PinoyDVD: The Pinoy Digital Video & Devices Community
Home Theater => General => Audio-Video Stores => Topic started by: rtsy on Jun 07, 2001 at 08:26 PM
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I'll start with some of mine. I'll be saying some not so nice things about some stores but please, don't think I'm putting them down in any way. I'm just describing my experience and perhaps suggesting how they could improve.
Audio Den
Likes:
-They carry great brands (Paradigm, Electrocompaniet, Proac, Opera, Audio Analogue, QED, Definitive Technology).
-Eric Lim is very accomodating. He'll find out what your musical/movie preferences are then would ask his staff to get CD's or movies that are close to those you like.
Dislikes:
-Very aggressive sales tactics ("naku sir, last piece na yan, kunin mo na" then you go back there 3 months later, it's still there).
-Kulang-kulang yung ilang models within a range (e.g., I've never seen/heard Paradigm Reference Studio 20/40, Active 20/40, they carry Grado cartridges but not headphones).
DCM
Likes
-Mission, Musical Fidelity, XRCDs, tons of 2nd hand stuff
-Joey is very helpful
-Nice demo facility
Dislikes
-location
Listening in Style
Likes:
-Staff (from the presiden, Wilfred, to his managers like Stefan, and the rest) are very friendly and they know their stuff. They let you audition without pressure (just make sure you don't go there when there are lots of walk ins).
-Excellent demo facilities (hardware, room, software)
-Many exclusive brands (Proceed, REvel, Piega, Dunlavy, Levinson, Kimber, MIT--not that I would ever afford these--and my favorite: NAD)
Dislikes:
-Prices higher than others for non-exclusive items
-Bad experience ordering a Toshiba TX40x81...waited months tapos wala palang parating
Listening in Style/Listening Room
Likes:
-Very helpful staff* (see also dislikes)
-Wide selection of equipment (Krell, Meridian, B&W Nautilis, Wilson Audio, Classe, Air Tight, Dali, Dynaudio, van den Hul, Yamaha, Atlantic, Toshiba, Philips Pronto)
-Great demo facilities
-On-time deliveries
Dislikes:
- also except one particular person in Shang (sabi nila kamag-anak daw kasi ni JR at marami nang nagreklamo about him)
-limited entry-level choices (Yamaha nga lang yata yung may mga budget models)
Sights and Sounds
Likes:
-Lots of entry-level audio stuff (B&W, Onkyo, Mission, Ixos) and the widest selection of video stuff (Sony, Toshiba, JVC)
-Good Prices
-Jun at Shangri-la, very helpful and resourceful
Dislikes:
-After-sales service of grey market stuff very spotty (my father-in-law's 29" Wega's picture tube conked out in <6 months). It was hell getting it fixed with their service people. We wanted to escalate it to the owner but they refused to let us talk to the owner. When we finally talked to the owner, nabastos lang kami.
-Staff at Park Aquare are boorish
Upscale (I only frequent Timog, PArk Suare, and Megamall)
Likes:
-Sonus Faber, PSB, Velodyne (though puro entry-level Velos), Sennheiser, NHT
-Staff are OK
Dislikes:
-Magulo at maingay yung pre-paid card and celfone section at Park Square...disruptive of auditions
Overall:
We have decent selection here in Manila but there's still lots were missing out on: Tannoy, KEF, REL, Arcam, Linn, Naim, Rega, Ruark, Joseph Audio, etc. Ditto for software...bihira ang Chesky, Sheffield, Reference Recordings, etc. Wala na ring makitang analogue (tuners, turntables). Yung tubes puro mahal (meron bang mumurahing tubes?).
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rtsy,
Where is Audio Den located at ???I know I saw their shop somewhere but could not recall where. Can you please refresh my mind ::)Thanks!
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rtsy,
can you also please give the address of DCM... thanks ... :D
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Audio Den is at G. Araneta near Toyota Quezon Avenue (kung saan maraming funeraria). If you are along G. Araneta facing towards E. Rodriguez/SM Centerpoint, Audio Den is on your right. Meron din sa QC en route to Fairview. I think meron din sa Alabang but I'm not sure. Telephone numbers are 7325173, 7421172. The nice stuff (ProAc, Audio Analogue, Electrocompaniet) are in the 2nd floor.
DCM is in Cubao. Call them for an exact address: 9115903, 9123979, 9123771, 9114344, 9123979.
Come on, guys and gals, pls. share your thoughts on the other stores like the one in Harrison Plaza and those at Makati Cinema Square.
Opinions on provincial stores welcome, too. I bought my first system from Tata Salgado of Sound Advice in Bacolod. Nice guy, nice place but I think it closed years ago. I saw some hi-fi in Cebu and Cagayan de Oro, too but I don't remember the stores anymore.
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rtsy,
thanks pal, called up DCM yesterday and the girl was very accommodating. inquired about Mission Cinema 7. thanks again.
:D
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regarding the mission cinema 7, how much did dcm quote you?
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regarding the mission cinema 7, how much did dcm quote you?
unfortunately, they don't have a stock. what they have is the m70 series.
i've checked Sights & Sounds (Shangri-la). They have cinema 7 for PHP 59,480 (less 15%).
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I both almost all my stuff at IMAGE audio video at Harrison Plaza (beside the new Mcdonalds). They got courteous staff, the best buy and a nice listening room. During auditions I asked if It could be arranged that it be used in conjunction with the equipment which I already have and they always willingly agree (even if you're not ready to buy). Ask for Joel.
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May I invite you guys to our demo rooms.
We have the following:
1. Mini Theatre
2. Living Room / Bedroom(small)
3. Audio Room
4. Living Room (big)
check out our audio room as it is unique and the most advanced demo room in the Phils.
We have invested in an Audio, Video, Matrix Controller where you can match your amp and speakers at the touch of a button. Now you can hear the difference between different amplifiers and speaker system to suit your ears.
Try listening to an A B comparison of Denon / Yamaha to suit your taste and budget.
thanks,
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Last time I was at electronics-depot, the staff were extremely helpful and friendly. A far cry from other snobbish shops who have never heard of a concept called "customer service."
Just a thumbs-up for Elec Depot! :)
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Thank you very much for your kind words and we appreciate your heart warming comments.
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yeah Benny, ED staff are courteous and helpful beyond reasonable doubt ... (your honor)
'Been there and was able to witness (see and hear) two of their demo rooms. AR Phantom Room was great but i love the Mirage room (with projector). The one assisting me even showed me the stuff a broadcasting company uses (prof lighting and sound system). They are simply great.
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Just found it...may homepage naman pala...http://www.electro-depot.com/
I hope the place could carry more brands.
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thanks for your post rtsy,
Our webmage is still under construction and does not contain so much information. What kind of system are you looking for?
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Hi electronics-depot,
I'm not actually looking for a system right now. I just got mine last year and I'm still very happy with what I have. In fact, I don't think I have made the most of it since I haven't toyed with Interconnects, haven't gotten ISF calibration (is this useful on a direct view screen?), haven't gotten prog-scan player, etc.
However, my next purchase would most likely be a universal (DVD-A and multicahnnel SACD) DVD player w/ progressive scan which is probably 2-3 years down the road yet.
But I am on the lookout for two pairs of headphones: an entry-level one for the PC and for watching late night movies (e.g., Sen HD495/Grado SR-60) and a more serious one (Senn HD600) for listening sessions to tide me over until I can get a minor living room rennovation to position my speakers decently. A headphone amp would also be interesting (Musical Fidelity X-Cans v2 or Creek OBH-11--not so sure about model of Creek).
Anyone on this list knows where I may get these in Manila?
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Hi rtsy -- walk into most any computer store in Megamall, Virra Mall, Park Square 1, etc., and you'll find many choices for entry-level PC headphones. For the widest slection, I recommend you go to any Columbia Superstore branch (there's a big new one in Megamall) or Octagon in Robinson's Galleria.
Try Cardinal Audio, 2nd floor Virra Mall, for your Sennheisers.
Hope this helps!
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Thanks RTSY for your message.
We have a new DVD player which is the Denon DVD2800. One of the best progressive scan DVD in the market.
We have three types of Sennheiser Headphones:
1. EH1430
2. EH2270
3. R380 (RF HEadphones).
I can bring in any Sennheiser product you want as we are the distributor for Sennheiser in the Phil.
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Thanks, Gonz. Would you remember what specific Senns are at Cardinal Audio? Was this store not affected by the fire that broke out in Greenhills?
Thanks, Electro-Depot. I sent email to [email protected] detailing the models I am looking for (HD495, HD600) plus other questions. Hope to hear from you soon.
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rtsy -- I haven't noted the models in stock. Cardinal closed down for a while after the fire but resumed operations a few days later, despite the lack of power and airconditioning. Greed is a powerful motivator. ;)
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Like alfred, I also buy all my audio components
at Image Audio and Video sa Harrison Plaza. The
people there are nice and the salesman are
knowledgeable. Best of all, I love the special
discount they give me. The only downside is
nowadays they started selling branded speakers
that are made in malaysia, taiwan, etc. Dati
kasi almost lahat ng speaker nila from europe e.
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RTSY,
ok natagpuan ko din itong thread mo, thanx to PHOBOS.
AppStore:
Anson's LandMark
Image HP
Sights & Sounds
because of the good service and of course the discounted price.
ALFRED & JEPX, pare-pareho pala tayong BATANG IMAGE-HP, hehehe and i know ALFIE, too.
vax
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hi there!
i'm actually looking for a good combination of av receiver and speaker systems whether its onkyo, denon or yamaha.
i'm still here in saudi at the moment but i only have the chance to hear the quality of yamaha(RX-V800,RX-V1000 and RX-V3000) but the denon and onkyo they have here kaso lang hindi maganda ang pagka set-up nila di tulad ng yamaha kasi para may audio room sila.
so what do you think will be the best buy with a budget of Php120T kasama na ang DVD player which i intend to buy the pioneer with karaoke function its better.
please advise me some inputs on this matter. ;)
thanks for your post rtsy,
Our webmage is still under construction and does not contain so much information. What kind of system are you looking for?
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Welcome allenars,
Glad to see a fellow DVD enthusiasts in PinoyDVD na based din sa Saudi. I'm based in Riyadh to be exact. Like you I did the rounds of most audio/video stores here and auditioned Onkyo, Denon and Yamaha. Got the Yamaha RX-V800 because it matched well with my speaker set-up (Tannoy - mains and effects, Yamaha for sub-woofer). For me it's the best compromise since I intend to use my system in watching movies and listening to music. Partnered it with a Pioneer DVD player (w/o karaoke) and an Arcam CD player. Normally naman the dealers of Onkyo and Yamaha would allow you to bring home the receiver you want to audition para ma-i-test mo sa speakers mo, kung hindi mo gusto, they'll be willing to change it. Try mo rin yung NAD. Other than these brands, wala naman nang ibang choices dito sa Riyadh.
PM me pare so I could refer you to the Tannoy dealer here. Mission speakers are great too for home theater kaya lang sa Jeddah lang available. Hope this helps. Saan nga pala source mo nang DVDs? Amazon is the best so far, kalaban lang natin dito yung censorship. I've experienced na ma-confiscate seemingly harmless DVDs like The Patriot and Chicken Run. Labo nga minsan sa customs. Anyway...
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RTSY: it is good that you brought up this topic. I for one think that audio retailers here in the Philippines especially the ones selling "hi end" components should improve on their knowledge of the product and not just sell for profits! Here are my reviews :
LISTENING IN STYLE
-SPEAK TO JR STRAIGHT and IGNORE THE COUPLE OF LADIES AT THE DESK (1 FAT and 1 OLD) :)!
-PRICES ARE FAIRLY GOOD IF YOU GET TO TALK TO JR and BARGAIN
-IF YOUR SETTING UP A SERIOUS HI-END SETUP AT HOME, GO ELSEWHERE JUST BUY THE EQUIPMENT FROM THEM! THEY SELL GOOD BRANDS LIKE MERIDIAN, JADIS, AIR TIGHT, CLASSE, PASS LABS, NAIM, WILSON'S, DYNA'S ETC.
DISADVANTAGE :
-WHEN JR IS NOT AROUND, THEY ARE OUT OF SORTS
-WHEN JR IS NOT AROUND AND YOU BROUGHT YOUR CASH AND JUST WANNA GO IN AND BUY AND WALK-OUT, IT CAN TAKE UP TO 2 HOURS!
-WHEN JR IS NOT AROUND AND YOU WANNA KNOW SOMETHING, YOU WONT!
-WHEN JR IS AROUND, YOU HAVE TO QUEUE UP TO GET YOUR CHANCE TO TALK TO HIM.
AVDI (AUDIO VISUAL DRIVER)
-WILFRED IS AWESOME
-WILLY IS A VERY GOOD INSTALLER BUT HE IS VERY WINDY (SIGNAL NO.4, I WONDER WHETHER HE AFFORDS TO PURCHASE A MARK LEVINSON AT HOME) AND YOU WILL END UP SPENDING P100K ON ROOM ACOUSTICS BECAUSE HE WILL BLABBER ON WITH IMAGING ETC.
-IF YOU WANT TO SETUP A HI END SYSTEM AT HOME INCLUDING ROOM TREATMENTS AND MONEY IS NOT A FACTOR, THIS IS THE PLACE TO GET THE PEOPLE TO DO IT!
-GOOD SALES STAFF.. NO PRESSURE TO PURCHASE ASAP AND FAIRLY KNOWLEDGEABLE COMPARED TO THE OTHER STORES!
DISADV :
-RIP OFF PRICING! (US RRP MULTIPLIED BY 50 THAT WILL BE YOUR BUY PRICE!)
ELECTRONICS DEPOT
-FAIRLY GOOD DVD COLLECTION
DISADVANTAGE :
-NO PRESSURE TO BUY BUT THE NEXT TIME YOU HOP IN, THEY WILL BE STARING AT YOU!
-STAFF ARE ZERO KNOWLEDGE ON THE PRODUCTS THEY SELL
-THEY SELL DENON, DENON, MIRAGE AND DENON FOR HIFI!
-SETUP OF THEIR AUDIO EQUIPMENT IS BAD, WASN'T ABLE TO AUDITION THE AWESOME OM-5 PROPERLY BECAUSE OF LINE NOISE! THEY USE THIN INTERCONNECTS FOR DEMOING THEIR HIGH END UNITS! DENON/MIRAGE SETUP SOUNDED BAD BUT SOUNDED WAY BETTER THROUGH ANOTHER COMPETITOR!
UPSCALE AUDIO
-SMALLISH SETUP BUT FAIRLY DOWN TO EARTH PRICES
-SONUS FABER I LOVE EVEN WITH COLORATION
DISADVANTAGE :
-JUN IS CRAP AND ARROGANT WHILE RANDY IS HELPFUL
-HERMIE IS FAIRLY STRAIGHT FORWARD BUT LACKS OVERALL AUDIOPHILE KNOWLEDGE VS ITS COMPETITORS
-VERY LIMITED MODELS AND BRANDS
DCM
-WAS VERY ACCOMODATING AT FIRST
DISADVANTAGE :
-LOCATION IS BAD
-DOESN'T OPEN TILL LATE
-MELVIN IS TOO WITTY! ACCOMODATES YOU BUT AFTER SALES IS LIKE HE DOESNT REMEMBER YOU ANYMORE
-SELLS ANYTHING BRITISH! ARCAM, MUSICAL FIDELITY, MISSION, CELESTION! NO HE DOESNT LIKE CYRUS! :)
I HOPE ONE DAY WE CAN HAVE STORES LIKE SOUND BY SINGER IN THE US WHERE HI-END COMPONENTS ARE CARRIED BY KNOWLDGEABLE STAFF AND VERY GOOD AFTER SALES SERVICE TO BOOT! IF THAT HAPPENS, THEN I BELIEVE THAT ALL THE MARK LEVINSON'S, KRELL'S AND AIR TIGHT'S CUSTOMERS IN THE PHILIPPINES GOT THEIR MONEY'S WORTH!
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manila, Hi! Thanks for sharing such valuable information. :) This would really come in handy. Just go easy on the CAPS. It's considered shouting. A little friendly tip. :)
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DCM
-WAS VERY ACCOMODATING AT FIRST
DISADVANTAGE :
-LOCATION IS BAD
-DOESN'T OPEN TILL LATE
-MELVIN IS TOO WITTY! ACCOMODATES YOU BUT AFTER SALES IS LIKE HE DOESNT REMEMBER YOU ANYMORE
-SELLS ANYTHING BRITISH! ARCAM, MUSICAL FIDELITY, MISSION, CELESTION! NO HE DOESNT LIKE CYRUS! :)
DCM
Location - I like the location even if it's out of the way (not in a mall), and no problem parking. Just don't go there during and right after a heavy rainshower; drainage there is reaally bad!
Melvin, the owner - like Manila said, very accommodating. You can talk with him for hours; he's more into hifi than home theater though. Over the phone, you may have to remind him who you are (and what you bought from him), but I guess he just has too much on his mind.
Product Demos - very accommodating, they will give you all the time to demo equipment. If you're suki already, he might agree to a home demo for a couple of days (this is really great!)
Sales - they are willing to put your items on consignment when you upgrade (so some of the items on display are not really theirs, they will tell you naman)
After Sales - No problems here, basically because I haven't had any problems with the items I bought. But Melvin tells me he recalled most of the Mission 782s he sold because the glue used in the 782 was being affected by the humidity here; the other mission speakers (even in the same 78x series) did not have the same problem. So I don't think you will have a hard time if you have a problem.
Product Range chiefly British, and mainly Mission, Musical Fidelity and recently Arcam (DCM's the distributor of these); Denon and Onkyo HT receivers; he can source other brands that he doesn't distribute if you wish
You can see that I'm an obvious fan of DCM. I bought most of my equipment from Melvin.
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manila,
i hope na makapunta ka sa 2nd marathon.
if you are a Suki of Image-Harison Plaza before
may inimbitahan akong friend ko na former sales agent there at Image-HP na pupunta sa 2nd marathon and meron na siyang sariling audio-video store and i know this guy can help you as well as other members basta sa set-up! ;)
eto yung halos kanang kamay ni Angel-Image-HP!
again before way back mga 2 years ago.
yung mga Suki sa Image I know You Know Him.
hehehe.
Manila please come on our 2nd marathon and I think He will bring "THE DENON DOLBY PROLOGIC II SET-UP"
see you there!
vax
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vax,
cno c edward?
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vacuumtubes : sorry I am not a IMAGE suki or will never be! :) I believe in 2 channel audio and primarily listen to music only! Though I have a separate home theater equipment for movie watching, I really believe that it is a waste of money to spend on DTS-ES, DOLBY EX, DOLBY PROLOGIC II which in another year or so will be outdated by a newer and "better" discrete surround format. Here's a sample, I have listened to an Onkyo and Bose Acoustimass setup and loved it with Dolby Digital surround. I have also heard Nautilus and PROCEED home theater setup playing in DTS which are truly awesome, but the P1.5M price difference isn't justifiable! Could you also truly say that DTS is better than DOLBY DIGITAL when played one after the other or one will just say yeah DTS is better because it's soundstage is wider but without it, you won't yearn for the need. To keep it simple, home theater surround setup doesn't make all that much difference between "affordable" and "hi-end" systems. With 2 channel audio, a cable upgrade alone benefits a whole lot more due to it's simplicity with less channels (almost no processing), fewer speakers to match and the simple fact that it is centered around a non-reflection concept hence clearing up the vocals and instruments! The CD format (even with DVD-A and SACD around) will tend to stay for at least another 5 years which makes one's investment a better investment! Just my 2 cents! Cheers!
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Overall:
We have decent selection here in Manila but there's still lots were missing out on: Tannoy,
I believe meron pang TANNOY sa isang store sa Park Square katabi ng Quad sa Makati. It is located on the left side of HAHN (bilihan ng hunting gear) and katapat ng TRUE VALUE. Check it out. ;D
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pioneer,
store name = SOUND DIMENSION
ask for = EDWIN
telephone # = 894-2388
location = PARK SQUARE 1, Ayala Center,Makati City
okey ba brother complete na yan ha, hehehe.
vax
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vax,
si boss nasa likod mo he he he ;)
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Manila:
I think some of your comments are not as everyone experienced their Audio Stores.
1. Listening Room
JR is great, very friendly accomodating and knows his stuff. He maintains several stores already and I believe his staff and relatives can handle sales and inquiries even without him.
2. AVDI
Wilfred is very professional but I agree that their products are expensive. Their service is great and you have to remember... you get what you pay for. Good service ain't free.
3. Electronics depot
Been there so many times to for DVDs and their staff seem courteous and accomodating. Read a lot about their good service in this thread.
Been impressed with their setup of the OM5 as well as compared Yamaha and Denon at the switch of a button. The best demo room to audition AVRs and matching with speakers. Their matrix switchers are the same as circuit city and good guys.
HAve talked to the owners and they seem to know their stuff. Their knowledge on acoustics were explained to me in detail like flutter echoes, standing waves, room modes, pressure waves, etc.. explained to me in lay man terms and not marketing stuff. explain the relation of wavelength and frequency, etc... Explained why subwoofers are louder in the corner by 6dB due to loudspeaker diffraction. Some just say that putting subs will be louder but can not explain why.
They even showed me a software worth USD $10K they use for acoustic and sound system design called EASE (Electro-Acoustic Simulator for Engineers). I was impressed with the graphic display and was stunned when they gave me a headphones and listened to how your room will sound in the design stage.
4. DCM
The owners see probably more than 10 faces a day and you can not blame them for not remembering everyone.
location is relative. If you live in QC, cubao should be okay where makati can be far.
thanks!
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Manila:
I think some of your comments are not as everyone experienced their Audio Stores.
1. Listening Room
JR is great, very friendly accomodating and knows his stuff. He maintains several stores already and I believe his staff and relatives can handle sales and inquiries even without him.
2. AVDI
Wilfred is very professional but I agree that their products are expensive. Their service is great and you have to remember... you get what you pay for. Good service ain't free.
3. Electronics depot
Been there so many times to for DVDs and their staff seem courteous and accomodating. Read a lot about their good service in this thread.
Been impressed with their setup of the OM5 as well as compared Yamaha and Denon at the switch of a button. The best demo room to audition AVRs and matching with speakers. Their matrix switchers are the same as circuit city and good guys.
HAve talked to the owners and they seem to know their stuff. Their knowledge on acoustics were explained to me in detail like flutter echoes, standing waves, room modes, pressure waves, etc.. explained to me in lay man terms and not marketing stuff. explain the relation of wavelength and frequency, etc... Explained why subwoofers are louder in the corner by 6dB due to loudspeaker diffraction. Some just say that putting subs will be louder but can not explain why.
They even showed me a software worth USD $10K they use for acoustic and sound system design called EASE (Electro-Acoustic Simulator for Engineers). I was impressed with the graphic display and was stunned when they gave me a headphones and listened to how your room will sound in the design stage.
4. DCM
The owners see probably more than 10 faces a day and you can not blame them for not remembering everyone.
location is relative. If you live in QC, cubao should be okay where makati can be far.
thanks!
DVDFAN : I hope you read my message correctly and was my own opinion only and nobody else's. :D
For your first topic : LISTENING IN STYLE
-JR is good I know and I never said he isn't. I just said that his staff aren't. Try calling now and ask for the price of an Air Tight ATM-3 without JR. Or say if they have a stock on Transparent Audio Wave Super. Or maybe ask them what model Jadis preamplifier they have on their shelf for months. See for yourself what I mean. If you aren't sure what I am talking about that is fine because your are not selling them they do and they don't have a clue only JR does!
For your second issue : AVDI
-I said Wilfred is awesome didn't I? I am not asking for a service that is free, I mentioned that their pricing is US RRP x50 and that is your buy price! Check it out, that is a fact and I am not making a mockery of myself eventhough that is how you believe it may be.
For your third issue : Electronics Depot
-It's good that you had a good demo. I must admit that their switchboard is a plus though it added noise into their receivers then we were demoing, we can hear slight clutter from the Mirage's and thought it was the Denon that was clipping. They couldn't fix the distortion and we left wondering if the Mirage's were good. They may have fixed that now and that is good but from my experience it was bad and other audio retailers like AVDI and Listening in Style would have better setups!
-Oh yeah that USD$10k EASE software? My advice is for Electronics Depot to use line conditioners instead of power extensions and better quality interconnects than cheapy ones. This will improve the sound of their equipment rather than spending on the EASE software. How can you "really" hear your actual room acoustics through the headphone? We being realistic here? :D
For your fourth issue : DCM
-I can see that you are my antagonist huh? :D
-Let me see you prefer DCM's spot in the middle of Cubao rather than Upscale Audio in Megamall, Listening in Style and AVDI at the Shang or Electronics Depot in Libis? You prefer Cubao? :D
No hard feelings DVDFan! Just some thoughts! :D
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I HOPE ONE DAY WE CAN HAVE STORES LIKE SOUND BY SINGER IN THE US WHERE HI-END COMPONENTS ARE CARRIED BY KNOWLDGEABLE STAFF AND VERY GOOD AFTER SALES SERVICE TO BOOT! IF THAT HAPPENS, THEN I BELIEVE THAT ALL THE MARK LEVINSON'S, KRELL'S AND AIR TIGHT'S CUSTOMERS IN THE PHILIPPINES GOT THEIR MONEY'S WORTH!
I've had some experience in selling audio/video equipment before and believe me not all our sales staff are knowledgeable.
pero ang maganda dito sa states is that companies will spend money to get you trained. i've been sent to different convention/companies for product training (i.e. bose system, rca, pioneer etc.). ang maganda panga noon is that they will even let you borrow their equipment (to take home for a week) para you would have a more hands on experience and knowledge of their product. and the best benefit noon was they give special discounted prices for employees...the reason behind this..is
if you’re using their product, then it is easier for you to sell them.
so maybe if the owners would devote a training time like an hour or so everyday to their sales staff, then we would have better experience in their stores.
my 2 cents
bently
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I think most of you have already covered the major audio stores. I agree to most of your comments. rtsy did mention about an audio store in Makati Cinema Square and I think no one has mentioned it yet.
SENSIBLE AUDIO - this store is located at the basement of MSC, near the gun shops. Store basically sells second hand goodies (very few brand new stuff), mostly 2 channel stereo stuff. Very few HT stuff though. You can find old school tube amps and pre-amps which were the rave 10 or 15 years ago at bargain prices.
Not all the goodies bieng sold by the owner is in the store. Other second hand gems or "hidden wealth" are at the owner's home for better auditioning. The store is so small that there is no room for a descent audition.
The owner is a true blue audiophile since way back. I have known this person for about 15 years. He is very knowledgeable about hi-end audio. Problem is most of the time, he is not in the store. Only his "katiwala" is there. This "katiwala" is not that knowledgeable about hi-end or HT. The owner usually goes there after office hours.
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M_Shoe_Maker,
yun bang store na malapit sa nagbebenta ng mga long playing or plaka yung sinasabi mo?
thanx,
vax
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vacuumtubes,
Yep, that's it. If you don't see anything that interests you in the store, try going there at around 7:00 pm in order for you to meet and talk to the owner personally. He is a cool guy, and he has more cool and hot (vacuum tubes)stuff at home.
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SENSIBLE AUDIO - this store is located at the basement of MSC, near the gun shops.
Thing is, whenever I pass this store, it's always closed. What are this store's operating hours? Till what time is the owner there?
I'm starting to save up for a tube integratd to go with my Concertinos.
Thanks!
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As per Makati Cinema Square rules, stores must be open from 11:00 a.m. up to 8:00 p.m. In reality, MSC, unlike SM and other malls, is not strict on this policy. As to SENSIBLE AUDIO, this is their schedule:
"Katiwala" named Raul opens the store at 11:00 am to 11:30 am from Monday to Saturday. Raul normaly closes shop (lights still open) during lunch time. Raul's unofficial lunch-break varies, sometimes 12:00 to 2:00 (buti pa siya - free working hours). Lito, the owner takes over after office hours. This is around 6:30 pm. He is there normally up to 8:00 pm. During Sundays, Lito goes to the shop at 11:00 am, opens the lights, then locks the door, then goes home. (para mukang bukas ang store - to prevent MCS imposing a fine on his store). Unless someone has an appointment with Lito to audition, pick up some stuff, Lito will not stay in the store during Sundays. He just comes back to the store at around 7:30 pm to close the lights and officially close shop.
If you are going there, it is advisable to call-up Raul and say you are coming at this time in order for him not to take an early or long lunch. Remember, Raul is not that knowledgable about hi-end or HT. In addition, you really cannot bargain with this guy.
It is advisable to talk to Lito and ask what you want. He may have it in his home. You can also bargain and trade-in (if he likes your unit) some stuff. BTW, this guy is the exclusive distributor of those great Audio Research Tube Amps in the country. He has a relatively big inventory of 2nd hand Audio Research stuff, some selling at bargain prices. These were the old units his clients had which were eventually traded in for newer models.
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Hey guys. Did you know that the owners of Listening Room, Listening in Style, and Sounds and Sights are all related. Siblings, I think. The business runs in the family, huh! :)
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I think even the Golden sound store in Virra Mall is owned by the same group. This is the website of Listening in style.
http://avcorner.com/
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Hey guys. Did you know that the owners of Listening Room, Listening in Style, and Sounds and Sights are all related. Siblings, I think. The business runs in the family, huh! :)
Are you sure Sights & Sounds and the Listening chain are owned by the same family? If they are, they certainly give gravely different service. I've thrown quite a bit of business JR's way because of this.
In fairness, Jun at Sights & Sounds if fairly knoweldgeable and gives decent prices. Problem is when issues crop up that require the resolution of people above Jun. That's when it gets unpleasant. My father-in-law bought a grey-market 29" Wega that conked out with limited use after less than 3 months. S&S passed us around for service. When they finally picked up the unit, it took them 2 months to repair!
M_Shoe_Maker,
Can you give us an idea how much those bagsin Audio Research stuff are at Sensible Sound? How's after sales support? Thanks!
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rtsy,
The smallest Audio Research Amp the owner is selling right now is a D70. This amp is rated 30 watts per channel and came out during the mid 80s. It is pure tube. It is selling for P35T.
If you want more power, there is also a D150, a 150 watt per channel beast weighing approximately 100 pounds! If I am not mistaken, this was ARC's top of the line model during the late 70s. I think this one is selling for P95T.
If you want one of the best sounding ARCs not to mention one of the most sought after classic tube amps ever, this one is for you. A D79 power amp. This amp is rated 75 watts per channel and was considered to be one of the best sounding amplifiers during its time. Up to now, audiophiles as well as tube amp collectors are interested in this particular model. I think the owner is selling this for US2,000. The owner plans to sell this through EBay, but if someone is willing to pay $$$$$, he is open to a local sale.
Aside from what I have mentioned, there are other second hand ARCs available.
As far as after sales service is concerned, the owner has a technician who is well versed with ARC electronics. For busted parts, the owner can order parts directly from ARC. One thing nice about ARC is that in its 30 years of existence, parts from their out-of-production models are still available. If not exactly the same, ARC has substitute parts even for its 25 year old amps.
BTW, I am selling a McIntosh MC240 power amp, circa 60s, never been modified or upgraded. Its in the "Assorted Buy and Sell" Section if you are interested.
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SENSIBLE AUDIO - this store is located at the basement of MSC, near the gun shops.
Thing is, whenever I pass this store, it's always closed. What are this store's operating hours? Till what time is the owner there?
I'm starting to save up for a tube integratd to go with my Concertinos.
Thanks!
Im selling a Dynaco ST70 (35wx2) integrated amp for P25k. It uses an Audio Note preamp which is also tube so it is a full tube integrated! I personally use SF Tino as well and I can assure you it is matched well with the tino's. Im using Van Den Hull THE WIND cables with it. You may be interested for an audition. Just PM me.
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The smallest Audio Research Amp the owner is selling right now is a D70. This amp is rated 30 watts per channel and came out during the mid 80s. It is pure tube. It is selling for P35T.
If you want more power, there is also a D150, a 150 watt per channel beast weighing approximately 100 pounds! If I am not mistaken, this was ARC's top of the line model during the late 70s. I think this one is selling for P95T.
If you want one of the best sounding ARCs not to mention one of the most sought after classic tube amps ever, this one is for you. A D79 power amp. This amp is rated 75 watts per channel and was considered to be one of the best sounding amplifiers during its time. Up to now, audiophiles as well as tube amp collectors are interested in this particular model. I think the owner is selling this for US2,000. The owner plans to sell this through EBay, but if someone is willing to pay $$$$$, he is open to a local sale.
Aside from what I have mentioned, there are other second hand ARCs available.
As far as after sales service is concerned, the owner has a technician who is well versed with ARC electronics. For busted parts, the owner can order parts directly from ARC. One thing nice about ARC is that in its 30 years of existence, parts from their out-of-production models are still available. If not exactly the same, ARC has substitute parts even for its 25 year old amps.
BTW, I am selling a McIntosh MC240 power amp, circa 60s, never been modified or upgraded. Its in the "Assorted Buy and Sell" Section if you are interested.
Wow, those US$2k are way out of my league for now. But it would be interesting to hear them so I get inspired to save up.
Do you know where I can find objective reviews of the models you mentioned, especially the old, out of production models?
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rtsy,
I'm pretty much sure both Streophile and The Absolute Sound had reviews of both the D150 and D79 models. These 2 magazines were the ones raving about these 2 amps. Not sure though what issues/dates they were. These were mid 70s equipment.
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bump! :)
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It was a pleasure to drop by and audition JBL speakers (they also carry Infinity speaks and H/K recvrs) at Architectural Audio at New World Hotel; very accomodating and knowledgable staff. They will gladly setup any speakers you want to hear and at any position you want to hear it from, or at speaker placements you want. Their audition-room is made up to be an average living room with no special acoustics treatments, etc. This is actually a good thing because many of us will setup the speakers we buy in regular rooms, so when you listen to their speakers at Architectural, you're hearing the speakers' normal everyday performace in a normal room. Needless to say, if you set up the speakers you buy in an acoustically sound room, then the speakers will perform even better in your home.
It will also be nice though if they also set-up an acoustically "ideal" room to hear the speakers optimum performance, too ;)
They are definitely recommended if you're looking for JBLs, Infinity and HK receivers; and I think I'll be getting my audio gear from them :)
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Reposting
After my short visit to Home Theater where i was privileged to listen to the Mission 773 and M72, I went to Upscale Audio at Park Square, also in Makati.
I was looking for Dominic because he was mentioned on PinoyDVD and I had a chat with him yesterday. He was on leave and I ended up talking to a "person" who does not know what customer service is. First and foremost, as I was asking about the models that I am interested with, he continues to put in some folded cardboard under one of the speaker stands. The AE models I was looking for were not available, and as I continue to ask about other AE bookshelf models, he told me "ibang brand na lang." (look for other brands) and so I did ask about the other brands. And as I ask, I have this feeling that he does not want to talk to me because I'm probably not in suit, and I look like one who cannot afford to buy an Acoustic Energy, much less the other speakers like "en-kor" (referring to Energy Encore). I opened up my notebook where I have my list of floor standing models and as I ask about the AE309 and the other AE floor standing models, he has the intelligence to snap at me and said, "iba kasi yang tinuturo mo eh!" (you are pointing at a different model) without him even looking at what I am looking at and pointing at. At this point in time, I lost all the patience I have for this person, and I shouted back to him that he is mishandling a customer. As I ask for his name, where the only murmurs I got from people there is 'Den', I also asked for the person in charge which himself didn't care, won't give the name of the offending "person" and when I told him I will publish my experience with them, just "nodded." Yeah! They're proud of what they are, and how they treat people!
Upscale Audio - where you will be ignored, and be treated as an annoyance, and not worthy to look at their products. I can just imagine what if I asked them to play my samples!
Clap, clap, clap!
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Reposting
Got the same crapty experience with upscale audio too... During my first visit I talked with a really nice sales person. After watching a movie and thinking about the speakers that I heard I went back in there to only have a crapty salesperson to talk back to me.
crap! All you said man was right on the money! Walang ganang makipag usap pati walang knowledge ng products. Nung nag pa audition ako eh naka simangot pa si idiot. Sobrang nawalan ako ng gana kaya di na ako bumalik dun.
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Reposting
And as I ask, I have this feeling that he does not want to talk to me because I'm probably not in suit, and I look like one who cannot afford to buy an Acoustic Energy, much less the other speakers like "en-kor" (referring to Energy Encore
I had several experience like this when I was shopping for my home theater system last year.I always like to wear maong shorts and t-shirts.My GF hates me when I where that, it looks untidy daw but hey only us guys can relate huh? ;D Well I would say 90% of the time the sales people would not even entertain me properly especially those in Shangrila Mall particularly listening room.In this case in listening room the sales people were watching something on TV and they wouldn't even get up to talk to me.But then I got to this store in Shang named Audio Visual Driver , they have this salesrep named Sam (girl) who was very accomodating even though I dressed kind of ordinary. She even offered to test whatever speaker I want. The main thing is she approached as soon as I entered and even though someone else came in with a better looking attire she continued to talk to me.She had a good sales pitch and she would ask your budget so she would know what models to show to you, unlike the other stores that don't really care. I was not even set to buy that day and I told her but she went on to demo the AVR and the speakers. After that I canvassed the price in some other snotty store and called Sam up and see if she could match the price. She called me up after to give me the best price they could and even if it is a bit more expensive I ended up buying from them a 70k home theater system.
Bottom line, who wants to buy from someone who looks down on you and judge you with how you look.Even if it's cheaper I wouldn't go back to that store. Man if they think I'm small fry their stupid.Get 5 guys like me then the sales would have been near equal to 1 high end system compared to not selling even 1.These people seem not to like their job, its a free country leave and find another.Dumbass!
Another good and accomodating store is Premier Sights and Sound in Makati in Park Square if I remember right.Bought my DVD player naman there.Price is not everything, PR also helps the sale.
Elf 8)
Bad moments while purchasing in a retail store (http://www.pinoydvd.com/yabbse/index.php?board=24;action=display;threadid=5617)
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Reposting
Ahem... this happened to me earlier when I bought my Sony RPTV and at that time they were selling at Php 99,999.00
Anyway, I think it was around December then and I was just wearing walking shorts, driving shoes and plain tshirt (plus a backpack that contains the money in cold cash) when I checked at AVID UN Avenue. Guess what, nobody wanted to attend to me... there was even one guy who ignored me and attended to better dressed customers who were looking at a smaller priced item... so what ended up the impasse was when I approached the supervisor and ask the question, "if I buy that RPTV now, can you deliver within an hour to my place?"
Man, you could see the guy's jaw dropped when I told the supervisor that I am going to "test drive" it and if they can deliver within an hour I can pay in cash....
well.... sometimes you think about it and then you wonder how these guys treat there customers....
what an experience i tell you... but sweet redemption when I look back getting back through the supervisor then...
-jackryan 8)
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HYPERAUDIO
Location is not so good but he is really accomodating and his products are great and is reasonably priced. No sales pressure. Will definitely buy from him.
ARCHITECTURAL AUDIO
Really nice location! Very friendly and accomodating. A wide variety of stuff is in there. No sales pressure, they even said that I could inform them if I have ever purchased another product! Will definitely buy from them.
ELECTRONICS DEPOT LIBIS
Really great location and great room setups. The staff is OK. The speaker and receiver selection is not so good though. A bit overpriced too. I might come back for their DVDs though.
UPSCALE AUDIO MEGAMALL
Went in there and a guy hesitantly comes out from the listening room (he was chatting with some other guys there). Answers my queries in a yes or no manner. Wouldn't be going there again.
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Regarding hyperaudio's location, here is a tip. If there are cars already parked in front of his shop (his L300 and other visitors), you can park at Cash and Carry for free. Its just a block away from "The place where Vacuum Tubes are born". ;D
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Here are my experiences with regards to stores that sell A/V gear:
AMBASSADOR (Shangrila) ***
No demo room but try haggling with the 'owner'... he gives great prices and is quite funny with his sales talk. :)
LISTENING IN STYLE (Shangrila) ***
The staff are ok, but its a good thing I was able to talk to their boss (JR). I was able to demo some stuff for around 2 hours 2-3 times. :)
They sent me a used pair of speakers (probably by mistake), and when I called up JR, he immediately scheduled it for replacement THE NEXT DAY before lunchtime. Now that is what I call customer service! :) :) :)
AMBASSADOR (Virra Mall)
Full of B.S. characters. WILL NEVER RETURN to that place. If you want to have your day ruined try going there and ask some questions. >:(
LISTENING ROOM
Ok ang staff, but they could do better. They only noticed me when I asked some questions, but then, they were always quite busy and the small area is always full of people.
UPSCALE AUDIO (MEGA)
The guy here is accomodating enough, but I didn't ask too much since they don't carry what I want. :)
UPSCALE AUDIO (PARK SQUARE)
So-so ang staff, but the guys I talked to are always ok (lucky me!)
THE HOME THEATER / SOUND AND CINEMA ***
Mr. Sonny is one of the best persons to talk to before buying an HT. The place to go for newbies who are seriously considering a new setup. :)
AUDIO DEN (ARANETA)
Ok ang boss dito (Mr. Eric Lim), nice guy to talk to, and he let me demo a set of Paradigms for a few hours. He carries a lot of high-end stuff too.
SIGHTS AND SOUNDS (PARK SQUARE)
So far ok ang staff, gave me answers asap. :)
ARCHITECTURAL AUDIO (NEW WORLD HOTEL)
Finally met the guys behind the store! :) Nice to talk to and very accomodating. If you are looking for Haraman/JBL/Infinity stuff, this is the place to go. Pwedeng gawing tambayan pa ang store (yata!). ;D
IMAGE VIDEO (HARRISON PLAZA)
Of all the places to meet lousy sales people... I was expecting them over at the high end a/v stores, but lo and behold! I met them right here! Hmm...their prices are quite reasonable though. You get what you pay for! :(
FOCAL (GHILLS)
The people here are accomodating too.
A/V DRIVER (SHANGRILA)
Nice staff, always on their toes, like they were expecting me to ask something... :) Ahh...one more thing, I still have to see one of their staff na nakasimangot... hehe... :)
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*** purchased stuff from them :)
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The bottom line: if you want to buy something over at these stores, show them that you are dead serious in 'investing' your hard earned money in their equipment. In my case, if I am just looking around, I'll immediately say so, para the sales person can do something else. :) Pero if I want to buy something, I get right to the point. Pag mukhang pa-patay-patay ang sales, then OUT I GO, never to come back! hehe.. :)
Also, if possible, try talking to the owner / boss of the store. They are usually more accomodating and will give you bigger discounts. :)
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Its just a block away from "The place where Vacuum Tubes are born". ;D
Hi M_Shoe_Maker,
Did I read this right? Isn't it supposed to read: "The place where Vaccumtubes is born" ?? :o ;D ;D
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HYPERAUDIO
Location is not so good but he is really accomodating and his products are great and is reasonably priced. No sales pressure. Will definitely buy from him.
Very near my place
ARCHITECTURAL AUDIO
Really nice location! Very friendly and accomodating. A wide variety of stuff is in there. No sales pressure, they even said that I could inform them if I have ever purchased another product! Will definitely buy from them.
AMEN! I bought from this guys too and will definitely buy again :)
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Reposting
I ended up talking to a "person" who does not know what customer service is.
Upscale Audio - where you will be ignored, and be treated as an annoyance, and not worthy to look at their products. I can just imagine what if I asked them to play my samples!
When I read your post here and on Pinoydiophiles, I spoke with one of the people I know there. Here's the result of the conversation:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Pinoydiophiles/message/895
Further to move this forward, it'd be great to hear your views on what to do in case you get bad treatment in a store:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Pinoydiophiles/message/901
Sorry I just had to link it since I don't have time to re-type. 8)
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HYPERAUDIO
Location is not so good but he is really accomodating and his products are great and is reasonably priced. No sales pressure. Will definitely buy from him.
Very near my place
ARCHITECTURAL AUDIO
Really nice location! Very friendly and accomodating. A wide variety of stuff is in there. No sales pressure, they even said that I could inform them if I have ever purchased another product! Will definitely buy from them.
AMEN! I bought from this guys too and will definitely buy again :)
Still haven't bought anything yet from them but will do in the near future. First impression always lasts right?
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Reposting for audio_tyro,
I've known the guys in Upscale Audio Makati for like more than five years already (Den, Nani, Dominic, Jered, Au). I bought some of my earlier HT stuff there (Velodyne VA1012 sub, Onkyo receiver, NHT speakers, Infinity center channel, etc.) and I beg to disagree to some comments against them posted a few weeks back. They are really nice persons once you know them well, polite and very accomodating. But remember, they are humans. They are not robots. Maybe you just caught them in a bad time. Maybe the guy has some little problems, or probably before you came in - they might have talked to some really nasty filthy morons who sneered at their products. These Upscale Audio sales guys, employed in that store for many years now, I am convinced of their loyalty to their employer and to the brands they carry as well that it probably destroys their mode if you talk bad about their products.
So perhaps, if you still consider yourself a Christian, try to be a little more considerate to these store sales persons (and to any store sales guys), they have to stay in that store meeting all sorts of people (good and bad, guwapo, pangit, maganda, mabango, mabaho, etc.). Just imagine, if Jesus Christ comes in to that store, you think He will go out as pissed off as you had been? Come on, the Lord just gave you financial blessings so you can afford your material whims (instead of spiritual, the most important) and now you complain a lot?
Next time you go in there and still you think you're not getting the assistance that you need, tell them up front "Pare, tulungan mo ako ng maayos". I am sure they will hear you. I think it's only a matter of communications problem, that's all.
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Reposting for audio_tyro,
I've known the guys in Upscale Audio Makati for like more than five years already (Den, Nani, Dominic, Jered, Au). I bought some of my earlier HT stuff there (Velodyne VA1012 sub, Onkyo receiver, NHT speakers, Infinity center channel, etc.) and I beg to disagree to some comments against them posted a few weeks back. They are really nice persons once you know them well, polite and very accomodating. But remember, they are humans. They are not robots. Maybe you just caught them in a bad time. Maybe the guy has some little problems, or probably before you came in - they might have talked to some really nasty filthy morons who sneered at their products. These Upscale Audio sales guys, employed in that store for many years now, I am convinced of their loyalty to their employer and to the brands they carry as well that it probably destroys their mode if you talk bad about their products.
So perhaps, if you still consider yourself a Christian, try to be a little more considerate to these store sales persons (and to any store sales guys), they have to stay in that store meeting all sorts of people (good and bad, guwapo, pangit, maganda, mabango, mabaho, etc.). Just imagine, if Jesus Christ comes in to that store, you think He will go out as pissed off as you had been? Come on, the Lord just gave you financial blessings so you can afford your material whims (instead of spiritual, the most important) and now you complain a lot?
Next time you go in there and still you think you're not getting the assistance that you need, tell them up front "Pare, tulungan mo ako ng maayos". I am sure they will hear you. I think it's only a matter of communications problem, that's all.
That's all rubbish. It's their job to treat customers right. It is of no moment that they had a bad day or not. A judge won't givea guilty verdict just because he had a bad fight with his wife the night he wanted to decide the case. You'll never see a McDo or Jollibee employee not serve you with a smile and with courtest although they are just normal human beings with normal struggles in lives. This isn't about them being human. That is a given. This is about professionalism. Miscommunication can hardly be the cause since no communication lines were open to begin with and it supposed to be the salesman who will open the communication lines. Maybe its just because they have been there long enough they have started to be lax, feeling some job security. It's hard to teach an old dog new tricks. On the good side, the people in Upscale Megamall seem to be really nice.
Jovi
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I kinda agree with Jick here. It is not an excuse if they had a bad day.
Should we be the ones to sort of 'beg' them to sell us their stuff? Who's the customer anyway?
There are other stores that may have better equipment AND excellent service.
This is how I look at it, as a consumer: if they treat me this bad the first time I was there at their store, what the more after I do business with them?
Anyway, the people in the Upscale branch at Park Square has treated me ok naman, but nothing extraordinary. They always seem to look tired and bored though. But the people over at the Megamall branch are very nice. :) (I do hope the owners of Upscale are reading this thread).
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The attitude that the sales people of some stores exhibit gives me the impression that they don't need my business. In this case, I'm more than happy to oblige by spending my money elsewhere. I hope that there are more people like me who are willing to spend more to get better service because companies with good service deserve to be rewarded. Stores will not exert any effort to improve their service if people continue to buy from them regardless of the attitude of their sales staff. Hit 'em where it counts... give your business to their competitor and let 'em know about it.
The main problem in the Philippines is that we are still very product-oriented. Because of this, retailers have an easy time selling preferred products even though they give crappy service. This attitude would probably have been correct in the past when there was a wide gap between "good" and "bad" products. Now, however, there has been a general improvement in the quality of products and the difference in quality between what is considered the best and second best may be slight or none at all. In these cases, service should be the deciding factor.
Also, people who let their 'bad days' affect their work should probably not be in the front lines. Perhaps they should take a job in research or be the one behind the bowling alley setting up the pins.
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HYPERAUDIO
Location is not so good but he is really accomodating and his products are great and is reasonably priced. No sales pressure. Will definitely buy from him.
Very near my place
ARCHITECTURAL AUDIO
Really nice location! Very friendly and accomodating. A wide variety of stuff is in there. No sales pressure, they even said that I could inform them if I have ever purchased another product! Will definitely buy from them.
AMEN! I bought from this guys too and will definitely buy again :)
exactly the same comment here! though i haven't bought any equipment from hyperaudio, i get most of my audio cds from him. if i ever decide to get anything that either of them carry, i will definitely buy it from them. i have such confidence and trust at hyperaudio and the guys at architectural audio.
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here's commentary on two other stores, not much discussed by prev. posts:
CERATEC
- in Megamall, opposite end from Upscale
- Art Audio, Rotel (incl. DVD), AMC (tubes!), Mirage, and of course Ceratec, German "lifestyle"(?) speakers, though more T+A "Talis" than B&O
- surprising & regularly updated collection of audiophile CD's, XRCD & Chesky esp.
- strengths: you get to meet the proprietor straight away, and Mr. Ybanez is VERY well-informed and accomodating - plus you get to hear those Art Audio tubes, plus you'll often meet & exchange notes with some expats in there
- weakness: this is just me personally: Ceratecs sound fantastic, better than "you are there", - "they are HERE"! i kid you not, i'm tempted, but, man, Sonus Faber's just down the hall, these are how real speakers should LOOK - right?
FOCAL
- down Connecticut St., beside Unimart in GHills
- JM Lab, YBA, Marantz, harman-kardon, JBL, infinity (if it's harman group, it's there), nakamichi, denon - whew!
- tons of DVDs, CDs, & coffee
- strengths: IMHO the BEST store in terms of presentation, aside from the decor it's well-lit, spacious (a problem elsewhere), you can sit down at the cafe, no pressure, and a super demo room (personally i think the JM Lab 'Utopias are the best speakers in town, they kick Sonus butt)
- weakness: well, i'm 23 - and the staff's my age, they're very nice but we sometimes seem equally ignorant when it comes to some questions
of course i'm posting this 'coz i'm interested in their products, i need yer opinions so dat da hard-earned dough doesn't become a hard-learned "doh!" - thanks!
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With Focal, don't even bother talking to the sales people. Look for the manager, Keith, or better yet look for one of the owners, Mickey or Hans. If you're lucky, you might even bump into the local distributor of Marantz or the Harman group since they hang out there.
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Tanong lang..
I inquire a certain product at YUPANGCO, particulartly the Yamaha Receivers 420,430,520,530 and the 620.
What intrigues me is, when I asked the prices of these receiver, I was shocked!
Here are the prices:
420 : P 21, 990
520 : P 26, 990
620 : P 34, 990
*30 : Wala pa silang handle ng newer models
:o
I called again, baka kasi yung naquote saking price ay may package na NSP 220 speaker system.
But, wala. The price is solely for the receiver itself. I asked them, na para yatang ang mahal, considering na ang *20 series ay pa-phase out na because of the newer *30 series.
They say na original from Japan daw yung product nila.
Again, anong pagkakaiba nung product nila, na they claiming it was made from Japan while the other stores are selling at a huge price difference, generally lower (the price of the 420 nowadays are at 14K, while the 520 are at about 20K)?????
Why are they pricing that much?
???
Anyway, their contact nos is 899-9595.
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IMHO, because Yupangco is the distributor. It is a way to protect their retailers. No one would sell their product if they will compete with them.
Levi
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I just came from Audio Visual Drivers International today. I met a salesman named Herman. He is easily the nicest salesman I have had the pleasure of knowing and he is very knowledgable and accomodating. Even if you don't show the slightest inkling to buying, he will give you a comprehensive demo and create the demand there and then for you - after all it will just impress you and make you wish you could have a system like that. No pressure at all to buy.
Jovi
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Reposting for audio_tyro,
I've known the guys in Upscale Audio Makati for like more than five years already (Den, Nani, Dominic, Jered, Au). I bought some of my earlier HT stuff there (Velodyne VA1012 sub, Onkyo receiver, NHT speakers, Infinity center channel, etc.) and I beg to disagree to some comments against them posted a few weeks back. They are really nice persons once you know them well, polite and very accomodating. But remember, they are humans. They are not robots. Maybe you just caught them in a bad time. Maybe the guy has some little problems, or probably before you came in - they might have talked to some really nasty filthy morons who sneered at their products. These Upscale Audio sales guys, employed in that store for many years now, I am convinced of their loyalty to their employer and to the brands they carry as well that it probably destroys their mode if you talk bad about their products.
So perhaps, if you still consider yourself a Christian, try to be a little more considerate to these store sales persons (and to any store sales guys), they have to stay in that store meeting all sorts of people (good and bad, guwapo, pangit, maganda, mabango, mabaho, etc.). Just imagine, if Jesus Christ comes in to that store, you think He will go out as pissed off as you had been? Come on, the Lord just gave you financial blessings so you can afford your material whims (instead of spiritual, the most important) and now you complain a lot?
Next time you go in there and still you think you're not getting the assistance that you need, tell them up front "Pare, tulungan mo ako ng maayos". I am sure they will hear you. I think it's only a matter of communications problem, that's all.
That's all rubbish. It's their job to treat customers right. It is of no moment that they had a bad day or not. A judge won't givea guilty verdict just because he had a bad fight with his wife the night he wanted to decide the case. You'll never see a McDo or Jollibee employee not serve you with a smile and with courtest although they are just normal human beings with normal struggles in lives. This isn't about them being human. That is a given. This is about professionalism. Miscommunication can hardly be the cause since no communication lines were open to begin with and it supposed to be the salesman who will open the communication lines. Maybe its just because they have been there long enough they have started to be lax, feeling some job security. It's hard to teach an old dog new tricks. On the good side, the people in Upscale Megamall seem to be really nice.
Jovi
Well, perhaps the sales reps at Upscale Audio could be guilty of playing favoritism then because ever since my first visit there sometime in 1995 (at their old location), they already treated me kindly and even up to now. It's probably a matter of approach.
Last Thursday, I bought a Sonus Faber Concertino Home there, which I asked them to reserved for me since Sunday without leaving any downpayment. That's professionalism.
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Anyone been to Audio Visual Drivers International?
Well, I have been there and even if I'm just young at 24, and wearing
beat up jeans and a t-shirt, their sales guy really treated me with a
lot of courstesy. He was also very knowledgable. His name is Hernan.
First, he let me and my cousin sit in their room for a demo of their
home theater. Then he asked our room dimensions so he could give us
recommendations on how to make it sound as great as their demo room.
Since we didn't have the room dimensions on hand, he told us to fax
it and gave us his card. The next day I called him and verbally gave
him my room dimensions and proposed furnishings. Two days later, I
went back, and he had a autocad print out with all the possible room
resonances and peaks, the angles and optimal distances, He let me
sit with him in the table and we discussed my room as he gave me a
very detailed explanation of in his diagrams. He even asked me if I
wanted anything to eat.
When I was about to leave, he asked me where I was off to. I said I
would go eat lunch. Since I am more of a Megamall and Rockwell kinda
guy, I really don't know much about Shangrila, so he asked what
cuisine I liked and tried to make recommendations. Is this customer
service or what?
After I had lunch, I went back to the store, and Hernan gave me a
clean print out of my room diagram because the one I had was full of
his handwritten notes. He also gave me a catalogue of their Energy
stuff.
Now here's the rub, I have made no plans yet to buy anything from
them. Yet they treated me like a king and have already helped me
tremendously with my room, even if I didn't look like someone old
enough or dressed well-enough to buy their gear. And during the
whole time, there was no pressure to buy, we were discussing more
about room resonances and speaker placements, and not once did we
discuss the merits of the speaker lines they carry.
They are really top-notch class A people there in AVDI, unlike other
audio stores I would rather not name. I have the utmost respect for
the people in AVDI especially Hernan, and if you manage to pass by
there please ask for him to help you and tell him I (Jovi) have been
raving tremendously about his service. When the time is right, I
will definitely buy from them.
I strongly recommend you all pay them a visit and tell them Jovi sent
you. :)
Jovi
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exactly the point audio_tyro, namimili ng customer yang upscale audio na yan. i can afford a sonus faber concertino home, but what did they do to me? ha? they treated me like rubbish, like someone who is not capable of spending, like someone who is not there. Den is obviously inis in the kind of questions i asked him, which is clearly shown is his face. As if his time putting those cardboard under the speaker stand, or rearranging something is bothered by my mere presence in their store. I am already being insulted, in my face, so don't use the word christian here. Religion has nothing to do with how they treat people not like you. i know what customer service is, and i expect to be treated like a customer. sobra ba yung mga tanong ko, bobo ba yung mga tanong ko to warrant treating me like that? eh plastic pala yang Den na yan eh. Pag di type ang kara mo, ang itsura mo, ang suot mo walang panahon sa iyo. Yung wala syang panahon, papatawarin ko, pero yung hindi na nga nakatingin sa iyo, hindi ka na nga pinapansin, sasabihan ka pa na iba iba ang tinuturo mo, as if kasalanan mo pa na hindi sya paying attention to you is not acceptable to me.
your definition of professionalism is rubbish! eh ang dami mong nang nabili sa kanila. that's how they measure people. ako wala pang nabili sa architectural audio, but am i treated like a human being. when i auditioned the energy connoisseur at advi, i was treated like a human being. THAT IS PROFESSIONALISM.
Reposting for audio_tyro,
I've known the guys in Upscale Audio Makati for like more than five years already (Den, Nani, Dominic, Jered, Au). I bought some of my earlier HT stuff there (Velodyne VA1012 sub, Onkyo receiver, NHT speakers, Infinity center channel, etc.) and I beg to disagree to some comments against them posted a few weeks back. They are really nice persons once you know them well, polite and very accomodating. But remember, they are humans. They are not robots. Maybe you just caught them in a bad time. Maybe the guy has some little problems, or probably before you came in - they might have talked to some really nasty filthy morons who sneered at their products. These Upscale Audio sales guys, employed in that store for many years now, I am convinced of their loyalty to their employer and to the brands they carry as well that it probably destroys their mode if you talk bad about their products.
So perhaps, if you still consider yourself a Christian, try to be a little more considerate to these store sales persons (and to any store sales guys), they have to stay in that store meeting all sorts of people (good and bad, guwapo, pangit, maganda, mabango, mabaho, etc.). Just imagine, if Jesus Christ comes in to that store, you think He will go out as pissed off as you had been? Come on, the Lord just gave you financial blessings so you can afford your material whims (instead of spiritual, the most important) and now you complain a lot?
Next time you go in there and still you think you're not getting the assistance that you need, tell them up front "Pare, tulungan mo ako ng maayos". I am sure they will hear you. I think it's only a matter of communications problem, that's all.
That's all rubbish. It's their job to treat customers right. It is of no moment that they had a bad day or not. A judge won't givea guilty verdict just because he had a bad fight with his wife the night he wanted to decide the case. You'll never see a McDo or Jollibee employee not serve you with a smile and with courtest although they are just normal human beings with normal struggles in lives. This isn't about them being human. That is a given. This is about professionalism. Miscommunication can hardly be the cause since no communication lines were open to begin with and it supposed to be the salesman who will open the communication lines. Maybe its just because they have been there long enough they have started to be lax, feeling some job security. It's hard to teach an old dog new tricks. On the good side, the people in Upscale Megamall seem to be really nice.
Jovi
Well, perhaps the sales reps at Upscale Audio could be guilty of playing favoritism then because ever since my first visit there sometime in 1995 (at their old location), they already treated me kindly and even up to now. It's probably a matter of approach.
Last Thursday, I bought a Sonus Faber Concertino Home there, which I asked them to reserved for me since Sunday without leaving any downpayment. That's professionalism.
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I went to Makati Cinema Square (July or Aug 2002)
to see the store selling LP's.
The guy there was entertaining customers (suki
nya siguro o pormang me pambili). I was browsing
thru the LP's and the guy told me to move away from the turntable as they are trying records or I am
blocking the turntable.
I can take salesmen who are dishonest or stuipid
but not those who doesn't want to have me as a
customer.
I not going to buy anything, ever from the %@&$*.
Henry
-
exactly the point audio_tyro, namimili ng customer yang upscale audio na yan.
Someone told me that the owner of Upscale Audio printed this entire thread and showed the print outs to the entire staff. I wonder kung gaano katagal nag-banlaw yung mga staff doon after that session. ;D
I bought one of my first systems from Upscale Audio (with my first ever Christmas bonus) and I was treated very well by Rico Severino and Dominique even if I have never bought anything from them before. It was a Friday dress down day at work so I was just in jeans and t-shirt. In fact, I didn't have a car then and just took a cab going there/bus to go home.
Ditto when I bought my Concertino from Megamall. I was rennovating my house and I'm pretty sure I was far from being fresh from the shower (I went there to pick up tiles at Mariwasa!). Upscale Mega was also frantically rennovating that time in preparation for the arrival of the Home series from Sonus Faber. Hermie and the guys there treated me well also.
Maybe you're right, namimili yung Upscale. It just so happened that you were there during their not so memorable moments.
The question really is what to do about it as customers/buyers. There is always the option of not ever purchasing anything from them, no one prevents you from doing just that. But this excludes you from Upscale's good side like Sonus Faber, Martin Logan, Velodyne, PSB, Acoustic Energy, etc. IMHO, that's a lose-lose situation but that's just me, you are entitled to your own opinion that I will whole-heartedly respect.
Another option is to escalate the incident to the store's upper management. When I got bad treatment at Listening in Style (someone whistled along with Livingston Taylor's Isn't She Lovely while I was auditioning the Audience 52), I sent them email and they apologized and asked for a second chance for me to hear their stuff. I was pretty satisfied with their handling of the incident. Ditto when AVDI's repair muffed up my NAD T760, a call to Wilfred/Stefan elicited swift action.
I much prefer this method as it builds some sort of relationship with these stores--without necessarily buying anything from them. Its quite fun watching them scrambling to treat you right after you've politely and amicably told them you were maltreated at some point in the past.
They may not be perfect (I don't think any store is), but I won't let that prevent me from benefiting from their good traits. ;)
My suggested method doesn't always work though. When my in-laws bought a Sony (turned out to be grey import) Wega from Sights & Sounds, it broke down after 3 weeks. Patient talks with their frontliners yielded no results on even a timetable for fixing the unit. We ended up talking to the owner. He was very agitated, unreasonably defensive, and very, very arrogant--he acted as if we should be thankful that he sells TVs at the prices he does. I offered to upgrade to a bigger, non-grey import unit so we are not left without a TV indefinitely. They eventually got the unit fixed but with weeks of follow-ups and long waits on the phone.
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these unfortunate incidents can happen in any stores. this should be reported to their superiors to give them a chance to improve. the important thing is the reaction of the owners and managers.
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Someone told me that the owner of Upscale Audio printed this entire thread and showed the print outs to the entire staff. I wonder kung gaano katagal nag-banlaw yung mga staff doon after that session. ;D
Hey, this is good news. I hope their service improves after this. :)
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@rtsy,
thank you for your thoughts. if you remembered my original post, i immediately looked for the person-in-charge. and nothing happened as if he condoned the actions of Den.
i actually email acoustic energy and told them about this incident from their reseller.
i do not generalize on upscale audio. i specifically mentioned 'park square branch'. i will still go to other upscale audio branches, so that i don't miss out on what i'm looking for.
rtsy, chinese ka ba? if so, your looks alone would get you better treatment. this observation never failed me.
i hope to meet you sometime para may matutunan ako sa audiophile stuff. :-)
exactly the point audio_tyro, namimili ng customer yang upscale audio na yan.
Someone told me that the owner of Upscale Audio printed this entire thread and showed the print outs to the entire staff. I wonder kung gaano katagal nag-banlaw yung mga staff doon after that session. ;D
I bought one of my first systems from Upscale Audio (with my first ever Christmas bonus) and I was treated very well by Rico Severino and Dominique even if I have never bought anything from them before. It was a Friday dress down day at work so I was just in jeans and t-shirt. In fact, I didn't have a car then and just took a cab going there/bus to go home.
Ditto when I bought my Concertino from Megamall. I was rennovating my house and I'm pretty sure I was far from being fresh from the shower (I went there to pick up tiles at Mariwasa!). Upscale Mega was also frantically rennovating that time in preparation for the arrival of the Home series from Sonus Faber. Hermie and the guys there treated me well also.
Maybe you're right, namimili yung Upscale. It just so happened that you were there during their not so memorable moments.
The question really is what to do about it as customers/buyers. There is always the option of not ever purchasing anything from them, no one prevents you from doing just that. But this excludes you from Upscale's good side like Sonus Faber, Martin Logan, Velodyne, PSB, Acoustic Energy, etc. IMHO, that's a lose-lose situation but that's just me, you are entitled to your own opinion that I will whole-heartedly respect.
Another option is to escalate the incident to the store's upper management. When I got bad treatment at Listening in Style (someone whistled along with Livingston Taylor's Isn't She Lovely while I was auditioning the Audience 52), I sent them email and they apologized and asked for a second chance for me to hear their stuff. I was pretty satisfied with their handling of the incident. Ditto when AVDI's repair muffed up my NAD T760, a call to Wilfred/Stefan elicited swift action.
I much prefer this method as it builds some sort of relationship with these stores--without necessarily buying anything from them. Its quite fun watching them scrambling to treat you right after you've politely and amicably told them you were maltreated at some point in the past.
They may not be perfect (I don't think any store is), but I won't let that prevent me from benefiting from their good traits. ;)
My suggested method doesn't always work though. When my in-laws bought a Sony (turned out to be grey import) Wega from Sights & Sounds, it broke down after 3 weeks. Patient talks with their frontliners yielded no results on even a timetable for fixing the unit. We ended up talking to the owner. He was very agitated, unreasonably defensive, and very, very arrogant--he acted as if we should be thankful that he sells TVs at the prices he does. I offered to upgrade to a bigger, non-grey import unit so we are not left without a TV indefinitely. They eventually got the unit fixed but with weeks of follow-ups and long waits on the phone.
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rtsy, chinese ka ba? if so, your looks alone would get you better treatment. this observation never failed me.
i hope to meet you sometime para may matutunan ako sa audiophile stuff. :-)
Perhaps, and I'm not saying you should've since I wasn't there when it happened and I'm not sure myself if I would've thought of this if I were in your shoes, you could've gone even higher than the party in charge at that time at the store. I'm often at Upscale but I've never really met/seen the current owners.
I'm half Chinese but I certainly don't look it.
I hardly meet up with audio friends and do most of my audio-related interactions online at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/pinoydiophiles. ;)
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Someone told me that the owner of Upscale Audio printed this entire thread and showed the print outs to the entire staff. I wonder kung gaano katagal nag-banlaw yung mga staff doon after that session. ;D
Hey, this is good news. I hope their service improves after this. :)
wow! i think this is true. i have visited upscale audio in makati several times before but i really didn't like the way they treated me until my visit last friday.
in fact, i can still recall my first visit in that shop (i was only beginning to setup my first system). i went in and asked if they can recommend any speakers within the 15-20k price range. the guy answered me with a very sarcastic smile, "wala." so i pointed at the speakers on display and asked how much is that pair. he looked at me from head to toe and said "60k." i looked closely at the back panel of these 60k speakers. since it was my first time and i knew nothing about HT except BOSE, i told myself that it must be too expensive to build a decent HT setup. so i thanked him (wow! i really did that) and left the shop thinking of buying a boombox instead.
but thanks to the internet i found out that it's possible to get decent speakers at the price point i'm looking at. in fact, i found out that the speakers that i pointed to at upscale audio makati were not 60k speakers-- it was a pair of ae100i which closely resemble the flagship ae1 (i don't think the ae1 cost 60k). how did i know? because i bought the 100i in upscale mega for less than 15k a week after my bad experience in makati. the people in upscale mega were really helpful and treated me well.
since i work in makati, i still visit upscale makati after the bad experience (mostly for accessories) and i don't think they treat me well, at least not as accomodating as other shops i've visited. despite this treatment, i still buy accessories from them (interconnects, speaker cables, etc.) primarily because their location is convenient for me.
but last friday, i was surprised when i came in. i was approached with a smile. my questions about the ae307 and the aegis evo series were properly addressed. and if i remember it correctly, he is THE SAME guy that "handled" me during my first visit! kewl! this forum should have improved their service.
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but last friday, i was surprised when i came in. i was approached with a smile. my questions about the ae307 and the aegis evo series were properly addressed. and if i remember it correctly, he is THE SAME guy that "handled" me during my first visit! kewl! this forum should have improved their service.
This is great news, I guess the internet goes a long way in improving the customer service of the places here. Anyway, what did you ask about the evos? When are they going to have the evos?
Jovi
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but last friday, i was surprised when i came in. i was approached with a smile. my questions about the ae307 and the aegis evo series were properly addressed. and if i remember it correctly, he is THE SAME guy that "handled" me during my first visit! kewl! this forum should have improved their service.
This is great news, I guess the internet goes a long way in improving the customer service of the places here. Anyway, what did you ask about the evos? When are they going to have the evos?
Jovi
he said they'd probably have new arrivals next month but my wife informed me that the guys in upscale mega told her that they do not expect any arrivals within the next month or so.
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Visited Sights and Sounnds in Shang and got bad service. The guy that entertained me was totaly clueless.
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went to upscale alabang yesterday. the guy in the store was a bit helpful but was giving me this stupid look. he had this face, like he felt i was wasting his time. the idiot was busy watching some tv show when i came in. i was honestly about to shell out a few bucks for maybe a speaker and some good interconnects, but the monkey's stare just turned me off.
wonder where the owner of upscale finds these clowns?
i am sticking to the friendlier stores like architectural and hometheater, where you are treated by smarter and better people.
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I've said my piece about Sights & Sounds after-sales service in the past.
Passed by Megamall with gjtech to unwind from a not so pleasant Monday a.m. meeting. I checked out the AMC CD6 w/ tube output stage that Sonny Tuason said was at Ceratec.
Well-dressed Chinese guy was there chatting on the phone. I waited patiently, looking around at those expensive XRCDs, SACDs, etc. Noticing that I've seen almost every single thing in his store and I might inspect whether his socks had holes next, he puts down the phone and I start asking questions like where's the tube output AMC CD player? Does he sell the CAL Aria he has on one of his shelves?
I'm pretty sure he heard me as gjtech who sat farther heard my questions. I repeated each question at least thrice before I get terse and rude responses like "isang taon na wala yun" (referring to the AMC) and "di ko benta yan" (referring to the CAL Aria).
Trying to save the day, I told him that I'm in the market for an analog sounding CD player and asked for his recommendation. Rudely, he pointed to a Rotel RCD961 which he quoted me at PhP30k. The 971 is OK but the 961 sounds too thin for me and he is pushing it to me at the price of almost the Rotel 1070!
One of the reasons I went there was to check out the CDs several Pinoydiophiles have talked well about. I did and except for price, they were OK. I really wanted to offer Pinoydiophiles Marketplace to him as a free venue to reach us Pinoydiophiles. But with what he did to me, forget it! Maybe other Pinoydiophiles would have better luck with that guy.
Store people like that Chinese man at Ceratec this morning aren't helping our little hobby spread to the mainstream.
To end on a possitive note, passed by 5th Avenue and Audio Studio also and was attended to my people who don't know me. They were busy preparing merchandise in the store but found the time to greet and assist me. Hats off to those guys!
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Audition Experiences...
Today was officially the first day that I lost the virginity of my ears as I went around to audition some equipment. One fault of mine was I did not heed everybody's suggestion of bringing my own DVD. But here are some of my feedback, more of experiences with the stores, less of my experiences with the equipment. =)
First Shop that I went to: (forgot the name, the person who assisted my also forgot to write down the name of the store, he only had his number and name [Rey de Vera]...)
Mordaunt Short (Fronts, center, sorround and subs), Yamaha 620's. Watched Eagles' Hell Freezes Over and Kiss of the Dragon. Noticed that the right sorround had nothing coming out, mentioned this to the guy and he just said "meron yan..." turns out his connections were wrong. Also turns out that some of the models that he wrote down weren't the ones that were being used...ang labo ng tindahan na toh! Somehow, I felt that the guy was doing me a huge favor for letting me audtion--what gives?
Sound Dimension
This Eugene guy was okay, perfunctorily helpful. But as I noticed that he was consulting someone else whom I was assuming was the owner, I decided to strike up a conversation with the owner. Lo and behold: one of those I'm-opening-my-mouth-and-doing-you-a-huge-favor type of thing. I mean, gosh, here I am walking around literally wanting to park my near 100K hard-earned money and I have these people who are treating me like I'm buying tinapa! What gives?!
Sights & Sounds
Was assisted by this Freddie guy. I mentioned that I was interested in their Yammies and wanted to audition them. He went throught the "heavy" motions of moving my preferred equipment back and forth. You could see that these people AREN'T making enough commissions. In fact, while I was already speaking to him and specifying the equipment that I wanted to audition, one of the sales ladies was still sitting pretty in the couch busy READING a magazine, not even bothering to look up at us! Grabe talaga ang Park Square gang...a little customer empathy naman, a little common courtesy. I mean, I get more polite treatment from the parking attendants for crying out loud!!!!
Upscale Audio
Had a certain Nani to contend with. Service was not any significant improvement from the cr*ppy treatment that I received from the friggin' stores above. Auditioned their Denon 1802 with their PSB's, Velodyne CHT10, his total quote to me was P104k++
Architectural Audio
Buti na lang, I chose to end my day at Nico's New World Nook. It was a delight and a pleasant experience to finally speak with someone who treats customers properly, he was intelligent, helpful, attentive and warm. Auditioned his Denon 1802's with JBL Xti 20, Xti Center ---->pretty good. Also tried his Infinity Alpha 20 ---> not as good as his JBL's. Gosh, I really wished this shop had a wider range of products to offer, I would gladly pay a premium just to get the service and respect that he gives to clients. Iba talaga pag may ari ang kausap mo. Nico also suggested that I NOT get floorstanders, its gonna be "too boomy" daw for my small room. You guys agree or disagree? He also suggested that I get real expensive cables, as in 300++/meter, ganyan ba talaga kamahal ang cable?!
Hyperaudio
Was really suprised by the shop, was NOTHING I expected an HT shop to be, no offense meant Rene, at least managed expectations for the potential visitors. Rene is nice and accomodating, kaya lang may taong grasa na medyo may topak nasa labas, kakatakot tuloy lumabas ng kotse. Anyway, thanks Rene.
Image (Harrizon Plaza)
Spoke with Alex. Very accomodating. Best prices in the country ;D da best!
Home Theatre
Sonny Tuazon. His authority on HT and his articulation of his knowledge not only borders on arrogance, his is very comfortably esconced in his realm of HT deity. He should be more patient with newbies even if we insist on "stupid" combinations, rather than insist on customers taking his word as gospel truth, he should encourage them to listen for themselves and make their own conclusions!
I wanted to hear the B&W 601's but he only had a RX-V430 hooked up. When I insisted on listening to the 601's he goes, "taga PinoyDVD ka noh? Ang titigas ng ulo ng mga tao diyan eh, kung tutuosin, mga begginers lang naman yan eh..." >:( When I requested that we use higher powered AMPs, he goes, mahirap ang mga wiring eh...grrrrrrrrrrr! What a total jerk!
Finally, he didn't want to give me ANY written qutoations ..nothing...all he said was "sige lang, canvass ka lang ng canvass tapos, AKO ang ihuli mo, ako nang bahala!"
(two days later)
"Mr. Tuazon, magkano last price mo ng 601 s3?" says Jermi. "Ah...hanggang P14,XXX lang eh..." says Mr. Tuazon almost hesitatingly.
"Sir, mukang talo kayo ah..." I said.
"Eh, hirap kasi ng ibang tindahan, P100 lang kinikita...Chinese kasi"...
If you can't compete, you can at least avoid making racist remarks, Mr. Tuazon. >:(
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I refer to Upscale Audio Makati in Park Square: Kung sinabon sila ng may-ari dahil nabasa ang thread na ito, makatwiran lang 'yon para sa marami sa atin. Read: karma. Kasi, panis sila. And after a few weeks of "smiling" to their customers, panis na naman sila. Hindi naman ganoon sa ibang branches ng Upscale.
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Hi guys
I went to Electro Depot yesterday while i'm doing my usual branch visitation at work. I had a nice accommodation from this certain Alex Torres even if i am just looking around and not buying. he is quite knowledgable on what they are selling and even toured me around.
Kudos to E-Depot!
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I auditioned at Upscale Audio Megamall yesterday and met Jun. He was very accomodating in taking out his Jacintha and Diana Krall CDs for us to listen to Martin Logan audio speakers. I just wanted to hear what a P270k/pair speaker would sound like. The thing that really amazed me is the electrostatic technology that these speakers are made of. It emits the mids and the highs from this metal grill without any drivers!
Upscale was accomodating even if I went there wearing just jeans and a shirt. ;D
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I just came from Ceratec at the 5th floor of Megamall, and as it says above, I had just had a horrible experience. I went in his shop, and there was one guy sitting on the couch listening to some cd's with the guy who looked at the owner just standing around. Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but the guy I'm referring to is named Paul Ibanez.
As it was my first visit, I was surprised to see that his shop did not have much, so I just proceeded to browse through his CD's. After a couple of minutes, I already found it strange that he was acting as if I wasn't there at all. So I went to the other side of his shop and looked at the display of speakers and home theater chairs. I turned around just to catch him looking at me suspiciously then shifted his gaze, as if he didn't want me to see that he was observing my movements. I went back to look at his cd's, and by this time I had already spent more than ten minutes in his shop.
Not wanting to go there empty handed I decided to ask him what I came there for. Our conversation went something like this:
Me: Excuse me, do you happen to sell LP's?
Paul: No
Me: Oh, I see that you have the Panasonic projector there, how much would that be?
Paul: 98,000 with the screen.
Me: How good is it? What's the ANSI Lumen rating on that one?
Paul: Why do you have to ask that? That's a home cinema projector we're talking about you look at the resolution not the Lumen rating.
- At this point I could see what kind of a person this guy was, but didn't mind it anyway.
Me: Ok, so whats the resolution on that thing?
Paul: It has a high resolution
Me: Alright, would you mind if I looked at it?
At this point he raised his voice and told me: Can't you see I'm talking to a customer?!;
So I told him, yes I know he's talking to a customer, I didn't say I had to look at it at that exact moment anyway. Because I was so irritated, I just told him to forget it, he was so rude from the moment I walked in anyway.
Then he shouted and told me that I was the one who was rude, since I should have known he was talking to a customer. Flustered, I told him that the least he could do was tell me that he would get back to me in a while, which I would have perfectly understood. Besides, I did not expect him to entertain me at that exact moment. I had to ask him because I had been in his shop for a good 15 minutes already and wanted to know if I would be able to actually demo something since he didn't even say a word to me that whole time.
As much as I wanted to strangle him already, I thought that it wasn't worth it, so I just left his shop. But guess what? He wasn't done yet. He opened his door, shouted at me while I was walking away to get out of his sight, called me a punk and even shouted an expletive.
At this point I couldn't take it anymore so I went back and asked him that if he wanted trouble, he was gonna get it. The customer who had been listening was visibly disgusted so just left. And at this point Paul had started swearing more and more. I really wanted to deck him right there and then, but fortunately for him I was still able to contain myself.
So right there in his shop, we were having a shouting match, and I couldn't believe this guy. I don't know how many four letter words he used against me, and believe me, it was enough for anyone to just blow his top. I knew that I wouldn't be able to contain myself any longer so I just walked out again and told him that he hasn't heard that last from me. This didn't appear to affect him since he once again opened his door and started swearing at me across the Megamall walkway.
By far this is the worst case of bad customer service that I have seen in my whole life, in the whole world. I could not believe how arrogant this guy was. So anyway, the whole point of this post is to warn you guys from even thinking of passing by his shop. I am appalled, shocked, disgusted, and sickened, and revolted all at the same time. The audiophile circle is already quite small, and I believe that in this hobby, people are generally well educated beings. It's sad how a creature like this should even exist among us. I do know that I am not alone in having this experience with this guy, and I do hope that something will be done about it.
He should remember that how you say something is as important as what you are saying.
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Hamann,
Racio told me what happened. Its so sad to hear what you experienced. I had a bad experience also but nothing close to what happened to you. I know that several members got turned off with his attitude also. I find him so arrogant and rude. He acts as if he is the best and he was even implying that he is doing us a favor when we buy from him. When I told him that I was able to purchased several cd's from his store, his tone changed. It was his saleslady who was always there whenever I buy. Anyway, just dont mind him, its his loss not yours.
Levi
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Hamann,
how rude and unprofessional.
there is no excuse for his behavior!
i would definitely boycott Ceratec and would also advise others to do so. >:(
bently
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At this point he raised his voice and told me: Can't you see I'm talking to a customer?!;
You should have pointed out to him, "Hey, I'm a customer too," regardless of whether you buy something from him right there and then, or not. No one deserves that kind of treatment, especially from the store owner himself.
GAOL
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i also agree to avoid that shop. so far my experience with ceratec is not so good. the owner or whoever he is, is really not helpful and he will look at you suspiciously as if you will steal something.
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Hey Hamann,
I don't know if you remember me but I bought my AVIA disc from you.
Anyway, you will get your revenge when you see his shop close down from lack of customers. Idiots like this guy will not last in business. >:(
Hope you do not run him over with your BMW when you see him crossing the street. ;D
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I'm with you guys. We don't have to receive any of that guy's Ceratec's dirt. Let's ignore his shop.
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i had a similar experience pero di sing-grabe kay hamann...i was inquiring about the chesky CDs on display...i was actually looking for rebecca pidgeon and christy baron around 3 months ago...the saleslady didn't even know the price of each CD and had to consult her boss (the one always sitting down on the couch without even entertaining customers coming in)...when i asked the guy about the price...his answer was...MEDYO MAHAL YAN COMPARED TO ORDINARY CDs...medyo nanliit ang tingin ko kasi parang sinabi niyang di ko kay bilhin...tumingin na lang ako ng masama...pero parang nag-bak-off siya and offered if i wanted to hear his athena speakers...
very rude and arrogant people should not be patronized...i'm sure justice will be served!
:-X
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banzai: hey! well actually if I do see him outside I'd be so tempted to run him over. I really do hope you guys won't have to endure what I went through. You can really grow a lot of gray hairs with people like that.
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I think you can complain to the SM Megamall management. If I were treated that way, I would have gone to the SM admin office immediately and file a complaint, and threaten to call my lawyer even. That guy should be kicked out of the mall. :(
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banzai: hey! well actually if I do see him outside I'd be so tempted to run him over. I really do hope you guys won't have to endure what I went through. You can really grow a lot of gray hairs with people like that.
Hey Ryan,
At least you got it out of your system bud. Although nothing like what you experienced has ever happened to me, I've also had my own run-ins w/ some audio gear dealers. Everyone should be extra careful in dealing w/ not only local dealers but also w/ online purveyors as well. If you may, let me account me short tale:
I once "met" a dealer thru an audio based forum much like what we have here. A rather swell guy, answered all my email queries w/ credence. We corresponded for about a month during w/c he offered me his firm's services to supply the item I required, I therefore gave him my business and even opted to have the item FedExed (w/c of course cost extra). Then I duly sent its payment thru a bank-to-bank fund transfer that took 6 working days to reflect on his company's account.
Prior to this juncture, everything was smooth savvy sailing, until I read the bottom part of his confirmation receipt of my payment that says: "We're sorry but we just recently ran out of stock of the said item." Yep, a whole month of email exchanges but only now did they choose to inform me about this. Then it went like: "Please give us two more weeks to replenish our inventory" or something in that line, and offered some freebies to calm the "imminent storm" if you will. Despite the prospect that they may just be pulling me torso down the drain, I said wha'da hell, I'll give it two more weeks then.
Waiting... waiting... waiting... and on the fortnight, I eagerly asked for an update, and guess what: still nil! I realized that I have me principles still in place after all, enough's enough, I immediately cancelled my order and asked for a refund. Well what do you know, they suddenly received their shipment and it was ready to be sent! But nah, I politely declined and insisted on my reimbursement. I gave my account's details and got the assurance that they'll get to it the soonest. A week had past, I checked my bank, the bank manager said "nada refund sir". The audio dealer persisted that they've transferred the funds... well ok. 2 weeks gone, still the same. At this point, I asked that perhaps some thing on their part was amiss since no credit from their bank was being reflected on my account. Guess what again? They sent it to the wrong party and gave a long winded apology! Quite charming isn't it? Well, a week later, my bank rang me up and confirmed the refund... albeit w/ about $60 missing. >:(
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Hey, Hamann, I agree with you, that kind of treatment, in fact, that kind of behavior is unacceptable in anyone, businessman or not.
-But I can't just plain condemn the guy. Please listen to my story:
The first time I went inside the Ceratec shop was 4-5 months ago. I just happened to notice his CDs, is all; the shop was empty at the time, except for that same person whose behavior you were telling us about. I greeted him-he just nodded-I asked permission to look at his stuff, and he gave it. I quickly found something interesting-the Jazz At The Pawnshop XRCD, not exactly thick on the ground locally. I turned to him-and his face was all lit up, smiling, I'd like to believe it wasn't at the prospect of a sale but because I'd picked that particular CD. He asked: "Would you care to listen to it first?" He motioned to a setup consisting of British Art Audio tube amplifiers, a pair of German Ceratec loudspeakers, and a Rotel DVD-Audio player-it was my turn to smile, of course I said yes!
I ended up spending three hours-THREE hours-during which we argued back and forth about the merits of this speaker brand and that, tube vs. SS, Miles Davis vs. everybody else, incidentally we also discovered our mutual admiration for Ozzy Osbourne, etc. Needless to say, that was NOT the last time I bought from Ceratec, nor the last time we talked that long-I now have my own pair of Ceratec speakers, which the owner delivered HIMSELF. We ate pizza together at my house.
That first time I showed up at his shop, I was wearing my usual malling attire: T-shirt, denim shorts, and slippers. Not D&G or Emporio-a desperately jologs Bob Marley tee from Top 40, battered fake Levi's, and 80 peso sandals from World Balance. I wasn't even wearing a watch nor waving around no cellphone-and I'm the LAST person you'd suspect of having Chinese or mestizo ancestry. At some other dealers I've visited, the sales staff practically shoved me out of the premises. The guards manning the SM entrances take one look at me-and sneer.
The guy at Ceratec-a person of obviously mestizo lineage at least twice my age-NEVER did.
But that does not constitute my defense of him-nope, as someone acutely aware of the real conditions prevailing in our so-called "economy" these days, well, I can't help sympathizing with the little guy. And little guy he is-if MY employers, ranked one of the 15 strongest organizations around, people whose products you see around you every day, are having THIS much trouble making or even trying to BORROW money (and I should know 'coz that's MY job-believe me, if you think that Ceratec dude's nasty, get a load of my boss)...imagine how it is for someone trying to sell essentially just his dreams, the things he LOVES. Heck, he only matters to us because we happen to share...
As adults, we are expected not only to fight for our rights but to respect the rights of others-even during our weaker moments, MORESO during our weaker moments. I am going to talk to him about THIS.
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Thanks for the input. Its understood that everyone has both their good and bad sides. I don't doubt your story, but I cannot forgive him for what he did to me. It doesn't matter what his good side is, in no way can it justify his bad behaviour to me and to other people who have had bad experiences in his shop.
If you do actually get to talk to him, do everybody a favor and let him know that I am not the only one who has gone through what is probably the worst case of customer service ever.
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hey notaku, baka he has the hots for you
just kidding ;D
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Yeah, notaku, tell Ceratec to read this thread.
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hey notaks, baka he has the hots for you
just kidding ;D
Hahahahah.. lagot ka Mibs..hehehe ;)
Seriously, Notaku, tell him to read this thread. He may have treated you right, but it seems that you are the exception.
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its alright meow, i discussed it with notaku last night and even he can't explain the niceness that the ceratec guy showed him. ;) i've seen the guy myself and although i never experienced the treatment that hamann got, i'm pretty sure he's capable of it
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Hamann,
I would have to agree 100% with Meowpao. I see that your a man of respectable means. This is my suggestion and if you follow it, I think this Ibanez dude would regret doing what he did to you:
1. You have to understand that SM sets very strict standards of behavior for their tenants, they have rules and regulations for everything from dress codes to promptness of opening of stores etc
2. Have a lawyer friend of yours type up a brief account of what happened to you. I sincerely think that what happened to you borders on harrasment, slander and oral defamation.
3. We ALL know that you will not seriously pursue a legal case (or will you), but make the letter sound very firm and strong.
4. The letter will be addressed to SM, cc Ceratec (Attn: Paul Ibanez), the letter would basically be a formal inquiry whether SM knows about how Ibanez treats their customers, your atty. might say something like, "My client has gathered some preliminary testimonial evidence of similar treatment from other customers..." What the letter will "officially" be asking is, if SM knows and if SM has done something about it to protect *their* mall customers.
The letter doesn't necessarily have to be from a law office, that would cost you money. It can be in any letterhead, but signed by your atty. friend, its completely but is designed to do a certain degree of "discomfor" for the aggressor.
If you follow the step I've outlined above, I GUARANTEE you, that guy will be in for some trouble. Yari siya, Hamann. I really hate customers getting such shabby treatment from shops...I really hate it!
Hamann, am really serious about this...pls keep me on the loop PM me for updates on your "case"...
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Ok I'll seriously consider it. My dad actually asked me if I wanted to do anything, and with him being a lawyer, I'm sure what he meant was to take legal action.
I guess this is the most civilized way I could get back at this most uncouth individual.
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Hey, Hamann, I just got back from Ceratec-the guy says he did, to put it gently, overreact, but says he did notice your BMW-Williams F1 jacket-unfortunately because he's a tifosi and so detests Juan Pablo Montoya. Of course he has his own story and here it is-in your own words:
I just came from Ceratec at the 5th floor of Megamall, and as it says above, I had just had a horrible experience. I went in his shop, and there was one guy sitting on the couch listening to some cd's with the guy who looked at the owner just standing around.
Well, you're right, you did arrive in the middle of an equipment audition-that's pretty much the ritual you can expect to see: Loud music playing with the customer and the dealer paying complete attention.
As it was my first visit, I was surprised to see that his shop did not have much, so I just proceeded to browse through his CD's. After a couple of minutes, I already found it strange that he was acting as if I wasn't there at all. So I went to the other side of his shop and looked at the display of speakers and home theater chairs. I turned around just to catch him looking at me suspiciously then shifted his gaze, as if he didn't want me to see that he was observing my movements. I went back to look at his cd's, and by this time I had already spent more than ten minutes in his shop.
This reminds me of a Kurosawa movie, Rashomon: Diff. people witnessing the same thing happening, and of course offering up diff. interpretations of what they've seen. It always helps to have the facts:
Ceratec is a small, rectangular-shaped shop with the CD display on the side nearest the entrance, a couch in the middle, and a set of home theater chairs on the other side; the main display pair of speakers are also in the middle, facing the couch from the opposite wall with obviously not much space between them. A person crossing this cramped space to get to the other side will actually have to avoid tripping on the feet of anybody sitting on the couch-and if he happens to cross that space in the middle of a full-blown audition, he will probably get an irritated if not "suspicious" look from both the dealer and the customer. Is this what happened?-I sincerely doubt that a person toting a Nokia 7650 could ever fall under a different kind of suspicion.
-At this point your stories briefly go on separate trajectories before rejoining:
Not wanting to go there empty handed I decided to ask him what I came there for.
From your recollection of things, this is when the fireworks begin; what's so bewildering is that despite the above observations absolutely nothing you've mentioned before this point is any sane cause to provoke the explosive reaction you received-if that's the whole story then you really were face-to-face with a total fruitcake! :P
-I'm inclined to give the benefit of the doubt where a person's sanity is concerned so the question needs answering: Is there something you forgot to mention?
He should remember that how you say something is as important as what you are saying.
???
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No, i mentioned everything you guys needed to know. If you read my story again, he didn't raise his voice until the time that I asked him that I wanted to see the projector. No offense, but if you doubt my story and favor this guy, I honestly don't really care. What matters to me is that I told everybody my story, and in the first place I know I'm not the very first person to encounter this kind of experience with this guy. I'd understand if you would doubt my story IF he had a good reputation or if no one ever had a bad experience with him for no reason at all.
What you mentioned is what I'm wondering about too. I know very well that I didn't do anything that would provoke him at the slightest, and thats what took me by surprise.
Oh and yes, I know that his shop is quite small, but what was I supposed to do just stand there at the small corner and wait for him to finish? I was already standing there for a couple of minutes that's why I decided to look at his CD's instead. As I passed in between the speaker and the customer I excused myself and I'm quite sure that was sufficient-certainly more courteous than your friend who never even greeted me that whole time I was there.
And you know what? Even if I did provoke him, what kind of a person and shop owner is he to act the way he did?
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He should remember that how you say something is as important as what you are saying.
???
- When he was first answering my questions about LP's and the projector the tone of his voice was certainly very unwelcoming. That's why I quoted that because even though he wasn't saying anything offensive YET, the manner in which he said it was already irritating.
Need any more explaining?
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Hey, Hamann: Actually, I was quoting you not 'coz I "need any more explaining"-it was for your benefit, maybe your own words might help jog your memory. -Nevertheless, you've proved how painstaking you are with every detail of your recollection, so I assume that whatever else that went on was insignificant from your point of view.
The audiophile circle is already quite small, and I believe that in this hobby, people are generally well educated beings.
-Your words again; you've tried hard to give the impression that you mean what you say-so I'm going to hold you to your standards.
Oh and yes, I know that his shop is quite small, but what was I supposed to do just stand there at the small corner and wait for him to finish?
No. You should have gone straight up to him and stated your business as soon as you entered his store. If you were so insistent on getting his attention why didn't you do this simple step yourself in the first place? The owner is a 60 year-old man-he's a senior citizen, for God's sake!-and you expect him to be the first to show courtesy, especially when he's obviously busy?-How old are you anyway? In all your posts, 'mann, you never even considered this. Never.
No, i mentioned everything you guys needed to know.
No offense, 'mann, but didn't we "need to know" that you were using a cellphone while an audition was going on inside the store? Shouldn't you have mentioned this detail-especially while you're asking us to join you in condemning the owner? You were entertaining a call but shouldn't you-an audiophile-have known well enough to do it outside? Didn't you notice them-I mean the owner and the other customer-turning down the music to accomodate you? They did notice that you were a bit "agitated" by the call-you were talking too loud.
- At this point I could see what kind of a person this guy was,
Unfortunately, 'mann, that was exactly the same thing the owner was thinking. He told me so. That's why he sounded so "irritated" while you were talking to him.
-Still, that's no sane reason for why he "overreacted" like he did...but does that mean there's none?
And you know what? Even if I did provoke him, what kind of a person and shop owner is he to act the way he did?
Sorry, 'mann, I'm not trying to turn the tables against you and if you really feel offended, no one has the right to convince you to think otherwise.
-But some details need telling. Some details. He's a lousy shop owner, that's his temper's fault-but not his ego's.
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Sure. You want some more details?
No I don't think going up straight to him was the right thing to do. He was, at that moment, talking to his customer so I decided to give him a few minutes to be able to turn his attention to me, or maybe just himself and tell me that he'll get back to me in a few minutes as ANY CIVILIZED SHOP OWNER WOULD.
I would NOT just go in asking questions right away and acting as if he wasn't talking to anybody. That would not be the right thing to do and I wouldn't be surprised if he acted the way he did if I did that.
I never considered this because it simply shouldn't be done out of etiquette.
Is this the kind of behaviour that you believe in?
Talking on my cellphone? I for in fact put it to vibra mode when before I entered his shop as I habitually do whenever someone is making an audition in an audio shop. What he probably doesn't know, and what I don't really need to explain, is that I just told the person who had called me that I would just call him back since I couldn't talk. Well I didn't know that a few seconds it took me to say that ruined his customer's audition. Besides, I'm quite sure they didn't even make out what I said because I even lowered my voice.
I guess that the best he could do. Blow up his side of the story and try to justify it by magnifying some details, which in the first place, doesn't justify anything.
And by sticking to your story, let's say that's what got him to go ballistic, well if it's just because of that, then there's something wrong with him. He's unfit to be managing his business.
So what if he's 60, or 70, or 80 years old? Courtesy is something learned, something that we carry on within ourselves. It doesn't matter what his age is or where he comes from. Basic courtesy and proper conduct is something that is expected at the least from a shop owner, or anyone.
How old am I? Well its quite obvious you're close to this guy, and he probably gave you an idea anyway. But in any case, all I can say is that I had better etiquette when I was six than that sixty year old.
His age DOES NOT allow him, in any way, to act like that or even use it as an excuse. If he can't properly address his customers then he shouldn't be in that business in the first place.
Sure you can tell me that you're asking me to explain myself for my own good, when it's quite obvious that you have been defending your friend from the very start, and trying to mask it with questions that sound unbiased won't work.
While we're on this topic, why don't YOU tell him to explain himself for EVERY SINGLE CUSTOMER that has had a bad experience with him. Let's see what kind of stories and excuses he's going to come up with.
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Guys,
I guess, we already have shared our thoughts. Please continue your discussion in private and let us continue with our topic. Thank you
Levi
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Right. It shouldn't have started in the first place anyway.
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No. You should have gone straight up to him and stated your business as soon as you entered his store.
Do you really think customers should make it a point to go straight to shop owners to state his/her business there?
Ceratec is in a mall where I'd wager that a good proportion of the shopping done is window shopping.
When I go to a store, I tend to try to take a good look around to see what they have that may interest me. Shopping around is part of the fun of shopping.
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From your recollection of things, this is when the fireworks begin; what's so bewildering is that despite the above observations absolutely nothing you've mentioned before this point is any sane cause to provoke the explosive reaction you received
My take away from your post is that the Ceratec guy was provoked which in turn elicited his "overreaction." Fair enough.
It'd be interesting for me to know what I did to "provoke" him when he gave me a please-don't-waste-my-time treatment when I went there with an officemate looking for an "analog sounding digital source" to which he responded coldly with "eh digital yan eh paanong magiging analog?"
I kept my patience by telling him about my shortlist of digital sources most of which included tube output stages/buffers (Heart, Audio Note, Ah!, etc.). One of the models I had in mind Ceratec used to display, an AMC tube output CD player. When I asked him about the AMC, he gave me a harsh "lampas isang taon na nabenta yun."
Still keeping my patience and hopeful that something productive will come out of this fast-coming-down-the-drain encounter, I asked him if the AMC can be ordered. He gave me a flat no. (A few weeks later, I saw the AMC distributor at Rene's who mentioned that he had lots of AMC still in stock. In fairness, it wasn't clear if he had the AMC tube output CDP.)
At that point, I noticed his California Audio Labs CD player so I asked if it was being sold as it was on display. Again, I got a cold no.
I wasn't asking Ceratec to order me a CD player they don't want to bother with. I'm also not asking them to sell me their demo unit. As a customer during these hard times, least I expect was courteous treatment.
I value the relationships I've built with dealers and I constantly seek to build the relationship further. You guys can go ask:
1--Upscale and Audio Visual Driver* if I unreasonably raised my voice at them when an integrated amp and HT receiver, respectively, I bought from them kept going back to their repair shop.
*Well, I did get mad at a lady in AVDI's repair center because she lied to me. She told me for a month that they've ordered the spare parts and when they reached their deadline, it turns out they never ordered the part. A friendly call to Wilfred and Stefan quickly fixed things--ask them how I talked to them under the patience-testing circumstances.
2--Melvyn Chua of DCM how I "confronted" him about the 6DJ8 Yugos I found in my brand new Musical Fidelity X-Cans v2 when all the reviews say it had JAN-Philips 6922. We just had a laugh since he didn't know and he offered Antony Michaelson's email so I can personally ask Musical Fidelity. (Turns out latter models shipped with Yugos).
Point is, I try hard to treat dealers nicely and I did give Ceratec the same treatment to the best of my abilities. Yet whoever it was at Ceratec at that time simply refused to give any effort at starting a mutually beneficial relationship.
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I too have had a bad experience with this person.
In my case there was nobody else around, and he was at his desk writing something. I was with my nephew, and when he say him he told me "hindi pwede mga kagaya nyan dito."
What did he think of my nephew? Some destructive brat? He didn't even give me the benefit of the doubt since I did tell him not to touch anything and just to sit down.
Since I was looking for a Susan Wong CD badly, I asked him anyway, and he told me "Sandali can't you see I'm doing something?"
Well *$&# you if my nephew wasn't there I surely would have done something to you. Now that I realize he's like that to everybody I wanna go back there and do something about it.
From reading the posts, I find no fault in Hamann with what happened to him. Even if he did use his cellphone, in no way did that give him the right to act like the brute that he is.
Notaku, wake up. A lot of people are visibly pissed at this guy and he had no right as a businessman and shop owner to do what he did. As was mentioned, you were obviously biased from the very start.
If you're not convinced yet take a look at the pinoydiophiles message board.
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My two cents:
In fairness to Notaku, I don't think he's being particularly biased towards this Ceratec guy. It's understandable that he's surprised by this incident (and others) considering his totally opposite experience compared to everyone else.
It appears that he's tried his best to get to the bottom of this while being impartial and objective. Not easy, considering that he knows the Ceratec guy but not any of us. Try to put yourselves in Notaku's shoes.
In the end though, he does admit that the Ceratec guy is a lousy shop owner. And I guess that's a conclusion we can all agree on?
By the way, I don't know Notaku, I've never been to Ceratec, and I don't have any personal interest in this matter. I'm just trying to bring a bit of objectivity to this whole issue.
For the record, I feel that there is absolutely no excuse for any salesperson to disrespect any customer. Period. I've elaborated my views already on this in another forum so I don't want to start again here.
Personally, I have no problems supporting rtsy, Hamann, SVS and other victims by boycotting Ceratec. I would encourage others to do the same.
Notaku, since you know him, I'd encourage you to have a long chat with the Ceratec guy and inform him that his attitude will lose him alot of business. He should know that word gets around and his type of behavior will not be tolerated. If he is unable to change then he is not cut out to be a salesperson. In which case, his business would be better off if he would hire a professional salesperson and not some girl/lady who knows nothing about hifi. Spending a lot of money on a proper salesperson would still be cheaper than having no customers at all.
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Notaku, wake up. A lot of people are visibly pissed at this guy and he had no right as a businessman and shop owner to do what he did. As was mentioned, you were obviously biased from the very start.
(You see?-Sorry, H, 1 last time...)
Obviously!
-'Coz, as 'pao's mentioned, my experience was absolutely different from every other poster's here!
Have you people seen the Jodie Foster movie "Contact"?
I feel like someone who's witnessed a miracle: Something good happened to me-yet I have to defend that against everybody else who're whining that the opposite happened to them!
Hey, I'm the one who's managed to get good treatment-yet I'm the one who's supposed to "wake up"?
-I can still go there, just sit on their couch and completely waste their time for hours-yet they don't mind a bit...
-should I be doing anything different? Am I doing something wrong?
Hey!
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Aside from the people who have posted here, it's well known to the people who also own other stores (whose names I dont need to mention) that this guy is really hard to deal with. I was so surprised at the way this guy handled my visit there, and was also so disgusted. Just for looking for some CD what I wanted, I almost got into a fight.
Paul's (if thats what his name is) shop should really be avoided at all costs. Good for you if you got good treatment but the issue here is not only one, but a lot of people who are disgusted by his behaviour and service.
You are not really supposed to defend yourself because of the good experience that you had, but don't try to defend the guy when he obviously did something wrong to our fellow audiophiles already. Whether you meant it or not, you brought forth an impression that Hamann actually did something wrong such as not going up to him the moment he went in his store (which is even worse), or talking on the cell (so what?).
I have just been lurking in this site for sometime but I decided to register so I could post since I was so taken aback at your reaction. So what if let's say I was talking on the phone. That is no reason for any store owner to shout and act like a madman. There was no need from the very start to point that our in defense of your friend.
He should learn from store owners who know how to treat their customers such as the people of AVDI, who display exemplary service, even the smaller stores such as Sonny Tuason's and Rene Rivo's.
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Hey, I'm the one who's managed to get good treatment-yet I'm the one who's supposed to "wake up"?
Yes, I agree that the "wake-up" call should be addressed to Mr. Ibanez himself. However, I believe what SVS simply means is that you should accept the fact that Mr. Ibanez has a rather high propensity to become offensive and hostile to some if not most of his prospective customers w/ little or no provocation at all. An adverse peculiarity that has no place in his line of business whatsoever. Despite your favorable experience w/ him, w/c seems to be one of the few that eluded his rudeness, it still does not alter the incident at hand.
-I can still go there, just sit on their couch and completely waste their time for hours-yet they don't mind a bit...
Consider yourself to be extremely fortunate then, because most won't have that "pleasure".
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My two cents:
In fairness to Notaku, I don't think he's being particularly biased towards this Ceratec guy. It's understandable that he's surprised by this incident (and others) considering his totally opposite experience compared to everyone else.
It appears that he's tried his best to get to the bottom of this while being impartial and objective. Not easy, considering that he knows the Ceratec guy but not any of us. Try to put yourselves in Notaku's shoes.
I agree with Aylwin.Nataku, it might be in this guys' interest to read this thread and see what people are saying about him so that he could also tell his part of the story.No one can say for sure about anything unless all sides are heard and there are witnesses to back that up.So unless there is a conspiracy going on against this guy, it would be prudent for him to take these remarks seriously.
I personally have some bad experiences going into audio video shops and even if their prices are lower, I tend to buy from another just based on how I was treated.I'm not willing to part with my hard earned money just because a store is cheap, there should be also mutual respect.I have seen store clerks have that "what do you know" or "you can't afford that" look.I walk out right that instant.I think I already mentioned some stores in my past posts.
You know guys because of this thread I also went to look at Ceratec but did not go in.It is a small store that I haven't really noticed before.We should give the person the benefit of the doubt but if it is proven, then I would support boycotting this store.
Hey Hamann, I think you should report the incident to Mega management for them to at least investigate and see if there are other similar complaints.This should get the ball rolling.
Elf 8)
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Fellow Members,
Im sorry to cut you guys but I have to give my 2nd warning that we should stick to the topic. We are free to give our thoughts about any store but please refrain from being personal here. Once you have shared your experiences, then let the people decide on their own.
Thanks
Levi
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Im sorry to cut you guys but I have to give my 2nd warning that we should stick to the topic. We are free to give our thoughts about any store but please refrain from being personal here.
Levi
Dear Moderator,
I'd appreciate being pointed to which specific point in the exchanges you consider personal.
Certainly, there are objective and valid points IMHO (and do let me know if I'm wrong) such as let S.M. management know about these complaints about the store, specific examples of how customers have been slighted by the Ceratec shopkeeper, etc.
In an effort to stay witin the guidelines of this board, it might help to cite specific line in various posts where you think personal lines have been crossed.
Thanks!
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just because someone got "good" treatment from ceratec doesn't make what that Paul Ibanez guy did to hamann right.
do not try to justify his outrageous behavior with a completely separate and different experience in the past. you are not being very rational or objective here.
and so what if he is 60 years old? does that give him the right to yell at his customers for ridiculous reasons like using a cellphone in the store? c'mon.
if he is 60 years old and has a bad temper or does not have the patience to deal with customers, audiophiles at that (who by nature take time in choosing/selecting what they purchase), then he is in the wrong business. he should be in divisoria instead.
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I have to completely agree with clearaudio. Further, do not try to *justify* what Ibanez did by attacking the aggrieved party, that is basically what you are doing by telling him that he *should've* gone straight to the old man, that he should NOT have used his phone etc...
What you are basically doing is justifying Ceratec's irrational behavior and making it seem that it was caused by some justifiable irritant.
When you look at historical data, lotsa people have been equally aggrieved by him. Your isolated case of aberrant good behavior definitely seems like an exception to the norm.
notaku you're asking if you have done soemthing wrong. I believe you have. You have taken Hamann's experience and added insult to his injury. You have taken isolated elements of the case and magnified them inappropriately. When you just step back and look at case from a macro perspective, you'd realize that harm has been done and there is no way for it to be justified. Hamann was the customer, you can not put them in the same point of reference. Customers go to shops to avail of products and services, there is a universal acceptance of the fact that they should be treated with respect, not screamed at.
P.S. Moderator, I humbly submit that we are still on topic, we are just having a very detailed discussion about ONE particular Audio Store... :)
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Hey, c'mon guys, how about we start talking about nice experiences? Surely, there must be some good shops out there.
I mean it's been made clear enough already (at least to me) that we should stay away from Ceratec. If that's the case then where should we go instead?
This is a question for everybody. Fire away!
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Jermi: That's exactly how I feel. In this case I already was the victim, and yet I still have to explain myself.
Anyway, going back to the topic, I agree with SVS. Sonny Tuason is probably one of the best guys out there, just be sure to call first since nowadays he's doing a lot of deliveries and installations :)
The people of AVDI, from the owner down to their staff has always been very accomodating and are very well versed with the products that they carry. Rene Rivo is also another person whom I'd go to from time to time. Aside from that, the guys from Architectural Audio (I forgot their names) have been very pleasant to deal with. Oliver and JR of the Listening Group are good friends of mine also, although I don't really buy audio items from them, but F1 and auto memorabilia. ;D
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Hey, c'mon guys, how about we start talking about nice experiences? Surely, there must be some good shops out there.
I second the motion on Hamann's good words about Rene Rivo, Listening Group, and AVDI. Mind you, the latter two have given me a dose of terrible experiences but I think they deserve the accolade because after I told them about the negative experiences (objectively and amicably, of course) I had at their store and after-sales service, respectively, they cleaned up their act.
No company is perfect. Mistakes will always happen. What differentiates a good from a bad company I think is whether they learn from mistakes or not.
In JR's case, one of his people (a brother I think) sent me email apologizing for the incident. I heard later on that their staff at Shang received stern words from JR following this incident. The incident never recurred in my following auditions there.
In AVDI's case, Wilfred and Stefan spent quite a while calling/texting me their apologies and personally seeing to it my gear got fixed and more--significantly earlier than the timeframe they commited.
To the list of good stores I'd like to add Melvyn Chua's DCM. It's hell going to that store due to Cubao traffic and it's worse trying to park but the moment you hear Melvyn's sonorous Tagalog/English w/ Ilonggo accent,
he makes it all worth it.
On one particularly busy Saturday, a friend and I went there to audition some Arcam, Musical Fidelity and Mission stuff. There were quite a number of people where the stuff in our budget were so Melvyn craftily and graciously turned the aircon on at his high end listening room (Nautilus 803 at that time, I think it's a JM Lab mini Utopia there now) and gave us a taste of the high end. He didn't have to do that, our stated budget could buy only half a monoblock in that room or maybe the power conditioner. But he did it. As a result, I've since recommended him to several friends (my headphone amp included) who have given DCM business.
Another store who responded well to criticism in forums like this is Upscale. Instead of throwing accusations back at the complainants and making lame excuses like "I was provoked," the owner gathered their staff and showed them complete printouts of the messages we posted here.
Should you folks be in Cebu, get in touch with Ferdi Ludo of Sounds & Images ([email protected]). He's another good shopkeeper. Too bad he doesn't have a branch in Manila because we sure would learn a lot by being exposed to Ferdi's Plinius, Audio Note, JM Reynaud, Analysis Plus, Silver Audio, REL, Blue Circle, Spendor, Totem Acoustics, etc.
Ferdi posts at http://group.yahoo.com/group/pinoydiophiles. Read more from him there.
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Thanks, Hamann and rtsy. Great stuff!
I think it's particulary nice to hear specific stories and personal experiences in detail. I've generally had very good experiences with the hifi stores I've visited wherever. Unfortunately, I don't live in the Philippines anymore. Still, it's encouraging to hear that we hobbyists/addicts can get the same (if not better) treatment back home.
Despite living abroad, I can also vouch for Ferdie Ludo of Sounds 'n Images in Cebu. I've corresponded quite a lot with him recently via email. Although we've never met, he's very patient with all my questions and always gives me sincere advice. He has many many years of experience and carries excellent brands (four of which I happen to own products of ;D).
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nice to see this thread has moved to positive territory, for a change.
Melvyn Chua (DCM), Rene Rivo, Sonny Tuazon are all cool. they're all very helpful kahit wala ka pang binibili.
The Listening Group: sina JR at Oliver OK din matulungin.
Sa Image, Harrison Plaza maalalay din ang mga salesmen:joel, toto, joy, arman, alex, atbp.
Alex who runs Ambassador Shang always serves you with a smile.
Arnold sa B&W Shang mabait din at nagpapa-audition.
i always feel welcome at Audio Driver Shang .
Sales guy at Audio Den, Araneta Ave. ay hindi rin matapobre kahit sa mga mukhang pobreng tulad ko.
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tuff,
Oo tama ka dun pre, marami rin namang mga stores na ok......but same with others who posted their comments here, I also have experienced the same thing.....well talagang ganun, people are different from what we expect them to be....... :)
anyways, haven't heard with all of them yet, except Mr. Tuazon he's a great guy.....mabait and direct kausap kahit sa phone lang......Your also right with Image....maasikaso mga tao dun, especially si Joy, sa kanya ko kinuha yung set-up ko......and he also gave me a big discount with it :D ...Hope all of the stores are like that.
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Amen.
I got a pair of speakers from Ceratec, an MF amp from DCM, a CD player from Upscale at Megamall, a portable CD player w/tuner from Ambassador-Shang, lots of stuff from Raon,
-been a customer of A-V Driver for the longest time, lately I waited a month for their NAD CD player but no prob they cancelled the order when the supplier couldn't produce and that's that,
-that lady at Focal in Greenhills is always nice to me,
-Listening Group, what can I say?-and I better not 'coz my old boss will kill me: she's happily married to Mr. Pe's son,
-condolences to the staff of Audio Den, the guy who died in that car accident was a great loss.
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To the list of good stores I'd like to add Melvyn Chua's DCM. It's hell going to that store due to Cubao traffic and it's worse trying to park but the moment you hear Melvyn's sonorous Tagalog/English w/ Ilonggo accent,
he makes it all worth it.
On one particularly busy Saturday, a friend and I went there to audition some Arcam, Musical Fidelity and Mission stuff. There were quite a number of people where the stuff in our budget were so Melvyn craftily and graciously turned the aircon on at his high end listening room (Nautilus 803 at that time, I think it's a JM Lab mini Utopia there now) and gave us a taste of the high end. He didn't have to do that, our stated budget could buy only half a monoblock in that room or maybe the power conditioner. But he did it. As a result, I've since recommended him to several friends (my headphone amp included) who have given DCM business.
I agree with rtsy about Melvyn of DCM. He's very accommodating and very informative. I've had long talks with him on occasion. There was even one time that I was there during their merienda time and he graciously offered me something to eat, even though he really didn't have to. This accommodating attitude is a major factor why I've bought quite a number of equipment from him. If it's Mission, Musical Fidelity, or item s he carries that I'm looking at, DCM is the first (and often the last) store I go to.
Regarding DCM's location, I think it's all a matter of perspective or where one is coming from. DCM is actually not in the heart of the Cubao district but in one of the more quiet streets, so parking is relatively easy and there are ways to avoid traffic. I've had nothing but good experiences also with Sonny Tuazon and Rene Rivo, but since I'm Loyola Heights-based, I in turn find Makati parking, traffic and one-way streets can be a pain.
GAOL
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Bought most of my stuff from Sonny Tuazon and some from Rene Rivo. I did so because I felt comfortable dealing with them. They made sure of that. Both are very accomodating and exude a sense of enthusiasm for their trade. Parang secondary na lang yung business side sa kanila.
Sonny in particular even opened up a brand new box of B&W 602S3s and set them up just so he could demo some AVRs for me and my wife when I told him I had a pair of 602s at home. Even my wife, who thought I was spending too much on this stuff, was impressed.
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Despite living abroad, I can also vouch for Ferdie Ludo of Sounds 'n Images in Cebu.
So Ferdi drained your wallet too, huh? ;D
Check out http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Pinoydiophiles/message/3700
See how far Ferdi stretched to make my latest upgrade a reality. 8)
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has anyone else had the experience of calling a shop and getting a price quote then when you actually get there a few hours later they hike up the prices from what they said it was????
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Last saturday I was talking to one of the customers at The Home Theater named Vladi. It turns out that he too, had a run-in with Ceratec's Paul Ibanez.
He was browsing around the shop and was checking out a pair of speakers when the guy asked, "Eh bakit mo hinahawakan yan?" So Vladi replied, "Bakit, masama ba?"
This short exchange of words led them to full blown shouting match, similar to what happened to me. Vladi mentioned that he was also shown the door and told to get out. As Sonny Tuason himself was listening, he mentioned that he actually has had a number of customers complaining about his untowardly behaviour.
His manner of dealing with his customers is grossly offensive and repugnant. He should not be allowed to do business in the first place since he obviously does not know basic rules of courtesy.
I do hope people avoid his shop at all costs for their own sake. And for the sake of your friends, let them know not to even think of laying a foot in his shop.
Another example of the worst kind of customer service our fellow audiophiles have had to deal from this lowly riff-raff.
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I will swear by the following dealers:
a) Architectural Audio - Nico and Epoy are very, very nice to deal with
b) Rene Rivo - you can actually touch his merchandise! just don't touch a tube while it is on, hindi sa magagalit si Rene, pero mapapaso ka!
c) Ferdi Ludo (Sights and Sounds) - the perfect example of long distance transaction
They all share these things in common:
TRUST - they will trust you, which is a test of your true person
PATIENCE - they all are patient in answering your questions, in looking after your needs
UNSELFISH - these are real people, with vast experience that they are more than willing to share
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"Bakit, masama ba?"
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Don't tell me you still need me to explain that again ::)
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Did you see tonight's "Game KNB?" with Kris Aquino? the guy they featured, a Million-peso winner, used part of his winnings to buy what was quite clearly an entire set's worth of Ceratec speakers.
Guess he hasn't been reading this thread. ;D
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Had a chance to talk audio stuff with Wilfred Lim of Audio Visual Driver. I haven't bought anything from him but his friendly and knowledgeable service just put him on my A-list of audio/video suppliers. Check 'em out at Shangrila.
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I can bring in any Sennheiser product you want as we are the distributor for Sennheiser in the Phil.
Hi electronics-depot,
I have a pair on Sennheiser earphones whose headband was damaged while being transported. Can you replace the damaged headband andd if so for how much?
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They even showed me a software worth USD $10K they use for acoustic and sound system design called EASE (Electro-Acoustic Simulator for Engineers). I was impressed with the graphic display and was stunned when they gave me a headphones and listened to how your room will sound in the design stage.
Would bringing blueprints of the room you're planning to setup a HT help? :)
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I've had some experience in selling audio/video equipment before and believe me not all our sales staff are knowledgeable.
pero ang maganda dito sa states is that companies will spend money to get you trained. i've been sent to different convention/companies for product training (i.e. bose system, rca, pioneer etc.). ang maganda panga noon is that they will even let you borrow their equipment (to take home for a week) para you would have a more hands on experience and knowledge of their product. and the best benefit noon was they give special discounted prices for employees...the reason behind this..is
if you’re using their product, then it is easier for you to sell them.
so maybe if the owners would devote a training time like an hour or so everyday to their sales staff, then we would have better experience in their stores.
my 2 cents
bently
Wow... so where do I apply? I'd like to work for Sony so I can bring home a Sony Grand Wega. ;D
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Re: No-refund policy of "Listening Room" Megamall.
When my cousin decided to buy his first DVD player, he asked me to recommend a good brand. Being a Pioneer fan, I recommended the DV 355 or DV 555K, the latest entry-level Pioneer players. Both are loaded with features, sport a handsome slim-line design, and are backed up by reliable performance and after-sales service.
On January 8, 2003, cousin bought a Pioneer DV 555K for P10,600.00 from "Listening Room" at the SM Megamall, a good retailer offering very competitive prices. Listening Room advised him to test the player at home and that if there is any defect, they will gladly replace it with a new unit within 3 weeks from the date of purchase.
Heto ngayon ang problema.
While playing clean, scratch-free original R1 and R3 DVD discs, the playback pauses, the picture pixellates, the player reloads and displays its "welcome" sign, then starts the program content all over again.
E ano pa kaya? E di namukha akong tanga. Panay ang rekomenda ko ng Pioneer, palpak naman pala.
We tried testing different R1 and R3 discs, checked voltage fluctuation, measured voltage output from the power outlet and used an AVR. Ayos naman lahat, pero ganoon pa rin ang depekto. I advised cousin to have the unit replaced. "OK lang 'yan", I said, "Kahit anong brand, may nakakalusot sa quality control kung minsan. Malabo naman na ganyan pa rin ang replacement unit kasi Pioneer 'yan".
So off he went to Listening Room on January 13, 2003 to ask for a replacement unit. Mabait naman ang staff. They just replaced the player with a new unit after cousin described the defect. No hassle.
Problema pa rin.
The second player had exactly the same defect as the first. E di ano pa nga ba? E di lalo akong nagmukhang tanga.
On January 21, 2003, since I happened to be at the Robinson's in Cainta, I went to the Listening Group's branch there called the "Listening in Style" and asked their tech guy about the 555K. To my utter disbelief, he confirmed that he had already witnessed other 555K units malfunction several times on his showroom display! He said that this surprised him since it's the first defective brand-new Pioneer model he's ever seen, and even the 355 and the old 533K were problem-free.
Realizing that another 555K replacement unit will not help, cousin called the Listening Room at Megamall and requested that his 555K be replaced with a 355 and that the price difference of P2,800.00 be refunded. However, he was informed by Minnie (the Listening Room cashier and OIC) that they can replace his 555K with a 355, but due to their no-refund policy, he should purchase other items from the store to cover the price difference.
When cousin said that he has no use for any other item in their inventory, Minnie offered to replace his 555K with Pioneer's next higher model (a progressive scan player), on the condition that payment for the corresponding price difference be made. Cousin politely refused, explaining that a progressive scan player will be an unnecessary expense on his part since his TV is a direct-view WEGA without progressive scan, but thanked Minnie anyway for her time.
When I learned about this unfortunate turn of events, I immediately wrote a letter stating that formal demand is hereby made upon the proprietor to pay a full refund within 5 days; otherwise, administrative and criminal actions will be filed against him forthwith for violation of the Consumer Act of the Philippines.
On January 22, 2003, cousin and I went to the Listening Room to issue a verbal demand for a full refund and, should they refuse, to personally serve a copy of the aforementioned demand letter.
At the store, Minnie made a few phone calls in an attempt to help diagnose the problem, but since we had already tried the tests she suggested, we had to insist on a full refund because the defect appeared to be inherent in their entire inventory of 555K units.
Una, ayaw ni Minnie mag-refund ng P2,800.00 balance dahil sa no-refund company policy, pero pumayag na rin pagkatapos ng kulitan.
Ang deperensiya, biglang sumabat si Oliver, the store's manager and/or proprietor. (In all fairness, mukhang OK naman si Oliver, but try asking for a refund and see Dr. Jekyll transform into Mr. Hyde.)
An unpleasant exchange between us ensued, the following being the respective positions of each side:
My position is that under R.A. 7394, otherwise known as "The Consumer Act of the Philippines", defective merchandise sold may be replaced, repaired or returned with a full refund at the option of the customer; and if the vendee chooses to be refunded in full, the vendor's refusal to comply is punishable by up to P50,000.00 fine or imprisonment of up to 5 years or both at the discretion of the Court, without prejudice to any liability incurred under the warranty.
On the other hand, Oliver's position is that a no-refund policy is not prohibited as long as the vendor readily replaces the defective item with other merchandise chosen by the customer, and that a no-refund policy cannot be considered illegal since the said policy is allegedly practiced by all vendors.
As a compromise, Oliver offered to replace cousin's 555K with a 355 and promised to refund the P2,800.00 balance, provided that there are no dents or scratches on the unit to be replaced. Cousin accepted the offer kasi 'yon lang naman daw talaga ang original request niya.
The following day, cousin brought in the 555K, then Minnie replaced it with a 355 and refunded his P2,800.00 as agreed.
Despite our differences, I can vouch that Oliver is true to his word. Totoo 'yung warranty nila na "replace defective unit within 3 weeks". Basta sinabi nilang babayaran ka nila bukas, magbabayad sila bukas. No written agreement necessary.
Cousin says his 355 is working fine so far.
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Re: No-refund policy of "Listening Room" Megamall.
Ang deperensiya, biglang sumabat si Oliver, the store's manager and/or proprietor. (In all fairness, mukhang OK naman si Oliver, but try asking for a refund and see Dr. Jekyll transform into Mr. Hyde.)
As a compromise, Oliver offered to replace cousin's 555K with a 355 and promised to refund the P2,800.00 balance, provided that there are no dents or scratches on the unit to be replaced. Cousin accepted the offer kasi 'yon lang naman daw talaga ang original request niya.
Despite our differences, I can vouch that Oliver is true to his word. Totoo 'yung warranty nila na "replace defective unit within 3 weeks". Basta sinabi nilang babayaran ka nila bukas, magbabayad sila bukas. No written agreement necessary.
Hi Barrister, welcome to the forum. Are you a lawyer or something? :)
In cases like these, its best to transact and / or talk to the owner / proprietor of the shop. Most of the time, you get treated right, get good deals, and ok after-sales service.
In my case, I was able to talk to J.R., the proprietor of Listening in Style. His people delivered speakers with 'things' I did not like. They were even insisting that they did the right thing. When I informed him about my problem, he changed the speakers right the next day. I wouldn't have gotten that kind of good treatment if I talked to anyone else. :)
Pero ganon talaga sa 'Pinas... consumers are not always protected. The most B.S. violators of the consumer laws are Auto Dealers. Try returning a 'lemon' they sold you and you're sure to get the run-around.
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Ok naman kausap si Oliver. Once, I returned a pair of speaker because I dont like the sound and they replaced it. I replaced it with a different brand but I have to pay for the price difference.
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When I first went to Image Harrison, nobody really took the time to entertain me. They just entertain you if you ask a question to one of their salesmen.
But when I bought some stuff from them, everytime I go back to their store, they greet me. Is this true to the other shops? :-\
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When I first went to Image Harrison, nobody really took the time to entertain me. They just entertain you if you ask a question to one of their salesmen.
But when I bought some stuff from them, everytime I go back to their store, they greet me. Is this true to the other shops? :-\
Yang sa Image, its really funny talaga... I was expecting them to be one of the more friendlier stores... yun pala mayayabang. So I took my business elsewhere.
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Re: No-refund policy of "Listening Room" Megamall.
When my cousin decided to buy his first DVD player, he asked me to recommend a good brand. Being a Pioneer fan, I recommended the DV 355 or DV 555K, the latest entry-level Pioneer players. Both are loaded with features, sport a handsome slim-line design, and are backed up by reliable performance and after-sales service.
Cousin says his 355 is working fine so far.
This is EXACTLY why I am recommending the Nextbases and the sub 4k DVD players as long as you buy from reputable stores. Same banana...long live all these chinese made el cheapo items that perform just as well as their 2-4x price-wise counterpart...
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Ok naman yung mga shops, but many of them are actually pretty nice.
Fortunately for me, accommodating lahat ng tao sa pinuntahan ko. Electronics Depot people are really nice, good service! Unfortunately, wala lang talaga yung gusto kong particular item sa shop nila. But since he and the rest of the crew are really nice to me (bought cables a couple of times already) I think I'll be spending more pesos in their shop. Great work E-Depot!
Read that Ceratec incident too. pretty harsh nga! Man, my left nut has more personality than that guy! Baka itinayo niya yung store na yon para lang mang-bastos ng kapwa!
Each one of those stores are just out there so the owners can make a living. Can't think of any other reason. but the thing is, if you want someone's money, you gotta give him something other than the product you're selling. basic sales ettiquette and courtesy go a very long way. This is especially true for the HT business. It's not as if high-end audio/video accessories and components are something demanded/needed, but it's something to make life a little easier. What good is it when you endure experiences like that to get there?
BTW, does anyone do acoustic room treatments here in the Philippines? For 2 Channel audio. Thanks!
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Hi dr_dohh
for your inquiry regarding acoustic treatment, there is a thread just below this one titled (Listening) Room Improvements or maybe you can look up in the tel. directory under "insulation" and you can find some contractors selling and installing acoustic treatments.
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mr. dohh, regarding the Ceratec 'incident': there are two sides to every story. in more than six months of actual, first-hand experiences with the Ceratec store, i can assure you that quality of service is not the issue here. :)
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Ariel: Thanks, posted na!
notaku: That's why i plan to go there one of these days to see what all the fuss is about. That way, I can judge for myself. I don't know him, but it seems pretty harsh pa rin e, kahit anong perspective. Though I don't know if I can take that much, baka mapa-iyak niya ako :'( Sama kasi ng press sa kanya e! you know, if it happens once, it's just an isolated incident, twice, maybe he's on a mean streak. but I've read more than three or four incidents condemning him as a store owner! Not that I don't believe you or anything, but maybe you're one of the lucky ones?
Personally kasi, even if there were rude phone calls or guests in my office, I try to be as diplomatic as possible -even if I want to rip off their heads, put it on a skewer and display it on the front door like a totem pole. Believe me, it happens, but I still keep my cool, thinking that it's not personal. Most, if not all of the time, it really isn't.
Sana lang I (or everyone else for that matter) get the treatment you got from him. seems really nice to you e.
Regarding Image Harrison, everytime I go there walang nagbabantay sa HT room nila e. Kailangan ko pang hintayin bago pumasok. But actually, they were ok once I got hold of em.
Sa fifth avenue rin sa town center, wala ring nagbabantay. I couldve left with a mordaunt short 5.1 and a kenwood receiver with only mall security to deal with! But again, once I got hold of em, they were pretty ok.
But ito napansin ko: People in Bose stores are really nice and they know their stuff. Probably due to the fact that they only sell limited items, and/or mukha namang wala masyadong trabaho. Even if you hate the product that they sell, you have to give them credit for good service.
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I visited Electronics Depot in Festival Mall. The people here are very helpful. They are very attentive to my questions and I'm quite satisfied with their answers. One of the employees there (sorry, I forgot the name) even gave me a quick lecture on bi-wiring and bi-amping.
E.D. MABUHAY kayo. :)
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dohh: believe me, luck has nothing to do with it. if he can tolerate me of all people, he can tolerate anybody-that's why i don't believe it's simply a matter of 'diplomacy'. ;)
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I'm a bit puzzled notaku, about the persistence of your defense of this Ceratec guy. The guy is obviously an A.H. and I for one would love to have him do to me what he did to our fellow DVD member, Hamann.
And for you to attack Hamann, that is so low. Makes me think you are Ceratec's relative or something. I think you owe Hamann an apology. If you can't do that, please do us all (and yourself) a favor and stop overreacting whenever someone says (or even hints) something negative about your man.
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Guys,
Please stick to the topic and please do your discussions in private.
Levi
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sorry for the double-post, mr. mod. there, i removed it.
hamann: i apologize if i offended. like i said, i'm only making sure that both sides are heard.
stradale: peace! you're right, i do owe hamann an apology. might i now ask you to reconsider your application of the words 'overreacting' and 'low'? :)
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Mighty nice of you to respond that way. Shows the gentleman that you are. Thanks. Peace offering accepted :).
And yeah, "low" and "overreacting" were a bit too harsh. Friends then?
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of course! friends lahat dito, di ba? my only intention is to voice my opinions, nothing else. :)
-pero gentleman? me? that was too much to hope for!-pero thanks anyway. ;)
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Last last sunday i went to different audio video stores at eto lang napansin ko.
Listening Room in Mega mall,
Sa lahat nang napuntahano ko ito ang worst sa lahat. Pag pasok ko sa loob walang pumapansin sa akin maayos naman ang damit ko.. any way im asking for the Marantz SR5300..tanong ko dun sa medyo kalbo na maputi..na parang yun ata manager dun sagot nya eh "WALA" without even looking at me..so ikot lang ako dun sa store..though merong SR4300 na tumutunog medyo pinaglaruan ko nang konti yung unti..tanong ulit ako "Kelan kayo magkaka stock nang Marantz SR5300?"..sagot nya sa akin "Di pa sure eh" again without even looking at me. Now feeling ko parang di ako welcome sa store. Tanong ulit ako "Pag nagkaroon na kayo nang SR5300 magpapa demo ako ha" sagot nya "Naku hindi namin pinapademo yun..kung gusto mo nun order ka kahit ngayon magiging available yung unit".....bakit naman sila ganun..syempre gusto ko munang i demo yung unit bago ko bilhin...ang gusto nila..kung ipapademo nila sa akin yun eh..bibilhin ko na rin....so after that umalis na lang ako..
Audio Visual at Shangri La
Ito ata yung tapat nang sights and sounds sa shangri la. any way they were the best in entertaining customers kahit alam nilang hindi ka bibili....i ask for the marantz SR5300 and ayun meron sila...sabi ko eh hindi pa naman ako bibili eh..gusto ko lang marinig yung tunog nang marantz..sabi nung manager sa akin wait lang daw ako at isesetup nila kasi ang nakakabit dun sa demo area eh denon3803..so the tech guy quickly get the Marantza SR5300 tapos pinaupo ako dun sa couch..tapos setup ni tech guy yung marantz..ang dami pang kinalas nung tech guy dun sa unang setup na nakakabit..kitang mong pawisan sya sa pagmamadali kasi para bang ayaw nila na naghihintay nang matagal ang costumers..after all the connections where made they gave me the remote nang marantz and also yung sa DVD player and ask me " Sir ano gusto nyong panoodin? Music movies..pili na lang kayo dyan" ang dami kasing DVD's na nakapatong dun sa table eh. Sabi ko na lang eh yung DTS Demo disc na lang....so lagay nila yung Demo disc and play..ayun ayus na ayus..siguro mga 1 hour ako dun na nag dedemo nang marantz..ako na ang nag sawa. Tapos hingi pa nang sorry sa akin yung mga tao dun kasi nga matagal na na setup tapos hindi na i configure nang ayus or na i calibrate nang ayus yung sounds..tapos sabi ko ok lang...sabi ko lang eh sayang hindi ko na experience yung DTS-ES kasi walang nakalagay na rear center....tapos nag sorry ulit kasi hindi pa naikakabit nung tech guy nila yung bracket for the rear center at napagalitan pa nya yung staff nya..
After that sabi ko babalik na lang ako pag nag decide na ako na bibilhin ko..then they say thank u and give me their big smile... ;D
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Last last sunday i went to different audio video stores at eto lang napansin ko.
Listening Room in Mega mall,
Sa lahat nang napuntahano ko ito ang worst sa lahat. Pag pasok ko sa loob walang pumapansin sa akin maayos naman ang damit ko.. any way im asking for the Marantz SR5300..tanong ko dun sa medyo kalbo na maputi..na parang yun ata manager dun sagot nya eh "WALA" without even looking at me..so ikot lang ako dun sa store..though merong SR4300 na tumutunog medyo pinaglaruan ko nang konti yung unti..tanong ulit ako "Kelan kayo magkaka stock nang Marantz SR5300?"..sagot nya sa akin "Di pa sure eh" again without even looking at me. Now feeling ko parang di ako welcome sa store. Tanong ulit ako "Pag nagkaroon na kayo nang SR5300 magpapa demo ako ha" sagot nya "Naku hindi namin pinapademo yun..kung gusto mo nun order ka kahit ngayon magiging available yung unit".....bakit naman sila ganun..syempre gusto ko munang i demo yung unit bago ko bilhin...ang gusto nila..kung ipapademo nila sa akin yun eh..bibilhin ko na rin....so after that umalis na lang ako..
Audio Visual at Shangri La
Ito ata yung tapat nang sights and sounds sa shangri la. any way they were the best in entertaining customers kahit alam nilang hindi ka bibili....i ask for the marantz SR5300 and ayun meron sila...sabi ko eh hindi pa naman ako bibili eh..gusto ko lang marinig yung tunog nang marantz..sabi nung manager sa akin wait lang daw ako at isesetup nila kasi ang nakakabit dun sa demo area eh denon3803..so the tech guy quickly get the Marantza SR5300 tapos pinaupo ako dun sa couch..tapos setup ni tech guy yung marantz..ang dami pang kinalas nung tech guy dun sa unang setup na nakakabit..kitang mong pawisan sya sa pagmamadali kasi para bang ayaw nila na naghihintay nang matagal ang costumers..after all the connections where made they gave me the remote nang marantz and also yung sa DVD player and ask me " Sir ano gusto nyong panoodin? Music movies..pili na lang kayo dyan" ang dami kasing DVD's na nakapatong dun sa table eh. Sabi ko na lang eh yung DTS Demo disc na lang....so lagay nila yung Demo disc and play..ayun ayus na ayus..siguro mga 1 hour ako dun na nag dedemo nang marantz..ako na ang nag sawa. Tapos hingi pa nang sorry sa akin yung mga tao dun kasi nga matagal na na setup tapos hindi na i configure nang ayus or na i calibrate nang ayus yung sounds..tapos sabi ko ok lang...sabi ko lang eh sayang hindi ko na experience yung DTS-ES kasi walang nakalagay na rear center....tapos nag sorry ulit kasi hindi pa naikakabit nung tech guy nila yung bracket for the rear center at napagalitan pa nya yung staff nya..
After that sabi ko babalik na lang ako pag nag decide na ako na bibilhin ko..then they say thank u and give me their big smile... ;D
Having said all that, when the time comes to buy, would you go for the store with the cheapest price or the one who entertained you well? Listening Room in Megamall is really not known to have good PR, especially the guy you talked to. I wouldn't be surprised if he was playing a computer game while talking to you. He has done that. ;D
If you chose the cheapest route, then that would justify his actuations. Don't you think? Just a thought.
voj
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Having said all that, when the time comes to buy, would you go for the store with the cheapest price or the one who entertained you well? Listening Room in Megamall is really not known to have good PR, especially the guy you talked to. I wouldn't be surprised if he was playing a computer game while talking to you. He has done that. ;D
If you chose the cheapest route, then that would justify his actuations. Don't you think? Just a thought.
voj
for me, pipiliin ko iyung the one who entertained me well. walang problema sa akin kung mas mataas ng konti iyung pagbibilhan ko kesa naman bibili ako don sa store na di ako inentertain mabuti dahil mas mura siya. bebentahan nga nila ako ng mura pero parang lumalabas na utang na loob ko pa sa kanila iyon. i've been into listening room at doon ko binili iyung receiver, dvd player and subwoofer ko before. but napansin ko na nitong huli na parang may nagbago sa kanila and tama iyung comment ni courage na kapag pumasok ka sa store nila, di ka nila papansinin unless di ka maunang magsasalita. i decided na di na rin bumili o pumasyal doon para tumingin ng bagong products. so nowna maguupgrade na ako wala sa list nila iyung pinuntahan ko aside from the fact na di naman sila nagtitinda ng harman which i prefer to buy. although, merong malapit sa amin na nagtitinda ng harman, i prefer to buy the hk5500 from architectural audio because they have good customer service. na kahit wala kang balak na bumili sa kanila, they would entertain you well. worth it na bumili sa kanila!!! :D
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Same observation with courage sa listening room megamall..although dun ko nabili yung set up ko na yammie...yun lang kasi ang alam ko na nag bebenta ng mga audio and video products beside sa Mga appliance centers sa malls.Di pa kasi ako member dito nung bumili ako eh..anyway now that i will be upgrading at least alam ko na kung saan saan ako pwede mag pa audition.And yes the way the store treats its customer ang basis ko where to buy lalo na pag di masyado malaki ang difference sa pricing
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Para sa akin hindi rin ako bibili dun kahit mas mura..although mas mahal nga dun sa Audio Visual sa Shangri la..kung papipiliin ako kung saan ako bibili eh dun na ako sa Audio Visual..feeling mo kasi pag andun ka eh welkam na welkam ka kahit natingin ka lang at walang planong bumili..tipong hindi ka mahihiyang mag request for auditioning nang kahit na anong equipment... dun sa listening eh habang nagtatanong ako dun sa manager feeling ko eh parang naiistorbo ko sya dun sa ginagawa nya..dahil ni hindi man lang nag smile...sabi nga nung barkada ko after namin sa Audio visual ang babait daw nung mga tao dun kasi asikasong asikaso kami tapos sabi nya..yung pinuntahan daw namin kanina eh parang walang paki alam(sa listening).. >:(
Para sa akin kasi..kahit mas mura ka pa tapos hindi ka naman marunong mag entertain eh hindi ako sa iyo bibili....dun ako sa eentertain ako..kahit mas mahal pa.. :)
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also consider after sales. kung nung bibili ka hindi ka na pinapansin, yung pagkabili mo pa kaya?
i will second architectural audio for the nth time, i still get support from them after everything.
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I've seen that 'medyo kalbo' guy myself and yes he is kinda aloof and indifferent to people who browse around his store. Unfortunately, he typifies the average high-end-audio-store salesperson in Manila.
That is why it is such a delight to encounter people like Ferdie Ludo, Rene Rivo, Wilfred Lim, or Sonny Tuazon who understand where most of their customers are coming from: Middle class folks digging deep with a degree of guilt into their pockets to indulge in a passion that they could hardly afford.
I'm willing to bet that the bulk of sales generated by these stores come from the middle calss sector. The problem with 'kalbs' and his ilk is they raise their noses on middle class guys interested in high end gear. I don't know about you guys but I'd take my middle class ass (and my hard earned cash) somewhere else.
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I've seen that 'medyo kalbo' guy myself and yes he is kinda aloof and indifferent to people who browse around his store. Unfortunately, he typifies the average high-end-audio-store salesperson in Manila.
That is why it is such a delight to encounter people like Ferdie Ludo, Rene Rivo, Wilfred Lim, or Sonny Tuazon who understand where most of their customers are coming from: Middle class folks digging deep with a degree of guilt into their pockets to indulge in a passion that they could hardly afford.
I'm willing to bet that the bulk of sales generated by these stores come from the middle calss sector. The problem with 'kalbs' and his ilk is they raise their noses on middle class guys interested in high end gear. I don't know about you guys but I'd take my middle class ass (and my hard earned cash) somewhere else.
Amen bro ehehehehe
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To Nico of Architectural Audio Thanks man...your the best...went there yesterday and auditioned HK and Denon...they are really very accomodating,Nice place,Nice people..more power architectural audio..I highly recommend their store. ;D ;D ;D
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That is why it is such a delight to encounter people like Ferdie Ludo, Rene Rivo, Wilfred Lim, or Sonny Tuazon who understand where most of their customers are coming from: Middle class folks digging deep with a degree of guilt into their pockets to indulge in a passion that they could hardly afford.
yup. mr rene (hyper), mr sonny (ST) plus the guys at architectural audio (nico/epoy) are really great bunch of guys who really knows how to handle their customers & would-be customers well. ;)
sana owners & staff of other HT shops would follow their lead. 8)
cheers.............
bladE. 8)
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I AGREE! ;D
sonny, rene, nico and epoy are great people to deal with...and they are very friendly also... ;D
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I used to buy HT items at Listening Room (Mega), the Owner/Manager is really just like that. It seems PR is not part of his vocabulary. Having witnessed and experienced such "cold" treatment from this guy (though we spend quite a fortune on their store), I just deal with his subordinates and get on with our respective lives. Just ignore him if you think he's ignoring you or better yet go to Audio Visual driver or Architectural Audio for your HT needs especially if you have the spare bucks.
We cannot please everybody and if that happens, don't let it ruin your day. Cheers!!!
caycski
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just like to share my experience with one of the stores in shangri-la.
visited this shop to canvass for inexpensive all-in-one packages. while i was looking around, nobody cared to assist me, even though it was obvious that i was looking for something. when i found what i was looking for, i had to call the attention of the sales folk.
i asked if they have availabe stocks and the guy answered negative in a lazy monotone. so i asked if i could audition it. his reply: "it sounds the same as the one playing now" or something like that. it that was not enough, he had this irritated look on his face while maintaining his lazy monotone.
like many of the people here, i put a premium on customer satisfaction, which is not limited to the quality of the products sold. it's also how you deal with the customer.
with the treatment i got from that store, i decided to take my business to another establishment.
:)
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I'd like to think that owners of Philippine audio stores are audiophiles first, businessmen second, kasi what kind of objective businessman would bother staking capital catering to what is effectively a rich man's hobby in a third world country?
I'm not sure whether it's yung pagtitinda ko ng tsinelas sa lumang palengke ng Kalentong (until it was burned down 10 years ago), or my stint patrolling the lanes for a pretentiously 'upscale' department store, - that's inured me against the keeping up of appearances that I'm sure others would already consider as more than mere arrogance, ...but whenever I've found myself in a 'horror story' moment I've tried to give the person in the store the BOTD (which is a ridiculous thing to hear coming from a guy who's not even 'middle-class', try 'no-class') -
- especially when it comes to audio store owners, the ones who are audiophiles at least, kasi what is an audiophile but a cranky, opinionated fetishist who actually insists that he hears things that others can't? - now imagine an OLD audiophile, who's further compounded his obsession by turning it into a business!
Sure, I've met with the same kind of 'horror stories' listed here, but these guys, just like this 'hobby', deserve patience: I've never regretted giving them a second chance.
BUT...while I'll be the last person to agree that 'the customer is always right' (it's a rule of selling, not a moral one), that doesn't mean I don't make exceptions: there is ONE place, I think it's not really an audiophile's place but a franchise...a franchise of Hell. All the second, third, and fourth chances in the world have amounted to exactly zero satisfaction here; heck, not even a simple courtesy like, say, walking out the door na walang pabaon na insulto! Thank God I've never heard the name of that store mentioned here... >:(
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since we're talking about audio/video shops, bakit di na lang tayo gumawa ng lists ng mga recommended shops na pwedeng puntahan ng mga audiophile na tulad natin where we can get good customer service? i think merong mga tao ang nadiscourage ng magtanong o pumunta ulit sa iba pang stores because of sad experiences na dulot ng mga nababasa natin dito. ang mas apektado dito ay yung mga beginners pa lang wherein sa unang pasok pa lang sa mga stores na ito, naexperience kaagad nila ang mabigyan ng bad treatment. baka kasi isipin nila na lahat ng shops ay ganito. so ang nangyayari tuloy bibili na lang sila sa mga appliance stores sa mga malls ng component o home theater in a box kaysa naman bumili sila ng one by one (from receiver to speakerto dvd player) sa shops na di marunong magpahalaga sa kanilang mga customers to be (sasama lang ang loob nila dito). i think may bad mentality rin iyung ibang may-ari ng stores na ito kasi iniisip nila na babalik din iyung mga customers na sinalbahe nila dahil sila lang ang merong product na hinahanap ng mga ito. or since established na sila at may mga regular customers na sila esp from the high class kaya tipong nagmamalaki na sila. na di kawalan sa kanila ang mawalan ng customers which they think di naman sila makikinabang. :(
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share ko lang story ko w/ that kalbo guy.
I know that kalbo guy in listening room mega mall. I think his name is Ronald he's the owner of listening room and Golden Sound in greenhills where we've met 6 years ago for my car audio set-up. he was friendly that time co'z I let them handle the whole setup of my van from gears up to the wood works and intallation. it cost me about P140K for the whole setup. we became friends and we even won 3rd place in the sound off. after 5 yrs, i went to listening room to check out some HT stuff he was there and i think he doesn't remember me anymore. he didn't even entertain me. bakit kaya ganun diba kahit di mo matandaan pangalan kun naging friends kayo B4 kahit pano magbabatian kayo? para lang nakita mo yun classmate mo nun high school di ba? siguro I should purchase a whole HT setup para friends ulit. hmmmmp! a**hole talaga!
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The kalbo, fair-skinned guy in Megamall is Oliver, right? I find the comments here about Oliver strange as I've found him corteous and helpful even before I spent my first peso buying stuff from Listening Group.
I've had negative experiences at Listening at least twice:
1--Once was with a bastos guy in Shangri-La who told me to buy a Yamaha RXV496 since the model I asked about, the EAD TheaterMaster, was not for newbies daw. He was right that I was an HT newbie but I've been on hi-fi stereo 5 years when I talked to him. I htink his name is Jeff.
2--Another time was when one of their staff kept on whistling to the track a friend and I were listening to to audition Dynaudio speakers.
How did I resolve both cases?
In the first case, I looked for the guy who knew about the stuff I was asking about. A half hour phone call with JR Pecaoco and a Pioneer DVD player, a widescreen Toshiba, and a set of Dynaudio speakers were in their delivery van en route to my house.
JR was very helpful and patient w/ me and even advised me to go w/ something cheap first since I don't have a dedicated room, just starting, and were better off spending the extra budget on software. Good advice. It's been 4 years and I haven't upgraded a thing on my HT.
On the "whistling" incident, I sent email to some email I found on www.avcorner.com. I forget the name of the guy who answered but I got a response within the day where they promised they'd fix it.
A few days later, I heard that the 5th floor of Shangri-La got flooded--sinabon daw ni JR mga tao dun. ;) Too bad they weren't able to pinpoint who the culprit was. I wasn't able to take the whistler's name because I was so disappointed that day.
I think all stores, all companies make mistakes. What differentiates good companies from bad ones is that good companies do something about the mistakes.
Cheers!
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count me out, may bad experience ako with this store... >:(
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ThePatriot - share mo naman bad experience mo. para pag silip ko dun i know what to expect.
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ThePatriot - share mo naman bad experience mo. para pag silip ko dun i know what to expect.
Aries,
Just tell them na member ka nang pinoydvd at siguradong iaacomodate ka nila. 1st time ko na nag punta dun at sinabi ko lang na pinoydvd member eh inasikaso agad ako kahit wala akong bibilhin. ;D
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ThePatriot - share mo naman bad experience mo. para pag silip ko dun i know what to expect.
okay, this happened mga two years ago, i bought 5 dvds from them, namely TITANIC, SE7EN, FIGHT CLUB, FACE OFF & ARMAGEDDON (The Criterion Collection). The first four dvds were okay but for ARMAGEDDON CC it has scratch / spot on the disc's surface (tanggal sa tray). hindi ko naman alam na tanggal yung disc during that time. when i played the disc (my player is sony ns-300), nag-start ng mag-jump from one scene to another because of the said spot. I reported the problem to them, and they asked me to come personally to check the disc (take note pque pa ko galing) , they played it using their own player and okay naman. nakiusap ako kung puwedeng palitan kasi may scratch naman talaga yung disc but they refused kasi working naman daw sa kanila. I think i deserve a replacement for this, almost Php 10,000.00 din yung binayaran ko nun, it's not the MONEY that i'm after but rather the SERVICE & CUSTOMER SATISFACTION... >:( >:( >:(
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ThePatriot - share mo naman bad experience mo. para pag silip ko dun i know what to expect.
okay, this happened mga two years ago, i bought 5 dvds from them, namely TITANIC, SE7EN, FIGHT CLUB, FACE OFF & ARMAGEDDON (The Criterion Collection). The first four dvds were okay but for ARMAGEDDON CC it has scratch / spot on the disc's surface (tanggal sa tray). hindi ko naman alam na tanggal yung disc during that time. when i played the disc (my player is sony ns-300), nag-start ng mag-jump from one scene to another because of the said spot. I reported the problem to them, and they asked me to come personally to check the disc (take note pque pa ko galing) , they played it using their own player and okay naman. nakiusap ako kung puwedeng palitan kasi may scratch naman talaga yung disc but they refused kasi working naman daw sa kanila. I think i deserve a replacement for this, almost Php 10,000.00 din yung binayaran ko nun, it's not the MONEY that i'm after but rather the SERVICE & CUSTOMER SATISFACTION... >:( >:( >:(
Did you play in the chapter na nagkaka problema yung disc? Gumana ba sa kanila sa chapter na yun? I think you should explained further na di mo na magagamit yung disc kasi nga nagkakaproblema sa player mo.So nasan na yung Armageddon CC mo?
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ThePatriot - share mo naman bad experience mo. para pag silip ko dun i know what to expect.
okay, this happened mga two years ago, i bought 5 dvds from them, namely TITANIC, SE7EN, FIGHT CLUB, FACE OFF & ARMAGEDDON (The Criterion Collection). The first four dvds were okay but for ARMAGEDDON CC it has scratch / spot on the disc's surface (tanggal sa tray). hindi ko naman alam na tanggal yung disc during that time. when i played the disc (my player is sony ns-300), nag-start ng mag-jump from one scene to another because of the said spot. I reported the problem to them, and they asked me to come personally to check the disc (take note pque pa ko galing) , they played it using their own player and okay naman. nakiusap ako kung puwedeng palitan kasi may scratch naman talaga yung disc but they refused kasi working naman daw sa kanila. I think i deserve a replacement for this, almost Php 10,000.00 din yung binayaran ko nun, it's not the MONEY that i'm after but rather the SERVICE & CUSTOMER SATISFACTION... >:( >:( >:(
Did you play in the chapter na nagkaka problema yung disc? Gumana ba sa kanila sa chapter na yun? I think you should explained further na di mo na magagamit yung disc kasi nga nagkakaproblema sa player mo.So nasan na yung Armageddon CC mo?
I still have the disc with me. yes, gumana sa kanila yung chapter na may problema sa player ko. I was able to remove the spot and finally gumana yung disc BUT nagkaroon ng maraming SCRATCH marks cause i had to wipe it hard. as a collector you don't want this to happen, na magasgas kahit kaunti yung disc... sa INIS ko bumili na lang ulit ako ng bagong copy ng ARMAGEDDON CC... nasayang lang ang oras at pagod ko pagpunta sa store na to... >:(
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courage - thanks for the advise.
patriot - thanks for sharing your bad experience. It really do happen sometimes. badtrip lang kasi instead of satisfaction from what you spend ang kapalit eh hassel pa.
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Hey dudes,
Just like to know what can you say about Sales staff of Spectra and AVSurfer store....I need your comment so that they could served you better
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never been to spectra & AVSurfer. saan to?
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never been to spectra & AVSurfer. saan to?
brod, sa may park square 1 makati tong Spectra and AVSurfer. AVSurfer is in front of national bookstore tapos sa may loob naman ng park square 1 yung Spectra, magkalapit lang sila ng location... :) :) :)
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I don't know if CD-R King counts as one of the stores for this thread. But to those who buy their discs at their branch behind UST: did you notice na walang kasing sungit 'yung dalawang babae na nagtitinda doon?
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never been to spectra & AVSurfer. saan to?
brod, sa may park square 1 makati tong Spectra and AVSurfer. AVSurfer is in front of national bookstore tapos sa may loob naman ng park square 1 yung Spectra, magkalapit lang sila ng location... :) :) :)
ah ok!.... ito yun malapit o katabi ng 5th ave. no comment regarding the store kasi dedma lang mga tao dun. busy sila kakakwentuhan. hehehe.....
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never been to spectra & AVSurfer. saan to?
brod, sa may park square 1 makati tong Spectra and AVSurfer. AVSurfer is in front of national bookstore tapos sa may loob naman ng park square 1 yung Spectra, magkalapit lang sila ng location... :) :) :)
ah ok!.... ito yun malapit o katabi ng 5th ave. no comment regarding the store kasi dedma lang mga tao dun. busy sila kakakwentuhan. hehehe.....
Guys,
Are u talking about Spectra? Well..all i can say is ayos na ayos sila kausap..including the Owner..naka kwentuhan ko pa nga yung may ari eh..
Jim, the technical guy is ayos na ayos...explain nya sa iyo lahat. i was there last sunday from 11 am hanggang 3:30 tambay lang kwentuhan lang kami..napapagkamalan na nga ako nang mga tao dun na ako ang nagbebenta eh..tapos tanong nang tanong sila sa akin..umalis kasi si Jim dahil may sinervicesan.
After sale is also impressive....sabi nya sa akin na kung mag ka problema eh tawag lang or dalhin yung unit para ma test then kung may stock eh papalitan...
So kung pupunta kayo dun eh..hanapin nyo si Jim and sabihin nyo na member kayo nang pinoydvd. Yan ang kagalingan nang pinoydvd member..
I also told them my story about the Listening room at napatawa lang yung Owner nang spectra..which i think is also good para hindi mangyari sa kanila yun at ma entertain nang ayus ang customer...
Try visiting them...and ull know what i mean..lalo na kung pinoydvd member ka...hindi ko sila inaadvertise..natutuwa lang kasi ako sa mga stores na ayus mag entertain nang customer..na kahit nag iinquire lang at hindi bibili eh entertain na entertain.. :)
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Just like to know what can you say about Sales staff of Spectra and AVSurfer store....I need your comment so that they could served you better
First off, thanks for bringing in NAD. The local market I think can realy benefit from good quality, entry and mid level gear.
Are you the authorized NAD distributor now? I'm a NAD lover but after-sales service can be a pain in the *ss.
Your listening room at Rockwell is good. But there is no such thing at Park Square. Do you guys run the Sony room over at Anson's?
One complaint I have about Sony in the Philippines is pricing on camcorders. Sobrang layo vs. what you can get the same thing at www.bhphotovideo.com. What's killing the industry, taxes?
Your salesmen can use a lot more technical knowledge. When I went around shopping for a camcorder, it was very difficult for me to understand what one model's advantages were over the next higher model. The salesmen weren't of any help. Basta for them, mas mahal, mas maganda.
I had to do a lot of surfing on the net to understand what it is I'm spending several tens of thousands of pesos for. And it turns out that a lot of the higher end camcorders actually charge a lot of premium for the digital still image capture capabilities--no benefit to video at all unless you get to the 3CCD models. Unfortunately, the premium is often more than the cost of a very good digital dedicated still camera!
Your store over at the new Greenbelt is cool as I get to touch all the goodies.
It'd be nice if you can have printouts of product reviews you can show customers browsing your goods.
If you guys also do Sony, I hope to see more of the ES series. I do hope you fix the pricing though. The 9000ES DVD/SACD player for instance is already being sold low abroad but is still a solid PhP99k here last time I looked!
I'm also glad to see Klipsch. In many instances, the speakers are displayed but not connected to anything. People spending that much on a Klipsch speaker aren't likely to buy just by looking.
Also, those Klipsch are high sensitivity horn speakers. How come there are no flea powered tube amps to drive them?
O, ang haba na nito. Kung dagdagan ko pa, mag-cha-charge na ako ng consultation fee! :D
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If you guys also do Sony, I hope to see more of the ES series. I do hope you fix the pricing though. The 9000ES DVD/SACD player for instance is already being sold low abroad but is still a solid PhP99k here last time I looked!
Oo nga. The Power Plant store quoted 99k for the new Sony 999ES, which has a list price of $1100 in the States, and a street price of about $800+.
Many local distributors are able to price gear near the retail price in the US. Hope you can do the same here. I imagine you could make it up in higher sales volumes. At any rate, the 999ES price is unreasonable.
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Hey dudes,
Just like to know what can you say about Sales staff of Spectra and AVSurfer store....I need your comment so that they could served you better
spectra...i would say that i'm quite happy with the way they entertained my questions. however, i think there still room for improvement. why settle for good if you can be better? but overall, its thumbs up for me.
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one thing that i am really curious about is, How come most of the storekeepers of AV shops act so arrogant? What gives? so far they are the most annoying lot i have encountered in any kind of store i have been to. for some reason these "bantays" are even worse than the owners, who are actually usually very nice people. so far i have only encountered two annoying know it all AV store owners.
why cant these fools be like the guys from Archi. audio or rene of hyperaudio? probably the lack of breeding i guess.
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I would like to put in my two cents too. I just came from The Home Theater today. I was there around 5pm and there were a couple of guys auditioning DTX speakers with a Marantz 4300. I was standing watching them, trying to look around at the stuff available, and to my surprise.... not one single sales staff approached me. I didn't even know who was who from customer to sales staff cuz they were all so busy minding each other. It was my first time there and I don't think I'd like to go back. The only time I got any response from anyone was when I went out of my way to approach the guy who was changing the discs that they were auditioning. The guy didn't even bother to ask me any questions. He just gave me a simple reply to my question (which is how I figured out they were auditioning the Marantz). I went out for a few minutes to make a call, went back in, and still noone came over to ask me if I needed any assistance. I guess you can say I was disappointed. Oh well....
As for the other stores out there... There aren't a whole lot of stores with good service. I agree that Architectural Audio has good service, nice guys. Upscale has good service too if you talk to the right guy, if not.... well. Spectra, so-so service, can't complain but nothing to rave about either. Listening in Style... they did give me time to audition the dyns but not too attentive. Sight and Sound... kinda like the service you get at Abenson or shops like that.
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i think the only way to get the attention of these fools is to wave a wad of P1000 bills upon entering the store so they will think na you are a serious buyer.
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I don't think that'll even do it. Some stores even have a tendency of being clique-ish. They don't mind you unless they know you... which sucks.
I'd like to propose a test to you guys. I've been thinking about the special treatment we get at stores as pinoydvd members. I wanna know if it is the case or not. Do we get special treatment as members because they know right off that we are serious about home theater. What if we enter these stores without them knowing we are members. Will they still treat us the same?
If the only basis for our being treated well is cuz we are members, then that doesn't say much for the stores. What about other people who go to these stores... how are they treated?
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I would like to put in my two cents too. I just came from The Home Theater today. I was there around 5pm and there were a couple of guys auditioning DTX speakers with a Marantz 4300. I was standing watching them, trying to look around at the stuff available, and to my surprise.... not one single sales staff approached me. I didn't even know who was who from customer to sales staff cuz they were all so busy minding each other. It was my first time there and I don't think I'd like to go back. The only time I got any response from anyone was when I went out of my way to approach the guy who was changing the discs that they were auditioning. The guy didn't even bother to ask me any questions. He just gave me a simple reply to my question (which is how I figured out they were auditioning the Marantz). I went out for a few minutes to make a call, went back in, and still noone came over to ask me if I needed any assistance. I guess you can say I was disappointed. Oh well....
As for the other stores out there... There aren't a whole lot of stores with good service. I agree that Architectural Audio has good service, nice guys. Upscale has good service too if you talk to the right guy, if not.... well. Spectra, so-so service, can't complain but nothing to rave about either. Listening in Style... they did give me time to audition the dyns but not too attentive. Sight and Sound... kinda like the service you get at Abenson or shops like that.
Bro,
I'm the one who answered You and also a customer of Home Theater. The owner of the store was not there when You arrived.
Also, I don't think P1000 bills is not enough to get our attention coz kulang pa yang pambili ng isang DVD ;)
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Just like to know what can you say about Sales staff of Spectra and AVSurfer store....I need your comment so that they could served you better
First off, thanks for bringing in NAD. The local market I think can realy benefit from good quality, entry and mid level gear.
Are you the authorized NAD distributor now? I'm a NAD lover but after-sales service can be a pain in the *ss.
Your listening room at Rockwell is good. But there is no such thing at Park Square. Do you guys run the Sony room over at Anson's?
One complaint I have about Sony in the Philippines is pricing on camcorders. Sobrang layo vs. what you can get the same thing at www.bhphotovideo.com. What's killing the industry, taxes?
Your salesmen can use a lot more technical knowledge. When I went around shopping for a camcorder, it was very difficult for me to understand what one model's advantages were over the next higher model. The salesmen weren't of any help. Basta for them, mas mahal, mas maganda.
I had to do a lot of surfing on the net to understand what it is I'm spending several tens of thousands of pesos for. And it turns out that a lot of the higher end camcorders actually charge a lot of premium for the digital still image capture capabilities--no benefit to video at all unless you get to the 3CCD models. Unfortunately, the premium is often more than the cost of a very good digital dedicated still camera!
Your store over at the new Greenbelt is cool as I get to touch all the goodies.
It'd be nice if you can have printouts of product reviews you can show customers browsing your goods.
If you guys also do Sony, I hope to see more of the ES series. I do hope you fix the pricing though. The 9000ES DVD/SACD player for instance is already being sold low abroad but is still a solid PhP99k here last time I looked!
I'm also glad to see Klipsch. In many instances, the speakers are displayed but not connected to anything. People spending that much on a Klipsch speaker aren't likely to buy just by looking.
Also, those Klipsch are high sensitivity horn speakers. How come there are no flea powered tube amps to drive them?
O, ang haba na nito. Kung dagdagan ko pa, mag-cha-charge na ako ng consultation fee! :D
Thanks for your comment regarding our dealers (AVSurfer and Spectra). It would help us correcting their sales staff attitude. Right now we are trying to influence SPECTRA to have a bigger area for auditioning. Medyo sa liit ng space nila, customer has a hard time auditioning the audio equipment.
In terms of NAD, we are the distributor and it will be back-up by warranty. Servicing of NAD was part of the deal in getting the distributorship thus, we assured you that we are capable of servicing those units.
In regards to SONY pricing, we will forward your comment to them, since they are quite independent from us and they are the one who dictates it.
Currently, we are break-in some Klipsch speakers, so that by the time they are already put in the store as a display and customer wants to hear it, they can easily ask the Sales staff. The home theater in some AVSurfer store have banana plug for easily pluging it in. Most of the time also, in certain month, we tend to highlight a particular model.
If you have further comments, we welcome receiving them. We want it to hear from you since we want this dealer be a great service to your needs.
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My experience while auditioning and buying at Spectra is simple feeling nun small sales guy di ako bibili at feeling niya alam niya lahat ng techical aspect which I feel na 50% knowledge lang
When I ask if I can audition the NAD and DEnon amp he told me that SIR KUKUNIN KO PA YAN SA SHELVED... so I answered SYEMPRE paano ko maririnig pre :) parang dating nya sarcastic so as he setup the NAD amp I requested if he can use mission m73 he said yes after the audition I ask for the price he said 24,5K daw so I asked for discount he start computing tapos he said some amount... ito good part mga sir nun sabi ko kung pwede 23k sabay hawak sa wallet and told him kung 23k kunin ko na saka lang I feel na naging maamong sales person sya hehehehe.. tapos mabait na sya kasi I bought the unit.. ;D :D ;D
Ok yun owner ng Spectra kasi he gave me good discount hehehehe ;D ;D ;D
Henry
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This is another story involving that kalbo guy in mega (ayaw pa rin sabihin yung pangalan no kahit na sinabi na ni rtsy)...
About 4 years ago, my wife (well, girlfriend back then) wanted to give me a pair of entry-level bookshelf speakers as a surprise Christmas gift (okay wife ko no? sya pa nam-bi sa akin sa hobby na to ;D). So she went there and asked if there were any good bookshelf speakers under Php10k. You know what that guy told her? "Sa iba ka na lang maghanap, kung gusto mo, kable na lang bilhin mo" and dismissed her as if she were a beggar out in the streets. I don't know if he was just being brutally frank, or he said it half-jokingly. And fine, that may have been true but c'mon, is that how you would answer a potential buyer? He could have just said "sorry ho, we don't have anything in that price range but you may want to hear these..." It wasn't just the words, it's how he said that line. Sheesh...all i can say is -- what an as***le. And you thought he would have been kinder to women....naaaaaaah.
... so you see, if i win the lotto, i'll buy everything in his store and then burn it in front of him... just to show him how pathetic he is and his store. well, that's just me... nobody treats my wife that way. >:(
I hope he reads this thread just to give him an idea how much business he is losing just because he's such an as***le. Or is he that arrogant to ignore even this forum? who knows?
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Pag pumunta kayo nang Spectra hanapin nyo si Jim..mabait yun and he'll surely help u out..
Nandun ako kahapon at wala lang kwentuhan lang..tapos pinag A & B namin ang Harman 5500 at NAD T752 Using Klispch speakers guess who is the winner..ehehehehehehe :) ;)
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Bro,
I'm the one who answered You and also a customer of Home Theater. The owner of the store was not there when You arrived.
Thanks for helping out Marckd1. So I was right when I didn't know who the owner was from the customers kasi puros customer pala kayo. Hehehe. Kaya pala walang service. Maybe I'll give the shop another shot, considering the fact that there was no sales guy there at the time... correct?
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Hi Bundy,
Yeah, it's worth giving the shop another shot. :)
I visit HT from time to time doing nothing, just lingering around (malapit kasi office namin sa shop). Might drop by later, palipas oras kasi color coding.
Ok na tao yan si Sonny, you should have a clue by now - imagine, he's very comfortable leaving his equipments to auditioning customers, what a trust.
I believe people should hear this (my experience with Sonny) -
Last year, when i'm upgrading my speakers, the same day after i've confirmed my order (and his order to supplier), I cancelled them. Why? Well, simply I was offered a cheaper option (very cheap talaga). Of course, I was really hesitant to do that, in fairness to him. To make the story short, The purchase was cancelled and not a single word or sign of resentment from him.
Yeah bro, give it another shot. :)
Cheers!!!
Compaq
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Hi Bundy,
Yeah, it's worth giving the shop another shot. :)
I visit HT from time to time doing nothing, just lingering around (malapit kasi office namin sa shop). Might drop by later, palipas oras kasi color coding.
Ok na tao yan si Sonny, you should have a clue by now - imagine, he's very comfortable leaving his equipments to auditioning customers, what a trust.
I believe people should here this (my experience with Sonny) -
Last year, when i'm upgrading my speakers, the same day after i've confirmed my order (and his order to supplier), I cancelled them. Why? Well, simply I was offered a cheaper option (very cheap talaga). Of course, I was really hesitant to do that, in fairness to him. To make the story short, The purchase was cancelled and not a single word or sign of resentment from him.
Yeah bro, give it another shot. :)
Cheers!!!
Compaq
Pare nangyari na rin sa akin yan..i was about to order the Marantz 6300. Na confirm ko na and he called his supplier tapos mag dedeliver na sana tapos pina cancel ko rin nung hapon. Sonny is really nice considering na hindi pa kami nagkikita..he even called me sa cell ko..just to explain things about the marantz...ayos na ayus..mabait.. :)
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Bro,
I'm the one who answered You and also a customer of Home Theater. The owner of the store was not there when You arrived.
Thanks for helping out Marckd1. So I was right when I didn't know who the owner was from the customers kasi puros customer pala kayo. Hehehe. Kaya pala walang service. Maybe I'll give the shop another shot, considering the fact that there was no sales guy there at the time... correct?
No problem bro. Next time sana before You make a conclusion, be sure to ask or approach someone. I can accomodate You naman, If You only asked. ;)
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i still believe that 90% of local stores are manned by pompous fools who dont really know what they are talking about. good that there are still those 3 or 4 stores that you can actually do business at
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i still believe that 90% of local stores are manned by pompous fools who dont really know what they are talking about. good that there are still those 3 or 4 stores that you can actually do business at
3 stores lang? parang alam ko na iyung tatlong stores na sinasabi mo ha. all located in the heart of makati. hehehehe tama ba ako pre? ;D
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I've dealt with Sonny for quite a while now and I never really had any complaints with the guy.
Well at least now you know he wasn't there when you came in. But from my experience anyway most of his regulars are more than willing to help anybody out :)
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No problem bro. Next time sana before You make a conclusion, be sure to ask or approach someone. I can accomodate You naman, If You only asked.
I did ask... I asked you. But otherwise, my conclusion was fair. First impressions make up a lot for a good store experience. I own a store, its my job to know that.
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Anyway, this will served as a lessons not just to HT but to other store owners. And also, complaint like this can help them improve their service to customers like us. 8)
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I have already referred four of my officemates to the shop of Sonny Tuason and they have bought various equipment from him. All their comments about him were the same as mine: superb.
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Mr Sonny Tuazon ok na ok yan just bought my speaker at his store.. very accomodating yan si Mr Sonny.. more power sir!!
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My complete home theater set-up ay galing lahat kay Sonny Tuazon at terms pa. Pirma lang dala ko na unit ;D
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You can try also Hyperaudio. Very good services
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You can try also Hyperaudio. Very good services
got bulk of my set up from him. good guy and is one of the few i mentioned ;D
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ano name ng store dun sa Shangri-la na dealer ata sila ng B&W.
dun ko binili buong set ng HT ko.
(kasi sila lang ang nag-entertain sa akin kahit naka shorts/ tsinelas lang ako) ;D
trust me..di kayo mapapahiya ;)
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ano name ng store dun sa Shangri-la na dealer ata sila ng B&W.
dun ko binili buong set ng HT ko.
(kasi sila lang ang nag-entertain sa akin kahit naka shorts/ tsinelas lang ako) ;D
trust me..di kayo mapapahiya ;)
don't know kung sights and sounds iyung tinutukoy mo. i've been there once at ok naman sila. why don't you post your experience dun sa mga store na di ka naentertain mabuti. :)
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enygma,
low profile lang me ;D
may barkada kasi ako(family friend).kadikit niya si jr.(paano di magiging-kadikit eh bumili ba naman ng barco cine7).nung pumunta ako sa listening in style di rin ako masyadong na entertain.(parang walang kagana-gana ba).yes or no lang ang sagot lagi >:(
aba!..nung binanggit ko yung pangalan nung barkada ko nataranta na..hayyy(style na talaga ng pinoy yung name tag na yan).
sa akin naman kasi..basta ok kang kausap.di ko rin naman kailangan vip treatment.
sayang gumastos ako ng P300+ yung araw na yun. :P
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nung binanggit ko yung pangalan nung barkada ko nataranta na..hayyy(style na talaga ng pinoy yung name tag na yan).
sinabi mo pa. hehehe di na yata maaalis iyung ganong ugali. matinding set-up yata ang nabili mo ha. naipost mo na ba ito doon sa kabilang thread? ???
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enygma,
pre next month uuwi ako..nasa pinas yung mga pics ng HT ko ;D..(yun nga lang..walang kalaman-laman yung room).
yung DVD player / Reciever nakapatong lang sa box ng sub ko.. ;D..tagilid na nga eh. :P
opsss..OT na ito..sensya na.
baka send ko na lang kay sir Levi ;)pwede?
sori po
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no problem but please remove the sir and po. Bata pa ako.
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I guess that's the reality in most local stores.
Very few really treat you right if you're a walk-in customer. In my experience, such stores are Hyperaudio's, Audio Visual Driver, Architectural Audio, and Sonny Tuason's Home Theater.
The others, you basically need to either have a history of a past purchase or a friend with a history of a past purchase.
Sigh.
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naalala ko pa nung nasa pinas pa ako, bago ako pumunta sa mga HT shop e tina-timing kong nasa dayshift ako para naka long-sleeves and tie ako or naka-barong para ma-entertain man lang o get a decent answer and not just yes or no. meron din namang mababait tulad nung yamaha sa ground floor sa megamall, yung shop sa shangrila na malapit sa timberland. usually i would go out to the malls as comfortable as i can (shorts, tshirt & birkies -dahil mainit nga) ewan ko ba, may pambili naman ako pero some people judge by the way we look. kaya nga tinabangan ako at halos lahat ng HT gears ko noon e mostly either pinabibili ko sa misis ko pag pinapupunta sya ng company sa singapore o galing sa buy n sell. here in melbourne is very different, minsan nga galing pa ako ng palengke with all my pinamili e talagang fully entertained ka kahit nagtatanong ka lang at mas lalo na pag nakabili ka na sa kanila kahit kable man lang. i guess some shops there should improve on their customer service because their business will die without customers.
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talagang fully entertained ka kahit nagtatanong ka lang at mas lalo na pag nakabili ka na sa kanila kahit kable man lang.
ganun din dito!(Taiwan)..sabihin pa sa iyo.bumili ka or hindi okey lang kuwentuhan lang tayo.tutal pareho naman ang interest natin sa a/v. galing!
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naalala ko pa pala..minsan kasama ko barkada ko..
nakatayo lang kami sa labas ng store.nung nakita kami ng
owner ng store.lumabas at sabi sa amin.
ang A/V hindi tinititigan yan..pinapakinggan yan at dun tayo sa loob mainit dito sa labas ;D
itong barkada nahiya pa (wala naman daw siyang bibilhin)
sagot ko sa kanya"pre, kahit di tayo mukhang mayaman.Wala na tayo sa Pinas.di tayo ma-i-small dito" ;D
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Piling pili lang talaga ang maayos na store dito sa pinas
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bump
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got a day off yesterday and decided to finally audition the focus audio speakers at AVDI. but before that i dropped by megamall - ceratec and was pleasantly surprised. the owner of the store who was really snobbish before is very accomodating and gave me a demo of the speakers and cd's in his store. We had a long talk on audio and he was very helpful. i don't know what happened but he sure did improve a lot.
next, i went to AVDI and it also surprised me as i got a not so good treatment down there. ( i've been there many times and everytime is ok) i asked to have a listen to the FS688 but unfortunately, the speaker is on loan to a customer for a home demo. So i asked if i can just listen to the bigger fs788 model as they share the same drivers so i can get a glimpse of the audio quality as i am really interested in the brand. anyway the guy set-up the speakers and turned on the system. i immediately noticed that the image is on the extreme left, beside the speaker so i told him to change the cd as it might be the recording. so he played the diana krall cd and still the same. i told him that there is still something wrong and but he just told me that anyway you just want to listen so now there it is. then another customer came in and want to demo the energy speakers. i was told that another customer will need to listen to a new setup. wow! i really dont know what happened to the people there! maybe they are thinking that i am just a nuisance in that place and i will not buy anything. well it is also good for me as can cross out those models they are carrying and make my search easier.
it is still early so i decided to drop by architectural audio to brighten up my day. the people there are really very accomodating and i was able to listen to the infamous red rose spirit speakers. these speakers are really in a class of it's own. very tempting.
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Good experiences naman...
An in-law's Rotel RA931mkII developed problems and I was asked to help. Did some basic trouble shooting myself then agreed the integrated was broken. Took it to Hyperaudio on a Sunday. Car-less Monday so went back Tuesday. Unit was ready and charge was less than what a CD costs. Plugged it at home and played it for hours, works perfectly again. Thanks Hyperaudio!
While I was troubleshooting the Rotel, I accidentally plugged the 110v 25" flat screen Toshiba to 220v. Stupid me! The TV smoked and it was a Sunday so I wondered who'll service it.
Called Listening Room Megamall where I bought it. I was asking Minnie where I can send the TV on a Sunday for service. She says their tech guy was servicing another client in Iloilo (naks, jetsetting tech guy!) but if I can wait another day, they'd send the tech guy for home service the next day.
I got the number of the tech guy. Minnie has briefed him of my problem when the tech guy and I talked and we agreed on the time he'll come over! Guess what, he was on time--very rare in the Philippines!
He opened the TV, took some parts, nilinisan pa. In a few hours, ayos na! Charge was less than what many of us would pay for an interconnect. TV worked as new since!
Kudos to both Hypertriode and Listening Room, keep up the good work!
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i couldnt agree more rsty. i just had my dvd player serviced just a quickie since i was really in a hurry to catch the Matrix reloaded at rockwell. Got to Hypertriodes place at 12 noon. Got several cds and chatted a while with THE MAN himself while upgrading someone elses 300B power amp. 10 minutes flat it was ok and for about 750 got 3 cds including parts and labor. It doesnt get any better than that, Bravo Jerome and Rene! ;D
Minnie is just the same an entrepreneurs dream secretary! She for me is a perfect example of being professional despite the magnitude of customers visiting Listening Room, one can get a quick chat with her and be satisfied. Ive referred several of my siblings to her for her excellent customer service! Bravo Minnie! ;D
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I'm not a whiner or anything but, I'll just give the facts, and you decide. ;)
Last February 2, 2002, my friend brought her Rotel Carousel CD Player at Upscale Audio - Park Square for repair. Up to this day, my friend has yet to receive her CDP in good working order :(
Earlier, the unit was given to her. But to her dismay, it went for a back-job, as the unit was not functioning properly. :( For the past few months Upscale has mentioned that the CDP is still under observation. :(
So, what do you think, am I considered a whiner? Facts lang diba? ;)
Well, this time, I want to Whine! ;D
Hey UPSCALE, seems to me that since our friend with a Bad A$$ Miata left your camp, your store has received quite a number of hits. Hmmmmm.... Seems to me that Mr. Miata was the only owner knowledgable about this thing called "Customer Service". ;)
Hey, don't get me wrong, I'm not accussing any of the salesladies and salesmen (I'm a lover not a fighter ;D). Its not right just to print this complaint (Is this complaint? No, its just what we call, constructive criticism ;D), show it to the staff, and scold them. Wrong move my boy? Ever heard of the phrase "Command Responsibility"? ;D
Gosh! >:( Given all the competition, its only Upscale where the store owner is not present in the store. Why? Playing golf too much? Mr. Miata did play golf. But at least he had time for us customers! ;)
This is not the early 90s no more when Upscale was still the only "true" audio store. Look around my friend, you have lots of competition. The least you could do is be more hands-on. ;) Try to mingle more with your customers, go down to earth, so to speak. ;) We won't bite. ;D
So, am I a whiner? ::)
It's a pity we don't see Mr. Miata at Upscale anymore. :(
Ooops, sorry, Mr. Volvo na pala! ;D
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It's a pity we don't see Mr. Miate at Upscale anymore. :(
Ooops, sorry, Mr. Volvo na pala! ;D
With Dynaudios as stock speakers in the Volvo, M Shoe Maker. :D
Don't forget to mention the motorbikes. :D
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I think that the biggest change that the stores face has been caused by the Internet. What I mean is, the average walk-in guy is now much more knowledgeable than almost any store sales guy. This has raised expectations, made the sales guys insecure, made their and their stores' deficiencies more apparent, and so forth. The sales guy is almost now only relied on to tell us about price and availability.
And it's not just in the Phils. either. Walk into a Best Buy in the US and sure, you get a lot better "smiling" and "being nice" kind of customer service than we get here, but those guys can't really tell you anything you don't know. So it's not just the attitude, it's the knowledge, or lack thereof.
The local guys that do well in customer service tend to be more than friendly. They tend to have more knowledge and experience than the average buyer, plus are open-minded enough to listen, observe, and learn. Rene R and Sonny T would be good examples. JR, too, when he's not too busy. The fact that I cite store owners is no coincidence, too.
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^ Best Buy employees just want you to get the store credit card. and buy anything from them.
they;re the crappiest of all the places that sells electronics.
they're only useful for buying dvd (1st week of release, loss leader!) and music cds.
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Hi shoe maker and rtsy,
There are two things I believe every retail store must posses:
1) Good and honest selling skills. (Proper advice a friend could offer)
2) And after sales service which is a must.
Now depending on the array of products the store sells... price will be the 3rd most important factor.
Well that was at least the principles we adhered to at the time. ;)
And guys, its a 2-wheeled BMW now. ;D
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Kimi Raikkonen on a BMW motorcycle?
Interesting... :)
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Hi shoe maker and rtsy,
There are two things I believe every retail store must posses:
1) Good and honest selling skills. (Proper advice a friend could offer)
2) And after sales service which is a must.
Now depending on the array of products the store sells... price will be the 3rd most important factor.
Well that was at least the principles we adhered to at the time. ;)
And guys, its a 2-wheeled BMW now. ;D
Are you who I'm supposed to think you are? Welcome on board, NEWBIE!
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Went projector & screen hunting and it's pretty frustrating talkin to sales people in Park Square 1 (except for one store which I felt a bit of respect). What I felt frustrated about is that these salesmen seem not to want to make a sale. When I ask for a certain screen dimension they said they don't have it. If you ask if they can order for it they say no....
Like... what the hell???? Do they want to make money or sit on there collective bums waiting for a sucker customer who'll just buy what's available.
The funniest thing happend in this store right beside Odyssey which sold projectors but not screens... It makes me wonder how these jokers stay in business which such attitudes.
Grrr... I hope Shangri La isn't as bad as they are... *sigh*
Sometimes when I really feel frustrated I might even trip on the salesman and give his boss an ear full on what customer service is.
You never say "no" to the customer. If it's not available the salesman should make it "available" even if he has to move heaven and earth. It's downright shameful that they do not realize that these hard times and it's rare to find customers. Most people would buy from the big chains and ignore the specialized AV shops as they perceive these places as too rich for there blood.
I guess another reason they gave me hard time is because I wasn't clean shaven, wearing a t-shirt with a cartoon character, shorts and sandals... but still you shouldn't treat your customers as if they're flies...
Of all animal of salesperson I hate are those who are indifferent.
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When I first went to Image Harrison, nobody really took the time to entertain me. They just entertain you if you ask a question to one of their salesmen.
But when I bought some stuff from them, everytime I go back to their store, they greet me. Is this true to the other shops? :-\
Actually my experience with Image is a bit more different. They didn't remember me but when they did... boy was I given a virtual welcome home party... Too bad they don't carry inFocus... I'd probably buy from them if they can beat the prices I've been seeing.
That reminds me does anyone know the phone number of Image?
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Dviant, from the directory of audio-video stores thread:
image video trading harrison plaza -- 522 3919
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bro. dviant,
i sense you're searching really for a projector...try mr. sonny tuazon at the home theater, tordesillas st., salcedo village, makati city...8125235...will give you the best price...contact him asap...tell him superman referred you...thanks! ;D
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bro. dviant,
...tell him superman referred you.....
hehe. ano kaya ang magiging reaction ng kausap nya kung hindi si mr. tuazon yung nandun.... ;) "superman?"
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I've visited a few of the stores we have and the stores i really like are sonny's home theater, architectural audio and amiel's store at makati cinema square in that order.
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hehe. ano kaya ang magiging reaction ng kausap nya kung hindi si mr. tuazon yung nandun.... ;) "superman?"
Malamang ang reaction niya " ah ok ako nga pala si spiderman " ;D
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my experience with audio stores are usually frustrating, mostly because nobody seems eager to make a sale.
i visited 5 audio stores at park square yesterday. one store took the time to entertain me (the one that sells the tube amps, forgot the name). reminds me of ambassador appliance in shangrila. its easy to buy stuff from the chinese manager/owner bcoz he doesn't put pressure on you and just lets you decide.
another store did entertain me, but i got the feeling the salesguy wasn't interested in selling to me. his minimal and uninformative answers gave me a feeling that he was rushing me out the door.
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I had a nice experience both at Golden Sound and Listening Room. A bad one at Sights and Sounds . . . . .
Last Xmas season 2002, I just happened to pass by SM Megamall on one of their regularly held midnight sales. I decided to browse inside Listening Room since I was canvassing also for a good but less pricy subwoofer. They had a demo outside on Yamaha Active Subs and one model attracted me. I inquired on this and the other lower priced model. I can't remember the name of the person who answered my querries but both Oliver (the owner) and that guy were very courteous in doing the demo as well. They were not in a rush and allowed me to chose between the two. One was at 10K and the other at 14k. With all the discussion, I was convinced to get the more expensive one. To sum it up, I was able to get a good explanation, a well-oriented demo and a reasonable discount and warranty (after that sale, they already sold that new model at 16K). And to add to their good customer service, even if their staff carried the unit all the way to the parking lot, the guy refused the tip I was giving him. His exact words, "Trabaho lang sir to. Okay lang." Now, how would you guys feel if the same incident happened to you? This is my reaction . . . :)
Between the period of January and April, I was considering of upgrading my DVD. I've visited a couple of stores even the tiangge at Greenhills and Quiapo. The models I've considered were Nextbase, Nexphil and Pioneer. When I went to Golden Sound Virra Mall last May 2003, I had all my troublesome DVDs and tested it with the Nextbase 9000, Nexphil and Pioneer DV-355. While browsing inside the store, I came across a new brand, Hyundai. Jimmy (the assistant there) was more than willing to try it as well. Considering I have 5 DVDs and 4 units to test, this was really a big favor to ask from Jimmy already. But nonetheless, Chris (the salesperson) and Jimmy were all smiles in explaining and doing the demo. They said I would be the first to buy this unit if ever. I was really going to buy the ever popular Nextbase already until it failed to play one of the DVD disc I brought along. In fairness with the Nextbase 9000, the Pioneer and Nexphil units also failed to deliver. Surprisingly, the Hyundai 560A never experienced a problem, delivering crisp sound and clear picture.
Anyway, in addition to the detailed demo, these people initially were even willing to let the Hyundai be taken first and if not satisfied, I can return it the following day and get the less expensive Nextbase unit. "Kasi nung una, they were not sure kung may PAL converter yung Hyundai." Now that's what I call TRUST!!!
They also enumerated the pros and cons between the Nextbase 9000 and Hyundai 560A as stated below:
Nextbase 9000
- cheaper
- confirmed with PAL converter
- with karaoke function
- well-known
- china
Hyundai 560A
- smaller unit and smaller remote
- progressive scan
- no karaoke
- korea
- PAL converter?
- more expensive
I ended up getting the Hyundai 560A since it has PAL converter after all and played ALL my DVD discs. Every cent I spent was really worth it!!!
8)
BY the way, Automatic Centre is already carrying the Hyundai Brand. They initially released the VCD Player and the low-end DVD player 260A. I have included the pics and specs of my Hyundai 560A here.
(http://www.hyundaicorp.co.kr/eng_hyundai/upload/prod/DVDA.gif)
* General Features & Specifications
[Features]
- Progressive Scan Technology incorporates(DVD-520A/DVD-560A)
- 5.1ch Dolby Digital/DTS Compatible (Analog/Digital out)
- Enhanced Graphic User Interface (GUI)
- Intelligent High Precision Driver (by DVS)
- Multi-Language display support (8~12max. Languages)
- High bitrated mini-DVD playback (up to 5Kbps)
- Instant Replay (10sec. Previous/Forward)
- Built-in Screen Saver/Auto Power Save
- High Speed Smooth Scan Forward/Reverse (x2,x4,x8,x16,x32 … up to x200 optional)
- Smooth Slow Motion Forward/Reverse(x1/2, x1/4, x1/8)
- Dynamic Zoom Control (1.3x/2x/4x screen navigator)
- Instant Freeze & Frame by Frame Search
- Angle View, Parental Lock & other DVD features
[General Specifications]
- Set dimension : 420(W) x 44(H) x 250(D)mm
- Weight : 2.5Kg(net)/3.5Kg(package gross)
- Power Requirements : Free Voltage, AC 100V~240V(50/60Hz)
[Connections]
- Downmixed Stereo L/R … (DVD-320A/DVD-520A)
- 5.1ch Analog … … … … … (DVD-560A)
- Composite Video
- S-Video
- Digital Coaxial
- Digital Optical … … … … (DVD-520A/DVD-560A)
- Component Video Y/Pb/Pr (DVD-520A/DVD-560A)
- Scart (EU version only)
To be continued na lang later yung Sights and Sounds . . . . .
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Let's go on with Sights and Sounds . . . . .
I went to Sights and Sound because Jun (the technical guy) was recommneded by my brother-in-law. Also, when I compared their price, their's was slightly lower by P500 to P800.
Anyway, I went their to purchase an AV Receiver. My choices were - Yamaha, Onkyo, Denon, Harman Kardon and Pioneer. I decided to settle for the Yamaha RXV-620. Everything went fine during the sales - Good orientation, Explicit Demo, Deal Closure. THE BAD EXPERIENCE STARTED WHEN I WENT BACK FOR REPAIR.
My unit suddenly lost power and unable to power-on. Since it was under warranty and I've only been using this for only a month, I didn't realize I would be experiencing any hassles. I left my unit for assessment. They told me to make a follow through after a week. After 1 week, I called up but they said it's still being assessed and they would call or text me asap. The next 2 weeks came and no advise came so I called already. It was to my disappointment that Jun relayed to me that I would shoulder 12 thousand pesos for the repair since the board was damaged by a rodent's urine. "Naihian daw ng daga." And because of this, the warranty cannot be applied. To my anger, I, of course, raised my issues and demanded that they have this fixed or replaced.
It took a couple of phone calls and visits from me and wife before they finally realize that I have a point. "Malay ko ba kung naihian yun during the two weeks I left my unit with them, di ba? Or maybe during its production pa lang. It was just one month. I always close the component cabinet to protect my sound system. Tsaka, just like any factory defect, yung mga daga eh beyond our control as well. All I was asking was a bit of consideration or if not a compromise. Imagine, 12 thousand bucks!!! "Para na rin ako bumili ng bago nun ah!"
So ok na. They accepted the warranty. The next problem was when my unit would be delivered at Shangri-La. "Naku, sa totoo lang, hindi nila pinaprioritize. Ang daming excuses. Hanggang sa tinanong ko na kung saan ang Service Center nila at ako na lang ang kukuha." Grabe talaga. I went to Yamaha Banawe, QC just to get my unit. And to add insult to injury, I noticed scratches on my unit which was not definitely there when I took it to Sights and Sounds. GRABE! GRABE! GRABE!
You know, I was suppose to buy a Sony Handycam also at Sights and Sounds. But after that incident, I decided not to go back and got my Videocam at Ambassador Appliances Shangri La instead.
Sights and Sounds, better not repeat this incident again. Your clientelle are high-end people belonging to the AB market. You are located at Shangri-La. So they only deserve the best treatment. I maybe only one customer and one loss. But remember, all your customers have friends, relatives and colleagues at work. Always remember this fact from hereon. . . . .
So guys/gals, how would you feel if you experienced this yourselves? Me. . . . . :'( :-\ :( >:(
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bad trip yan! thanks for the warning... i didn't have that problem when my dvd player zapped out like that. i bought it from ambassador appliances at shangrila. it took 2 weeks for me to get it back which was acceptable. when i got it it was shiny as new.
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Whoa. That's very unfair.
Just be careful next time.
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Thanks guys. Magaling lang ang Sights and Sounds sa Sales but not the "after sales". It's really disappointing.
???
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pre, grabe nga experience mo dyan. it's really very important for us guys in also considering where to buy and its after sales and service.
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bad trip yung nagkaroon ng scratches sa unit...
pero at least pumayag sila na-ishoulder yung problem ng receiver... di talaga covered yan kung ihi talaga ng daga ang cause. :'(
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Ako naman sa Abenson's CUBAO.
I went in the store and looked at the TVs they are selling then I approached the clerk and asked if they have AV receivers. To my delight he accompanied me to the isolated, right (comming in) part of the store and showed me all the Kenwood AVRs. I asked him if they carry other brands and he told me they only carry Kenwood. He also asked me what are the brands I consider. I told him Pioneer, Yamaha, or the Marantz.
This is what he said.
Clerk: PANGIT LAHAT YAN! Maganda itong Kenwood! Kaliga nito yung top of the line ng ONKYO, DENON, HK.
(not to put down Kenwwod owners or the like) :D
Me: Ah ganon ba? Ano ba features niyan?
Clerk: THX ultra, DD at DTS. 175w x 6. 25 thousand lang ito.
Me:Aba mura lang. Kumpleto pa.
Clerk:Oo nga, ano ba speakers mo?
Me: Wharferdale. :D
Clerk:Sus, wala namang kwenta yang Wharfedale! Palitan mo na. Ito maganda, Mordaunt-Short tapos Sub mo Ganz.
Me:O sige salamat...bye!
Haay. Wala naman akong gustong palabasin sa aking mga sinabi. Gusto ko lang malaman na ako'y lubusang nasaktan sa sinabi noong bwsit na salesman na iyon. Yun lang nakayanan ko eh, pasensya na. Hindi naman ako ganoon kayaman. Gusto ko lang maranasan ang lubos na kasiyahan na nararanasan ng iba dito sa PDVD.
Hindi na ako bumalik sa nasabing tindahan.
Pero mura yung AVR ng KENWOOD ha! ;D
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THE BAD EXPERIENCE STARTED WHEN I WENT BACK FOR REPAIR.
When you form a club of all Sights & Sounds after-sales "service" victims, sali ako. :D
Did you get to talk to the owner?
If not, consider yourself very lucky.
That guy is the type that would make criminals out of upright citizens due to sheer disgust from his unreasonableness, insensitivity, and sheer yabang. Para bang pasalamat ka at kinausap ka pa niya especially since nakuha na niya pera mo kapalit ng palpak na paninda.
Sayang, OK si Jun. Amo niya yung sumisira ng negosyo.
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Ako naman sa Abenson's CUBAO.
I went in the store and looked at the TVs they are selling then I approached the clerk and asked if they have AV receivers. To my delight he accompanied me to the isolated, right (comming in) part of the store and showed me all the Kenwood AVRs. I asked him if they carry other brands and he told me they only carry Kenwood. He also asked me what are the brands I consider. I told him Pioneer, Yamaha, or the Marantz.
This is what he said.
Clerk: PANGIT LAHAT YAN! Maganda itong Kenwood! Kaliga nito yung top of the line ng ONKYO, DENON, HK.
(not to put down Kenwwod owners or the like) :D
Me: Ah ganon ba? Ano ba features niyan?
Clerk: THX ultra, DD at DTS. 175w x 6. 25 thousand lang ito.
Me:Aba mura lang. Kumpleto pa.
Clerk:Oo nga, ano ba speakers mo?
Me: Wharferdale. :D
Clerk:Sus, wala namang kwenta yang Wharfedale! Palitan mo na. Ito maganda, Mordaunt-Short tapos Sub mo Ganz.
Me:O sige salamat...bye!
Haay. Wala naman akong gustong palabasin sa aking mga sinabi. Gusto ko lang malaman na ako'y lubusang nasaktan sa sinabi noong bwsit na salesman na iyon. Yun lang nakayanan ko eh, pasensya na. Hindi naman ako ganoon kayaman. Gusto ko lang maranasan ang lubos na kasiyahan na nararanasan ng iba dito sa PDVD.
Hindi na ako bumalik sa nasabing tindahan.
Pero mura yung AVR ng KENWOOD ha! ;D
Kung ganyan sa Abensons cubao, mas matindi dito sa Abensons lipa, nakaaway ko pa ang manager nila. Ita a long story but sa totoo lang the Aftersales service nang karamihan nang abensons sucks.
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poor service at abenson's? hmmm...i guess that's why a fellow at sony showroom in parksquare advised me to avoid buying from abenson's.
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I also had a bad experience at abenson robinsons manila coz wen i had my mini component down, i brought it there and one of the salesman told me that i should bring it directly to its service center. ganito ba talaga sa lahat ng abenson?
mahirap talaga kapag di maganda yung after sales service.
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I think it would be better if you will bring the unit directly to the service center. Abenson is only a retailer and they will just forward it to the service center. The problem with this is that it takes time before they can bring it or have it picked up. The more handling, the more risk to your unit getting more damaged. Just my 1 cent
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One of the favored store owners here told me once that the reason they started their business was because all the other stores they used to frequent did not know much about customer service.
In a sense, all these incompetence or inattentiveness (to put it mildly) is giving rise to a new generation of store owners who are more sensitive to our meager capabilities be it financial or technical.
So to put a positive spin on the current state of audio stores here , lets all thank the a**wipes that have prompted some of us to seek better service by being the ones to offer it... I guess here is where the evolution begins.
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When you form a club of all Sights & Sounds after-sales "service" victims, sali ako. :D
Did you get to talk to the owner?
If not, consider yourself very lucky.
That guy is the type that would make criminals out of upright citizens due to sheer disgust from his unreasonableness, insensitivity, and sheer yabang. Para bang pasalamat ka at kinausap ka pa niya especially since nakuha na niya pera mo kapalit ng palpak na paninda.
Sayang, OK si Jun. Amo niya yung sumisira ng negosyo.
Yes. Jun is ok. I have to agree with that.
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Yup, I agree. Si Jun madaling kausap. Very rare sa audio stores yung katulad niya na walang yabang, approachable at accomodating sa customers.
Siguro kasi pag expensive gear binebenta ng isang tao medyo tumataas ang ere. Either mailap sumagot at ayaw ka pag aksayahan ng panahon o condescending naman masyado. Ganyan experience ko usually eh dahil isa po akong budget seeker, maliit lang patong makukuha niyu saken hehe.
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Yes. Jun is ok. I have to agree with that.
is jun still connected with sights and sounds? parang kasi wala na sya doon lately.
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I wish the owners of Odyssey would educate their sales staff about the various audio formats available out there and those available overseas and only starting to be distributed in this country. In this regard, looks like the sales people at Sm and Landmark are better informed. I think this applies to remote branches especially.
When i asked a sales clerk if they have DVDA here at Odyseey SM Sucat, the clerks acted as if i came from the moon.
I hope they don't discriminate against class C and D markets like here in Sucat or Las Pinas where the sales clerks have no idea whatsover about DVDA and SACD. It appears they think the market in these areas are too poor to know about these new formats already available elsewhere.
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i think Odyssey only stock dvda in their bigger branches like festival mall and megamall. i've been to their branch in sucat, ATC and quad and they don't know/have DVDA's.
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i think Odyssey only stock dvda in their bigger branches like festival mall and megamall. i've been to their branch in sucat, ATC and quad and they don't know/have DVDA's.
I really don't mind if a branch doesn't carry this format. At least they're staff in that branch should know that they don't and not act dumb when asked about it.
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Looks like Music One at the Glorietta and Odyseey XL at Fetival only carries warner DVDAs. Tower Reords only has i think 6 DVD titles on its shelf. It still amuses me that even Odyssey stores in makati doesn't even know what DVDA is. Are there other stores carrying DVDAs from other labels?
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i think i saw some in megamall megamixx store (3rd level bldg a) but their price is 2x~3x of the dvda's sold in music one and oddysey.
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Mabisita nga one of these days.
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i saw dvdas also in astrovision landmark.....maybe 15 titles......... in megamixx i saw sacds/dvd...im planning to buy the ewf concert sacd for 1500...but still thinkin bout it kc ala pa ko sacd player.....anyway future investment lang hehehehehehehe 8)
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try at O music/video sa powerplant 3rd floor.. ;)
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i saw dvdas also in astrovision landmark.....maybe 15 titles......... in megamixx i saw sacds/dvd...im planning to buy the ewf concert sacd for 1500...but still thinkin bout it kc ala pa ko sacd player.....anyway future investment lang hehehehehehehe 8)
If not mistaken, an SACD can also be played on a CD player but only its PCM stereo track can be played. Ganun pala kamahal yung SACD.
I think there are even fewer shops that sell SACD than there are selling DVDAs.
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Hybrid SACDs can be played on CD players. Pure SACDs cannot be played on CD players.
Cheers.
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And I think ayang mga Pure SACD's ang nasa 1k to 2k price range.
Play it with Manufacturers who develope SACD's like SONY or PHILIPS SACD Players and VOILA!!
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Thoughts on Philippine audio stores?
ARCHI AUDIO the BEST!!!
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I agree with you mdsaint.
Whether you'll have to buy or just have to audition, everybody is very much welcome sa Archi.
No discrimination.
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my 2-cents...
recommended stores/contact persons:
1) the home theater (sonny tuazon)
2) architectural audio (nico and epoy)
3) matanzas audio kingdom ;D (rene rivo)
4) upscale audio - alabang branch
5) electronics depot - festival mall
6) mang rod (for tube amps)
7) mang jun reyes (rack, stands, etc.)
thanks! 8) ;D :D
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This is a little off topic but since we are all concerned with customer service let me share this story with you.
I heard that Bryston was offerring a 20 year warranty on their amps. Since i'm i the market for one i thought why not buy a used Bryston since i have a 20 year warranty to back me up.
To make sure that i can claim the warranty if the need arises i asked Bryston directly via e-mail. I was surprised to receive a very detailed explanation of their warranty policy within 12 hours of my original query. To sum, they will indeed honor the warranty without question for 20 years except if the unit is opened or tampered by a non Bryston dealer.
But what surprised me the most was that it was no less than Bryston's president who personally answered my e-mail. Is that customer service or what.
Bottom line. If the president of a company like Bryston can take the time out to answer my e-mail then the owner of the local stores (or their staff) have no right to be rude or unaccomodating to us their customers regardless of whether we've bought from there before or not, regardless of whether we ask stupid or mundane questions and regardless if we look like we cant afford it ot not.
Hammann- from the facts that you presented that Ybanez guy had no right to shout at you, period.
The sleazy, arrogant, mayabang and nang-a-assess na sales people they have no place in this business. If you are not entertained or are looked down upon by any sales rep tell that person off, he had it coming anyway. Better yet report htme to the owner it'll pile up and that sales rep will eventually have no work at all.
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Hi Alfa,
Good experience you have there with a company president. Either he really practices being in touch with his market or, baka na cancel yung golf niya at wala lang magawa at that time, hehe ;D
You're absolute right. Whether salemen, receptionists, whoever, no one has the right to be rude to anyone. Even thieves can be polite (like when they nicely ask for your wallet or they kill you).
But sometimes. it can be the fault or oversight of the customer. Like one time, i was asking some specs on a product and the saleman wasn't a bit interested in entertaining me. But he was suddently all ears to another gentlemen dressed in formal office wear. I realize i was wearing shorts and sandals and must have appeared of no financial means to the salesman. Oh well, so i left. Ok lang, hindi naman talaga ako bibili pa. Lesson: wear your best or something more decent than usual when shopping. Right?
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... I realize i was wearing shorts and sandals and must have appeared of no financial means to the salesman. Oh well, so i left. Ok lang, hindi naman talaga ako bibili pa. Lesson: wear your best or something more decent than usual when shopping. Right?
kaya pala madalas, walang umaasikaso sa akin... ;D imho, good customer service should be afforded to all - ke naka-coat & tie o mukhang di naligo. dapat walang discrimination...
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kaya pala madalas, walang umaasikaso sa akin... ;D imho, good customer service should be afforded to all - ke naka-coat & tie o mukhang di naligo. dapat walang discrimination...
Dapat...that's ideal. But in the real world, external looks and packaging count a lot. Often more than they deserve.
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Dapat...that's ideal. But in the real world, external looks and packaging count a lot. Often more than they deserve.
yup, you're right. kaya ako, i go to shops that will not look at my dirty tevas but on the business that i can bring them. ;)
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Thoughts on Philippine audio stores?
ARCHI AUDIO the BEST!!!
I agree!!! I went to Archi Audio together with my officemates to ask about the price of their tube amp. When we arrived, Nico was there to entertain us. We asked for the price of the TSAudio tube amp. Then he asked us a question, "narinig nyo na ba to?" (referring to the tube amp.) We said, "no." Before even answering all of our questions, he quickly set-up the amp, paired it with Monitor Audio speakers, then played a CD. We were amazed!!! The TSAudio tube amp spoke for itself!!! Now that's what I call SELLING!!! 8)
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On a whim, I went to Audiophile San Marcelino on my way home at about 6:30 tonight. I wasn't looking for anything in particular. I just thought I'd check the place out and find out if they have anything interesting. I was browsing for about 20 minutes and none of the half a dozen personnel or so went through the trouble of approaching me to ask if they could be of help.
Finally, I decided to ask this guy who was sitting behind a desk and obviously making a personal call on the store phone. He hung up right away when he saw that I was waiting for him. So, I told him that I wanted to see his connectors, He brings me to this cabinet and shows me some really low-end stuff. He thought I was looking for RCA cables for interconnects. However, I asked to look at some old stock Quantum bananas. He then tells me, rather exasperratingly, that these were banana plugs, and not RCAs. I felt like telling him: of course these are bananas, how stupid do you think I am? And since he wanted to show me the RCAs anyway, I asked him if he had any good audio interconnects.
So he leads me to another cabinet and shows me an old, worn-out (read: opened package) of a pair of Monster Interlink 200s. Also, a pair of US Audio Pros, which I frown upon. He then tells me that he's not sure if the Monsters still work. He connects them to the audio set-up that was near by, and in the process, one of the connectors gets plucked out of the cable. I told him to forget it, as he had the gall to sell me defective stuff.
In any case, I ask him if he had any good cables for custom-making. By this time, I think that he sensed that I wasn't going to be buying anything (but don't blame me....his merchandise was terrible), and all of a sudden he became lazy enough to just lead me to a part of the store where the cables were displayed. He didn't care to explain any of the cables to me. He just pointed out two Japanese made spools of wire. Obviously, he was no longer interested in helping out a potential customer. He turned his attention elsewhere. He turned his back on me and started making small talk with the other sales people in the store. He probably would have left his post if I didn't sternly ask him a couple more questions, to which he had no eager answers. What a jackass he turned out to be.
Good thing I didn't get his name. Or his manager would have heard from me.
The only saving grace of this overrated store was the security guard, who took the effort in helping me back out from a very cramped parking space onto a terribly busy San Marcelino.
As I left, I thought to myself. I had visited this store several times in the past (a couple of years ago), particularly when I was setting up my audio system. Now I remember why I never bought anything from Audiophile. The salesmanship sucks. I'll take my business elsewhere anytime.
I wasted a whole hour tonight.
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Luckily, di pa naman ako binabastos ng kahit anong audio store. If you have the chance to talk to the owners better, kasi you can really expect them to show all their wares, and a demo too. :)
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i had a bad experience yesterday in one of the store in makati. >:(. actually they did it twice when i went there! my first experience is to audition a speaker. Wala man lang >:(pumapansin sa akin. I ask one of the staff how much is the speaker and sagot sa akin hindi ako alam eh. Then she ask this guy how much is the speaker and told me the price na pasigaw kasi medyo malayo sya sa akin. I was supposed to audition the speaker but the guy is busy doing something eh ako lang naman ang customer that time sa inis ko umalis na lang ako then yesterday nagpunta ulit ako to buy the speaker. Pinarinig naman sa akin yung speaker pero bago nya na setup ang sabi nya pa sa akin “kung hindi mo kukunin wag na lang natin I-test” habang nakikinig ako may mga tinatanong ako sa kanya hindi sya sumasagot and text lang sya ng text. Then nag ask ako kung may maalok pa sya sa akin na ibang speaker wala na daw. Nagpa compute na ako kung magkano yung babayaran kasi I will be using my credit card. So sobrang inis hindi ko na lang kinuha yung speaker. Buti na lang medyo cool pa ako kung hindi na mura ko na yung salesman. Dapat sa mga ganyang store MAGSARA NA KAYO! >:(
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A SOP for me now when I experience incredibly bad service in any store is to ask for the salesperson's name and then ask to see the manager. If the manager is also of the same ilk as the rude salesperson that is my cue to leave the store and seek redress from others (i.e., mall management, owner etc.). You would be doing the members here a service by posting the name of the store and the salesperson's name .
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kaya ako - mas gusto ko pa minsan bumili ng 2nd hand, at least masarap kausap yung binibilhan mo.
pag nakatapat ka kasi ng buwisit na salesman, parang ayaw mo bitawan yung pera mo - considering hindi lang barya ang bibitawan mo na halaga :(
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TECH CENTRAL is the store salesperson is AMIL. kung member dito yung may ari. pagsabihan mo yung mga staff! turuan mo makipag usap ng maayos sa mga customer. :o >:(
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madalas din mangyari sakin yan sa mga audio stores sa makati esp. park square. the stores that stand out because of good sales practices are the ones that MAKE THE SALE!! kahit gaano ko kagusto bilihin ang product i wont buy it from an j3rk.
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Hay naku ako naman bumili ako ng wharfdale na speaker sa Listening room (8.3, dfs 8, diamond center and US audio 8" sbwfr) unfortunately noong tinest sa kanila syempre di ko na inisa-isa basta pinakinggan ko na lang so hindi ko na madistinguish kung meron nga bang hindi gumagana. Napaka-accomodating nila pag bumibili ka pero pag nagsoli ka ng defective unit halos inabot ako ng apat na oras.
Ang sungit masyado nong si Minnie yung kahera sa Listening Room. Kahit noong bumibili pa lang ako masungit na talaga siya. Buti pa si Bokal (sya ata yung may ari) mabait nainfluence lang sya ng mga tao nya kaya medyo nag-aalangan magpalit ng unit.
So reminder lang sana sa mga may planong mamili sa Listening room be sure na OK yung mga units na bibilin nyo kasi sobrang hirap mag-soli sa kanila....OOngi...
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Lesson: wear your best or something more decent than usual when shopping. Right?
For me, it's not what I wear but how I act in the store that matters more.
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nice try rtsy....OOngi..
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If you want to know which store is ideal in terms of customer service, the answer : Architectural Audio
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If you want to know which store is ideal in terms of customer service, the answer : Architectural Audio
I totally agree with you.
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Hey dude,
just like to know your comments on the following dealers of ours:
1.) AVSurfer (ATC, Rockwell, Alimall, Cebu)
2.) Spectra ( Park Square )
3.) Extreme ( Green Hills )
4.) Sights & Sounds ( Park Square & Shangrila )
5.) Call Audio Video ( Galleria )
6.) Image A/V ( Harrizon Plaza )
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Mr. Redkoji,
I got a NAD from AV Surfer in Cebu. Problem is the batteries supplied with the remote leaked and rendered some buttons inoperable. Gave it to AV Surfer who forwarded it your office. Got it back still defective!!! Called Studio Systems again talked to a PJ Tuico who promised to look into it and hinted at a replacement. Two weeks later I called again to follow up and Mr. Tuico apparently had no recollection of my report. I don't know if you have been notified of this but please give me a replacement. I chose the NAD over a Rotel 931 precisely because of the darned thing!
Archangel
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Well, Sir Redkoji, i was only able to go to AVsurfer store in ATC. Maganda mga display ninyo, daming products na pagpipilian, lalo na ngayon, you started carrying Philips brands. Your sales people there are nice. Like the person I am dealing with. His name is Ronald. Sa Kanya ko lahat binili yong NAD products ko eh. The 2 receivers and the DVD player. His after sales service is Okay. The first time I bought the DVD player t562, after 2 days there was a problem, noong dinala ko sa kanya, he replaced the unit with a new one. Then when there was a problem with my player 3 weeks ago, sa kanya ko dinala. After 2 weeks, naayos naman, So i guess the after sales service of AVsurfer in ATC is very good. Kasi ako, when I am buying something am very particular about the after sales service!!!
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Re:Your Thoughts on Philippine Audio Stores?
« Reply #85 on: Oct 14, 2002 at 10:04 PM »
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Audition Experiences...
Today was officially the first day that I lost the virginity of my ears as I went around to audition some equipment. One fault of mine was I did not heed everybody's suggestion of bringing my own DVD. But here are some of my feedback, more of experiences with the stores, less of my experiences with the equipment. =)
First Shop that I went to: (forgot the name, the person who assisted my also forgot to write down the name of the store, he only had his number and name [Rey de Vera]...)
Mordaunt Short (Fronts, center, sorround and subs), Yamaha 620's. Watched Eagles' Hell Freezes Over and Kiss of the Dragon. Noticed that the right sorround had nothing coming out, mentioned this to the guy and he just said "meron yan..." turns out his connections were wrong. Also turns out that some of the models that he wrote down weren't the ones that were being used...ang labo ng tindahan na toh! Somehow, I felt that the guy was doing me a huge favor for letting me audtion--what gives?
Sound Dimension
This Eugene guy was okay, perfunctorily helpful. But as I noticed that he was consulting someone else whom I was assuming was the owner, I decided to strike up a conversation with the owner. Lo and behold: one of those I'm-opening-my-mouth-and-doing-you-a-huge-favor type of thing. I mean, gosh, here I am walking around literally wanting to park my near 100K hard-earned money and I have these people who are treating me like I'm buying tinapa! What gives?!
Sights & Sounds
Was assisted by this Freddie guy. I mentioned that I was interested in their Yammies and wanted to audition them. He went throught the "heavy" motions of moving my preferred equipment back and forth. You could see that these people AREN'T making enough commissions. In fact, while I was already speaking to him and specifying the equipment that I wanted to audition, one of the sales ladies was still sitting pretty in the couch busy READING a magazine, not even bothering to look up at us! Grabe talaga ang Park Square gang...a little customer empathy naman, a little common courtesy. I mean, I get more polite treatment from the parking attendants for crying out loud!!!!
Upscale Audio
Had a certain Nani to contend with. Service was not any significant improvement from the cr*ppy treatment that I received from the friggin' stores above. Auditioned their Denon 1802 with their PSB's, Velodyne CHT10, his total quote to me was P104k++
Architectural Audio
Buti na lang, I chose to end my day at Nico's New World Nook. It was a delight and a pleasant experience to finally speak with someone who treats customers properly, he was intelligent, helpful, attentive and warm. Auditioned his Denon 1802's with JBL Xti 20, Xti Center ---->pretty good. Also tried his Infinity Alpha 20 ---> not as good as his JBL's. Gosh, I really wished this shop had a wider range of products to offer, I would gladly pay a premium just to get the service and respect that he gives to clients. Iba talaga pag may ari ang kausap mo. Nico also suggested that I NOT get floorstanders, its gonna be "too boomy" daw for my small room. You guys agree or disagree? He also suggested that I get real expensive cables, as in 300++/meter, ganyan ba talaga kamahal ang cable?!
Hyperaudio
Was really suprised by the shop, was NOTHING I expected an HT shop to be, no offense meant Rene, at least managed expectations for the potential visitors. Rene is nice and accomodating, kaya lang may taong grasa na medyo may topak nasa labas, kakatakot tuloy lumabas ng kotse. Anyway, thanks Rene.
Image (Harrizon Plaza)
Spoke with Alex. Very accomodating. Best prices in the country da best!
Home Theatre
Sonny Tuazon. His authority on HT and his articulation of his knowledge not only borders on arrogance, his is very comfortably esconced in his realm of HT deity. He should be more patient with newbies even if we insist on "stupid" combinations, rather than insist on customers taking his word as gospel truth, he should encourage them to listen for themselves and make their own conclusions!
I wanted to hear the B&W 601's but he only had a RX-V430 hooked up. When I insisted on listening to the 601's he goes, "taga PinoyDVD ka noh? Ang titigas ng ulo ng mga tao diyan eh, kung tutuosin, mga begginers lang naman yan eh..." When I requested that we use higher powered AMPs, he goes, mahirap ang mga wiring eh...grrrrrrrrrrr! What a total jerk!
Finally, he didn't want to give me ANY written qutoations ..nothing...all he said was "sige lang, canvass ka lang ng canvass tapos, AKO ang ihuli mo, ako nang bahala!"
(two days later)
"Mr. Tuazon, magkano last price mo ng 601 s3?" says Jermi. "Ah...hanggang P14,XXX lang eh..." says Mr. Tuazon almost hesitatingly.
"Sir, mukang talo kayo ah..." I said.
"Eh, hirap kasi ng ibang tindahan, P100 lang kinikita...Chinese kasi"...
If you can't compete, you can at least avoid making racist remarks, Mr. Tuazon.
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After visiting and auditioning at AV stores for the past few months, I'd have to say that my experiences have been generally positive. Not that I did not have my share of nasty experiences, just nothing that came close to the Ceratec incident some of our PinoyDVD members went through.
One thing that peeved me though, is this tendency of merchants to dismiss products they don't carry as inferior, or faulty or whatnot. Understandably, you won't carry a product if you don't believe in the product's superiority, but you can assert your product's superiority without having to say negative things about other products.
On the whole, I'd have to say that my experience in auditioning AV equipment ended up better than my experience in canvassing for computer equipment (better than what I expected, in fact). Granted that AV equipment normally cost much more than computer equipment, at least I did not have to deal with salesladies with 0 knowledge on the product they carry (and have the arrogance to assume that you're on the wrong, and that you're talking nonsense). Most of the salespeople I've talked to are generally ok, although some of them you'd really have to try to be nice to, before they 'warm up' to you.
What's the best shop for me? Well, it probably will be the shop that I layed my hard earned cash on. Although there were times that I wish that I could've bought from all the salespeople who sold their products excellently, but this is rather impractical (especially when it comes to returns, which will be the TRUE test of a merchant's customer service ability).
I'm going to give kudos to Architechtural Audio (Nico), Spectra (Jim and Nino) and Sights and Sounds (Tina in Park Square) for being nice and accomodating to all my queries. I won't be mentioning the negative experiences I had to go through (hehe Jermi :>), but I'm sure you folks can, with a little detective work, see for yourself which particular shops I'm referring to.
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Re:Your Thoughts on Philippine Audio Stores?
« Reply #85 on: Oct 14, 2002 at 10:04 PM »
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Audition Experiences...
Today was officially the first day that I lost the virginity of my ears as I went around to audition some equipment. One fault of mine was I did not heed everybody's suggestion of bringing my own DVD. But here are some of my feedback, more of experiences with the stores, less of my experiences with the equipment. =)
First Shop that I went to: (forgot the name, the person who assisted my also forgot to write down the name of the store, he only had his number and name [Rey de Vera]...)
Mordaunt Short (Fronts, center, sorround and subs), Yamaha 620's. Watched Eagles' Hell Freezes Over and Kiss of the Dragon. Noticed that the right sorround had nothing coming out, mentioned this to the guy and he just said "meron yan..." turns out his connections were wrong. Also turns out that some of the models that he wrote down weren't the ones that were being used...ang labo ng tindahan na toh! Somehow, I felt that the guy was doing me a huge favor for letting me audtion--what gives?
Sound Dimension
This Eugene guy was okay, perfunctorily helpful. But as I noticed that he was consulting someone else whom I was assuming was the owner, I decided to strike up a conversation with the owner. Lo and behold: one of those I'm-opening-my-mouth-and-doing-you-a-huge-favor type of thing. I mean, gosh, here I am walking around literally wanting to park my near 100K hard-earned money and I have these people who are treating me like I'm buying tinapa! What gives?!
Sights & Sounds
Was assisted by this Freddie guy. I mentioned that I was interested in their Yammies and wanted to audition them. He went throught the "heavy" motions of moving my preferred equipment back and forth. You could see that these people AREN'T making enough commissions. In fact, while I was already speaking to him and specifying the equipment that I wanted to audition, one of the sales ladies was still sitting pretty in the couch busy READING a magazine, not even bothering to look up at us! Grabe talaga ang Park Square gang...a little customer empathy naman, a little common courtesy. I mean, I get more polite treatment from the parking attendants for crying out loud!!!!
Upscale Audio
Had a certain Nani to contend with. Service was not any significant improvement from the cr*ppy treatment that I received from the friggin' stores above. Auditioned their Denon 1802 with their PSB's, Velodyne CHT10, his total quote to me was P104k++
Architectural Audio
Buti na lang, I chose to end my day at Nico's New World Nook. It was a delight and a pleasant experience to finally speak with someone who treats customers properly, he was intelligent, helpful, attentive and warm. Auditioned his Denon 1802's with JBL Xti 20, Xti Center ---->pretty good. Also tried his Infinity Alpha 20 ---> not as good as his JBL's. Gosh, I really wished this shop had a wider range of products to offer, I would gladly pay a premium just to get the service and respect that he gives to clients. Iba talaga pag may ari ang kausap mo. Nico also suggested that I NOT get floorstanders, its gonna be "too boomy" daw for my small room. You guys agree or disagree? He also suggested that I get real expensive cables, as in 300++/meter, ganyan ba talaga kamahal ang cable?!
Hyperaudio
Was really suprised by the shop, was NOTHING I expected an HT shop to be, no offense meant Rene, at least managed expectations for the potential visitors. Rene is nice and accomodating, kaya lang may taong grasa na medyo may topak nasa labas, kakatakot tuloy lumabas ng kotse. Anyway, thanks Rene.
Image (Harrizon Plaza)
Spoke with Alex. Very accomodating. Best prices in the country da best!
Home Theatre
Sonny Tuazon. His authority on HT and his articulation of his knowledge not only borders on arrogance, his is very comfortably esconced in his realm of HT deity. He should be more patient with newbies even if we insist on "stupid" combinations, rather than insist on customers taking his word as gospel truth, he should encourage them to listen for themselves and make their own conclusions!
I wanted to hear the B&W 601's but he only had a RX-V430 hooked up. When I insisted on listening to the 601's he goes, "taga PinoyDVD ka noh? Ang titigas ng ulo ng mga tao diyan eh, kung tutuosin, mga begginers lang naman yan eh..." When I requested that we use higher powered AMPs, he goes, mahirap ang mga wiring eh...grrrrrrrrrrr! What a total jerk!
Finally, he didn't want to give me ANY written qutoations ..nothing...all he said was "sige lang, canvass ka lang ng canvass tapos, AKO ang ihuli mo, ako nang bahala!"
(two days later)
"Mr. Tuazon, magkano last price mo ng 601 s3?" says Jermi. "Ah...hanggang P14,XXX lang eh..." says Mr. Tuazon almost hesitatingly.
"Sir, mukang talo kayo ah..." I said.
"Eh, hirap kasi ng ibang tindahan, P100 lang kinikita...Chinese kasi"...
If you can't compete, you can at least avoid making racist remarks, Mr. Tuazon.
hi jermi - just curious as to why you sould re-post this... it has been more than a year. did you have another run in with the people involved?
they could have changed since then :)
ty
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Hi Ice.
Maybe the two posts above you are related somehow ;)
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Haha, blind item in the internet age :> Some things never change, eh?
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Audio Den is at G. Araneta near Toyota Quezon Avenue (kung saan maraming funeraria). If you are along G. Araneta facing towards E. Rodriguez/SM Centerpoint, Audio Den is on your right. Meron din sa QC en route to Fairview. I think meron din sa Alabang but I'm not sure. Telephone numbers are 7325173, 7421172. The nice stuff (ProAc, Audio Analogue, Electrocompaniet) are in the 2nd floor.
DCM is in Cubao. Call them for an exact address: 9115903, 9123979, 9123771, 9114344, 9123979.
Come on, guys and gals, pls. share your thoughts on the other stores like the one in Harrison Plaza and those at Makati Cinema Square.
Opinions on provincial stores welcome, too. I bought my first system from Tata Salgado of Sound Advice in Bacolod. Nice guy, nice place but I think it closed years ago. I saw some hi-fi in Cebu and Cagayan de Oro, too but I don't remember the stores anymore.
ok to srart it out. Sa business kasi ng audio /video ala ring kasing pinag kaiba sa bentahan ng celfone. Medyo conjested na rin yung market nila not unlike 3 years way bak kaunti lang sila. Yung ibang nag engage sa audio /video merchandise dating nag bebenta ng mga (mind me the words) pekendots na electronic items galing taiwan and China. Since yung ibang brands natin sa audio/video ay gawang china/ taiwan na rin , kinuha na nila rin ang bentahan kahit hindi sila authorised kaya pagdating sa after sales talo sila. Usually mga negotiante nag lolocal purchase lang iyan sa isang tindahan na meron nit at imarkup nalang nila . Kaya lang minsan sila sila rin nagsisiraan. kesyo mahal ang presyo tapos sila mura tapos bago kanila kesyo sa iba refurbished you'll never know talaga unless gamitin mo ito at kung tumagal sa iyo ok siya.
I often discourage other friends of mine na bumili sa mga tindahan na tumatangap ng tradein units ba... dahil malaki ang chances na galing sa tradein items yung bibilhin mo worse refurbished/repaired pa especially sa speakers and recievers. Malungkot man isipin pero yung ang karamihan nangyayari....
I would not mention specific stores para di ako lumabas na biased. Pero to give you a hint yang ibang tindahan mga nasa Park square magkakakilala yan pagdating sa trade business alam nila kung saan at ano yung units na ibinebenta nila ay luma o bago. Nasa sales talk na alng nila iyon para maconvince ka nilang kunin yung unit. Ala rin silang pinagkaiba sa ibang raon stores.
One scenario is " Sir, benta ko sa inyo ng sale/ mura ala nang box kasi display namin ito" pero kung nagmamatyag ka halos lahat naman na naka display kung bago ito itinatago yung box.....
Isa pa" sir may center speaker akong sobra sa order bilin mo na lang" pero tignan mo ulit itong center speaker na ito ay hindi nabibili na wala yung surround package niya, get's mo ninyo ibig kong sabihin?...
So piece of advice, kasi honestly naranasan ko itong attempt na offers na ito, nakakainis pero gaunun talaga.
I you are planning to buy a unit on these circle of stores, iresearch ninyo muna yung products sa internet website nila kung saan ito ginawa at yung mga authorised distributor ba sila?... Kung hindi man sino ang main supplier nila.
Minsan yung items na mura masyado ang price ang minsn ang kdalasan mahina after sales support nila.
And lastly , don't hesitate to ask opinions of others especially sa mga forum na ito it would greatly help talaga. Although may ibang opinion na medyo di angkop sa iyo at least you can get a trend on things....
More power to you all...
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i did saw a couple of w/o box "demo" receiver in the parksquare area.
my experience
Listening in Style-bought a handful of things there, theres one guy, who's a little bit on the mayabang side,
i asked for a entry level speaker and he showed 30-40k speaker, tapos isang tanong isang sagot pa kami para bang i wasting his time. other than him ok yung ibang staffs, naka neck ties pa.
Sights and Sound & B&W shang
couteous and knowing staff.
competitive prices.
Listening Room
laging busy ang tao dun, lalo na yung mahilig mag playstation
SPECTRA
jim is nice and knows a lot.
masikip lang space
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isang tanong isang sagot
na-experience ko na din itong "isang tanong isang sagot"... once na-observe ko din ginagawa ito ng isang sales rep sa isang customer with matching kulubot ng bibig.
isa lang mangyayari sa ganitong sitwasyon, yung customer na kaka-withdraw lang sa ATM ay bibili sa iba.
meron kasing mga customer na hindi masyado matanong dahil nire-research muna lahat ng info sa internet bago titignan sa store... kung matanong, ibig sabihin bibili... minsan kasi yun pang butas ang pantalon ang may laman ang wallet.
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That would reflect naman on their image. One good thing on this forum is we all know where to go to when we have money to buy the gears we're eyeing.... 8) 8) 8)
na-experience ko na din itong "isang tanong isang sagot"... once na-observe ko din ginagawa ito ng isang sales rep sa isang customer with matching kulubot ng bibig.
isa lang mangyayari sa ganitong sitwasyon, yung customer na kaka-withdraw lang sa ATM ay bibili sa iba.
meron kasing mga customer na hindi masyado matanong dahil nire-research muna lahat ng info sa internet bago titignan sa store... kung matanong, ibig sabihin bibili... minsan kasi yun pang butas ang pantalon ang may laman ang wallet.
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Hmm, selling trade-ins as brand new? That never occurred to me (though I make it a point to buy my mobile phones from big shops like semicon, nevermind the huge markup), I thought its something endemic to mobile phones and computers.
Spectra seems to be pretty legit, they got me a brand new unit when i got my receiver. My only beef was that the speakers were not sealed (they were 'sealed' but it looked resealed). I brought home the speakers I auditioned (would've been more satisfying if I got sealed new units but they were short on stock).
I'm just wondering about the disparity between the prices offered by Upscale Audio compared to other shops. Their Velodynes were quite expensive and I heard their AE's were the same. The difference in price does not seem to be the result of simple mark up. I think they have a different supplier (or might be the actual supplier, but they have their prices higher to 'protect' their retailers).
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Well anyone in the forum knows a store in makati area or any audio/video stores that actually gives the customer the warranty certificate that you purchased from them. Mine I got it from park quare area but they didn't give me any certificate of warranty /ownership and like, instead they told me to present lang the official reciept to them if problems encoutered. Strange pero di ba dapat lahat ng electronic equipment meron nun especially sa recievers which cost us an investment.....
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Same experience lately. They told me to just present the sales receipt when claiming warranty. Before I remember being asked to fill-out the warranty cards which their sales guy would tear out for their records. At anyr rate, I sometimes go to the webiste of the brand I buy and register the seriial numbers myself. So far none have replied back to me saying the numbers are bogus. Or are they getting them at all?
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Hi Ice.
Maybe the two posts above you are related somehow ;)
that's cool - although i have only had excellent service at Mr Sonny's store ;)
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I wouldn't say it was bad salesmanship, i received nothing but cordial treatment. It's just that aggressive salesmanship can sometimes backfire. i'm hardly the expert in this field, but with sites like pinoydvd, one does get empowered with information (not necessarily knowledge :>) and what use will this information be if we just take someone's word over our own thoughts on the matter, especially if that someone has vested interests on the matter.
anyway, just rambling about :>
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masama experience ko sa ambassador shagri-la branch.
kapag bibili ka, ang bilis lang bayad agad pero kapag nagkaproblema yung unit mo, antagal ma-irepair. bad trip talaga....
bad trip....
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good thing i didnt get from ambassador. have you tried talking to the owner? they might be a bit more amenable to handling your case.
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bad trip......
ganun din walang pinagkaiba sa ahente......
bad trip talaga......yang ambassadors
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got a similar experience with AMBASSADOR. They do not deliver on the said time! You are right and bilis kung bayad ka na...ang galing mam-bitin! Sayang they deteriorated thru the years! Alex and company still doesnt know how to say things right in the vernacular after so many years! :P
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Archi Audio and Spectra have excellent customer service. Kaya lang sa Spectra dami masyado tao minsan because they also sell DVDs and VCDs.
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spectra has a new branch in libis. haven't had a look myself, but it should address our major concern with their facilities. too bad they did not upgrade their park square place.
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spectra has a new branch in libis. haven't had a look myself, but it should address our major concern with their facilities. too bad they did not upgrade their park square place.
Where in Libis? Thanks!
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obey, if i remember correctly, it is at cybermall, eastwood.
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Thanks onedown! :)
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Well, Sir Redkoji, i was only able to go to AVsurfer store in ATC. Maganda mga display ninyo, daming products na pagpipilian, lalo na ngayon, you started carrying Philips brands. Your sales people there are nice. Like the person I am dealing with. His name is Ronald. Sa Kanya ko lahat binili yong NAD products ko eh. The 2 receivers and the DVD player. His after sales service is Okay. The first time I bought the DVD player t562, after 2 days there was a problem, noong dinala ko sa kanya, he replaced the unit with a new one. Then when there was a problem with my player 3 weeks ago, sa kanya ko dinala. After 2 weeks, naayos naman, So i guess the after sales service of AVsurfer in ATC is very good. Kasi ako, when I am buying something am very particular about the after sales service!!!
Thanks for the commentary...its good to know that our training to them have an effect. We welcome other suggestion of yours to improved our services.
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There are nice stores with staff who knows what they are talking about, places I have been to: Spectral Audio (bought my Denon 1804, set of Wharfedale for my in-laws), Electronics Depot, Alabang (bought my Acoustic Research speaker, cables and my Marantz 4300), 5th Ave, Alabang Town Center (bought my Jamo bookshelf speakers). These are the stores I have been to that I am willing to go back and purchase more stuff.
The rest of the other stores that I went to:
1. The brands they carry are the best compared to competitors (since when did a Daichi made DVD player better than a Pioneer or a Kenwood low end AVR better than a Denon?).
2. The staff is so poorly trained that when you ask them questions like crossover point, bass management etc, they just give you a blank look.
3. ETC, ETC.
I don't claim that I have been to a lot of audio stores, but my estimate is maybe only 25% of the audio stores have people with enough knowledge to have a decent audio/video conversation.
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Here are some conversations i had with some SM Appliance saleguys when I was canvassing for a DVD player just a few weeks ago.
(1)
Me: Puedeng pa-test yung DVD player na yan?
Sales: Ay sir, naka lock po yung display, eh.
Sorry, am not muscled enough to pry it open. Goodbye.
(2)
Me: Meron ba kayong universal player?
Sales: VCD player lang po.
Thank you and goodbye.
(3)
Me: Ayaw palang mag-ZOOM kapag nasa JPEG viewing mode.
Sales: Nasa disk yan. Dapat bago pa lang ni-write sa disc, na-enlarge na.
Thank you for the enlightening sermon. Goodbye.
(4)
Me: All region ba yung Samsung na yan?
Sales: Hindi po, walang all region dito sa pinas.
Sorry for not knowing any better. Goodbye.
(5)
Me: Pa-test naman nitong player.
Sales1: Sorry po, yung susi ng cabinet na kay gerry.
Me: Sinong puedeng magbukas?
Sales1: Gerry paki bukas
Sales2: May customer pa ako.
Sales1: sir, paki hintay.
Thanks, but no thanks.
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Yup, typical SM appliance store hospitality BTW does anyone know of a hi-fi store in Cebu besides Circuit City??
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Sounds and Images. MLD Building. Banilad Road. (32) 234-0885
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Hi, I recently bought an AV rack at TECH CENTRAL@MCS, ito experience ko, when we checked the glass shelves, i found that one of them had a small pingas sa dulo and the other one had a scratch. so i told them to change the 2 pieces, the guy there said that pareho lang daw yun, mahirap pa daw buksan yung ibang box so they said that they will get the ones from the display, so ok lang, but the problem is the one's in the display may pingas din, so i said hindi pwede yun. the guy insisted that PAREHO lang daw yun, wala naman daw problema.! meron pang isang shelf na hindi nila kinuha sa display kasi may naka patong, sabi ko i check niya,parang ayaw pa, so i finally lost it and told them kung ayaw niyo wag na lang.!!! then biglang kinuha, ok yung shelf na yun so binili ko na rin. My point here is would you accept any damage on something na babayaran mo na brand new !! Tamad lang kasi ang mga sales dito!!! Grabe !!! Nakahigh Blood Talaga bumili dito sa phils. !!!! Dapat turuan ng mabuti yung mga sales dito sa atin, NAKAKAHIYA !!!!. >:( >:( >:(
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Yup, Tamad, indifferent. I often wonder if salesguys get commissions from sales. If they do, they'd pull heaven and hell to clinch a sale. But I think they're paid minimum wages.
Probabaly not as bad, but just as uncustomer-friendly is their lack of product knowledge.
Let me just relate this very recent experience:
I had every plan of getting a Rotel RMB1066 6 channel power amp from this store at Park Square in Makati. I was very excited that afternoon knowing that the day wouldn't end without me enjoying a new toy in my set-up.
So I asked the salesguy to have their unit tested. He hesitated and cellphoned his boss who apparently wans't around. They didn't have a 6-channel pre-amp to test the amp and asked if i could go back the following day for this. I said no, i can't and i wanted the amp today as this was the only time I have for this.
Buttom line, the shop didn't have the capability to test the Rotel. I suggested using one of their Onkyo 800 receivers which had 6-channel pre-outs. Still the sales guy and his boss said they can't. Thank you and goodbye. The guy obviously is not even trained to do simple pre-amp to main amp connections.
Bought another power amp instead from another AV shop.
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I had a bad experienced with 5th ave at SM City. Its not about audio but intercom for the house Im building. After buying the units, I agreed to let them install the intercom. They scheduled it after mall hours and after two nights of installing, they said that I have to add new lines. After doing it, I called them up and they went back to the house to continue installing. They were not able to make it work and it always malfunctioned. I called them up again to check the units and after several tries, they were still unsuccesful. The problem started here because they were starting to blame us that someone sabotaged their lines. It is very impossible because we never touched the intercoms. All installation were done by them. Next they were saying baka may multo so the more I got pissed, but I dont want to argue with them because, I just want them to finish the job. I dont want to displeased my client so my priority was to finish the job. My client has already moved in and all my workers have pulled out. I even extended my foreman just to wait for them at night but to no avail. They were still unsuccessful and this time they were blaming my wires. Finally I decided to do it myself with the help of my electrician and foreman. It took us one whole day but we were able to make it work. I saw all the mistakes they did and they were even bragging that matagal na sila nagkakabit. Its a good thing medyo mabait naman sila kausap, I just dont like them blaming different things just because they cant make it work. I hope they wont do the same when someone hires them to do an HT.
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What do you think of sales people on Upscale Audio in PArksquare1? My experience there is that when i enter the store, parang sinusukat yung kakayahan mo to buy expensive gears.
Well, that's i observe. ;)
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What do you think of sales people on Upscale Audio in PArksquare1? My experience there is that when i enter the store, parang sinusukat yung kakayahan mo to buy expensive gears.
Well, that's i observe. ;)
same observation and experience. ;D
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In fainess to Upscale Audio, their Megamall branch is very accomodating. 8)
same observation and experience. ;D
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What do you think of sales people on Upscale Audio in PArksquare1? My experience there is that when i enter the store, parang sinusukat yung kakayahan mo to buy expensive gears.
Well, that's i observe. ;)
I agree, actually almost A/V shop na pinasok namin, walang pumapansik :-[ kakahiya tuloy mag-test kasi hindi naman kami bibili.
Dapat siguro naka coat and tie ka ;D ;D
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What do you think of sales people on Upscale Audio in PArksquare1? My experience there is that when i enter the store, parang sinusukat yung kakayahan mo to buy expensive gears.
Well, that's i observe. ;)
Had the same feeling. But in fairness to them, the salesguy there did entertain my questions, even as i was wearing only shorts, sandals and sleeveless shirt. I was inquiring for a multichannel 200 watt amp and they only had entry level Perraux and Musical Fidelity. Good ;D I'm sure if they did I could't afford them. ;D
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I agree, actually almost A/V shop na pinasok namin, walang pumapansik :-[ kakahiya tuloy mag-test kasi hindi naman kami bibili.
Dapat siguro naka coat and tie ka ;D ;D
kahit ala na coat ok lang aasikasuhin ka na. ;D ;D ;D. already experienced this. went there for two consecutive days, first one i was just wearing usual sunday casual clothes, alang pumapansin sa akin up to the point of letting me leave without even trying to ask what i needed. AIDS (As If Doing Something)nga yung mga tao dun at that time since i was the only customer that time. Next day went there after a meeting (dressed to kill, ahehehehhe). Was surprised by how they treated me with a little more respect (somehow there were still hesitations from them to accomodte me). nanunukat nga ng tao.
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I agree, actually almost A/V shop na pinasok namin, walang pumapansik :-[ kakahiya tuloy mag-test kasi hindi naman kami bibili.
Dapat siguro naka coat and tie ka ;D ;D
Reminds me of a colleague who migrated to the US. He was canvassing for a Benz wearing shorts and sandals and was snobbed by a car salesman who then attended to someone else wearing formal attire. My friend promptly bought the car from another salesman who was kind enough to entertain him. The snobbing salesmen dropped his jaw when he saw my friend in faded shorts and worn out sandals took out the benz SL450 out into the street. He just lost a whopping commission I'm sure the other kind salesman got.
Maybe we could teach these snobbing salesman at AV shops something like this.
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I had a bad experienced with 5th ave at SM City. Its not about audio but intercom for the house Im building. After buying the units, I agreed to let them install the intercom. They scheduled it after mall hours and after two nights of installing, they said that I have to add new lines. After doing it, I called them up and they went back to the house to continue installing. They were not able to make it work and it always malfunctioned. I called them up again to check the units and after several tries, they were still unsuccesful. The problem started here because they were starting to blame us that someone sabotaged their lines. It is very impossible because we never touched the intercoms. All installation were done by them. Next they were saying baka may multo so the more I got pissed, but I dont want to argue with them because, I just want them to finish the job. I dont want to displeased my client so my priority was to finish the job. My client has already moved in and all my workers have pulled out. I even extended my foreman just to wait for them at night but to no avail. They were still unsuccessful and this time they were blaming my wires. Finally I decided to do it myself with the help of my electrician and foreman. It took us one whole day but we were able to make it work. I saw all the mistakes they did and they were even bragging that matagal na sila nagkakabit. Its a good thing medyo mabait naman sila kausap, I just dont like them blaming different things just because they cant make it work. I hope they wont do the same when someone hires them to do an HT.
I think their AVESCO technical manager is a pompous ass who has a high regard of their abilities and looks contemptuously on customers who can't make their merchandise work. The people at 5th are courteous, I have no quarel with that. They always refer back to their AVESCO management for problems with their merchandise. And it's their AVESCO that I am not sympathetic about. They seem to treat their customers who have problems with their products after a sale with disdainful arrogance. They'd put the blame on the customer. Never their fault.
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Mga Peeps galing ako d2 nung Thursday may dumb na dealer sa 5th ave. AV store sa Park square1 nagtatanong ako kung may yamaha dvd player cla,eh komo summer, naka plain street clothes lang ako, sabi ba naman sa kin eh..wala pang DVD player ang yamaha!!!! >:(,sabay entertain dun sa naka-executive ang dating..pwe..mukhang pera talaga mga ganitong tao..nuod na lang ako sa YAMAHA AV showcase enjoy pa ko.
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di na siguro mababago iyung ganong attitude ng mga salesman na iyan. even when i was in uae nakaencounter din ako ng ganong salesman. nagtatanong kami ng price ng barkada ko sa mga receiver nila and this pinoy salesman imbes na sagutin iyung tanong ko, ang sabi ba naman 'sino ang bibili sa inyo'. sabi ko sa sarili ko konting pasensiya lang at sinabi ko na lang na nagcacanvasss ako para sa barkada ko. tanong ko kung magkano isang pair of speakers ng mission, sagot naman ay di sila nagbebenta ng pairs kundi isang 5.1 set-up. tapos sinabayan na ng kwento na may mga pumupunta raw doon na nakashorts lang at di niya akalain na makakabili ng bose speakers. ayun doon ko lang napatunayan na isa pala ito sa mga kinaiinisan nating salesman. iniwan naman pagkatapos at everytime na nakikita namin iyon sa store, angas ang tawag namin sa kanya ng barkada ko. kung ganito din lang ang makikita mong tao sa store di baleng pumunta ka ng pagkalayo-layo, basta't aasikasuhin ka nila mabuti. iyan ang ginamit kong dahilan nung bumili ako ng receiver bago ako pumunta ng uae. i lived in quezon city pero dumayo pa ako ng makati para lang doon bilhin ang receiver na gusto ko kahit available pa siya sa sm city that time na malapit naman sa amin. di ko na kailangan sabihin kung sino ang mga iyon but the receiver that i bought that time is h/k.....ayos ba sa clue? hehehehe ;D
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Might not be in-line but where do you think is the best location for an audio store? Mall? Stand alone? House? he he he...
I think there are three clusters here in Manila - Park Square, Shang and Megamall - right?
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Might not be in-line but where do you think is the best location for an audio store? Mall? Stand alone? House? he he he...
I think there are three clusters here in Manila - Park Square, Shang and Megamall - right?
hmmmm... planning to put one sir? :)
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Might not be in-line but where do you think is the best location for an audio store? Mall? Stand alone? House? he he he...
I think there are three clusters here in Manila - Park Square, Shang and Megamall - right?
Baka puede kang magtayo dito sa Paranaque area, nawala na yung Audio Den sa Sucat. You can be sure of at least one customer - me. ;D
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Not me specifically but some friends... i might invest a little - little lang he he he... Just helping them research since i am the one with unlimited net access.
I started a new thread para more focus since my post here is off topic eh. nakakahiya naman.
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Recently visited MONTAGE at Greenbelt 4. My first time. WOW. They have the objects of my passionate hobbies in one roof - rare CDs/SACDs/DVD-As and 1/18 Die-cast Model Cars from Autoart. (Gold/jewelry is another but I didn't find their selection interesting.) They have a very engrossing bunch of disc collection. According to them, they and Fully Booked at Powerplant are from the same owner. No wonder. A bit snobbish at the start but once they realize you are buying, they get more accommodating.
I was wanting to splurge on CDs/SACDs/DVD-As. I ended up with only 2. The Autoart collection was simply too irresistible to overlook. ;D Back to my Lotto bets.
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Compared with US or Japan audiophile shops? Filipino shops are generally mean, maraming tamad mag-demo or sisiguruhin muna na bibili ka para i-hook yung pinakamagandang units nila. Never experienced that in my overseas trips, except in HK. Mas mabait tayo sa mga taga Hong Kong.
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I agree, HK and Taiwan have the rudest salesguys in my trips overseas, definitely worse than Pinoys.
I think those marketing gurus peddling their "Customer is King" philosophies should conduct more seminars here, as well as in HK and Taiwan.
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I agree, HK and Taiwan have the rudest salesguys in my trips overseas, definitely worse than Pinoys.
I think those marketing gurus peddling their "Customer is King" philosophies should conduct more seminars here, as well as in HK and Taiwan.
agree agree ....
they're definitely worse than Pinoys ..... and they seem to reserve their worst behavior for Pinoys !
it's a known fact i guess and that's why the HK government has actually embarked on an ad campaign < led by Jacky Chan no less > to encourage HK sales people to be COURTEOUS ...
BTW ... does anyone know how much should be the legal IMPORT TAXES and DUTIES for Audio Equipment that are hand-carried to Manila from abroad ? ... anyone had experience bringing obvious , bulky , heavy stuff through Manila Customs ?
thanks in advance
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I think the import tax is 10% VAT + 15% for amps and 5% for speakers (total 20-25% of value). However, it will be a debate between you and the custom official as to what is the real value of your gear. That is the difficult part because even if you are honest to declare the full amount they will always claim that you undervalued.
You also have to keep in mind the excess weight fee that you have to pay to the airline if you are bringing home HEAVY stuff.
Hope i was able to help.
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Architectural audio, the best!!!! ;D
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di na ba sila tumatanggap ng "envelope"? hehehe
I think the import tax is 10% VAT + 15% for amps and 5% for speakers (total 20-25% of value). However, it will be a debate between you and the custom official as to what is the real value of your gear. That is the difficult part because even if you are honest to declare the full amount they will always claim that you undervalued.
You also have to keep in mind the excess weight fee that you have to pay to the airline if you are bringing home HEAVY stuff.
Hope i was able to help.
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Architectural audio, the best!!!! ;D
i agree, Archi Audio is among the very few that know how to handle customers. btw import tax on audio gears depends a lot on Customs people you'll encounter. they could even collect 50% of the brand new price of your unit even if it was already used. there are some who know audio very well and very familiar with the price of your unit even without consulting their kodigo. some would even claim your unit is a "luxury item" which could mean 100% tax - of course they'll give in when you haggle. the best way to bring in one or two piece of electronics, wag lang big speakers, is to put them inside a Balikbayan box. they're not strict on those boxes and even if they see your stuff inside, basta one or two units lang, and no boxes, plastic bags and manuals, or trace that they're new, okay na 'yun. especially kung may "pasalubong" ka para sa kanila.
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thanks for the tips ....
and i agree .... architectural audio is the best audio store I have come across so far ... let's support them so they can build a better auditioning room :)
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spectra is also ok. ;)
enjoy!
positive-noise. ;D
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Customs will accept envelope... the thing is you never know if they want a small or big one hehehe. its a risk lang. Sometimes they do not even check and let you out for free.
Another consideration though is breakage. Better pack the stuff well sayang pag masira. Plus there is no warranty if you purchase abroad :)
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Pasensiya na kayo kung ignorante ako......
Buhay pa ba 'yung Ceratec? Was looking for it but could not find it. But then again, I had not been to MegaMall in ages.
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thanks for the tips ....
and i agree .... architectural audio is the best audio store I have come across so far ... let's support them so they can build a better auditioning room :)
i think they're building one na...
baka magkita-kita na tayo sa may gbelt area...hehehe...
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Pasensiya na kayo kung ignorante ako......
Buhay pa ba 'yung Ceratec? Was looking for it but could not find it. But then again, I had not been to MegaMall in ages.
close na ang Ceratec
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bump
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I just had an experience with warranties that I would like to share with others. I have bought my B&W speakers, B&W subwoofer, Pioneer Universal DVD player, and 2 NAD CD players from Sights and Sounds in Shangri-La from 2003-2004.
1) Aug. 26, 2004 - I bought my first NAD C542 player from S&S for P19,000
2) Dec. 2004 - I bought my 2nd NAD C542 player for my sister
3) Early Feb. 2005 - My player lost its analog out. Everything else was ok. I brought it to S&S.
4) After 2 weeks - they still don't know what the problem is
5) Feb. 18, 2005 - Jun from S&S tells me that they only offer 6 months warranty on parts so I need to pay for the part which they estimate at P5,000!!! When I checked my S&S warranty card, it did mention 6 months on parts. I then argued that when I bought it, he said 1 year warranty.
6) I asked for the number of the NAD dealer and I complained. Studio Systems said the warranty is indeed for 1 year. However, they said I still have to pay the estimated P5,000 because I misused the player. They said I used bad quality CD-Rs. I told them I only have a few Benq CD-Rs.
7) Studio then said they will give me a brand new unit, after I give the P5,000.
8) We then discussed this issue lengthily at PinoyDVD (http://pinoydvd.com/content/index.php?option=com_smf&Itemid=28&expv=0&?topic=4755.220)
9) I escalated the issue to NAD International by e-mailing them. I got a response that they will work on my problem.
10) S&S said they have the replacement unit already. I paid the P4,500 (discounted) and picked up my unit.
11) Studio then said that I don't have to pay the P4,500 anymore! But I told them S&S already collected it from me since they would not release the replacement unit.
12) A month after, April 12, 2005, I picked up my P4,500 refund at S&S.
13) When I picked up my check, the owner of Sights and Sounds was there and he reprimanded me on why I had to broadcast the issue at PinoyDVD. I told him to read my posts and to know that I just wrote what I experienced. He told me to publicly apologize to Sights and Sounds. I disagreed since all I did was tell the truth. The discussion then proceeded to turn sour and he put the blame on Studio Systems. I told him I was a loyal S&S customer and I brought so many of my friends to them... it was only becuase of the incident that I decided to never buy from them again. When I told him my good experience with Listening in Style, he told me that they were only 1 family. That the B&W distributor was even his cousin. After 30 mintues of reprimanding me and saying that I had no right to destroy their business, he then said, just get your money! The damage has been done.
Now it is obvious to me that the owner of Sights and Sounds does not know the meaning of CUSTOMER SUPPORT. I was a customer!! And he reprimanded me like I was his lowly employee.
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hayaan mo na lang mYKi. meron talagang mga taong ganun mag-ugali. nde na natin mababago yun.
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that would only mean Sights & Sounds should be avoided! >:(
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that sucks. :o i even bought my plasma tv from them, just a month ago. oh well.
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After 30 mintues of reprimanding me and saying that I had no right to destroy their business, he then said, just get your money! The damage has been done.
they did it to themselves (destroyed their business), for not taking care of customers (even loyal ones like myki). anyway, they have not right berating you like that.
8)
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kapal naman ng mukha nya, sila dapat mag-issue ng public apology
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Thanks for the post, I will add them to the list of stores I need to avoid!
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the shop owner has self-destructed. within 90 days magsasara yan, otherwise, he'll be losing a lot of money.
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Funny enough, there are a lot of stores in the Philippines whose sales people are very rude! I guess these days customers are demanding better service, so those that cannot provide it will eventually lose and close shop!
If you shop in the US or in Europe, customers are given better attention and service. When I returned to live in the Philippines from the US, I was so shocked with the attitude of some business establishments here, they make me feel that I owe them something if I buy from them, in addition, some of those sales people does not know what they are talking about!
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13) When I picked up my check, the owner of Sights and Sounds was there and he reprimanded me on why I had to broadcast the issue at PinoyDVD. I told him to read my posts and to know that I just wrote what I experienced. He told me to publicly apologize to Sights and Sounds. I disagreed since all I did was tell the truth. The discussion then proceeded to turn sour and he put the blame on Studio Systems. I told him I was a loyal S&S customer and I brought so many of my friends to them... it was only becuase of the incident that I decided to never buy from them again. When I told him my good experience with Listening in Style, he told me that they were only 1 family. That the B&W distributor was even his cousin. After 30 mintues of reprimanding me and saying that I had no right to destroy their business, he then said, just get your money! The damage has been done.
Now it is obvious to me that the owner of Sights and Sounds does not know the meaning of CUSTOMER SUPPORT. I was a customer!! And he reprimanded me like I was his lowly employee.
If it came from a salesguy, I can easily dismiss that as the rumblings of a misguided employee. But since it came from the owner, the incident cements in marble the anti-customer policies and attitudes you can expect from this store. I don't know about you guys, but I for one will never patronize this store.
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Funny enough, there are a lot of stores in the Philippines whose sales people are very rude! I guess these days customers are demanding better service, so those that cannot provide it will eventually lose and close shop!
If you shop in the US or in Europe, customers are given better attention and service. When I returned to live in the Philippines from the US, I was so shocked with the attitude of some business establishments here, they make me feel that I owe them something if I buy from them, in addition, some of those sales people does not know what they are talking about!
I've known this disparity for a long time since I first experienced shopping in the US and the wonderful tales my friends there told me about how different their aftersales service is compared to what we have here. I agree with some capitalist writings, notably that of Alvin Toffler when he said the age of consumerism and SERVICE in market-economies are now prevalent in first world countries. That was a good 20 years ago. Customer-centric policies take precedence to ensure long-term customer patronage over business priorities for short-term profits. Hence, return policies have matured so that there is always the benefit of the doubt bestowed on the customer. No questions asked, when you return a defective item. In contrast, local stores prefer to suspect that the customer wants to put one over them, so returns of defective merchandise are often frowned at and made difficult.
This country still has along way to go to empower the consumers and make service the priority. This community has a small percentage of audiophiles in its membership. But I believe, we can make it a powerful instrument for furthering the interest of the audiophile consumer by acting as one in boycotting stores that make us look like fools, while they laugh all the way to their banks.
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What are the names of the stores again?
Sights and Sounds AND Listening in Style
got it... black-listed it. Thanks for sharing your experience.
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According to Myki Sights and Sounds only.
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that sucks. :o i even bought my plasma tv from them, just a month ago. oh well.
Suggestion lang, did they give you a Yellow Warranty Card which is printed by Sights and Sounds?
If they did, return it since if you read the fine print, it will say that they will honor 6 months warranty for parts. If they didn't, then good for you. In my case, they simply attached it to my receipt.
Myki
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What are the names of the stores again?
Sights and Sounds AND Listening in Style
got it... black-listed it. Thanks for sharing your experience.
Correction, the owner of Sights and Sounds only said they are 1 family because I told him that I was very happy with Listening in Style.
So don't blacklist Listening in Style. :)
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You know, local consumers are partly to blame. Like me for example, sobra akong mahiyain and I don't complain. Sa Hong Kong, expert sucker ako. Palagi ako nabebentahan ng bulok and nahihiya pa rin ako umangal.
Even with my local purchases, nahihiya rin ako. It was actually my first time to complain and get a result because of the prodding of fellow PDVD people.
So I guess if most of us will really demand great service, and we will not settle for anything less, then maybe in the future our local stores will be similar to US stores.
Actually, noong napagsabihan ako ng Sights and Sounds owner, medyo napatahimik ako.... kaso, noong sumosobra na, and nahihiya na rin ako kay Jun (yung salesman niya na kaibigan ko), eh I had to defend my position.
Last week naman, napabili ako ng motherboard. So nag-recommend sila ng board para sa akin and I trusted their recommendation. Pag uwi ko and nag-research ako.... eh lumang model na pala yung motherboard. It can't even handle DDR400. So ayun! Nahiya nanaman akong mag-reklamo. :-) Anyway, okay lang, tumatakbo naman yung computer ko. :)
Let's just be more vigilant in demanding our rights as consumers.
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I guess Pinoys are by nature not as assertive as in other countries. Though I must say that Pinoys in the US as just as assertive as their white brothers. It seems the culture of consumer assertiveness has rubbed on to them.
Here, I can understand the meekness of consumers, perhaps because they'd rather not be harassed by the more assertive sales guys and proprietors.
But that should change, if we want to uphold our consumer rights.
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lumabas din tunay na kulay niya. he's right on one thing though...he's ruined. :D not your fault of course myki but by his own hand.
i also had good experiences with dealing with Listening in Style. good service too.
i agree with us not being assertive enough regarding our consumer rights. then again, the gov't also didn't help much in this matter.(lack of consumer protection laws) sa states naman i think sobra sa consumer protection...why? some consumers buy something and just return it after 30 days or so even if it works as advertised just because they don't like it anymore or got bored with it..etc. that's just wrong IMHO.
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Suggestion lang, did they give you a Yellow Warranty Card which is printed by Sights and Sounds?
If they did, return it since if you read the fine print, it will say that they will honor 6 months warranty for parts. If they didn't, then good for you. In my case, they simply attached it to my receipt.
Myki
thanks for the heads up Myki. ;)
they did gave me a yellow card, and i returned the limited warranty card for my toshiba ptv awhile ago. auditioned the c542 again, cant resist the urge to take it home, now minus the yellow card(parang football ;D) hehehe
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I would like to share my bad experience with S&S Shangri-La. When I tried to audition a pair of Mission Speakers, the salesperson just hooked them up to a Denon AVR, played a DVD movie and then left me. When I asked for an Audio CD, I was made to wait for 15 minutes dahil wala daw silang makitang Audio CD. I just left without saying a word. Hindi talaga sila marunong magtreat ng customers!
Kaya ng bumili ako ng NAD C542 last December, sa Sony(Avid) Robinsons Galleria ako bumili, and I got it for P18K lang and the unit is sealed dahil I ordered it 2 days before. Sa S&S P19K na, bad treatment pa aabutin mo.
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Kawawa naman ang Sights and Sounds.tsk tsk tsk... makaka-survive pa kaya sila? kasi imagine mo thousands ang member ng pinoydvd eh hindi na bibili sa SIGHTS AND SOUNDS tapos cyempre yun mga friends of friends pa ng mga members ng pinoydvd eh pagsasabihan nila na wag sila bumili sa SIGHTS AND SOUNDS.tsk tsk tsk
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thanks for the heads up Myki. ;)
they did gave me a yellow card, and i returned the limited warranty card for my toshiba ptv awhile ago. auditioned the c542 again, cant resist the urge to take it home, now minus the yellow card(parang football ;D) hehehe
Good job! Ibang klase ang FINE PRINT ng limited warranty card nila. When the owner of S&S was berating me, he said, "Hindi naman kami ang nagsabi na 6 months lang ang warranty sa parts eh, ang Studio ang nagsabi noon! (and then tingin siya sa employee niya na si Jun) Diba Jun?! And sagot ni Jun, "Hindi po. Wala po silang sinabing ganoon."
Haha! Tapos I pointed out their yellow warranty card which was all over the counter... I then showed to him the 6 months on parts clause in their card... and sabi niya "Ahhh. Hindi naman iyan ang pinag-uusapan natin. Binagyan ka namin ng ganyan na warranty card kasi walang warranty card sa loob ng box ng NAD. Pasalamat ka sa amin kasi kung hindi sa card na iyan, eh di wala kang panghahawakan. We are doing you a service."
Sabay ang answer ko, "So your telling me that your salesman's word when he told me 1 year warranty for the products I bought from you does not hold? Since it all boils down to a yellow card?"
Hay naku!
Anyway, mas makakamura ka pa siguro kung sa Spectra ka bumili ng NAD C542 since I bought mine sa Shang ng P19,000 but I'm sure mga P18,000 lang sa Spectra iyon. Although I have no buying experience from them pa.
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Kawawa naman ang Sights and Sounds.tsk tsk tsk... makaka-survive pa kaya sila? kasi imagine mo thousands ang member ng pinoydvd eh hindi na bibili sa SIGHTS AND SOUNDS tapos cyempre yun mga friends of friends pa ng mga members ng pinoydvd eh pagsasabihan nila na wag sila bumili sa SIGHTS AND SOUNDS.tsk tsk tsk
Actually, ang desired scenario eh hindi sila magsara.... the less stores we have, eh the less choices din. Ang maganda eh ibahin nila ang policy ng customer support nila. From my impression, ang tingin ng owner na iyon is to simply get our money, end of story.
And hindi naman sila magsasara since mga less than 5% lang tayo ng market nila. The other 95% eh hindi naman pumupunta sa PinoyDVD. :)
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on my part naman, ive got no issues sa S&S, from the Boss to the staff, he even gave me a free Bello rack when i purchased the Toshiba PTV. :)
then i got my NAD C542 for 17500 yesterday.
as for Spectra, cant ask for more, Jim is a nice guy to haggle with. :)
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as for Spectra, cant ask for more, Jim is a nice guy to haggle with. :)
Exactly my sentiments. I have had a chance to buy a couple of AE speakers for my pop from Spectra. No hassles. Great guy to do business with.
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on my part naman, ive got no issues sa S&S, from the Boss to the staff, he even gave me a free Bello rack when i purchased the Toshiba PTV. :)
then i got my NAD C542 for 17500 yesterday.
as for Spectra, cant ask for more, Jim is a nice guy to haggle with. :)
Wow. Swerte mo naman. :-) Post your comments on your NAD C542 at the corresponding thread at the Audio section. Maybe if I also bought a plasma TV from S&S they would have treated me nicely. hehehe
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thanks. so far very happy na ako sa c542, i hope this contentment lasts :)
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Hope you don't mind if we comment on some items
6) I asked for the number of the NAD dealer and I complained. Studio Systems said the warranty is indeed for 1 year. However, they said I still have to pay the estimated P5,000 because I misused the player. They said I used bad quality CD-Rs. I told them I only have a few Benq CD-Rs.
"Sorry for the misccomunication in regards to your player which was mistaken for the other items for servicing at the moment. As for the estimated P5,000.00 cost of repair we never said that you have to pay that amount. We repeat that it was an estimate and subject to negotiation with NAD Asia HQ "
7) Studio then said they will give me a brand new unit, after I give the P5,000.
"Again we never said that you have to pay us this amount for the replacement. What we recall is that Sights & Sounds, call our our office and demanding a replacement of unit, wherein we haven't received the unit for evaluation. Immediate replacement can only be made within 30 days purchase of the customer from the authorized dealer and should includes all accessories, packing materials and owners manual are intact. Without any actual physical evaluation at the moment, we inform S&S the extent of consequence if they proceed without the proper proceedure."
We are sorry that you experience such situation and we hope you understand our side.
I just had an experience with warranties that I would like to share with others. I have bought my B&W speakers, B&W subwoofer, Pioneer Universal DVD player, and 2 NAD CD players from Sights and Sounds in Shangri-La from 2003-2004.
1) Aug. 26, 2004 - I bought my first NAD C542 player from S&S for P19,000
2) Dec. 2004 - I bought my 2nd NAD C542 player for my sister
3) Early Feb. 2005 - My player lost its analog out. Everything else was ok. I brought it to S&S.
4) After 2 weeks - they still don't know what the problem is
5) Feb. 18, 2005 - Jun from S&S tells me that they only offer 6 months warranty on parts so I need to pay for the part which they estimate at P5,000!!! When I checked my S&S warranty card, it did mention 6 months on parts. I then argued that when I bought it, he said 1 year warranty.
6) I asked for the number of the NAD dealer and I complained. Studio Systems said the warranty is indeed for 1 year. However, they said I still have to pay the estimated P5,000 because I misused the player. They said I used bad quality CD-Rs. I told them I only have a few Benq CD-Rs.
7) Studio then said they will give me a brand new unit, after I give the P5,000.
8) We then discussed this issue lengthily at PinoyDVD (http://pinoydvd.com/content/index.php?option=com_smf&Itemid=28&expv=0&?topic=4755.220)
9) I escalated the issue to NAD International by e-mailing them. I got a response that they will work on my problem.
10) S&S said they have the replacement unit already. I paid the P4,500 (discounted) and picked up my unit.
11) Studio then said that I don't have to pay the P4,500 anymore! But I told them S&S already collected it from me since they would not release the replacement unit.
12) A month after, April 12, 2005, I picked up my P4,500 refund at S&S.
13) When I picked up my check, the owner of Sights and Sounds was there and he reprimanded me on why I had to broadcast the issue at PinoyDVD. I told him to read my posts and to know that I just wrote what I experienced. He told me to publicly apologize to Sights and Sounds. I disagreed since all I did was tell the truth. The discussion then proceeded to turn sour and he put the blame on Studio Systems. I told him I was a loyal S&S customer and I brought so many of my friends to them... it was only becuase of the incident that I decided to never buy from them again. When I told him my good experience with Listening in Style, he told me that they were only 1 family. That the B&W distributor was even his cousin. After 30 mintues of reprimanding me and saying that I had no right to destroy their business, he then said, just get your money! The damage has been done.
Now it is obvious to me that the owner of Sights and Sounds does not know the meaning of CUSTOMER SUPPORT. I was a customer!! And he reprimanded me like I was his lowly employee.
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OT, I was able to call Watt Hi-fi earlier this afternoon and to my dismay, the representative ive talked with doesnt know how to deal with customers via phonecall.
I was asking what is their cheapest speaker cable, he replied "Gusto nyo ng magandang tunog eh wala naman kayong budget" I just dont understand why this guy assumed that on me. ??? I was insulted over the phone and I just ended our conversation due to the disappoinment I felt. Btw, i also introduced as a member of this forum before we start our conversation..
I just hope that they should be kindly enough to deal with customers even on the phone coz they are in a customer-service oriented business.
Fellow members, sorry to disrupt but i need to bring this so that any of us would know.
Sorry for posting words like this and I hope you all understand my point..
Thanks
cire2004
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mag-complain ka sa may-ari thru a formal letter. ganyan pala ang Watt Hi-fi?
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I can inform the owners. Im sure they wont allow this incident to happen.
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I can inform the owners. Im sure they wont allow this incident to happen.
thanks sir levi. :)
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OT, I was able to call Watt Hi-fi earlier this afternoon and to my dismay, the representative ive talked with doesnt know how to deal with customers via phonecall.
I was asking what is their cheapest speaker cable, he replied "Gusto nyo ng magandang tunog eh wala naman kayong budget" I just dont understand why this guy assumed that on me. ??? I was insulted over the phone and I just ended our conversation due to the disappoinment I felt. Btw, i also introduced as a member of this forum before we start our conversation..
I just hope that they should be kindly enough to deal with customers even on the phone coz they are in a customer-service oriented business.
Fellow members, sorry to disrupt but i need to bring this so that any of us would know.
Sorry for posting words like this and I hope you all understand my point..
Thanks
cire2004
cire2004,
Ive talked to the person you most probably spoken to. He explained to me the whole situation, and im extending his apology for this misunderstanding. He was under pressure at the time you called cause he was attending to 2 clients simultaneously. I was not around at that time due to flu and my partner is out for installation. I hope this clears out everyting. Again WATT Hi-Fi is very very sorry for a thing like this to happen. If you ever happen to inquire again, here's my cel no. (09173291534) so you can personally contact me.
Tnx!!! ;D
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cire2004,
Ive talked to the person you most probably spoken to. He explained to me the whole situation, and im extending his apology for this misunderstanding. He was under pressure at the time you called cause he was attending to 2 clients simultaneously. I was not around at that time due to flu and my partner is out for installation. I hope this clears out everyting. Again WATT Hi-Fi is very very sorry for a thing like this to happen. If you ever happen to inquire again, here's my cel no. (09173291534) so you can personally contact me.
Tnx!!! ;D
No problem bro. Its just happen that my sensitivity occured on that very moment.
Anyway, thanks for your immediate response to this and I truly appreciate your sincere apology. Will txt/call you when I have inquiries again. Thanks for your understanding. :)
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hmmm...sa parehas na nirereklamo pako na tindahan napa bili :-[ ..pero so far, ok naman treatment nila. With S&S shangri-la, medyo snub nga ung tindero pero, sasagutin naman nila ung tanong mo...hindi nga lang sila nakatingin sayo, parang "hindi ka naman bibili look" With the owner, super bait sakin...kasi he even delivered the mission speaker i bought kahit di pa na sswipe ang credit card ko..so, in short, nasakin na ung speakers pero di pa bayad..kinabukasan ko pa binayaran. Well i guess nag paka bait sya nung may nagreklamo. At saka sabi ni matzer nag sserve pa daw sa simbahan un :-\
With WATT HIFI naman, ayos si carlos...i dont know if that's his real name...tropa kasi sya ng barkada ko..so sa kanya ako nirecommend. Sa kanila ko binili ung Mission M3c2. ok naman, lahat ng recommendations bibigay nila. Pero pansin ko lang mas special treatment pag ang itsura mo ay "singkit, tisoy, naka all white, at mukang wla ng magawa sa pera". IMHO. sa tingin ko naman maraming stores ang ganun ang treatment. All im saying is they should treat all their customers equally. Cguro ang nakausap nyo sa fone is ung tauhan dun...medyo parang nabbwiset un pag pinapapakuha ng stock sa bodega. :P lolz!
Dun naman sa katabi ng WATT hi Fi - TOYS FOR THE AUDIO BOYS....--- pag pasok mo palang, kala mo mag bestfriend na kayo nung manager/owner...i forgot his name..super asikaso. That day, di naman dapat ako bibili ng cd...pero napabili ako..hehehehe!!! So KUDOS to TOYS FOR THE AUDIO BOYS...im sure kung ganyan ang customer service nyo...dadami ang customers nyo ;)
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DCM - OWNER Mr.M.Chua and staff - VERY ACCOMODATING and HELPFUL MASKI SPEAKER STANDS LANG BINILI KO.
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Guys my experience with Audio Visual Driver in Shangrilla is worth sharing.
Every time I go to the mall I never miss out going around the AV shops. I happen to be in shangrilla the other day so again I went around with my usual route (Listening Room, Sights & Sounds, B&W, Audio Visual Driver). The first thing I noticed when I went to AVD is an M&K MX-90 Sub (125 Watt Dual Push Pull Driver), it's a discontinued model but had great praises and reviews. It was a consigned unit from a customer who upgraded from a higher model. When I asked the technical sales person how much the sub cost, I could not believe my ears when he told me that it was being sold at a very reasonable price (Ka price lang ng US Audio ;D). The sales person by the name of John Russel Yao is very accommodating in answering all my queries regarding the product. He exemplified professionalism and courtesy which in my experience with many AV Stores are no longer being practiced nowadays. Since there are no technical specifications available for the MX90, Mr. Yao did what other technical sales person would not do, he search the internet for any technical specifications on the MX-90. He gracefully allowed me to audition the unit using many dvd demo clips I requested (Hero, Saving Private Ryan, Hotel California). He also took the liberty to introduce and guide me to other products and speaker packages that maybe of interest. He even accompanied us on our way out and even called a taxi for us. . I've never seen such excellent display of customer service.
Guys if you have the chance, drop by at Audio Visual Driver highly recommended. Plus you might bump into consigned units at rock buttom price truly a treasure find.
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ive been at Electronics Depot (hope i said the name correct) in Robinsons place Manila and its been a good experience. Pagpasok ko pa lang sa pinto nginitian na ako nung staff kahit kumakain sya and he even talk to me for minutes and shared opininons about stuff. he even gave me a calling card para raw pag bibili ako tawagan ko muna sila.. sana lahat ng AV shops ganito ang treatment sa customers... wish ko lang.. ;)
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I dunno if this is OT or not...kasi di naman AV shop ang CDRKing. But anyway, kung gusto nyong masira ang araw nyo, just drop by CDRKing in MegaMall...Kung bibili ka, dapat siguro nsa mood ka...kasi kung wala, sira talaga araw mo ;) At kung napatapat ka pa sa model employee nila...ibabagsak na lang sa istante ung binili mo na parang hindi fragile ung mga disks...At eto pa, ikaw ang may kasalanan pag di mo sila inintindi. >:( Ive never been treated so bad... to think na ang dami kong binili...pag 2 piraso bibilin mo...isasagot sayo. "huh, 2 piraso?!!" sabay simangot. hmm... 1 lang ba ang may ari ng lahat ng CDRKing? or franchise ito? Mr.Owner ng CDRKing sa megamall.., kung nasan ka man... wla lang :P
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I just want to share what happened to me last june 2005. I was in the market for a hi-end speaker , my old speaker is a B&W 602 s2 that I felt is a very good sounding speaker, but Iam looking for an upgrade in my audio system ( I have a separate audio and HT setup). When I was at the market I auditioned aurum cantus, triangle , B&W, usher, jm lab , dunluvy and innersound. On the day that I need to decide which one to buy , the most promissing is the INNERSOUND EROS but also the most expensive. I was at Shang rila mall AVDI at that time when I remember that there is one more hi-end shop there that I forgot to visit, the Listening in Style , so I hurried up to that shop so as to auditioned more hi-end speakers (who might know maybe they have a better sounding and cheaper speaker than INNERSOUND EROS). To my frustration, they DID'NT let me hear any HI-end speaker because nobody was there to operate ( they are about 7 staff there ??? and about 5 pairs of different hi-end speakers) , adding insult to injury they said that I can only listen to yamaha speakers installed in their ht receiver setup for my hi-end search of speakers, at the end of the day I decided to buy the INNERSOUND EROS. Maybe the listening in style treat their customers this way specially when they wear only slippers like me. Just sharing my experience with Listening in style.
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up ;D
i believe this thread should always be active to serve notice to our dear friends @ the av shops ;D
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I am never easily impressed by how stores handle customers, especially on aftersales. However, my experience with the Sound Dimensione people in Park Square is a pleasant experience. They treated me like I'm buying a 100K's worth of audio equipment from their store when I'm not. Then when I complained about the gear roughly about 2 months later, they eagerly would replace the unit subject to availability. They courteuosly would address me everytime with a "sir" and get my opinions on some matters. The store owner is very nice but firm and very straightforward.
I would buy gears from them anytime!! ;)
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I went to Sonny Tuason's Home Theater shop in Tordesillas a few days back. Just before the visit, I called him to ask what his available LCD/plasma models are. He told me to go the store and he will have his staff hook them up for me, so I can make a comparison.
When I got to the store, his son was there and personally handled the unpacking of the units and the laying down of the wires. He showed me how the Toshiba A3000 32" and 37" models performed using an upscaler DVD and also with cable tv. For good measure, he also hooked up a 42" Sony plasma model (forgot the model #) so I could compare.
Kudos to Sonny!
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The staff at Sonny Tuason's Home Theater are very pleasant and accomodating. They really go all out to make you feel welcome whether you are inquiring about high-end or low-end equipment. I also highly recommend this store for all your HT needs. ;)
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I went to Sonny Tuason's Home Theater shop in Tordesillas a few days back. Just before the visit, I called him to ask what his available LCD/plasma models are. He told me to go the store and he will have his staff hook them up for me, so I can make a comparison.
When I got to the store, his son was there and personally handled the unpacking of the units and the laying down of the wires. He showed me how the Toshiba A3000 32" and 37" models performed using an upscaler DVD and also with cable tv. For good measure, he also hooked up a 42" Sony plasma model (forgot the model #) so I could compare.
Kudos to Sonny!
Like Father Like Son indeed. ;)
SS Shang..... >:( I noticed that they have a bunch of people working there but not a single one bothered to entertain their customers, forget about me, I have no intention of buying :D but that was my observation with their customers everytime I visit.
Pero pansin ko lang mas special treatment pag ang itsura mo ay "singkit, tisoy, naka all white, at mukang wla ng magawa sa pera"
I believe this quote also represents them.
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I had a nice experience at Sights and Sounds Shangri-la earlier this evening. I walked in the store because I saw that there was a box of the panasonic 42pv70 outside the store. I got curious as to the store price and was very happy to see tha the toshiba regza 37" model was also displayed inside. i had some qualms about going there because of some of the posts here, but hey, anything for a good bargain :)
So off I went...a sales person pointed me to the toshiba and the panasonic. there was no other customer inside, apart from a guy who was watching a movie on a pioneer plasma. while i was recounting to my friend my dilemma (between the panasonic and the toshiba), the guy (who i thought was a customer) approached us. apparently, he was the owner of the store. he nicely gave us the pros and cons of getting an LCD versus the plasma and quoted very competitive cash prices for the models i liked (the card price wasn't as competitive as some of the other stores i've scouted recently). he also adverted to their 3 year After Sales Program, which comes free with every pruchase of the models i liked. it includes, quick fix (helping out in the transport of your TV to the repair shop, if needed, and providing a service unit), delivery (including free one time delivery should you move houses or need to transport the tv to another location), picture perfect calibration and technical consultations via telephone and on-site visits. he also demo'ed a Denon HTIB (a 2.1 system) which was also on display.
fyi, i was wearing just plain jeans and shirt.
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yup malaki pinagbago ng SS shang sales people, they now talk to you when you walk in the door...i was there last week and the saleslady talked to me and answered some questions....dati kasi deadmahin ka lang, kakawalang gana bumili tuloy. I think the owner in glasses, thin guy made adjustments hehe. He looks really familiar, just cant remember where i saw him before.
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Sir Tonedeaf, san may ok na price ng Toshiba 37a3000 pati narin yng mas malaki ng konti na LCD's?
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Sir Tonedeaf, san may ok na price ng Toshiba 37a3000 pati narin yng mas malaki ng konti na LCD's?
will pm you na lang. baka OT na dito.
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I just have one to all of them. Some may already be doing this, but for those who are not. PLEASE stop using demo disc and start connecting your dvd's, blu-ray, hddvd players via hdmi directly to the display lcd's, plasma etc. Or have one of each format players on the side as standby with hdmi and ready to connect to any tv on display that the customer wish to try..Please have dvds, bluray, hddvd discs (at least 3 movies from each format) readily available for testing.
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Hello people...
Do you know any audio store that repairs Bose systems? I'm living in the Diliman area, and I'm looking for the nearest store - maybe somewhere in TriNoma or at SM North.
Thanks...
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Hello people...
Do you know any audio store that repairs Bose systems? I'm living in the Diliman area, and I'm looking for the nearest store - maybe somewhere in TriNoma or at SM North.
Thanks...
I think this not right place for this topic... ::) should be in Service or Repair section... ;D
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i ,for one, am not that satisfied as to the limited brands our current audio video shop sells. there are a number of excellent brands that are not marketed in our country right now and it's really disappointing.
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I would just like to air my disgust and disappointment with Cosmotech. Last June 9, I went to their shop at Festival Mall, Alabang and saw they were selling theater seats which were perfect for my HT. The price was very reasonable so I inquired how long would it take if I ordered 4 pairs from them. They told me it would take 30-45 days (arriving sometime between July 10-25) coz the seats would still be coming from Korea. I had 2nd thoughts in buying because of the length of time from ordering until the delivery of the goods. Patience is not one of my good virtues. They also told me that I need to give a 50% downpayment for the seats that I will order and they will only accept in cash. Credit cards aren't honored. On the next day, I decided to order from them and paid them the 50% downpayment in cash. I even posted here in Pinoydvd the theater seats that I was ordering and that good things come to those that wait.
Last July 10 (the 30th day since I ordered), I was already following up if the seats have arrived already. They told me that they would update me of the status of the shipment. So I waited and let the days pass. Last Monday July 21(41st day since I ordered), I received a text message from Evelyn of Cosmotech that they will see if the shipment has arrived already. You just can't imagine my excitement after receiving a text message knowing that I have waited that long and would be expecting that they will be delivering the seats this week. Yesterday which is the 24th (the 44th day since I ordered), I called up Cosmotech and followed up the delivery of the seats. To my dismay, Evelyn told me that the container van containing my seats are still in Korea and hasn't shipped yet! They had the reason that the van cannot be shipped coz they are waiting to fill it up with other goods before they can ship. Sayang daw kasi ang space! You just can't imagine how disappointed I was with them without even telling me earlier about this. They put my hopes too high and I waited! I really blew my top and vented out my frustrations with the company to Evelyn. So I just asked her how long will I still wait. They told me 3-4 weeks more!!! >:( Man that really pissed me off and I just ranted the whole time on the phone on how unprofessional they are, etc, etc. I wanted my money back and they told me that the order was placed already and mahirap na daw magcancel kasi nakapack na sa container van yung seats. I told Evelyn that I wanted to speak to her boss (a certain Leo Sto. Tomas) about it. She told me that she cannot give me his number coz baka magulat kung bigla akong tumawag so she asked me if it's ok if she will just give my number to her boss so he can call me up. I waited the whole day for the call and that guy never called.
Now, I am contemplating on getting back my money and just order seats somewhere else or just wait for 3-4 freaking weeks for their promised shipment to arrive. It was just so sad that I even posted that Cosmotech is a good and reliable company and realized that they are so unprofessional and do not keep their promises. :-\
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you should demand your money back... di pa naman dumarating ang items eh. and document every conversation that you had para lang ma establish mo ang case mo.
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I would just like to air my disgust and disappointment with Cosmotech. Last June 9, I went to their shop at Festival Mall, Alabang and saw they were selling theater seats which were perfect for my HT. The price was very reasonable so I inquired how long would it take if I ordered 4 pairs from them. They told me it would take 30-45 days (arriving sometime between July 10-25) coz the seats would still be coming from Korea. I had 2nd thoughts in buying because of the length of time from ordering until the delivery of the goods. Patience is not one of my good virtues. They also told me that I need to give a 50% downpayment for the seats that I will order and they will only accept in cash. Credit cards aren't honored. On the next day, I decided to order from them and paid them the 50% downpayment in cash. I even posted here in Pinoydvd the theater seats that I was ordering and that good things come to those that wait.
Last July 10 (the 30th day since I ordered), I was already following up if the seats have arrived already. They told me that they would update me of the status of the shipment. So I waited and let the days pass. Last Monday July 21(41st day since I ordered), I received a text message from Evelyn of Cosmotech that they will see if the shipment has arrived already. You just can't imagine my excitement after receiving a text message knowing that I have waited that long and would be expecting that they will be delivering the seats this week. Yesterday which is the 24th (the 44th day since I ordered), I called up Cosmotech and followed up the delivery of the seats. To my dismay, Evelyn told me that the container van containing my seats are still in Korea and hasn't shipped yet! They had the reason that the van cannot be shipped coz they are waiting to fill it up with other goods before they can ship. Sayang daw kasi ang space! You just can't imagine how disappointed I was with them without even telling me earlier about this. They put my hopes too high and I waited! I really blew my top and vented out my frustrations with the company to Evelyn. So I just asked her how long will I still wait. They told me 3-4 weeks more!!! >:( Man that really pissed me off and I just ranted the whole time on the phone on how unprofessional they are, etc, etc. I wanted my money back and they told me that the order was placed already and mahirap na daw magcancel kasi nakapack na sa container van yung seats. I told Evelyn that I wanted to speak to her boss (a certain Leo Sto. Tomas) about it. She told me that she cannot give me his number coz baka magulat kung bigla akong tumawag so she asked me if it's ok if she will just give my number to her boss so he can call me up. I waited the whole day for the call and that guy never called.
Now, I am contemplating on getting back my money and just order seats somewhere else or just wait for 3-4 freaking weeks for their promised shipment to arrive. It was just so sad that I even posted that Cosmotech is a good and reliable company and realized that they are so unprofessional and do not keep their promises. :-\
Transit time via sea from South Korea to either North or South Harbor Ports in Manila only takes 5 days MAX. Plus additional 2 days siguro to clear the merchandize. Therefore, they only started filling up the container a few days ago. FCL is cheaper than LCL kaya they are taking their time to have a full container.
This is only for your reference.
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Thanks guys for your responses.
you should demand your money back... di pa naman dumarating ang items eh. and document every conversation that you had para lang ma establish mo ang case mo.
That is initially my reaction and they cannot give me a straight answer for this option coz the boss is the only one who could decide on this. And I haven't talked to him yet. Maybe if they were professional enough just to talk to me and try to fix the problem then I wouldn't be writing this in the 1st place.
Transit time via sea from South Korea to either North or South Harbor Ports in Manila only takes 5 days MAX. Plus additional 2 days siguro to clear the merchandize. Therefore, they only started filling up the container a few days ago. FCL is cheaper than LCL kaya they are taking their time to have a full container.
This is only for your reference.
Thanks for giving me this info. Maybe this is one thing that I can point out to them to show how long they have kept me waiting. I cannot tolerate this.
Yesterday, I followed up again as early as 9am my intended conversation with Evelyn's boss. She told me the boss was still in a morning meeting and would call me up after. I waited for the call and then called them up again at around 3pm. She told me the meeting wasn't over yet and she again promised me that the boss will call me up. At 6pm I texted Evelyn again and then she told me that it is a Friday and may bidding daw sila kaya di pa yung boss makatawag. I waited until 9pm and then followed up again. Sabi daw follow up nya nalang tomorrow. What thaa...... >:( I wouldn't be surprised that if I follow up today, they will tell me that it's a weekend and the boss cannot talk to me kasi walang pasok. >:( >:( >:(
This boss is really getting on my nerves. They aren't putting any priority to apologize or at least fix the shortcomings of their company. What is a 10 minute conversation just to straighten things out? Ang lumalabas ako naghahabol kasi yung pera ko na sa kanila. Parang iniiwasan ako ng boss. >:( >:( >:(
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whenever you talk to their staff make sure to document it and always have him / her say that he / she confirms the statements said and that you are on a recorded line (kunwari lang). basta impose your will na. mahirap na pag pinatagal pa yan kasi lalabas na tanggap mo na ang pangyayari. continue on doing follow ups and if ever do schedule a visit to their store na rin. if ayaw pa rin bumigay and wala pa rin ang inorder mo or kahit refund, visit their store ng may kasama ka na taga media to further pressure them...
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whenever you talk to their staff make sure to document it and always have him / her say that he / she confirms the statements said and that you are on a recorded line (kunwari lang). basta impose your will na. mahirap na pag pinatagal pa yan kasi lalabas na tanggap mo na ang pangyayari. continue on doing follow ups and if ever do schedule a visit to their store na rin. if ayaw pa rin bumigay and wala pa rin ang inorder mo or kahit refund, visit their store ng may kasama ka na taga media to further pressure them...
Thanks sir for the suggestions lalo na yung bringing the media to their office. ;D Finally, the boss called up the house and was able to talk to my wife. He is already ready for his apologies etc. (parang scripted). He even told my wife that he was afraid to call up coz he didn't know what to say hearing from Evelyn how fuming mad we were. Guess he was doing the delaying tactics in the hope that we will just stop pestering them. To cut the story short, he will call up Monday to tell us of a definite date when they can deliver. In the meantime, they offered to lend us their display unit while our seats are in transit. If we are not amenable on their delivery date, the refund option won't be a problem. We just have to give them a 1 week grace period. :-\
The frustration and anger could've been prevented if they advised us early and ahead of time that the shipment would be delayed. Then I wouldn't have hoped too much, The funny thing is my wife made an analogy of promising a kid candy then not giving it on the last moment. That is exactly how i felt. ;D
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thats a very good development. do keep us posted on this :)
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My sister went to Listening in Style in Libis yesterday and ask for a panasonic 50PV80 and got a quote of P95,650 12months to pay but their stock is in Shangrila. This afternoon she went to Shang to buy a 50pv80, they got a quote of 95,650 12months. Being a kuripot they went out to ask other stores for their price and finally going back to Listening in style for having the best price.
They ask for a demo of the unit and ask again for the price, she tried to haggled for the price again to make it 95k flat, the secretary ask the owner for approval and when she returned the price becomes 97k. The secretary just said lugi daw sila at nagkamali ng price. The owner walk right thru them and not even explaining his side.
Thats the time she called me up and ask me if I know this store. I told her na kausapin nya si JR and tell her the real story that the price she got is also the price she got yesterday at listening style Libis. Told her madali kausap yun at mabait yun.
After a few minutes my sister called again told me the owner she is talking about si JR pala pero kinausap din nila ang sagot sa kanya nagkamali yung secretary nya at secretary nya ang magbabayad nun, pagalit pa daw sinabi at wala daw sila tindahan sa libis, sa eastwood meron. Humirit bayaw ko na asan ba ang eastwood diba nasa libis yun. Tapos tinalikuran na lang daw sila ni JR.
Knowing my sister kung sinabi lang ng mabuti or explain ng maganda na lugi sila or something wala problema sa kanya yun.
Upon hearing this I called up Vic and ask for his best price he gave me 98k 12 months to pay for the 50CT10.
I called up my sis just go to Sight and Sound and pay for it, they went home with a smile at nakalimutan na yung inis nya ;)
Thanks Vic
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Sa difference na halagang P1,350 malulugi sila? Naahh....
Dapat sinuportahan ng may ari yung pagkakamali ng tao nya...at hindi nya ipasa sa customer ang burden. They have to put the customer first before anything else. At least ngayon alam ko na na wala sila tindahan sa Libis, sa Eastwood meron. :D :D :D Ahyeah!!!! :P
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...Upon hearing this I called up Vic and ask for his best price he gave me 98k 12 months to pay for the 50CT10.
I called up my sis just go to Sight and Sound and pay for it, they went home with a smile at nakalimutan na yung inis nya ;)
Thanks Vic
Wow, what an experience!
Nevertheless, everything goes well when your sister finally got for herself a freshly, just-arrived, brand new model plasma TV TH-P50C10. And at P98K 12 months, this TV is really a bargain!
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Medyo swerte pa ata ako sa mga shops so far. Most are helpful, wala naman bastos pero meron mga indifferent.
I've never had issues with Spectra. Mababait mga staff at mayari, at very willing to let you get your hands on the merchandise and/or hear them. Hinahatid pa yung gamit sa parking maski na kaya ko naman buhatin. :)
AVShop ok din, Mark even personally delivered my towers. The shop is still a work in progress, pero very accomodating yung staff at affordable yung prices.
5th Ave. mas kokonti yung brands, pero ok din. Sa Trinoma branch ako pumupunta kasi maliit na branch lang, very personal ang service. They also followup, nagtatanong kamusta na yung item na nabili sa kanila and ano feedback ko. I never had a problem sa Park Square, Shang and SM North branches nila.
Audible Illusions, very knowledgeable and friendly si Ashley. He went out of his way to present different items and play various genres of music. Mukhang magaling din sila with custom installs. I won't hesitate to buy from them.
Paradigm and Sights and Sounds helpful din mga tao. Sa S&S maski palagi marami tao, they try to give you some attention. Marami rin available units for audition.
Si Mr. Dy (Audio Visual Driver) very helpful din, and even played yung nice TT setup niya sa loob ng demo room maski obviously di ko afford ang mga gamit nun hahaha. Chorus lang nga tinitignan ko eh. Yung mga tao nya sa shops are also well trained and are accomodating. :)
Yung sa Listening in Style sa Shang, hindi ko alam yung name ng nag-assist sakin... pero I get what you guys mean na parang duda kung bibili ka ang tingin sayo. Though I had very good experience dun sa Listening Room branch sa Mega at yung sa Eastwood.
Watt HiFi has very good prices dun sa products na dala nila. Hindi masyado marami brands na dala nila, but they have well-priced goods, saka helpful yung staff nung nagpunta kami. Medyo out of the way lang nga yung MCS.
Audio Amplified: helpful si Noel medyo napaaga lang ata yung dating namin kaya di pa sila prepared. Next time text muna ako before heading over. He has good demo systems set up for listening.
AMX Shop (di ko alam name) saka yung isang shop sa ground floor dun sa Robinsons Pioneer, parehong tag isa lang ata staff. Wala rin kasing floor traffic, though helpful naman yung tao sa loob. Medyo kulang yung facility for me, kulang sa seats at display.
Theater Works sa Trinoma palagi ata kasi maraming tao, feeling ko ignored ako pag pumupunta ako. One time wala gaano tao so I tried my luck. I asked about a pair of mission towers at denon receiver, parang hindi sila willing iparinig. I asked kung pwede marinig, ang response eh yung soundbar daw kasi yung nakakabit kaya di tumutunog yung towers.
Sa Avesco medyo deadma din mga tao, though they will assist you if you ask. I guess hindi kasi targeted sa retail buyer ang shop nila. I don't like the fact na lagi sila sarado at kokonti yung selection (lunch break, weekends, etc.), pero they have good discounts sa Marantz at Mordaunt.
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I agree with the Avesco comment. We were there around 11:30AM Saturday morning and listening to the gears then just as the clock strikes 12, the staff asked us to leave the premises. Everyone was so in a hurry to close the store... That was the fastest store closing action I saw...
Personally, I think it was kinda rude... :-X
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To sum it up, all our electronic equipments here are OVERLY PRICED compared sa ibang bansa,
and in terms of services, as in repair and warranty, we are very poor on both counts,
like any other items naman, parating consumer ang nagsa-suffer dito sa atin... Unlike in the US na
ang ganda ng after sales support, claiming warranty and services, esp pag may mga recalls ang unit.
Ang pasalamat nga lang tayo may mga ganitong forum that we can air our comments and grievances sa mga shops na nakaka-deal natin...
ABC
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For pricing, medyo naiiintindihan ko since maliit ang market ng ganitong goods sa Pilipinas. Hindi makapag-take-advantage ng economies of scale dahil kokonti ang benta. Smaller orders, slower inventory turnover, higher duties, etc. would mean that there is more cost to recover... so natural lang na mapatong siya sa selling price.
As for customer service, iba iba kasi ang expectations ng tao. For a typical American, baka isipin na lousy ang customer service dito satin, though since we're used to it, para sa atin hindi issue. For the typical American customer, he or she would purchase the item... try it at home, pag di nagustohan isosoli within the period indicated sa return policy. Let's just wish that some of our local retailers start offering this option, at sana wag din abusuhin ng buyers para hindi madala yung retailer.
Sa warranty claims/repairs naman, I think comparable din basta yung product na binili ay may local presence. Ayaw din siyempre masira nung local distro ang name nya, kaya they usually find ways to rectify the problem. Pag grey market goods, nasa buyer na talaga yun if he/she wants to take the risk.
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After a few minutes my sister called again told me the owner she is talking about si JR pala pero kinausap din nila ang sagot sa kanya nagkamali yung secretary nya at secretary nya ang magbabayad nun, pagalit pa daw sinabi at wala daw sila tindahan sa libis, sa eastwood meron. Humirit bayaw ko na asan ba ang eastwood diba nasa libis yun. Tapos tinalikuran na lang daw sila ni JR.
Thanks Vic
Wala naman sa Eastwood ang store nila kundi sa Libis nga. The fact that they don't even know where their branches are is trouble enough.
Had them quote a couple of months ago. Left the floor plan and everything. Before, this I was entertained naman. Was told to leave the floor plan and I would be sent an email in a week. Never got that email. Didn't follow-up na rin. If they didn't want my business, di ako maghahabol for a quotation. Sayang lang yung photocopy ko. Piso din yun. Hehe.
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Someone noted in another thread that there's a branch of Listening in style at the new eastwood mall? If that's the case, I stand corrected. I haven't seen it in the new mall though. Must be really new. In any case, they do still have another branch in Libis right across eastwood.
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Sir Dips,
If I'm right nasa ground floor siya sir, dun sa may walkway beside office warehouse. The one along C5 is now just for storage (though may konting gamit pa). The shop was moved ata earlier this year.
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Sir Dips,
If I'm right nasa ground floor siya sir, dun sa may walkway beside office warehouse. The one along C5 is now just for storage (though may konting gamit pa). The shop was moved ata earlier this year.
So you mean Listening in Style has been pretty near and I haven't seen it yet? kakainis ata yun ah... hehehe.
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Cross-posting:
Just want to share with you guys, my truly FORGETTABLE experience at Sound Dimension, Parksquare earlier this afternoon.
Im an HT noob and in a serious hunt for a sub and receiver for my HT project. Well you know what they say, audition, audition, audition. On a rainy afternoon, i came all the way from alabang just to re-audition their MK sub which caught my attention last week. Sort of confirming what my ears heard before i take the plunge so i won't commit that mistake of buying the wrong gear.
As i entered their store, i noticed the owner (i pressume) and her cashier watching a movie on a very low volume. Knowing i cannot immediately request for a demo, I approached the sales staff first and inquired about the sub and their best price for cash. Then i stood beside those watching trying to observe the low frequency. After around 15 minutes or so, i POLITELY asked the said owner if he can kindly turn up the volume a bit. But instead of granting my simple request, his answer to me was something like this, "Naririnig mo naman di ba? Yang MK ang tumutunog, ako na nagsasabi sayo na maganda yan. Ano ba speaker mo?" And when i said Dali Ikon, he replied "sobra-sobra na nga yan para sa speaker mo. Kung gusto mo dalhin mo nalang speaker mo dito at tsaka mo pakinggan". Oh my, imagine the store owner telling me to bring my heavy floorstanders to his store when all im asking was just a slight adjustment in volume? Feeling slighted by his reply and remark, i just said "thank you ha" (sarcastically) then went back to the carpark.
I know i may have in a way interrupted the movie that they're watching but isn't that a store for audio/video gears? Shouldn't they be attending to customer queries first and just resume after the client leaves? After all that's what they're in business for. Better yet, they should have placed on a closed sign at the door so no one will come in and disturb them.
I may not be a big loss to them but i promise never to go back to that place again nor will i purchase a single nut from them. And i will tell all my forum friends about it to teach them a lesson or two..
Thanks for reading!
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I highly recommend Spectra at Park Square Makati. I just bought speakers, integrated amp and cables from them. Very good customer service. The owners and technical crews are very helpful and so nice even though they look so tired with the day's work. Kudos to this store!
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Ok sana mga products ng Architectural Audio kaya lang di nag-rereply sa sarili nilang thread, and they are closed during Sundays ... quite odd, parang ayaw i-push products nila
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I highly recommend Spectra at Park Square Makati. I just bought speakers, integrated amp and cables from them. Very good customer service. The owners and technical crews are very helpful and so nice even though they look so tired with the day's work. Kudos to this store!
ha, this is the with super mark up to their products. Sobrang mahal, tsk tsk tsk
Siguradong malaki ang nawala sa iyo. Nga 20 to 30 percent or even more and deperensya sa nga pinoydvd sellers dito.
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hi! what are the notable brands of AV products that can be found/ auditioned at The Listening Room, MegaMall?
I also heard of this place called Anthony Audio in Pasong Tamo. locally-made speakers daw meron sila. are they rebranded daiichi's?
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A-Audio is not rebranded Daichi. Kindly look for threads about A-Audio, you will be surprised with the feedbacks. :)
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ha, this is the with super mark up to their products. Sobrang mahal, tsk tsk tsk
Siguradong malaki ang nawala sa iyo. Nga 20 to 30 percent or even more and deperensya sa nga pinoydvd sellers dito.
Spectra is a brick and mortar store. If I paid more, so be it. I value customer service above everything else.
As for other stores, 5th avenue, they are also notable for a good customer service. If only they have the item I need, I could have bought it.
The third store which I think is Sound Dimension (post #433) was totally indifferent but they had decent sets of turntables and prices were reasonable. But the cold reception froze my hands and wallet.
These were the three audio stores I usually go to in (now sadly gone) Park Square.
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has anyone been to Whole Sound in The Fort? what brands, products do they sell there?
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Mga Sir yun pong 5th Avenue, before located sa Park Square nasa Glorieta 5 na po ;D
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I found the website of that Whole Sound place. http://www.wholesoundasia.com/index.html (http://www.wholesoundasia.com/index.html)
they sell high-end audio stuff pala. I'll try to visit them when I'm free. ;)
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Hello Guys, may bad experience na ba kayo sa LISTEN UP Glorietta, sa akin kasi ganito nangyari. nag audition ako ng speakers from them(Polk RTI Speakers) at nagustuhan ko naman service and accommodation nong staff, after a few days or a week tinanong ko na price kung magkano and they said they can give me a 17% discount but tumawad ako na kung ibibigay nila sa akin ng 18% discount ay sa kanila na ako kukuha instead na sa AVSHOP dahil malayo nga sa amin at saka di ako familiar sa lugar. The staff of Listen up agreed to give the 18% discount thru phone, so I have scheduled the pick up but then noong nasa shop na kami ni wifey at kukunin na eh ayaw na ibigay sa 18% at 17% na lang daw so to my dismay sabi ko di na ako kukuha at umuwi na lang kami with out the gears.
The next morning, I texted AVSHOP and inquire kung may stock sila ng POLK na gusto ko at kulay but the staff (James) told me na tawagan daw nya ulit ako kasi wala silang stock tatawag pa sa Power Trip kung may stock na gusto ko and that day din ay tinawagan nya ako na meron at ipapadeliver na daw ny sa shop nila para kung kukuha ako ay meron na doon so I agreed with him and said na kukunin ko on February 27 (which is my Birthday), Monday kami nag usap (February 25), eto yung nagbibigay sa akin ng 20% and during that day din ay tumawag yong staff ulit ng LISTEN UP and asking me na sa kanila na lang ako bibili at give na nya sa 18%. Alam nya kasi na talagang bibili ako ng February 27, 2013
To Listen Up - salamat sa pag entertain nyo sa akin during my audition at sana lang kung ano yong napag usapan nyo in between buyer at matupad sana hindi kung alam nyo ng decided na buyer eh magtataas na kayo.
To AVSHOP (QC) special mention to James, salamat lalo sa iyo kasi nagtiwala ka pa din sa akin na bibili ako kahit di pa tayo nagkikita or thru phone lang kasi nagpadeliver ka pa din ng items ko which is di naman maliit yun o basta basta
Pasensya na po at napahaba na yata ang kuwento ko
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Hello Guys, may bad experience na ba kayo sa LISTEN UP Glorietta, sa akin kasi ganito nangyari. nag audition ako ng speakers from them(Polk RTI Speakers) at nagustuhan ko naman service and accommodation nong staff, after a few days or a week tinanong ko na price kung magkano and they said they can give me a 17% discount but tumawad ako na kung ibibigay nila sa akin ng 18% discount ay sa kanila na ako kukuha instead na sa AVSHOP dahil malayo nga sa amin at saka di ako familiar sa lugar. The staff of Listen up agreed to give the 18% discount thru phone, so I have scheduled the pick up but then noong nasa shop na kami ni wifey at kukunin na eh ayaw na ibigay sa 18% at 17% na lang daw so to my dismay sabi ko di na ako kukuha at umuwi na lang kami with out the gears.
The next morning, I texted AVSHOP and inquire kung may stock sila ng POLK na gusto ko at kulay but the staff (James) told me na tawagan daw nya ulit ako kasi wala silang stock tatawag pa sa Power Trip kung may stock na gusto ko and that day din ay tinawagan nya ako na meron at ipapadeliver na daw ny sa shop nila para kung kukuha ako ay meron na doon so I agreed with him and said na kukunin ko on February 27 (which is my Birthday), Monday kami nag usap (February 25), eto yung nagbibigay sa akin ng 20% and during that day din ay tumawag yong staff ulit ng LISTEN UP and asking me na sa kanila na lang ako bibili at give na nya sa 18%. Alam nya kasi na talagang bibili ako ng February 27, 2013
To Listen Up - salamat sa pag entertain nyo sa akin during my audition at sana lang kung ano yong napag usapan nyo in between buyer at matupad sana hindi kung alam nyo ng decided na buyer eh magtataas na kayo.
To AVSHOP (QC) special mention to James, salamat lalo sa iyo kasi nagtiwala ka pa din sa akin na bibili ako kahit di pa tayo nagkikita or thru phone lang kasi nagpadeliver ka pa din ng items ko which is di naman maliit yun o basta basta
Pasensya na po at napahaba na yata ang kuwento ko
Never had any bad experience with Listen Up especially with pricing. If Oliver (the owner) was there, I am sure he would have gladly gave you the same discount that other shop gave you. They can match the lowest price other stores can give.
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Kudos to AVSHOP. At 20% discount that is more than the standard mark-up for dealers. Makes me want to buy at AVSHOP one of these days.
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Never had any bad experience with Listen Up especially with pricing. If Oliver (the owner) was there, I am sure he would have gladly gave you the same discount that other shop gave you. They can match the lowest price other stores can give.
I don't think he will give it kasi sya mismo yung tinawagan ng sales staff kasi sabi ko bakit naman ganon pumayag na kayo ng 18% pero nong kukunin ko na ay ayaw nyo na, at tinawagan nga nya yong "Boss" nya by phone , tagal nga nila nag usap non pero di rin pumayag kaya sabi ko ok lang may iba pa naman at siguro nong time na bumibili na ako eh tinawagan nya ako na sa kanila na lang kukuha siguro naisip nya malaking benta din yon on their part pero nagbabayad na ako sa AVSHOP ng 72K in cash......so sad he lost a customer.....Again thanks to AVSHOP I highly recommend them, may tiwala sila sa customer
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I found the website of that Whole Sound place. http://www.wholesoundasia.com/index.html (http://www.wholesoundasia.com/index.html)
they sell high-end audio stuff pala. I'll try to visit them when I'm free. ;)
yan bagay sayo bro mga hi-end :)
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yan bagay sayo bro mga hi-end :)
bagay sana. pero hindi high-end ang budget ko. ;D
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Which store cary Onkyo receivers and Onkyo Hi-Fi Systems? Thanks in advance.
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Which store cary Onkyo receivers and Onkyo Hi-Fi Systems? Thanks in advance.
Sights and Sounds in Shangrila Plaza
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had a bad experience earlier today at Hi-Fi Lounge Festival Mall. The store clerk was not accommodating. Was planning on doing an audition on a pair of wharfdales, kaso "di naka setup sir". Then I tried to break the ice by mentioning that i was able to test a q acoustic set of bookshelf at another store but i want other options so i dropped by their shop, pero to no avail, suplado pa rin.
So decided to just ask their contact number, para pwede sana tumawag muna if ever i will drop by the store again, but instead of giving me a contact number the store clerk said "dun na kayo bumili, mura doon, mahal dito". never going back to that store again, sayang yun pa naman pinaka malapit sa area ko.
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had a bad experience earlier today at Hi-Fi Lounge Festival Mall. The store clerk was not accommodating. Was planning on doing an audition on a pair of wharfdales, kaso "di naka setup sir". Then I tried to break the ice by mentioning that i was able to test a q acoustic set of bookshelf at another store but i want other options so i dropped by their shop, pero to no avail, suplado pa rin.
So decided to just ask their contact number, para pwede sana tumawag muna if ever i will drop by the store again, but instead of giving me a contact number the store clerk said "dun na kayo bumili, mura doon, mahal dito". never going back to that store again, sayang yun pa naman pinaka malapit sa area ko.
ayus ah..hindi daw nila need pera nyo sir..tsk tsk grabe naman un
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^i wonder if the store owner knew....that clerk ought to be fired at once.....
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had a bad experience earlier today at Hi-Fi Lounge Festival Mall. The store clerk was not accommodating. Was planning on doing an audition on a pair of wharfdales, kaso "di naka setup sir". Then I tried to break the ice by mentioning that i was able to test a q acoustic set of bookshelf at another store but i want other options so i dropped by their shop, pero to no avail, suplado pa rin.
So decided to just ask their contact number, para pwede sana tumawag muna if ever i will drop by the store again, but instead of giving me a contact number the store clerk said "dun na kayo bumili, mura doon, mahal dito". never going back to that store again, sayang yun pa naman pinaka malapit sa area ko.
tsk tsk! they don't want your business. I wonder if they want anyone's business. ::)
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Sent a long email to their fb page.
And the clerk personally sent his apologies to me via facebook.
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Sent a long email to their fb page.
And the clerk personally sent his apologies to me via facebook.
Ang bilis din ng response. What was their reason?
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Sent a long email to their fb page.
And the clerk personally sent his apologies to me via facebook.
I would have done the same thing, writing directly to their FB or official website. While I personally do not wish anybody to be fired (let's just say the poor staff was just having a really bad hair day, huh, or the darndest of things, he didn't come off the night before for whatever reason), the least that the management can do to deal with this annoyance is to issue an apology and, ultimately, retrain their staff.
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Proper breeding cannot be taught. Dapat tanggalin na agad.
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Ang bilis din ng response. What was their reason?
typical na pag judge sa customer na pumapasok sa store, tapos naka simpleng printed t shirt with jeans lang ang attire siguro. The same experience you get when you go to a music store to check out guitars, yung akala ng sales clerk walang pera yung nag tumitingin ng mga products nila.
Pag labas ko nga inisip ko nalang na baka nga masama lang yung araw nung clerk na yun. Pero it did not stop me from sending an email to the store. At least to let them know and send feedback regarding the performance of one of their staff.
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yap, its discrimination ng mga common people.
pero kung pumasok ka dun naka formal attire,naka slacks at coat and tie, and you speak in English, super duper welcome ang gagawin naman sa u, baka bigyan ka pa nya free coffee..hehe
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You know what i think happened there? That same clerk intercepted your email and replied to it. Para di na umabot sa boss nya
Also,minsan even the owners are like that. Hope im wrong though
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also had bad experience sa store na yan,few years ago may display ang anthony audio doon and i want to hear the omega,had no time to visit their showroom in makati and since im from las pinas just decided to visit festival mall, when I ask the lady personnel if i can audition the omega since it is displayed alongside other speakers on their listening area, she replied that the amp is connected to the other speakers. wow, how hard it is to pull the banana plug and attach it to the speaker that is just beside it. since then i did not bother to enter their store when im around.
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Hi guys.. I'm reading a lot of bad experiences here and I can agree that some store clerks lack customer care skills, basta maka benta lang. Anywho, I'm just going to reach out to you guys that our showroom DECIBEL AUDIO opened last March 2016 at 42 Katipunan Ave, White Plains West Q.C. We are already doing distribution to top merchants in the Philippines since the 80's (aged to perfection) ika nga. Since were also doing direct selling now, we are not just going to offer you good customer service but good audiophile brands as well. to name a few, We are the "official distributor" of REL Subwoofers, ROTEL, CANTON Speakers, Conrad Johnson, JOLIDA Integrated Tube amps.. and more.
Visit us and make a difference.. rest assured.
Questions?: 799 6254 / 261 3472
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Meron bang seller/audio store ng Wharfedale Denton in Eastwood or UP Town center?
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Meron bang seller/audio store ng Wharfedale Denton in Eastwood or UP Town center?
Probably near that area but not within those locations. Pag may nakita kang seller na may Onkyo, you can probably order Wharfedales from them.
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Hi guys.. I'm reading a lot of bad experiences here and I can agree that some store clerks lack customer care skills, basta maka benta lang. Anywho, I'm just going to reach out to you guys that our showroom DECIBEL AUDIO opened last March 2016 at 42 Katipunan Ave, White Plains West Q.C. We are already doing distribution to top merchants in the Philippines since the 80's (aged to perfection) ika nga. Since were also doing direct selling now, we are not just going to offer you good customer service but good audiophile brands as well. to name a few, We are the "official distributor" of REL Subwoofers, ROTEL, CANTON Speakers, Conrad Johnson, JOLIDA Integrated Tube amps.. and more.
Visit us and make a difference.. rest assured.
Questions?: 799 6254 / 261 3472
Sir kayo po ba yung seller sa LAZADA?
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Sir kayo po ba yung seller sa LAZADA?
Magkaiba ata sila. Magkaparehas lang ng pangalan.
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ang andito ata satin na nagbebenta sa lazada yung si sir audio excellence.
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binaba pa ng "Decibel Audio" yung price nya sa studio 280, 11.4k na lng piece.. duda kc ako kaya hangang ngayun di pa rin ako bumibili kasi online seller lang daw sila.
http://www.lazada.com.ph/jbl-studio-280-3-way-dual-6534-floorstanding-loudspeaker-8657115.html?spm=a2o4l.search.0.0.115d43aapxHFKE&ff=1&time=1511546742
nagtanong din ako sa JBL support, hindi sila authorized distributor.
mukhang walang product registration ang JBL para sana macheck kung legit yung mga speakers nila.
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dont know if they have a thread here:
Ermita area sir near court of appeal
Office address
#531 A. Flores st. Ermita Manila ( Paragon Tower )
SOUND CONCEPTS
https://www.soundconceptsph.com/
i got a messenger pm pricelist of their items on sale
https://www.facebook.com/soundconceptsmanila/
check nyo fb & pm
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even in times of pandemic, Avshop (MLY Enterprises) is very accomodating :)