I'd agree that a streaming system is the best answer in typically any situation, and that a demo of Sonos would be a good idea for anyone that is hesitant. With that said, if a client, an older one especially, has no interest and would like to use their physical media, then who am I to say no? I liken it to hiring a firm to install granite countertops and them telling me that everyone is doing quartz and that is what they will sell me. I understand the technology is moving forward, but not everyone wants to move with it. Classic cars is a HUGE business now. Go look up what a Superbird costs now. It has none of the creature comforts, reliability, gas mileage, safety, or any advancements that a modern car a 10th of the costs of one goes for. Yet people WANT those Superbirds. I do NOT think it makes you less of a A/V integrator, salesman, or technician for allowing someone that wants what they want. Yes, you should show them the differences, demo if possible, but ultimately the decision is theres. As long was what you provide is reliable and provides what they want without hurting your business, what is the problem?

Last week we installed a PLAYBAR to help a very sharp (national awards and such) 85 year old get more enjoyment out of his TV (hearing loss issues). He strongly rejected the idea of playing music through his PLAYBAR. He only wanted to play CD's and a tape of his 1960's rock band through his old system. Today, he is complaining that his Spotify is not working properly. The initial report is that Spotify plays through his hearing aids, not PLAYBAR.

My point for bringing this up is to suggest that our value to customers is to expose them to what is possible and appropriate. We don't need to belittle or attempt to strong arm them for not immediately adopting the latest and greatest.

That's fine, but if a client stands strong and says he wants what he wants, do you still just give him what he wants or walk away?

Of course, we gave him what he asked for. In less than a week he morphed. We simply presented an alternative option.

That's what I would do as well. I agree in demo'ing a more up to date alternative. It just seems a lot of guys commenting would not honor the clients wishes for an old school system. Maybe I'm just misinterpreting what they are writing.

Seems like we are interpreting to the extremes here. Showing a client new technology when they asked for old technology is far from drawing a line in the sand. I've hooked up more than one VCR so the kids could watch the 300 Disney tapes they own because they do not want to buy them all again. This is very understandable.

When they tell me they want to keep the VCR for all the memories they have on tape it is our job to let them know this is not a good idea. As is pointing out they are simple streaming options for their holiday music.