1. How do you research home audio gear?
I use mostly online research. I look at both forum advice (audioholics, avs, etc) and professional reviews. Many times if I'm interested in a product, I will google it to find out info.
2. Where do you usually end up buying your home audio products? (How would you describe the retail store or type of online dealer?)
I buy usually online. If buying from a new site, I check their returns and warranty policy first. No return period is a big red flag and would usually not make the purchase. The warranty length is not as important as returns but it tells me if a company is willing to stand behind its products. It could also signal a lack of quality. However, zero warranty is no purchase.
The downsides to retail are typically higher prices and pushy salesmen. Salesmen often are not looking out for customer's best interest and it shows. The biggest advantage of retail stores is they offer a listening environmnent. However, the last time I went to local Fry's store, the audio room wasn't even hooked up right.
3. What was your best home audio buying experience and why? (Was it the information you received, the sales person, the great coffee, the simplicity…what made it a really great experience?)
Haven't had a great one yet. Perhaps it is because I cheapen out and not get what I really want. I will likely up my budget for my next home theater system purchase.
4. How important is getting the best price or value for the money? How and where do you typically find the best price?
Price and value is very important. It is not just the cost of items but how well they compare to competitors relative to their price bracket.
I usually use a price checking search to find lowest prices. It really depends on the item to where the best prices are located. For instance, I love using amazon, but the item I'm looking for may not be sold there. EBay or craigslist has decent prices, but there are extra risks associated with buying used or from non-authorized dealers and I usually prefer buying new.
