I have dealt with or visited all the dealers mentioned above.
My rankings, based on multiple criteria:
Audio Alternative - terrific lines, knowledgeable staff, no appt needed, give you plenty of listening time and room, people are themselves crazy about audio. Also carries a lot of used gear (usually), a lot of it is tube-based. Somehow, every time I visit, but for the recent addition of flat TVs, I think I'm back in the 'seventies (and I mean that in a good way). Possibly an additional asset in your case is he is on the East side.
Audio Atlanta - been a while for me but all the above applies; I just felt to a lesser degree. In the West.
Gateway Sound - Met Paul while he was still in setup mode; he carries some delicious names and seems to know his stuff. Dunno if appt needed. May be a one-man show. East side.
Playhouse - most of the above applies except I'm pretty sure it's a one-man show, and loses points due to the need for an appointment. Excellent guy and great to work with. Central Atlanta.
Audiosolutions - used to have a great audio-based showroom and listening rooms but business needs have forced him to focus heavily on HT. Can't blame him. Alpharetta and surroundings is Yuppie City with plenty of money but a lot of it chases after stuff that will impress the cocktail/birthday party crowd. HT will do that, a fine preamp or DAC won't. But if you want ARC, yes I believe he still carries the line. North-Central side.
Underwood Wally - agree he is a great guy and has some great stuff, but your question was about stopping in at a dealer's, and as mtodde indicated, that is not Walter's business model.
Although I didn't yet say this about each one, be assured they are all very fine people and definitely know their stuff. No snobs among them, no money-grubbers who won't give you the time of day unless you are leaking $1,000 bills. Have fun and maybe you can report back on what you found. It's been a while since I've been out to see most of these guys.
