AudioCircle

Audio/Video Gear and Systems => Owner's Circles => VMPS Speakers => Topic started by: audiomagnate on 2 Jul 2012, 03:32 am

Title: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: audiomagnate on 2 Jul 2012, 03:32 am
I ordered a logo over the phone 7 weeks ago. Brian was charming, but somehow forgot to put the logo in the mail. No biggie. I re-ordered via email one month ago. Nothing. I ordered and paid for a "Megawoofer" over two weeks ago. Nothing. The web site has been down for almost two months now...I don't get it. Can I get a tracking number or maybe my money back? This is no way to run a business.
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: rascal on 2 Jul 2012, 03:40 am
If you scrolled down a bit perhaps you would not come to such a hasty conclusion and write such a headline :scratch:

http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=107642.0

A follow up call would suffice.

I sure hope your jumping to conclusion is not a symptom similar to CNN & Faux News reporting of ACA mandate being struck down by Supreme Court :icon_twisted:
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: tabrink on 2 Jul 2012, 04:24 am
Rascal
Put a sock in it and go pound sand.
Two months is more than enough patience.
Take your newbie comments somewhere else. Does mommie know her 13 year old is on line?

Sheesh..
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: rascal on 2 Jul 2012, 07:08 am

Tabrink- your post indicates poor IQ or EQ. I don't think you represent your post  :thumb:

My responses have always been towards actions and not personal- but you seem to take it personally. Since the Mod has allowed your post--Shall I say I feel sorry you do not have some balls-please grow up?  :nono: I also recommend you read what OP posted- he/she waited 2 weeks for MW with no response over email and OP asks 'out of business' question. I also recommend you check your eyesight  :lol: 2 months for logo indicates out of business?- pleaze! :scratch:

The OP could have easily called back- or could have posted 'pathetic service from VMPS' I think that would be fair- not a stupid headline like that. Many VMPS threads you notice business is done faster/better through the phone.


Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: playntheblues on 2 Jul 2012, 12:15 pm
Many audio companies won't even take a phone call and refer everything to email  :nono:
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: OzarkTom on 2 Jul 2012, 12:51 pm
deleted
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: JohnR on 2 Jul 2012, 01:07 pm
That's not Brian's address or Ph.
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: Brian Cheney on 2 Jul 2012, 05:06 pm
As for the Yelp listing that is the address and old fax number from 3 years ago.  Our main number, 510-222-4276 has been in operation since 1985. Factory address is 2025 Rumrill Blvd #8.  We moved to an adjacent space 3 years ago due to a leaky roof in our old warehouse which the landlord could not afford to fix.

The 15" UMW have been backordered, but I expect a shipment this week.  We did not charge the customer's credit card, so sorry, no refund!

The website was infected with a trojan horse virus the first week of May.  It proved very difficult to clean the site and Dubravko, our webmaster, spent many hours doing so.  On Jun 26 it was up and rumming on what I thought was a new host, networksolutions.  So I cancelled our hosting with Verio, which had not responded to requests for assistance.  The site disappeared, and Dubravko informed me it was still with Verio.  I paid for restoration and we are still awaiting that.  Networksolutions also ignored all my emails and phone calls for help.

While all this was going on, I landed in the hospital to clear a blocked ureter.  That has left me in recovery mode.  Your patience is much appreciated.
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: jackman on 2 Jul 2012, 05:17 pm
Now that it is cleared up, this thread should be deleted!  It's not fair to VMPS to have this kind of thing floating around.  VMPS is a great company and Brian is one of the good guys in this field.  Although I don't own VMPS or know Brian personally, they will be on the short list the next time I need speakers.  The OP's post and speculation are irresponsible and just wrong.   :duh:

Hope you are feeling better Brian.  Best of luck to you.
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: Early B. on 2 Jul 2012, 06:38 pm
Now that it is cleared up, this thread should be deleted!  It's not fair to VMPS to have this kind of thing floating around. ...   The OP's post and speculation are irresponsible and just wrong. 

Agreed. The title of the thread alone can lead to confusion and misinformation.
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: audiomagnate on 2 Jul 2012, 06:48 pm
As for the Yelp listing that is the address and old fax number from 3 years ago.  Our main number, 510-222-4276 has been in operation since 1985. Factory address is 2025 Rumrill Blvd #8.  We moved to an adjacent space 3 years ago due to a leaky roof in our old warehouse which the landlord could not afford to fix.

The 15" UMW have been backordered, but I expect a shipment this week.  We did not charge the customer's credit card, so sorry, no refund!

The website was infected with a trojan horse virus the first week of May.  It proved very difficult to clean the site and Dubravko, our webmaster, spent many hours doing so.  On Jun 26 it was up and rumming on what I thought was a new host, networksolutions.  So I cancelled our hosting with Verio, which had not responded to requests for assistance.  The site disappeared, and Dubravko informed me it was still with Verio.  I paid for restoration and we are still awaiting that.  Networksolutions also ignored all my emails and phone calls for help.

While all this was going on, I landed in the hospital to clear a blocked ureter.  That has left me in recovery mode.  Your patience is much appreciated.

I thought something like this had happened. Brian, you need help. You are a one man operation that has somehow figured out how to make the best sounding loudspeakers on earth. Amazing. Get well soon. I will be patient and root for a full recovery. You da man!

Kevin
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: Brian Cheney on 2 Jul 2012, 08:03 pm
Call me or email me with the details of your order so we can ship the right item when available.
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: John Casler on 2 Jul 2012, 08:31 pm
Holy Macaroni!!!

I get in the office late and find everything has gone crazy.

Glad it all got cleared up. :thumb:

Weird how YELP feels it has the right to post false and potentially damaging info. :nono:

Generally most customers know that Brian does keep his operation small and in this economy sometimes things do take more time (especially if there is a shortage/which happens often) of a part.

Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: duck851 on 17 Jul 2012, 02:58 pm
I spoke with Brian on the phone yesterday, and it sounds like he is near 100% again.

 :D
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: Zheeeem on 21 Jul 2012, 04:59 pm
You guys should look on the bright side.  About 6 weeks ago I sent Big B a check for a tweeter repair and I just checked to see why it hadn't cleared.  The response - "it's still in my desk".

So let's see, the tweeter got fixed and returned to me when I needed it (I think I might have said something like "no rush, I won't be back in the states for a few months" but let's not quibble!), the repair was done perfectly (Mrs. Zheeeem sucked the ribbon out with the vacuum cleaner) and it's free!!! (for now, probably because he's working on your stuff).

I forget what my point was.
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: audiomagnate on 24 Jul 2012, 12:54 am
I'm still waiting on my parts. I haven't heard a word from anyone in months.
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: simon wagstaff on 24 Jul 2012, 11:38 am
I guess I am lucky. I have been waiting for new woofers and big bump pr for about 6 weeks but at least John has gotten back to me letting me know the  situation.

I send Big B good wishes for a speedy recovery.
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: John Casler on 24 Jul 2012, 06:20 pm
Recieved a post from B, just the other day saying that part of the slowdown on some "driver" orders is because the OEM is or was "on vacation". 

In today's economy, domestic driver manufacturers are moving very slow to begin with, and this has slowed that even more.  :evil:

Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: geowak on 24 Jul 2012, 11:34 pm
I had a similar problem with a small manufacturer.

The company had a great rep and I wanted an amp by the "O" company very badly. Well I got one and it had hum issues and spurious noise coming out. Tried calling the owner since fellow customers stated he never answers his emails. Many, many months went by and he finally agreed to fix the amp for a price after stating it was probably my AC. Amp came and still a problem with noise. I upgraded the amp and a (killer?) preamp for another couple thousand dollars. Same problems again!!!! I had used many methods to troubleshoot the problem with other manufacturers gear and took all of it to my friend's house who has the newest wiring. The problem was with "O" gear.

I found out later almost all his gear is re-tooled and designed from another quality manufacturer with the price lowered. Also found that most of his products had hum issues and excessive noise. Too late for me, I learned the hard lesson!

After about 18 months I was done. Took a big hit for substandard gear.

I am happy you are getting this resolved, but small company or big company, don't neglect your customers and don't cut corners with shoddy parts!!

Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: geowak on 24 Jul 2012, 11:42 pm
For the record, I agree with everyone on deleting the post. In this case, let's give VMPS the benefit of any doubt! Sounds like a big misunderstanding!
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: audiomagnate on 25 Jul 2012, 12:55 am
Just for the record, I am a huge VMPS fanboy and promote the brand in person and on the web. I even went on Yelp and corrected the fact that they thought he was out of business. I have talked to Brian twice and he seems like a great guy, but from my point of view, this company doesn't exist anymore. We're talking months now. No website, no orders shipped, credit card info taken and promises made. I give up. Best wishes Brian, but you need help.
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: Rclark on 25 Jul 2012, 01:04 am
I plan to get around to hearing these, and I am particularly interested in the subwoofers. After the Epiks I think I want to try these next. They look awesome. I hope VMPS is ok. Looks like a company that has been around a long time.
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: fredgarvin on 25 Jul 2012, 04:00 am
Just for the record, I am a huge VMPS fanboy and promote the brand in person and on the web. I even went on Yelp and corrected the fact that they thought he was out of business. I have talked to Brian twice and he seems like a great guy, but from my point of view, this company doesn't exist anymore. We're talking months now. No website, no orders shipped, credit card info taken and promises made. I give up. Best wishes Brian, but you need help.

I think you are out of business, the troll business, Shirley.
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: /mp on 25 Jul 2012, 02:53 pm
Quote from: jackman on  2 Jul 2012, 05:17 PM

    Now that it is cleared up, this thread should be deleted!  It's not fair to VMPS to have this kind of thing floating around. ...   The OP's post and speculation are irresponsible and just wrong. 

Agreed. The title of the thread alone can lead to confusion and misinformation.

I disagree. It strikes me as a reasonable question in response to a corporate website out/blocked for an extended time period. I also have a hearty dislike for revisionist history. Your mileage may vary. Feel free to start a new thread, "VMPS is still in business even though website down." Perhaps add company phone number, address & any other pertinent info in the text. 

/mp
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: fredgarvin on 25 Jul 2012, 04:16 pm
Quote
"VMPS is still in business even though website down." Perhaps add company phone number, address & any other pertinent info in the text.

Not a bad idea.
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: Brian Cheney on 27 Jul 2012, 08:37 pm
My last communication with the Verio host was two weeks ago.  I followed their instructions about "pointing" the domain name to their new server, but nothing has happened yet.  The www.vmpseurope.com site is up and working.  I will give it another try this weekend with the Verio/networksolutions people and see what happens.

We have shipped all backorders except one (15" Megawoofers).  We have also shipped assembled product and continue to do so.  I expect the 15" MW within one week.
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: playntheblues on 27 Jul 2012, 09:55 pm
Brian you need to delete this thread or change the heading so it is more fitting with the subject.  it can't be good for folks to see "Is VMPS of out business" as a thread everyday they come here.......Just Sayin.  :surrender:
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: Brian Cheney on 28 Jul 2012, 05:29 pm
I don't like to delete threads just because of a negative tone.  If customers have problems they can always post here and I will respond.  I see elsewhere on this board that some audio companies have hit hard times due to the economy.  VMPS is fine, and I have almost returned to full strength.  I appreciate everyone's patience and understanding.
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: Darac on 29 Jul 2012, 03:06 pm
The site www.vmpseurope.com works very well.
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: duck851 on 1 Aug 2012, 08:48 pm
We have shipped all backorders except one (15" Megawoofers).  We have also shipped assembled product and continue to do so.  I expect the 15" MW within one week.

My tweeters came today - thanks Brian.   :thumb:
I hope you're doing well. 
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: audiomagnate on 9 Aug 2012, 06:26 am
And my woofer and badge might be arriving soon. Excellent news! Will VMPS be at the show in Denver this fall?
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: audiomagnate on 10 Aug 2012, 12:25 am
I got my upgrade. Brian and VMPS rock my world!!!!! Thank you so much! VMPS is the best speaker company on the planet. Hey Brian, are you coming to Denver?
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: audiomagnate on 2 Sep 2012, 02:52 pm
The new "Megawoofer" bottoms out on the first scene in Master and Commander at moderate levels. It really is a POS. Does anyone have an original 15? I will "upgrade" you for free. 
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: audiomagnate on 2 Sep 2012, 03:04 pm
Website still down, shipping garbage woofers, no badge yet after three promises and four months. Put a fork in it. VMPS is out of business as far as I'm concerned. It sounds like it might have been a great company ten years or so ago. So Sad.

Signed.

Disgusted x fanboy.
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: audiomagnate on 2 Sep 2012, 03:10 pm
My last communication with the Verio host was two weeks ago.  I followed their instructions about "pointing" the domain name to their new server, but nothing has happened yet.  The www.vmpseurope.com site is up and working.  I will give it another try this weekend with the Verio/networksolutions people and see what happens.

We have shipped all backorders except one (15" Megawoofers).  We have also shipped assembled product and continue to do so.  I expect the 15" MW within one week.

That was July. Website is still down. You seem like a nice guy on the phone, but you are ruining your reputation, or am I missing something?
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: OzarkTom on 2 Sep 2012, 03:41 pm
delete
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: JohnR on 2 Sep 2012, 03:45 pm
That's a domain squatter. Brian's domain is vmpsaudio.com.
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: Brian Cheney on 2 Sep 2012, 08:21 pm
The woofer we sent you was as close a replacement for that in your speaker (STR) as possible: poly cone, rubber surround. 25Hz Fs, 300W power handling, diecast frame.  Those are all better specs than the Gefco woofer in your STR.

If your application is primarily HT we have an Eminence made driver that has twice the Xmax and 500W power handling.  Cone is paper/Kevlar.  If you'd like a no charge exchange, let me know.

In future, do not post here using abusive language.
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: doug s. on 2 Sep 2012, 10:25 pm
...You seem like a nice guy on the phone, but you are ruining your reputation, or am I missing something?

you are definitely missing something...   :o

doug s.
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: rbbert on 7 Sep 2012, 03:05 am
I just wanted to post that I received my Larger Sub today, just about 3 wks after ordering!  Serious listening will begin in a few days, but it was pretty easy to set up.
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: fredgarvin on 7 Sep 2012, 03:56 am
you are definitely missing something...   :o

doug s.

Something vital to full mental functioning?  :thumb:



Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: John Casler on 7 Sep 2012, 05:24 am
I just wanted to post that I received my Larger Sub today, just about 3 wks after ordering!  Serious listening will begin in a few days, but it was pretty easy to set up.

Hi Robert,

Glad all arrived OK.  I was out on a Project all day today, but did see your call on "caller ID". 

Sounds like you got all hooked up, but if you need something, I'll be back from a Palos Verdes Meeting after 1:00pm tomorrow, if you need to call.
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: playntheblues on 5 Oct 2012, 02:02 pm
What is the correct link to VMPS site?  The one listed here on your circle does not work, at least for me.
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: JohnR on 5 Oct 2012, 02:03 pm
http://www.vmpseurope.com
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: playntheblues on 5 Oct 2012, 02:06 pm
That was quick, Thank you!
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: Flightar on 18 Oct 2012, 01:06 am
Sorry to hear about your health problems Brian. I for one love my VMPS speakers all six of them. (626 R's, 626 Jr's, and Dipole Surrounds) On the one occasion where I had a problem (Spiral ribbon tweeter stopped working) it was 100% resolved (quickly too) by an e-mail and a telephone call. I wish you could get the website back up soon because the word must continue to be spread.

100% happy with my VMPS.
Title: Re: Is VMPS out of business?
Post by: audiomagnate on 2 Dec 2012, 01:07 pm
Official close date was Nov 17, 2012. The end of a great era. Get well Brian and enjoy a long, well earned retirement.