MWalt
Super Member
The local stores here have been a big help in this hobby to me, and especially at one the staff have become friends of mine. The image of the sneering, snooty, audio "salon" is certainly not in effect here, at least, not at the stores I go to. We have one of those, out of all of them, but its best to avoid it. Chicago is a great audio town. I'll have to get up to Cleveland, as I'm often in Akron (born and raised). That's where the Leben dealer is, IIRC. I wish we had a local place that was into that type of gear. We have a Naim dealer but that's the one I cannot stand going to. I've never had a less-than-miserable time there.
I hate snooty dealers and will avoid that crap at all costs. You'll find the Leben gear at Don Better Audio in Shaker Heights. It is by appointment only and is unique to any other audio place I have ever been. He has his showrooms in a beautiful century house. He is a real nice guy and I think you would love the gear he has on display. I lived in Akron for a few years (Tallmadge actually) so I know that area as well. Born and raised in Indianapolis myself, so as teens we used to road trip to Chicago a lot. I miss the pizza.