In downtown Los Angeles, a unique 2-channel store awaits, promising to revolutionize your audio experience. Staffed by passionate music enthusiasts, Common Wave is a modern twist on the traditional stereo and record store, offering a one-of-a-kind journey into the world of audio.
Wesley and his team have poured their hearts into creating this space. Every detail, from the systems on display to the aesthetics of the environment, has been meticulously considered. The result is a visual and auditory feast that I had never experienced before visiting Common Wave. They are dedicated to crafting the best system for you, taking into account your needs, wants, and constraints.
At Common Wave, you’re in the hands of experts. The team, with their extensive experience in all aspects of the business, is dedicated to providing a level of service that’s hard to find elsewhere. Their Nordost Dealer Certification is a testament to their commitment to excellence, ensuring that they can meet all your cable needs.
Go see the team over at Common Wave; you will be glad you did!
After serving the community of Vernon for many years, Carl St Jean has taken the leap and opened his own shop, HiFi House of Sound. From live events, personal demos and various trade shows, HiFi House of Sound promises to give you an experience like no other. We took some time recently to sit down and find out a bit more about Carl, his new business, and his motivation. Here is what he had to say:
When did you start your business?
We officially launched HiFi House of Sound on September 30th, 2024.
How did you come up with the name of your company?
The name “HiFi House of Sound” reflects the evolution of our journey. I started by hosting live shows and concerts in my house 15 years ago. Also, being a lifelong audiophile, I knew music and audio would be at the heart of everything we do. I brought in Dailene, a talented musician and a visionary leader, to help shape the business. She came up with the name, perfectly capturing our essence: we operate out of a house where we create music and curate live experiences, and facilitate live house concerts while also selling high-quality audio equipment.
What made you choose to start a company in this industry?
I chose to start HiFi House of Sound because of my deep passion for music and high-quality sound. As an audiophile, I’ve always appreciated the way exceptional sound can elevate a live performance and make me feel like I’m engaged in the live performance, creating an unforgettable experience. I saw a unique opportunity to combine that love of music with a venue that prioritizes thoughtfully curated listening rooms, to bring audio excellence to life.—something I felt was missing in many traditional audio stores.
The idea of creating a space where music lovers, artists, and audiophiles could connect over shared experiences really drove me to pursue this venture. Starting a business in this industry was a natural choice because it aligned with my expertise, passion, and desire to bring something special to the community. It’s about building something that not only resonates with me but also creates meaningful experiences for others.
What was your mission at the start of your company?
At the start of HiFi House of Sound, our mission was to create a unique in-home space where music lovers could come together to experience live performances and enjoy curated and immersive audio experiences in an intimate setting. Our goal was to build a community around music, offering not just concerts and audio equipment, but memorable experiences that blend the warmth of live music with a personal, audiophile-driven approach.
What are your company’s goals?
‘Music is the Heartbeat of Audio’
At HiFi House of Sound, our goals are focused on growth, community, and creating unparalleled experiences. Here are our key objectives:
Expand Our Event Offerings: We aim to host more frequent and diverse live music events, from intimate house concerts to larger gatherings that cater to different music genres and audiences.
Enhance the Audiophile Experience: We want to continuously improve our sound quality and acoustics, investing in cutting-edge audio equipment to create the ultimate listening environment for both performers and audiences.
Build a Strong Community: Our goal is to foster a community of music lovers, artists, and audiophiles who share our passion for high-quality sound and live performances. We plan to do this through partnerships with local artists, music schools, and audio enthusiasts.
Create a Destination Venue: We want HiFi House of Sound to become a go-to destination for music lovers in the Okanagan and beyond, known for our unique blend of intimate atmosphere and exceptional sound.
Sustainability and Growth: Over time, we plan to grow the business by expanding into more services, such as hosting workshops, audiophile equipment showcases, and potentially offering recording sessions for artists.
Support Local Talent: A key goal is to provide a platform for emerging local musicians, giving them a space to perform and connect with audiences, helping to nurture the local music scene.
How does your business compare to competitors in the market?
HiFi House of Sound stands out from competitors by offering a unique blend of intimate, high-quality live music experiences with a strong focus on exceptional sound. The equipment is a byproduct of the music. We prioritize music sound quality and reproduction, as music is the heartbeat of audio!
Our boutique home store offers a personalized, high-fidelity music experience in a setting that encourages a deep appreciation for both sound and artistry, something that sets us apart from larger, more commercialized venues in the area.
Another thing that differentiates us from other competitors is our collaboration with various professional services to enhance our operations and customer offerings. These include partnerships with local interior design teams, custom cabinetry specialists, installation experts, and renovation teams, ensuring seamless project execution and high-quality results.
How would you describe your company’s success so far?
Our success so far has been both exciting and rewarding. We’ve built a strong foundation by blending live music experiences with high-quality audio equipment sales, resonating with both music lovers and audiophiles. The community’s positive response and engagement at our shows and attendance at trade shows have fueled our growth, and we’ve formed valuable partnerships along the way. While we are proud of what we’ve achieved, we view this as just the beginning, with even more opportunities to expand, innovate, and deepen our impact.
Does your business give back to your community?
Yes, giving back to our community is very important to us. For our live shows, we encourage guests to bring items for the local food bank, and we actively participate in the local chamber of commerce. As we grow, we are committed to expanding our efforts and finding even more ways to make a positive impact within our community.
The adaptive nature of a city like Paris can be felt everywhere, every day. Just last year L’Auditorium Parisien, a HiFi store that has been part of the heart of the bohemian Marais neighborhood since 1996, became part of our French distributor, PPL’s, network of retailers.
Conveniently located just 100 meters from the Chemin Vert subway station on Boulevard Beaumarchais, among dozens of highly respected high-end shops or boutiques, as the French would call them, L’Auditorium Parisien is a two-story establishment that houses several demo rooms with a huge assortment of equipment for all tastes and budgets.
The listening rooms are top notch. While they have been recently renovated, they kept a classic French style and feel to them. Everything is meticulously organized and labeled for their customers, so all you have to do is sit back and focus on enjoying the musical experience, be it 2 or multi channel.
Nordost is prominently featured in the store and Didier and Cyrille are extremely well prepared to make recommendations, answer your questions, and provide great insight into what Nordost products are all about and how they can help your personal system reach new levels.
Listening to your home set up is great, but there is something special about going out to visit a store like this and having the opportunity to listen directly, not just to our cables and accessories, but to the system as a whole, and appreciate how Nordost products elevate so many different systems and combinations of equipment. So, next time you happen to spend a few days in Paris, do not miss the opportunity to have a very enjoyable experience and have a good time or, as they say over there, prends du bon temps.
Just outside Oklahoma City, Reference Analog has been a haven for true audiophiles for over a decade. Specializing in two-channel audio systems, Reference Analog is the brainchild of Jeff Harris, a passionate audio enthusiast with decades of experience.
Operating by appointment only, Reference Analog offers a unique and personalized experience for those seeking the pinnacle of sound reproduction. Jeff’s journey into the world of audio began in his childhood, dancing to records with his sister. His father’s love for music sparked a lifelong passion that led him to open Oklahoma’s premier reference-level high-end audio shop. Conveniently located near the airport and easily accessible from Dallas, Reference Analog is a must-visit for discerning audiophiles.
As the name suggests, Reference Analog is dedicated to the purity of analog sound while also offering digital components that meet their stringent standards. Their profound appreciation for analog has honed their ability to identify digital systems that deliver a similarly rich and detailed sonic experience. Their meticulous approach ensures that every client receives expert guidance and tailored solutions.
Reference Analog proudly offers a handpicked selection of products from esteemed brands like YG, Rockport, Boulder, Audio Research, MSB, REL, HRS, VPI, and Brinkmann. The store features a dedicated demo location with small, medium, and large rooms, each designed to showcase entry-level to world-class reference experiences. It’s the ideal setting to immerse yourself in the magic of these exceptional systems.
Their dedication to superior sound quality and customer service has earned Reference Analog a loyal following and a reputation for excellence. Jeff’s commitment to his customers is unparalleled. “We collaborate closely with our customers, crafting the experiences they envision,” he says. “We build strong connections with them, taking the time to ensure their experience exceeds expectations.” Their willingness to spend hours discussing the hobby with clients, even long after the sale, speaks volumes about their dedication. “Our time is given freely, which is rare in the industry,” Jeff notes. “Investing time in our customers is a core part of our approach, setting us apart.”
Reference Analog has achieved significant recognition within the industry. The company has garnered multiple awards, including the prestigious VPI Reference Award, and has earned “Best of Show” honors at major events like AXPONA. Their expertise and commitment to delivering unparalleled audio experiences has cemented their status as leaders in the field. For the Southwest Audio Fest’s inaugural event, Reference Analog had not one, but three rooms featuring different brands. Look out for more exciting initiatives on the horizon.
The Emotion in the Music
At the heart of Reference Analog’s philosophy lies a simple yet profound motto: The Emotion in the Music. Jeff explains, “This comes from our desire to bring emotion back into people’s listening experiences.” This passion fuels every aspect of the business, from the meticulous selection of brands that deliver this emotional connection, to the expert set-up skills that bring the systems to life.
Reference Analog is more than just an audio store; it’s a destination for those who seek the ultimate in audio performance. With Jeff at the helm, this Oklahoma-based company continues to set the standard for excellence in the high-end audio world. Whether you’re an analog purist or a digital enthusiast, Reference Analog offers the expertise, products, and personalized service to elevate your listening experience to new heights.
Finding an experienced advisor for your hi-fi needs can be a daunting task. The number of unique and emerging technologies in audio is ever-growing. Although it’s fun to navigate those waters, the sheer volume of information that’s available today can be overwhelming at times. That’s why it’s so important to have a trusted confidant at your side when deciding what gear is worth your investment.
Ray Benza has been making music “work” since the 1970’s. His current shop, Entertainment Technology, has been serving the greater NYC area for the past 25 years. As the world of audio evolves, so does the portfolio of brands at ‘ET’. Wilson, McIntosh, Dan D’Agostino, Sonus Faber, and dCS are all available to audition at his shop in Mount Kisco, New York. With four separate listening areas and a full theater, it’s easy for an audiophile to lose track of time. Make sure to spend some time with their new Mcintosh 75th anniversary system. The system includes Wilson Audio Alexia V’s driven by the flagship MC2.1KW mono-amps from Mcintosh, wired top-to-bottom with Valhalla 2 cabling and QBase AC distributors from Nordost. We are thrilled that with all his experience over the years, Ray and his team have recognized that Nordost make these products perform at their best, and recommends our cables and AC distributors to his clients.
One of the wonderful things about New York City is the availability of absolutely anything you could possibly imagine. The city, and it’s surrounding area, prides itself on providing the unrivaled best of everything. Be it fashion, fine-dining, or the arts, it’s all here. Ray and Entertainment Technology are no exception. If you find yourself in the New York, Tri-State area looking for the best in hifi, Entertainment Technology is worth your time and attention.
Have you had the chance to explore the new Hanson AV showroom in Dayton? If not, it’s a must-visit when you’re in town. Hanson has recently unveiled its new showroom, a true marvel in Dayton, Ohio. Whether you’re in the market for a complete smart home setup or a top-of-the-line Hi-Fi System, Hanson has it all. What’s more, their meticulously designed displays and demos are sure to leave you in awe.
But it’s not just about the impressive aesthetics. Hanson boasts a team of exceptional, knowledgeable staff who are true experts in their field. This, combined with their top-notch installation pros, strategic brand partnerships, and world-class displays, creates an unparalleled experience. Each showroom follows a comprehensive approach, ensuring that no matter what your dream system is, Hanson is ready to make it a reality.
Hanson has been servicing the southern Ohio region since 1999 and has become a high-end audio and integration staple. They combine the best qualities of your local Hi-Fi shop and the shock and awe of the latest Luxury Integration technology. You get a sense of the Hanson team’s passion for their profession every time you meet them.
“Hanson’s primary objective is to help you select the optimum solution for Home Theater, Hi-Fi Audio, and Smart Home Automation in your home or business.” – Hanson
The Hanson team talks the talk; you better believe they back it up at every step, every time.
If you find yourself in Dayton or Cincinnati, I cannot recommend stopping by for an audition enough.
Professional Service and Selection Meets the Front Range
With over 50 years in the audio business, Soundings founder, Mr. Rod Thompson, has dedicated his career to building music systems with care and dedication. He also provides proper video entertainment solutions as well. The wealth of experience Rod has enjoyed has served him and his clients well over the years.
Soundings was started nearly 40 years ago in the Denver area and recently opened their brand new location in Greenwood, Colorado, a suburb of Denver U.S.A. Most relationships with customers are decades old and the current staff of professionals led by store manager, Jess Engleking, are certainly leading the way for a new generation. Most store personnel have over 20 years experience each in high-end audio and video design.
Top Brands
The selection of brands that the store carries is much more than just a “product of the month” club. Lines sold by Soundings undergo a stringent selection process that ensures longevity and true value in servicing their customers needs. Artisanal offerings are sought out that offer unique, reliable solutions for all clients.
Soundings has carried Nordost’s Reference Odin 2 cables for many years, along with the likes of stellar brands such as Boulder amplifiers, Rockport Technologies speakers, Linn, Acora, Kef Reference, Dr Feichert and Primare. You are assured of a competent system including ‘white glove’ delivery and set up.
The Master Set Process
Rod and crew have perfected the system of interfacing sound systems in real rooms with a scientific process that is implemented with passion and talent. This results in a widely sought after system integration that properly designs systems for the rooms they are in, while taking in to account the whole family’s needs and desires.
Soundings
9625 E Arapahoe Rd Unit L, Greenwood Village, CO 80112
Join me in welcoming one of the newest high-end stores in the world, HiFi Hub! But don’t be fooled by its recent November launch date, there are definitely no newbies behind this massive undertaking!
Henning Morken and Øystein Hasnes are two incredibly well-seasoned HiFi professionals with 30 years in the game between them. As with many in this industry, their journey into hifi started with a genuine interest in music: Henning’s interest relates to his background in the music industry; for Øystein, this means years of actively playing in various big bands and marching bands. The two met at one of Scandinavia’s biggest HiFi stores, where they worked together for 13 years. Recently, however, they decided to fulfill their hifi dreams– opening an establishment of their own.
True to form, the duo fulfilled their dream with an “all or nothing” attitude and started HiFi Hub with a BANG! When you visit HiFi Hub, you’re met with a three-story villa, outfitted with five, beautifully furnished and fully equipped listening rooms. One of the great things about having five listening rooms at your disposal is that you can listen to various levels of components so that you can match your desired sound experience with your preferred price point.
HiFi Hub is conveniently located 10 minutes from the Oslo Airport and 20 minutes from the Oslo city center, so it is easy to visit. However, Henning and Øystein completely understand the importance of auditioning audio gear in your own listening environment. To aid in that, they offer extensive opportunities for home visits to ensure well-educated equipment purchases.
There’s an impressive, new destination for audiophiles and music lovers that you may not have heard of in the city of Ottawa, Canada. That’s because they only officially opened a short while ago, in the summer of 2022. If you’re in the market for some serious, high-performance, hi-fi gear, you have to add Bliss to your list!
Bliss Acoustics is a labor of love for Dragan Reljic, a lifelong audiophile and music lover. His home-based business is located in an area referred to as “The Glebe”, situated near The National Historic Site and the Rideau Canal. His mission is to provide one-of-a-kind, personal experiences while representing some of the finest audio brands on the market. His collection of beautifully crafted, impeccably designed, analog and digital components includes both well-established and up-and-coming brands that share one commonality: changing the landscape of the musical experience.
I first met Dragan in person last summer when Nordost VP, Michael Taylor, and I traveled to Ottawa to perform our two-day intensive Certified Nordost Specialist training, during which Dragan received Nordost’s highest level of intensive product training. Both Michael and I were greeted with a warm welcome and given a tour of the facility. Up until that point, I had never seen such an impressive and extensive in-home setup. In no less than four, very tastefully designed listening rooms, Dragan had an impressive number of products on display, hooked up and ready to be demonstrated. All the hits are waiting for you to hear when you visit Bliss: Nordost, Alluxity, AudioNec, Audio Vector, Aurender, ClearAudio, Dynavector, Focal, The Gryphon, Harbeth, JSIKORA, Karma, Kroma Atelier, Leben, Luxman, Magico, MSB, Nagra, Naim, Pilium, Shindo, Riviera, Vivid, and more!
Even though he is a relatively new hifi dealer, he is far from a novice to audio! Dragan has been around music from a very early age, and he will impress you with the knowledge he has cultivated over the years. Throughout high school and university, Dragan DJed at student clubs and alternative venues. Initially, he was a guest DJ and volunteer, doing it for the love of the music rather than the money. Then, as a side project, he started making “First Date Tapes” which developed a cult following. Those soon evolved into Encore Tapes of The Comedy Cafe, the second-largest standup comedy club in London, that he enthusiastically started managing during his studies.
In the beginning, despite his love for music, Dragan pursued a different career path. Born in Sarajevo, he began studying veterinary medicine and earned his first degree as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. He subsequently moved to the UK and completed his masters in London at the Royal Veterinary College. Then, about 30 years ago, he moved to Canada where things became a little more academically and politically complicated for him to pursue his Ph.D., encouraging him to take a different path.
With his experience bartending, DJing, and managing clubs in his youth, Dragan figured, why not do the same here? A new era began when he started running a very nice brewpub in the 90s, followed by an Italian restaurant in the ByWard Market, Mamma Grazzi’s, which he ran for over 25 years. As a side business, he also began investing in real estate, renovating, renting, and selling properties…all the while never losing his passion for high-end audio.
Dragan had often entertained the idea of procuring personalized high-end experiences for music enthusiasts in the nation’s capital, and it was thanks to the amazing support and the blessing of his wife Anastasia, a devoted music lover in her own right, that beautiful Bliss Acoustics was founded in the summer of 2022.
If you are a hi-fi enthusiast, please give Dragan a call and make an appointment to visit him. I can guarantee that you won’t be disappointed.
Curating Audio Excellence Since 1977 in Buffalo, NY
by Amy Hansen
In the heart of Buffalo, New York, there’s a place where music enthusiasts find solace—a haven called Speaker Shop. For over four decades, this establishment has been more than a shop; it’s a testament to a passion for sound and a commitment to delivering the best audio experience.
Established in 1977, Speaker Shop
has been an integral part of Buffalo’s audio landscape, evolving alongside the
ever-changing world of sound technology. Stepping into Speaker Shop isn’t
merely stepping into a store; it’s stepping into a legacy—a legacy of
expertise, knowledge, and an unwavering dedication to quality audio.
On my recent visit, I stepped into
a vibrant retail space alive with constant activity. Customers continuously
coming and going, assisted by engaged staff, creating a bustling symphony of activity.
Speaker Shop curates a collection
that caters to diverse tastes and preferences. They’ve got you covered with
brands such as Wilson Audio, Magico, MSB Technology, Aurender, Luxman, Hegel,
McIntosh, Nordost and more.
What sets Speaker Shop apart isn’t
just the impressive array of audio equipment but the passion and expertise of
its staff, Guy, Ed, Paul and Mike. The team comprises enthusiasts deeply
entrenched in the nuances of sound. Whether
you have a cherished pair of vintage speakers that require repair or you’re
seeking something new, Speaker Shop is dedicated to meeting your needs. If
you’re a seasoned audiophile or a newcomer seeking advice, their enthusiastic
team is ready to assist you by sharing their expertise and aiding in the
discovery of a sound setup perfectly tailored to your preferences.
For those in Buffalo seeking to
elevate their sonic experience, Speaker Shop isn’t just a store—it’s a
destination. It’s where music aficionados find their sonic haven, where every
visit promises an exploration of the endless possibilities of sound.
So, whether you’re on a quest for
the perfect speakers or simply looking to immerse yourself in a world of audio
bliss, Speaker Shop stands ready to be your guide on this melodious journey.
