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Audio Specialist

4.5 (135 reviews)
Special Hours Closed
Updated a few days ago

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McIntosh 6700
Bob N.

Thank you, Howard, for diagnosing and fixing my awesome McIntosh 6700 Receiver! I love this receiver and was so disappointed after only a few years ownership, it had a leak underneath! Howard knew what it was right away, got the new capacitors and fixed it quickly. The Mac sounds great as always. Quick, accurate diagnostics and fast repair. Howard is the guy to see when you need help with your stereo.

Howard Bardach overcoming the old thumb screw speaker terminals using a spade plug to binding post Banana Jack adapter
Gary S.

In the World of Hi-Fi Vintage repair, Los Angeles has one of the last great repair technicians, and in my book a living legend in Howard Bardach of Audio Specialist. As a video tech myself, there is a library of experience in Howard's head that knows the ins and outs of audio repair that no schematic or service manual will ever tell you. I brought in a "restored" Kenwood 6160 receiver but it had problems. The owner was a tech, went down the rabbit hole of audio forums but he could not get the sound right, so he passed it on to me. I called other reputable audio repair techs in Southern California and when I shared the back story of the unit, it was end of discussion, "Don't bring that unit to me. If someone else has worked on it, I don't want to see it." Audio Specialist was last on the list, and I gave Howard a call. There was concern in his voice about the unit being worked on before, but he seemed open and said to bring it in. Walking into his shop was like walking into stacks and stacks of vintage receiver history, wall to wall jobs of gear in need of repair from highly prized Marantz's and even rare Sherwood tube receivers. It was clear to me the people bringing their prized gear to Howard knew or at least were hoping that he could get it done. Howard came out from his back office with a handwritten estimate notating the issues like a physician diagnosing the problem. When he spoke to me, he never talked down, always spoke humbly yet with a sense of certainty and professionalism that no big box, Best Buy Geek Squad could ever match. Then Howard pointed to a sign stating he had such an immense back log that it would be at least two months before he could give an estimate and to "please be patient." I know some folks may immediately walk away at this point but having worked on my own repairs on cameras and sewing machines, if you do something right it is hours of troubleshooting and just talking with him, I knew I had to take the leap of faith and just wait. Two months later, just like clockwork, I get a call from Howard. And just like your doctor giving you the bad news, it sounded like there was a lot done to the unit that he would not do and he shared that he may not be able to get the balance issue resolved. There was also an additional issue with the FM tuner string that was replaced previously with kite string that could easily snap at any time. At that point, I had to make the decision not to move forward or to do the work. I decided to go for it hoping for the best. "See what you can do on the other sound issues," I said but let's move forward and get it done right. I thought it would be another month until I would see the unit but true to his word as soon as I approved the work Howard immediately jumped on the repair. Then within a week called me to let me know the work was complete. Now this is where in all my years of bringing vintage audio gear to other folks that Howard stands above the rest. Typically, when a tech says they will repair that one thing that is wrong. That's all they do. Howard treated my receiver like it was his own. Installed the correct feet, aligned and installed the correct FM string, and of course, Howard found two incorrect caps that were installed previously on the tone board that were affecting the sound imbalance. Honestly, he must have gone through it and dialed it in even more because I hear no pops on start up. The signal was clean, warm and not the grading unbalanced fatiguing sound that I was hearing before. I was flat out shocked how good it sounded. Howard cared enough to go the extra mile and then some shows just how much he cares and desires to resolve every issue. The kind of care that only a master technician who absolutely loves what he does can achieve. Sound excellence. Bar none, if you care about your vintage audio gear and you want a class act of old school professionalism, knowledge and expertise, and the confidence and follow through to resolve difficult sound issues, Howard Bardach is your man. You will be rewarded with an audio miracle as he was able to do for me and with a price point that honestly is extremely fair. Without any hesitation, I would bring highly recommend Audio Specialist the experience and result only speak for itself. I am still floored and have not stopped listening to how good my Kenwood 6160 sounds. There should be a Mayors Award to Howard Bardach for running his shop for over 45 years and providing joy to music lovers in SoCal and beyond through his gift and expertise of Hi-Fi audio repair. His shop is humble means and is a rare gem of Southern California Gold.

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1 year ago

Howard is a genius at audio repair. My 25 year old Sony receiver after Howard's magic, works better than when I bought it!

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11 months ago

Howard was fantastic! My record player sounds so good! I am so happy with Howard's communication and his ability to restore my turntable.

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4 years ago

Go here! Fantastic service, quick communication, knowledgable, friendly, and well worthy of 5 stars! I have found my go to place.

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Audio Specialist Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - Audio Specialist

Hi, do you repair Musical Fidelity stereo amplifier?

Yes we do. We will be open Monday April 13 after 10am. Thanks.

Can you repair tascam portastudio 424 mkii?

I am sorry I no longer work on Tascam.

Do you repair 10 yr old Arcam A/V receivers?

Sorry no. Be prepared it might be worth it to repair being10 years old.

Do you repair sony STR DA 9000ES? It is in protection mode Code 11

Hi I am sorry I do not. I only deal with vintage audio Sorry.

Do you fix Victrola 8-1 Vinyl players with a slower turntable speed?

No Sorry Call 818-240-1090 maybe they will work on it. Thanks.

I have an HK3600 that needs cleaning and possibly repair. Can you do it?

is it a 3600 or an avr3600/ Thanks

Hi Howard, would you repair a Soundesign S2201 console?

I am sorry but I no longer work on consoles As well I no longer know anyone to suggest. Sorry.

Hello! Do you repair vintage direct-drive turntables? It's a Marantz 6300.

Yes, what brand do you have?

Do you guys do portable audio repairs? (Like Walkmans Cassette players)

No longer doing any portables. Sorry.

Do you work on vintage KLH speakers?

Yes, we do. What model do you have?

Hi Howard. Do you repair 1940s zenith radio consoles?

Luis I am sorry, but I no longer work on the consoles. As I no longer know anyone to suggest. Sorry.

Can you repair Bose radios and CD players (Bose Wave Music System)?

I am sorry I do not. I as well do not know anyone to suggest. Sorry.

Do you work on Technics 1200 Turntables? Thanks!

Yes.

I'm trying to find a 5" reel-to-reel tape for a prop in a play?? Do you have any, or know where I might look? I'm in Noho.…

Sorry I have none at this time. Thanks.

Do you repair/service vintage linear tracking turntables? I have an MCS Series 6725 Linear Tracking Belt Drive Turntable. I believe it is comparable to the Technics SL-BL3.

Yes I do but it depends on what brand. Please let me know. Thank you.

Do u fix gramophone?

The ones built before 1940s, I am sorry to say no.

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Review Highlights - Audio Specialist

Howard fixed some things (including one of the speakers that stopped working) and the sound is now incredible.

Mentioned in 102 reviews

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The Voice of Vintage

4.4(116 reviews)
7.9 miLake Balboa

Chris was awesome! I called about an issue with my receiver. He explained over the phone that i…read moreshould first check for a blown fuse. I opened it up and he was right. Replaced the fuse for $4 and fixed it myself. I really appreciate that he helped me figure it out without him coming out. I'll definitely be calling Chris again with any more audio equipment issues. thanks!

Chris is nice, seems knowledgeable but lacks a work ethic to match. Repaired my zenith console…read morerecord player. The next day after Chris came to my home to install it I reached out to him about audio dropping from one side. I've text and called him over the last 4 months. The times we've talked he has expressed getting a needle and swapping it out. EVERYTIME he has said, let me see if I have a needle. Maybe I can come by tomorrow or whenever. I say ok let me know and I never hear back from him. A few weeks go by and the cycle repeats itself. I've refrained from leaving a negative comment but I talked to him on Tues he said, "let me see if I have a needle in my box, how about tomorrow". Told him no one would be available tomorrow but Thurs or Fri, he said ok. Heard nothing and here we are. Its Saturday. Called him, no answer, left a message. So I have a console that plays records that will periodically drop audio. But if you ever so lightly tap the back of the tone arm audio might return. So that's what I got for $675.

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The Voice of Vintage
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British Audio Guys - Shunyata Research Everest x Power Distributer

British Audio Guys

5.0(1 review)
1.7 miSherman Oaks

Great experience with the British Audio Guys. The very best of service and communication. Made…read moreevery step of my purchase pleasurable and satisfying. I highly recommend them for their knowledge and their commitment to customer satisfaction. Will look to them again as I continue to upgrade my audio systems.

From the owner: At British Audio Guys, we specialize in personalized audio equipment demonstrations and expert…read moreconsultancy, proudly serving Studio City, Hollywood Hills, the Valley, and the greater Los Angeles area. We provide tailored hi-fi system demos designed around your unique audio preferences, listening environment, and budget, ensuring you achieve the perfect high-end home audio system. Our deep expertise in system synergy, combined with decades of experience working with the finest British audio brands, guarantees you receive the most accurate and insightful advice. Whether you’re a discerning audiophile, a music lover, or a professional in the entertainment industry, our custom audio consultations will help you optimize your sound system for ultimate clarity, dynamics, and musicality. Our services extend to multi-room audio system design, and commercial audio solutions for corporate offices, event spaces, restaurants, coffee shops, and retail venues.

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British Audio Guys - Rega Planar 8 Turntable at British Audio Guys

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British Audio Guys - Linn Sondek LP12 Klimax Linn Ekos SE Arm Linn Ekstatik Cartridge at British Audio Guys

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Ahead Stereo

Ahead Stereo

4.1(66 reviews)
6.7 miFairfax
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Outstanding Service and Support at Ahead Stereo…read more I purchased my McIntosh turntable from Ahead Stereo and recently ran into an issue with my stylus. I reached out to Brian, and he immediately went above and beyond--contacting McIntosh on my behalf, walking me through the options, and ultimately helping me get back up and running. What stood out most wasn't just the solution, but the care and integrity Brian showed throughout the process. He didn't treat me like just another transaction, he treated me like a valued customer. That kind of support is rare, and it's exactly why I'll keep coming back to Ahead Stereo. If you're into high-end audio and want a dealer who stands by their customers, this is the place. Highly recommend.

It's is increasingly difficult to find retail operations that give the time to customers looking…read morefor guidance. Today during my visit to ahead stereo I was looking for an education in creating a future home stereo system, I'm not up to date on all the options, but have a general idea of what I'm trying to achieve. These folks seemed interested in selling me a consultation for a couple hundred dollars rather than trust helping me and winning my trust, it seemed they were concerned if the helped me understand what would be a good solution I would leave the store and buy online. That was not the plan and once I figure out what I'm looking for I'll probably be back to buy local, as I'm a big supporter of that concept. My suggestion in the future is customer comes first, build the trust and loyalty will follow.

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Ahead Stereo - Since 1971

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Rewind Audio - From collectible gems to one-of-a-kind pieces, our showroom is full of treasures for music lovers.

Rewind Audio

5.0(8 reviews)
10.5 miEagle Rock

6 out of 5. I just found this review by Nick M - and I could not have said it better myself:…read more Nearly impossible to say enough good things about Jen, Oscar, and Rewind Audio! Not only do they consistently have an amazing inventory of diverse, unique, high-quality vintage hifi components (speakers, amps, turntables, cassette decks, etc), but they are also extremely knowledgable, kind, and earnest people who value their customers deeply, and strive to deliver the best possible gear and customer service. Their energy and passion is infectious! Aside from being great people - they offer very fair and competitive pricing on all of their equipment and you can be certain that everything in stock has been inspected, tested, and held to the highest standard - which makes the value nearly priceless. A rare gem in LA! A 'must visit' for vintage audio nerds.

Came here for a birthday party. We had access to the cool interior of the store with all kinds of…read moreretro audio equipment and then access to the large back patio space. The party host had a bartender, set up a food and appetizer station near a retro camper. Add some party decorations and it was such a cool place to rent space from! Definitely considering a rental for a future party here and also, to go back and buy some records which were reasonably priced.

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Rewind Audio - Iconic vintage speakers that deliver warm, full-bodied sound, proof that great design never goes out of style.

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Hollywood Sound Systems - The Lola's came by and helped us last week. We will be posting some samples of them singing through the full compliment of RCA 7

Hollywood Sound Systems

5.0(10 reviews)
2.3 miNorth Hollywood
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We had a gig at Van Nuys High School last week and due to an emergency situation we had to move the…read morevenue and rent some special microphones. Chris and the rest of the staff at Hollywood Sound Systems came to the rescue. They patiently worked with us to find the right microphones and sound board for the job. And the event was a success. Thank you!!!

Everyone at Hollywood Sound Systems was amazingly kind and helpful. As soon as I walked in, they…read morestarted helping me track down the piece I needed for my mic stand. It's a very specific piece I've not been able to find at any of the other businesses I visited. First off, they quickly understood what I was looking for since I didn't have the specific piece on hand, and three different people quickly jumped in and brought me several options to choose from. After that, I had a question about my setup and they gave me several tips which I went home and used right away. I've never left a gear/rental shop feeling so well taken care of as I did at Hollywood Sound Systems. Top notch service and a great team all around. Also, they have an amazing collection of vintage microphones used by some of the biggest stars and announcers. Seriously, you have to see it to believe it. These people are legit and I highly recommend them and look forward to returning to them to rent gear and know that if I have any question about sound and mics, they'll have all the answers.

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Audio Specialist - hifi - Updated May 2026

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