Submitted by Mr.C on Sun, 11/16/2008 - 11:42
If you were designing a perfect computer audio retail location, what would you include? Lots of demo dacs/ music servers to try at home? A few different reference systems in store?
I would want to have loaner equipment to try at home for sure. Plus, demos in store that let you know where you can upgrade to.
What do you guys think? What would make a store excellent?
Cavan
Hi Cavan - I've actually talked to a few people around the world who are thinking about opening such a retail store.
I could probably write for days on this topic, but I'll add a few things.
Two ways of showing the customer this stuff should be available as both are important.
1. The features and capabilities of each system such as a DAC must be explained and shown to people in a way they can understand.
2. The same system or DAC should be in a good system so the customer can listen to the component they picked out based on features or capabilities. Or the other way around whatever works for people.
I can imagine a store with many components and software configurations in one area where customers can play around and be educated. Another part of the store is for listening. If a customer can get his hands dirty configuring Audio Midi (which is pretty easy) and/or Windows to play bit perfect that is a major step in the right direction. Lack of knowledge is a big thing that scares people away. Then have the same customer walk over to a system and configure it for a listening session is they chose.
Also, some customers just want the best sound and don't want to touch anything. Just sit them down to a preconfigured system and you're good.
Just some thoughts of the moment :-)
Chris Connaker
Founder
Computer Audiophile
It would have prices competitive with online rates, at least ignoring sales taxes.
It would be staffed with people that know the products as compared to say Apple store or C City.
Objective measurement data would be nice.
It would probably offer configuration services free if somebody bought the gear.
Would martinis and scantily clothed saleswomen, ... err salespeople be wishing for too much?
That would rather depend on what services you were thinking of buying.
Well the perfect store ...