I belong to the 914 Porsche group and FLAPS stands for Friendly Local Auto Parts Store. I don't think we have a similar abbreviation here for the local audio guys. Anyway, I decided I am buying a Grado Reference Sonata cartridge. It lists for 600, can be found for less on the web. Called an Iowa dealer that's on Audiogon who didn't have any in stock, but it seems like most internet "deals" are within 10 bucks of each other. Some internet stores sell it for list price, too.
So, I called my Friendly Local Audio Store (?FLAS?), gave him the Internet price and...he met it! No problems, no argument.
I have bought a bunch of stuff there over the years but I have gotten a little quick to click the mouse lately and bypass him. He has to order it, but I'm not in a great rush so I think we'll all be happy.
I guess the big question is do hifi retailers serve any purpose? I for one like to drive down and check things out, they give me great service, so I think the answer is "yes." Just like there's nothing like walking into a big record store and thumbing through all the vinyl, either!
PS Actually my audio guy came back with a price one penny higher than the lowest internet price, just to "test my loyalty!"
Paul
