The Evolution of Retail Sales in High-End Audio Panel Discussion at T.H.E. Show 2024 Costa Mesa, California

[Ron Resnick]

Join us to discuss the evolution of retail sales in High-End Audio with Scott Walker of Scott Walker Audio, Oz Turan of High End by Oz, Ed Sudario of The Audio Association and Ken Boyce of Cake Audio. We discuss the growth of home dealers; the effect of home dealers on brick & mortar stores; how distributors and manufacturers view home dealers; and audience members' experience with home dealers. In addition, an audience member question about the Rhapsody Listening Room "hybrid" model triggers a lively discussion among the panelists.

 

[gleeds]

Ron, there is an excellent diversity of panelists in this discussion. With multiple rooms at The Show, I could not attend, so the video was appreciated.

In terms of high-end audio retailing and distribution, the industry has experienced significant disaggregation in the past five years. The business has become less local and more national, with many clients willing to purchase equipment far outside their regions. More overseas brands than ever have entered the market, putting strain on traditional retail channels and creating more boutique dealers. No doubt Covid has played a role in the shape-shifting. The increased competition has benefitted buyers but does strain the ability to experience certain brands closer to home. Overall, I find the business alive and well, with dealers and distributors willing to innovate and adapt to this new landscape and well positioned. However, I see the need for increased expertise in system matching, room set-up, and other optimization services remaining a key differentiator.

To improve our role, I hope there will be more discussion among the members about how the industry can continue to improve and evolve.