Do you prefer to buy your audio goods from chain retailers or independent stores? I like to support my community and use local businesses when I can, but a lot of the ones around me just don't have anything close to the variety of the larger chains.
I realize I left out the option of buying online. Do you prefer that over visiting somewhere in person? I can't imagine why someone would, but I'm interested to hear why someone might.
I choose not to specific in such instances. Going to a store seems like the more natural thing to do when looking to buy audio goods. I remember a friend that once bought a 300W home theater system online but when it was dispatched, it really fell short of his expectations.
If I have to purchase anything online, then it has to be something that I have researched well about and/or sampled. You can't afford to go wrong here.
If you go to the retail location, most of them will allow you to play your own music to test the system so you can see if you can get the effect you want. Other than that, I like to shop online.
I've bought headphones online but that's about it as far as any audio needs are concerned. I prefer going in person and getting my hands on things. I've known people who have had good experiences buying online...but I also know people who haven't.
I agree that it is a good thing to support your local economy when possible, however, with price differentiations with chains usually being lower, if price is a big consideration, chains are usually cheaper.
I prefer to go to a small local store first, chain stores second, and lastly, online. I've found that some of the local stores will price match. I want to support local businesses, especially during the pandemic! I also like being able to touch and look at an item before I buy it.
I buy some online and other stuff at the big box stores. We don't have any small local theater or audio stores around here. I wish we did because I would support them.
I buy some online and other stuff at the big box stores. We don't have any small local theater or audio stores around here. I wish we did because I would support them.
I'm in a similar situation. I much prefer to spend my money at small businesses than at a national chain. I do avoid huge online retailors, like Amazon, if I can help it.