Klarinet Archive - Posting 000323.txt from 1995/11

From: Neil Leupold <nleupold@-----.EDU>
Subj: Re: Dorn Publications, Inc.
Date: Fri, 17 Nov 1995 19:10:48 -0500

Jay Winick writes:

> I would [not] recommend using DORN publications for purchases. I have used
> them over the past two years not only has their service markedly dropped
> in both quality and service time but they have also committed fraud.
>
> I placed an order with them in June of 95. The order was never sent to me,
> but my credit card was billed for it. They said they would rectify the
> situation but never did. In August and September my credit card was again
> debted. Nothing was received here. I had asked to have the charges removed
> from my card and to my suprise nothing was done.
>
> Finally I faxed information that I would proceed with whatever action was
> necessary to recoup my money, and was told I was lying about not receiving
> any goods, and the owner Ken Dorn shouted insults at me.

Did you ever actually get your money back? I just found out about Dorn
a week ago and have yet to order anything through them. I did order their
current catalogue, but your story is more than a little disturbing. I
had a similar experience with Lisa Argiris and International Music
Supply. I think I probably "only" lost around $70 through that fiasco,
and Argiris never returned a single one of the multiple messages I left
on her office voicemail. At least you were able to make contact with the
person in charge. I.M.S. sent me a Selmer bass clarinet - SUPPOSEDLY
brand new - with worn keys (the silver plating had been almost completely
abraded off on some of them). And yet she tried to pass it off as a
"new" instrument (it was probably a rental that she was trying to get rid
of). She must think pretty lowly of her average customer.

These sorts of postings don't exactly spread good will, but I think it's
important that people find out about the risks and pitfalls inherent in
dealing with "invisible" companies (mail-order firms). On a positive note,
I've had good experiences with both Wiener and [especially] with The Woodwind
and the Brasswind (got my current Selmer bass clarinet through them). Wiener
tends to be slow in delivery, but Jonathan (who I've met, but whose last name
escapes me at the moment) is very helpful and completely honest. I also
highly recommend Muncie Woodwinds - you'll never meet a nicer guy than Phil,
and he stands behind what he sells.

Any other helpful information on this level?

Neil.

P.S. Houston Band Instruments has boxes of standard Vandoren reeds at
$11.67 per box, tax _included_. And if your order is for more than
$50 (i.e.; say, five boxes of reeds), they pay for UPS shipping
and you just pay for the cost of what you ordered. It's a pretty
good deal. Does anybody know of another vendor who can beat it?