Relay-Version: version B 2.10 5/3/83; site utzoo.UUCP Path: utzoo!decvax!microsof!uw-beaver!cornell!vax135!ariel!hou5f!hou5b!hou5c!hou5e!hou5a!hou5d!hogpc!houxm!ihnp4!ixn5c!inuxc!inuxd!jrh From: jrh@inuxd.UUCP Newsgroups: net.audio Subject: Mail order discounters - fact or fiction? Message-ID: <302@inuxd.UUCP> Date: Wed, 25-May-83 09:55:18 EDT Article-I.D.: inuxd.302 Posted: Wed May 25 09:55:18 1983 Date-Received: Sun, 29-May-83 07:10:31 EDT Lines: 47 Has anyone had experience with mail order audio discounters? I'd like the names and numbers of some reputable ones. I am specifically looking for a discount on Hafler, NAD, and Polk equipment. I've done some calling (to numbers I found in the back of Audio magazine) and have got some pretty good prices - but I don't want to take a chance. So, I turn to you, net.audio readers for help and ask: 1. Has anyone had personal dealings with any of these outfits? 2. It sounds like Polk and especially NAD have a pretty strict franchising policy to prevent discounting - but I have got discounted quotes. Is there a way around a franchising policy? Are these discounters illegal or simply unethical? What kind of trouble might I get into if I buy from them? 3. Can you give me any hints to ensure that I don't get stung? It's been recommended that I use a credit card, ask for the serial numbers of the equipment ordered, and establish some sort of satisfaction guarantee. Would the better business bureau know about these people? ... 4. Specifically, has anybody heard of: Audio Discount in Maryland Direct Sound Marketing in Atlanta The Thirsty Ear in Montana 5. I live in Indianapolis. Can any recommend a retail store within 200 miles (say Chicago or Cincinnati) that I should try? Thanks in advance. I anxiously await your replies. J. R. Holliday ABI-Indy inuxd!jrh