How to buy
If you are looking to buy a high performance stereo or home cinema system then you need to choose your dealer very carefully if you want to enjoy the best possible results. Getting the best out of any complex system requires a great deal of expertise and experience, not just from the design engineers who worried over every little detail of your system but also having a dealer who knows how to help you choose sonically compatible products and provide you with a careful and thorough installation service. If you are looking for a simple product like a drDock or an rLink then you can connect it to your existing system yourself and benefit from the convenience of buying online and benefit from the satisfaction guarantee that all reputable vendors offer.
What can a dealer offer me?
Putting together a system, whether audio visual (AV) or conventional 2-channel stereo, is not just a matter of lumping together apparently compatible components. The importance of a specialist retailer cannot be over emphasised and should be seen as the most important component of all. It's not that we intend to make purchasing Arcam equipment a difficult experience, far from it. We believe your long-term satisfaction is more important than any short-term convenience.
A good dealer will be able to offer advice on compatibility, demonstrate and even install your chosen system. In addition, they will ensure its optimum performance by carrying out the right setup. In our experience, a properly set up and calibrated system will enhance your enjoyment immensely. One that is incorrectly or inexpertly installed will not.
What should I take when visiting a dealer?
Although any good dealer will have the right facilities to demonstrate a piece of Arcam equipment (after all that’s why they are there!) you may like to take a long a few additional things to help you. Firstly, have a think about what you will be doing with the system. Start with the "three W's":
- Who will be using it?
- When will they be using it?
- What will they be using it for?
These may seem like simple questions but they will provide a great deal of information to help your dealer recommend the right equipment. Details of the size and layout of your room will also be useful as will a list of any equipment you already have.
Finally, don’t forget to take a few of your own CD’s, DVD’s or Blu-Ray discs to see how they sound on your chosen system.
I like it in the dealer’s demo room but will it sound the same in my house?
It is unlikely. Each listening room has its own sonic character and this will dramatically affect how the system will sound. Some dealers, in exchange for a reasonable deposit or credit card authorisation, will provide a home trial of equipment. Others offer satisfaction guarantees meaning equipment purchased can be exchanged for a limited amount of time if you’re not completely happy.
How do you make sure your dealers know what to recommend?
Arcam dealer's authorised dealers regularly attend Arcam's award-winning training courses to make sure their level of knowledge is second to none. In addition Arcam spends a great deal of time teaching for industry association training providers such as the British Audio Dealers Association (BADA) and the Custom Electronic Design and Installation Association (CEDIA).
Find a local Arcam dealer