On the Left Coast they have big electronics outlets like Fry's but here on the East Coast RS is about it if you need a component. Unfortunately, RS has become mostly a novelty or toy store and the people who work there are simpletons. I can understand why they are in trouble.
Radio Shack is waaaaaaaaay overpriced. The price premium used to at least have some value, because they employed intelligent salesmen who were knowledgeable about the products.
More and more, however, they're employing the same morons that every other retail outlet employs.