sonata, HR100s, and a Marantz CD94/DA94. I cant recall what amplification. I very much enjoyed visiting his home and hearing that system. He was also an important factor in my music education, without him I would not have got into Dance and Chill Out. He is also a very good singer.

Anyone looking for anything in that shop should ask for him.

I remember the days when most of THE Audio T staff either had a Alphanson or pink, Martin colloms had a linn. I loved the battle of Alphason and pink I purchased both from them ended up loving the Alphason those were the days. Audio T west hampsted was walking distance from me and would often pop in and have a chat hifi was so much fun.

[Spectral Morn]

He’s still got 57s apparently with Quad IIs. His beard is a lot longer than in his LinkedIn picture, approaching ZZ Top lengths. Didn’t realise he was actually 5 years younger than me! Will probably be giving him some business soon as I’ll be downsizing & will probably be looking to get some smaller speakers. The shop is nicely appointed with 2 good demo areas &, handily, adjacent to a car park. I’ll remember you to him next time I pop in.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Yes and please pass on my regards.

[paulf-2007]

Was a while back, that's it, it was when hell froze over

[hifinutt]

I do believe it to be unscrupulous to waste a salesman’s time to go by online elsewhere. Many do it without a second thought, and often for a few dollars difference. Then, they wonder why their’s doesn’t perform like it did in the store? Due to improper setup, etc.

Russell

agreed

[rmcin626]

I have been looking for a new turntable setup and will not be buying online.

[hifinutt]

One hi fi dealer that i have visited is creative audio in Shrewsbury , apparently the owner is retiring and its closing friday which is sad

[Pigmy Pony]

I do believe it to be unscrupulous to waste a salesman’s time to go by online elsewhere. Many do it without a second thought, and often for a few dollars difference. Then, they wonder why their’s doesn’t perform like it did in the store? Due to improper setup, etc.

Russell

These tossers aren't giving a second's thought for the dealer who is just trying to scrape a living like the rest of us, so if his attempt to save a few bob results in a system that sounds a bit shit it bloody well serves him right.

Maybe I'm a bit soft in the head, but part of the buzz of buying new gear is the thought that I'm making the salesman's day a bit better!

[Clint H]

I visited Audio Counsel (For the first time) in Diggle today for a demo of 2 valve phono stages. Only wanted to listen to one phono stage but on their advice listened to another & glad I did because it was a lovely musical phono stage, better than the one I wanted to listen to (Just more musical) Great demo, great advice, friendly, no hard sell. I will be purchasing a phono stage from them in the near future. This is what I really like about using small, independent hifi shop's, great demo's, great advice, NO hard sell. When you do buy from these guy's, you are helping the local economy & not feeding a great corporate money making machine like Amazon for instance.

As for going to a dealer for advice & then buying on line (Grrrrrrrrrrrr!!!!!!!!!) A friend of mine runs a camera shop in Chester & he gets people visiting his shop to look at a certain camera & they have a play, hand it back & leave. They then return with the same camera they have purchased on line & have a problem with it. They are then asked if they purchased the camera from my friends shop & when they say "No I bought off the internet" they are told to contact the on line dealer they purchased it from "But they don't have anyone to contact if there is a fault" to which my mate simply replies, "Part of the benefit from buying form a high street dealer such as ourselves is if you have a problem with your purchase, you can bring it back into us & we will sort it out for you. As you have not bought the camera from us I am unfortunately unable to help you"

[thingfish]

Care to share this great revelation.......

Wanted A
But
B was better

Mmmmh:scratch:

[Pigmy Pony]

I visited Audio Counsel (For the first time) in Diggle today for a demo of 2 valve phono stages. Only wanted to listen to one phono stage but on their advice listened to another & glad I did because it was a lovely musical phono stage, better than the one I wanted to listen to (Just more musical) Great demo, great advice, friendly, no hard sell. I will be purchasing a phono stage from them in the near future. This is what I really like about using small, independent hifi shop's, great demo's, great advice, NO hard sell. When you do buy from these guy's, you are helping the local economy & not feeding a great corporate money making machine like Amazon for instance.

As for going to a dealer for advice & then buying on line (Grrrrrrrrrrrr!!!!!!!!!) A friend of mine runs a camera shop in Chester & he gets people visiting his shop to look at a certain camera & they have a play, hand it back & leave. They then return with the same camera they have purchased on line & have a problem with it. They are then asked if they purchased the camera from my friends shop & when they say "No I bought off the internet" they are told to contact the on line dealer they purchased it from "But they don't have anyone to contact if there is a fault" to which my mate simply replies, "Part of the benefit from buying form a high street dealer such as ourselves is if you have a problem with your purchase, you can bring it back into us & we will sort it out for you. As you have not bought the camera from us I am unfortunately unable to help you"


:D I bet that 'online' customer's face was a picture! (Albeit a bit out of focus and poorly lit)

+1 for Audio Counsel (nice man is Dave) Demos are by appointment only, which gives demo an unhurried and personal feel). They ended up getting my custom :) And I just know that if there was ever a problem I wouldn't be left to fend for myself.

[alphaGT]

I visited Audio Counsel (For the first time) in Diggle today for a demo of 2 valve phono stages. Only wanted to listen to one phono stage but on their advice listened to another & glad I did because it was a lovely musical phono stage, better than the one I wanted to listen to (Just more musical) Great demo, great advice, friendly, no hard sell. I will be purchasing a phono stage from them in the near future. This is what I really like about using small, independent hifi shop's, great demo's, great advice, NO hard sell. When you do buy from these guy's, you are helping the local economy & not feeding a great corporate money making machine like Amazon for instance.

As for going to a dealer for advice & then buying on line (Grrrrrrrrrrrr!!!!!!!!!) A friend of mine runs a camera shop in Chester & he gets people visiting his shop to look at a certain camera & they have a play, hand it back & leave. They then return with the same camera they have purchased on line & have a problem with it. They are then asked if they purchased the camera from my friends shop & when they say "No I bought off the internet" they are told to contact the on line dealer they purchased it from "But they don't have anyone to contact if there is a fault" to which my mate simply replies, "Part of the benefit from buying form a high street dealer such as ourselves is if you have a problem with your purchase, you can bring it back into us & we will sort it out for you. As you have not bought the camera from us I am unfortunately unable to help you"

I’d have fixed the man’s camera, but informed him it would be £50 up front, plus £50 an hour, etc. and then remind him that this service is free to customers.

These people who have no conscious about wasting a man’s time, and buying elsewhere, is because they do not value that man’s time! If that shoe were on the other foot, and someone was wasting their time, they’d be livid.

When you buy from a local shop, you are getting more than just the item, you are getting a demonstration, advise, and quite often set up expertise. And, I know from experience it is worth something to have a place to return an item when it fails. Shipping expensive items to distant factories can be risky, at the very least. And the cost of shipping can easily waste any savings you got by buying online. When it’s possible to buy local, it’s worth a lot more than these penny pinchers may realize. But one thing is certain, when it comes to money, people are weird!

Russell

[Pigmy Pony]

I buy all my tools and work materials locally, and I'm on first name terms with most of them (the guys in the merchants, not the tools). They know and trust me, and I can take stuff away ahead of payment, which is sometimes necessary. We can have a bit of banter, which is for me part of what makes buying local worthwhile. And if there was a problem with anything, I know that their help is only 20 minutes or so away :)

[alphaGT]

I buy all my tools and work materials locally, and I'm on first name terms with most of them (the guys in the merchants, not the tools). They know and trust me, and I can take stuff away ahead of payment, which is sometimes necessary. We can have a bit of banter, which is for me part of what makes buying local worthwhile. And if there was a problem with anything, I know that their help is only 20 minutes or so away :)

That’s how things used to be! And a better way to be, in my humble opinion.

(Don’t be afraid to name your tools!)

Russ

[Pigmy Pony]

That’s how things used to be! And a better way to be, in my humble opinion.

(Don’t be afraid to name your tools!)

Russ

Most of my power tools are Makita cordless, and when the battery dies I usually call them Turd :(

I did buy a DeWalt laser level online a couple of years ago because it was so cheap, I didn't even need one at the time. When I came to use it a few months later, it wouldn't work! I will eventually will take it into my favourite local dealer who I know will sort it, but the repair will probably cost more than the money I "saved", but no more than I deserve.

[IHP]

Nottingham Hi Fi for a new cart which they fitted. Lovely chap who gave me some solid advice.