Epic Systems

unknown

I was originally introduced to Epic by Creative Environments ("Creative") in 2010.  We contracted Creative to remodel our backyard.  In developing the scope of the backyard remodel project, we wanted to include entertainment elements including backyard speakers and a television.
Rick Larsen, owner of Epic, met with us to discuss our initial scope.  From the beginning, Rick impressed me with his low key, customer service centric attitude.  He was knowledgeable about the products but was in no way pushy or aggressive.  Through this initial introduction, Epic has done a number of different projects for us including a major home remodel that we completed in 2012.  My review encompasses all the various projects that Rick has done for us in the past 18 months.
The factors that have culminated in my rating are as follows:
From the very first interactions with Rick, he was always presenting us with options.  He was never attempting to push products/services that would generate more revenue for Epic.  I was extremely impressed by this.  He was always willing to present and quote different options and would discuss in detail the pros and cons of each.  He was always interested in ensuring that we were comfortable in our selections, they would fit our needs, and would be within our budget.  He understands that technology is rapidly changing and emphasizes that flexibility is important to consider.
Rick was directly involved in the installation of all of our products.  I felt comfortable in knowing that the owner was involved and invested in our project.  He was constantly inquiring if we were pleased with the work.  He would offer to visit our house if we had any problems even at non-working days and hours.   In relationship to our home remodel, he met with us, our interior designer and general contractor to discuss planning for the AV elements of our remodel.  He did not charge us for this in my mind due to the relationship we had formed over the past year.  It was extremely helpful to have these meetings and to get his input before we started demo.  Rick and Epic are customer service oriented which made an impression on me.
Rick recommended a whole home automation system, Control4.  Control4 has a lower entry point than other competing products but at the same time is extremely powerful in its capabilities.  I was not really thinking about this, but it has turned out to be a wonderful purchase.  I am thankful that Rick brought up the idea.
Epic's pricing for product and professional services appeared to be reasonable.  In fact, Rick was very open about his ability to match certain pricing at big-box retailers.  I felt comfortable with pricing and elected to procure all equipment directly through Epic.
Conclusion
I highly recommend Epic.  Epic is a smaller operation that really focuses on customer service.  It is not burdened by overhead and Rick is highly involved in everything.  Accordingly, he is able to make decisions as the owner for any issues or problems that may be identified.  I have been pleased with all the work they have done and look forward to continuing this relationship in the future.