Survey Info: Uncle's Stereo


Uncle's Stereo
216 West 72nd Street
New York, NY 10012
Phone: 800-978-6253
Phone: 212-721-7500
WWW: http://www.unclestereo.com/
EMail: info@unclestereo.com Customer Comments:
Saturday June 27, 1998

Ordered an A/V Receiver, Center channel speaker, and a Marantz 2000 remote from Jimmy at Uncle's. Jimmy was very helpful and friendly, and everything showed up double boxed as promised. He provided a shipping tracking number, and even matched a competitor's price after I had already placed the order.

When I found out that the Marantz 2000 remote was not compatible with my new Receiver, I called Jimmy to return the remote. His response: "Sure, no problem!", without me even having to explain the details of why I want to return the unit.

Jimmy has done everything he promised to do & treated me w/ respect. Recommended.
Sunday June 21, 1998

Ordered a Sony CD player on June 10th.I was quoted a good price. I asked and the salesman, Doc, assured me it was in stock and would be delivered in 5 -7 working days. Called on June 19 to check on order. The customer service person spent five minutes trying to locate record of order then told me that the Sony's are out of stock and probably won't be back in stock for several weeks. Meanwhile, my credit card was charged on the date of the order. This will be reversed(I cancelled order, of course) but if I hadn't checked I would have been billed next billing cycle for a CD player that isn't even in stock.I won't be any more doing business with Uncle's!
Sunday June 14, 1998

I've been buying mail order for over twenty years and I normally avoid New York companies because of their rude attitudes. After reading positive comments about Uncle's Stereo I decided to give them a try. I ordered a Yamaha DSP A-1 from Andrew Kent. I needed the unit NLT June 10th and he assured me it would arrive on time. Much to my delight, the unit arrived as promised today (it sounds great!) Dealing with Andrew (and Vivek in customer service for tracking info) was a true pleasure. It's nice to work with a New York mail order company that treats customers with a little common courtesy.
Monday June 8 , 1998

I order a Sony DVP-S300 late Saturday afternoon and had it by the following Wednesday, only 1 day later than expected. Great price....originally quoted a higher price, but met competitors price (competitor did not have in stock). Very pleasant and helpful, especially with follow-up calls inquring about (1)UPS tracking info and (2) Sony promo deal. Dealt with Vivek.

NOTE: If you buy a Sony DVD player during the next month or two be sure take advantage of their promotion of two free DVD's. Check it out on Sony's web page at http://www.sel.sony.com/SEL/consumer/dvd/promos.html.

Don't count on the promo information being included with the DVD player. Call or E-mail Sony and they will mail a coupon to you. Vivek gave me a Sony phone number and I contacted them directly. He said he would get a coupon and mail it to me if I had any problem with Sony. Overall, a very positive experience.
Monday June 8 , 1998

Jimmy is very friendly and knowledgable. He quotes the best prices and always ships his merchandise double boxed. Great service as well. He alowed me to upgrade with no penalty after 2 months of ownership. I recommend calling around and then call Uncle Stereo they will beat the best price you have found and offer the best service. 2 thumbs up for Uncles. Enough said!
Tuesday May 26, 1998

I ordered a Yamaha 992 receiver from Jimmy. The price was excellent, my order arrived quickly, and it was double boxed. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Uncle Stereo.
Tuesday May 26, 1998

Been buying mail order for 10 years, dealt with Andrew Kent..great advice, courtesy and knowledge. I spent a lot of money and do you know that this is the 2nd time in ten years that the salesman sent me his business card along with my receipt! The capper was a hand written "Thank you for the sale" written on the card. That felt good... ask for Andrew. I highly recommend him and this very professional organization!
Tuesday May 26, 1998

Great shopping experience. Highly recommend! I ordered a set of NHT VT1.2/VS1.2a speakers and Denon AVR3200 receiver. The price was great: I saved over 30% off retail (S&H included). Doc, the salesperson, beat the closest quote by about $300. The shipping was prompt: everything was double boxed and arrived within 5 business days. Will definitely buy from them again.
Stan
Saturday May 16, 1998

I would very highly recommend buying from Uncle's Stereo. I purchased a set of Klipsch Synergy speakers for a price below anything that can be found. I had found a better price than theirs from shop4.com, but they matched it without any hassle. They even matched a price on one of the speakers that I hadn't been able to find a price on at shop4.com. Jimmy shipped the speakers out the same day and although UPS misrouted a couple of the speakers, I received the first speaker in 3 days. I called for the tracking numbers for the others, which Jimmy didn't hesitate in giving me. They are not pushy at all and I plan to purchase a CD changer in the next couple of months from them. Again, Uncle's Stereo far exceeded my expectations.
Matt Trommer (trommer@uiuc.edu)
Tuesday May 12, 1998

My experience with Uncle's Stereo is excellent. I just placed my third order with Mr. Andrew Kent for the following reasons:

1) They answer the phone quickly. I never had to wait for a salesman to answer or was put on long holds.
2) Their sales staff are knowledgable about their products. All questions were answered accurately and immediately.
3) Mr. Kent was genuinely concerned with my audio configurations and compatibility between components.
4) Their prices can't be beat! Mr. Kent matched some very low prices quoted by very large distributors.
5) They double box all components for added protection and security. This is important as far as I'm concerned.

It all adds up to an A+ for Uncle's Stereo and Andrew Kent. Thanks again, guys!

Bill Daniels, President D+S Sound Labs Incorporated http://www.netrox.net/~guisdk
Saturday May 9 , 1998

Okay price on first phone call. Best price on second call (free shipping)! Sent/recieved on time (4 days via UPS), nicely packed (double boxed).
Saturday May 2 , 1998

Called and spoke to Jimmy per recommendations on the list on Monday of last week. He told me the Panasonic A110 was in stock so I ordered it. I called back on friday to get a tracking number; he said that they hadn't shipped it because it hadn't been in stock. He put his manager on, who apologized and said he would have it shipped latest monday or tuesday and they would send it 3 day air no extra charge, so I _would_ have it by the weekend. I called back wednesday to get the new tracking number, and he said it still hadn't been shipped because there were a shortage of players. He offered me the A310 for $130 more. I bitched and got it down for $120 more, and he said he would send it the same day. It is now in transit according to UPS, sent out on wednesday, but the item was shipped ground when they said they would send it 3 day. The price was good, and Jimmy seemed friendly, but I was less than pleased with my experience with Uncle's Stereo.
Wednesday April 29, 1998

Wednesday April 29, 1998

I haven't even ordered from them yet, but I must say my experience was fantastic. I called and made it clear I wasn't ready to order today, and I spoke with Jimmy. He matched the prices on Klipsch 10.5s, S5s, and C5 from Shop4.com. Best of all, I won't have to wait 3-4 weeks for delivery. Nice folks, don't know why a lot of people say they are pushy... I didn't even get a nudge.
Wednesday April 22, 1998

Purchased a Yamaha DSP-A1 and 8 Klipsch speakers. The price on the DSP-A1 was excellent. I had better prices on the speakers, but Andy virtually met them. Only problem is, three of the speakers were out of stock. I'm still waiting, but Uncle's was upfront about the backorder and that they would charge my credit card at the time of the order. Didn't try to hide anything and Andy spent over an hour on the phone with me discussing equipment and making recommendations. Shipments received to date have all been new, in manufacturers boxes, with all but the tower speakers double boxed and in great condition. Highly recommended if the products are in stock. If not, be prepared for a wait, but the prices will keep you coming back. By the way, follow-up with Greg in their customer service department has been very professional as well.
Wednesday April 22, 1998

"Home Theater Enthusiasts"
I just purchased a major surround system from Andrew Kent at Uncle's Stero and was treated with kid gloves as I did not have the knowledge to put it together ...well Andy did and my $7500 was well spent! Thanks Uncle's!!!!!
Gary Clark
Sunday April 19, 1998

Very good, I talked to Kent and ordered a Yamaha DSP-A1, the best price around!
Sunday April 19, 1998

I purchased a Denon AVR3200, 4-B&W DM302 speakers, and a Klipsch SubWoofer on April 2 from Jimmy. Pricing was great (saved about $400 compared to several other mail-order places and over $600 compared to local retail). I got the receiver and sub one week later, April 9. UPS left the cartons on my front porch and I did not know if I had received the complete shipment. I called Jimmy to get the tracking number. He said the B&W's had not shipped yet and should be shipped by Friday (4/10). I called again on Friday to be sure they were shipped. When I explained that I needed to get them installed because I have company coming this weekend the manager offered to ship them to me 3 day air instead of UPS ground at no additional charge because I had been so patient. I received them on 4/15. Great pricing. Good service. I could justify the delay in shipment based on the pricing. I was very leery of mail-order before this, but would definitely order from them again. I would verify that the items were in stock, or get an estimated delivery date up front next time.
Sunday April 19, 1998

Salespeople are very knowledgeable and want to work with the customer. They will beat competitors best price. All merchandise purchased is brand new and has 30 day customer satisfaction for full cash or credit refund. Absolutely better than any mail order or audio video store in New York City ...period. Why buy retail when you can save a bundle. Remember and ask for Jimmy.
Sunday April 19, 1998

I just ordered a Denon AVR-3200 from them and coundn't be more pleased with the service. Their price was $300 cheaper then the local dealers and was delivered a day earlier then they quoted. I spoke with Jimmy, who called me long distance to get my adddress since he was helping another customer. I would certainly order from them again.
Friday April 3 , 1998

Ask for Jimmy! He gives the best mail order deals I have ever seen. I have been mail ordering audio equipment for almost 10 years now and I was very lucky to come accross this company. They gave me a Yamaha RXV-992 receiver for $725 shipped to my door. Incredible !!!

Gene DellaSala Electrical Engineer and Bigtime Audio Enthusiast
Wednesday April 1 , 1998

Calling New York at 9:30 at night, California time, I was not expecting a warm hearted personality to answer my call. Salesman, "Mitch", was a true ambassador for his company. After ordering a Yamaha RX V-992 Receiver, we continued to chat for a few minutes about his busy city. For $760.00 the unit was delivered to my door exactly 1 week after ordering. It was packed snugly in a cushioned box and arrived in perfect condition. I could not have been happier. I was admittedly skeptical during the week's wait, I had read the survey comments prior to ordering. I knew exactly what I wanted to order and I am sure that helped. My experience was very pleasant and I will recommend Uncle's Stereo to all, just know what you want before you call. And...shop around!!!

Jim
Tuesday March 31, 1998

I just purchased a large ticket item $2000+ and although New York can be a tough road for mail order purchases Uncle's has proven to be a class act. I would recommend dealing with "Mitch". He not only was honest in telling me there would be a week to 10 day wait; but then he delivered just as he said. There is a difference between being honest and also being able to deliver. You need to have both when dealing with mail order. I have been buying Hi-Fi gear since the late 60's (anybody remember "quadraphonic sound"), both locally and by mail order. I can't say who would be a great choice for a particular locality, but for mail order it won't get any better than Uncle's.
Tuesday March 31, 1998

Though I'm not quite satisfied with their performance on how to deal with customer, I may recommend them for very good price.
Tuesday March 24, 1998

I bought twice from Uncle's, a Nakamichi CD player and recently a PSB Alpha Subsonic I. They had the best prices that I can find anywhere, because they are willing to beat any prices. Both times, the equipment was delivered in very good to perfect condition and within only 4-5 working days. My suggestion: Find the best price you can and see if Uncle's can beat it.

Sincerely
Monday March 23, 1998

Somewhat pushy on the phone, tried to get me to upgrade to speaker cable that was MUCH more expensive than the type I wanted. The products I finally DID order were offered dirt cheap, at a savings of 15% off other bare-bones mail order places. However, they promised me that they had the products in stock, and that I would receive them in 6 days or so. They also said that all orders ship within 48 hours. I did get the products in 6 days, but it was quite obvious they shipped after 5, not 2. All in all, a decent experience, great considering the price I got.
Friday March 20, 1998

Ordered 2 cd players which were supposed to be in stock. Aparently didn't send them until a week later.
Monday March 9 , 1998

I had been shopping for a Yamaha RX-V 2092. Uncle's matched the best price, the saleperson was both freindly and helpful. He even was glad to answer my questions about products that I told them in advance I was not in the market to buy at the time. I called to check on shipping two days later and they were glad to give me the tracking number. UPS confirmed that the product was shipped at promised. It arrived double boxed in good condition and chances are I will be using them again when I am ready to upgrade my subwoofer.
Monday March 9 , 1998

they are very good.
Wednesday February 25, 1998

Must CALL!!!! You will hear the difference. I have been shopping around for a Marantz CD-67se cd-player, and Uncle's Stereo not only met the best price i was quoted for but beat it. Straight forward and sincere...ask for Andrew G. Kent...a great guy. Uncle's Stereo the best price and service around.

Student from the university of washington.
Monday February 23, 1998

Ordered a Yamaha RX-V2092. Price was quoted after I told them the best price I had seen so far; they went below that price and included 3-day shipping. Product shipped one day before promised; arrived early, double boxed and worked right out of the box. Highly recommended.
Sunday February 15, 1998

Ordered a Yamaha RX-V2092 A/V Receiver on a Thursday, product was delivered the following Tuesday. No problems encountered, shipped as was stated to me. Ohio
Wednesday February 4 , 1998

Got a very good deal on a set of B&W speakers and received an excellent service from Jimmy and Vivek. Even for a minor problem on one of the speakers, Vivek helped me to resolve it right away. I also witnessed Jimmy's friendly personality when he dealt with customers. It's worth of visiting their store if you are local in New York City. Try them out and ask for Jimmy or Vivek.
Thursday January 22, 1998

Good price, ask for vivek
Thursday January 15, 1998

This is the absolute #### up place. Stay away from these ####ing predator. They're hungry and evil-minded. They're will rip you off any moment.
Thursday January 15, 1998

Price was good. Yamaha 992 receiver $725, was $769 elsewhere and $999 at the Good Guys. Salesman said it is in stock and will ship in a couple of days. A week later I called and service said it was on back order but that it just shipped to me. Two weeks later service said they just got it and are shipping tomorrow. I now have a UPS shipping # and know it's on they way, ETA 3+ weeks after order. A CD changer ordered on another day came within a few days. Seems to me that they will fib on inventory status to get your order but do give a good price, that is no excuse though. I still want the best price so next time I'll demand a tracking number right after their promised shipping date. I did not experience any particular rudeness or stupidity by sales people that others on this list have.
Tuesday January 13, 1998

For the best combination of honesty, quality and price, you should call these guys. The most knowledgeable and best guy to deal with is Jimmy, the audio manager. He's great because (i) he never oversells or takes advantage of his customers (not even women, who are often targets of unscrupulous salespeople), (ii) he speaks in plain english, not arrogant audiophile nonsense and (iii) he gives the best realistic prices (which is very hard in New York, where competing dealers secretly make prank calls and play games to harass competitors). In addition, Jimmy's way of doing business is fully supported by the owner, who is a super stand-up guy whose first concern is creating happy, repeat customers. I have purchased from these guys several times (for home audio equipment, upgrades and gifts) and recommend them to my friends. They are my clear first choice.
Tuesday December 30, 1997

I love them and recommend them to any one wholeheartedly, and please if you are in any kind of fix with them talk to the owner, he will help you.
Monday December 29, 1997

I just recently purchased a Pioneer VSX-D906s A/V Receiver and a pair of Carver AL III speakers at a very competitive price. The receiver showed up right away and I'm still waiting for the speakers, however, that's because they said they're sending them via freight company instead of UPS to avoid damage... I spoke with a salesman named Jimmy and he was very courteous, knowledgeable, and helpful. I would recommend this company to everyone, give them a try!
Tuesday December 23, 1997

I also ordered the Denon AVR3200 - Great price, no problems. Arrived double boxed in 5 days. I then ordered the B&W CC6 Center Channel Speaker. Again, no problems, arrived in 5 days. I would recommend Uncle's to anyone. If you have ever been to the east cost, you know that everyone talks fast, New York is no exception. Jimmy and Doc were very helpful.
Monday December 22, 1997

In my opinion uncle's stereo is a very professional operation. Salespeople are very friendly and helpful, prices are great, I had a very pleasant experience shopping there and I would recommend dealing with a salesman named Jimmy. He will make sure that you get the very best deal possible for your money, I shopped from Jimmy many times and always been happy with the results.
Thursday December 18, 1997

Delivered as promised.
Monday December 15, 1997

Pushy but eager to sell. Beat a competitors very good price and shipped very fast. Arrived in just a few days. A quick, clean transaction.

Ryan Braun
Monday December 15, 1997

Ordered a Denon AVR3200 (shipping included) on Monday and received it the following Tuesday, just as they had promised. It was double boxed and works fine. My only concern is that you have to work through them if you have a warranty problem.
Monday December 15, 1997

I have used this company several times over the past year and a half and referred them to friends. I saved hundreds on a Denon AVR-3600 after returning a Pioneer Elite VSX-99 which they also gave me a terrific price on but sounded terrible. When nobody could deliver the Sony S7000 DVD player and were pre-booking @ $1000, the owner called around the country and got me 2 units for $799 each. My advice is if you speak to a salesperson and your not satisifed with the way your getting treated, speak to the owner. He's fantastic!

AJH
Thursday December 4 , 1997

I found the audio/visual person to be very kind, courteous and patient while I "grilled" him about my interest. I got a great price and everything came on time. Someone named Jimmy, even helped my installation person over the phone when we couldn't figure out how to hook some of this equipment up. I rate Uncle's Stereo "First Class!"
Monday November 17, 1997

Unlike the other comments about Uncle Stereo, I seem to be very happy with them. I bought a Marantz receiver for the best price and speakers for HT. I had called other mail order places (around 10) and they had the best deal and were willing to match other competitors. They shipped the items on time and was well packed too. It's a good idea to decide on what to buy and then negotiaite the price rather than asking the salesmen for his/her opininon or advise.
I had spoken to Jimmy and the owner (Vivek) is extremely courteous. I would recomend Uncle Stereo to anyone interested in HomeTheater and want to save money. I have also got the best deal in TV's from them.
Friday November 14, 1997

Others have complained about these guys but not me. However, they won't generally give you a price quote up front, asking you what you want to pay instead. You'll get a different deal depending on whom you talk to. My first call to someone whose name I don't recall got me a price of $899 for a Denon AVR 3200 but a second call a few days later put in the hands of "Jimmy" and I managed to get this same receiver for $825 shipping included! It arrived in great shape exactly one week later via UPS. I think I got an outstanding deal from Uncle's.
Tuesday October 28, 1997

They are absolutely unprofessional. I called wanting a price on an AV receiver. After getting through his initial pushyness, he hung up without saying a word when he found out I wasn't ordering right that second. Apparently there is no time to think it over as far as they're concerned. Needless to say I will never, ever waste my time with those losers again.
Wednesday October 8 , 1997

Good price but shipped damaged merchandise and then took long to provide pick up and replacement but eventually got what I wanted.
Friday September 26, 1997

Rude. High pressure sales tactics. Would not recommend. Called for quote, when I would not buy then and there, rep mumbled somthing like "UH...Sure.." and then hung up on me.
Monday September 8 , 1997

Good price.
Somewhat friendly.
Keep telling me they have in stock but actually order from
somewhere and ship to me with lots of delay.
Tuesday July 22, 1997

Those banana heads hung up on me twice. Very Rude but the prices are good.
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