Music Lovers Audio & Video is exactly what its name promises, and Spencer Giel is exactly the kind…read moreof person you want guiding you through one of the most rewarding and dangerous journeys you can embark on as an audiophile.
I came in as someone just getting into the high end audio market, surrounded by gear I could only dream about, and Spencer never once made me feel unwelcome or out of place. I've visited other stores where you can feel judged the moment you walk in based on your wallet size. That was never the case here. As someone around my age with the same passion for amazing sound without millionaire budgets, he got it immediately.
He worked with me from start to finish, helping me build a system that punches well above its price point. The result was a carefully curated blend of tubes and solid state that created a synergy I didn't fully appreciate until I heard it all together. He helped me select my Paradigm Persona 5F speakers, Audio Research LS27 preamp, Parasound A21+, AudioQuest Niagara 3000, and interconnects. Each brand chosen with intention, Paradigm out of Toronto, Parasound originally based right here in San Francisco, Audio Research from Minnesota, and AudioQuest from Irvine CA. Respected names with solid reputations in the audiophile community that fit my budget without compromising on quality.
Any system I was curious about I was able to audition without any pressure or hesitation. That kind of access says a lot about how they treat customers.
And it doesn't stop at the sale. They helped with three moves of my audio gear, something regular movers simply are not equipped to handle with equipment this precious. They also helped connect my system which is a level of service you just don't expect from a retailer. That kind of relationship goes well beyond a transaction.
The store itself is filled with incredible gear across some of the most coveted lines in the industry. McIntosh, Audio Research, Boulder, Anthem, dCS, and speakers from Paradigm, KEF, Wilson, Sonus Faber, and more. They also specialize in home theater if that's your thing. Just be warned, every visit is a little dangerous to the wallet. And don't overlook their preowned section either, it's where real bargains hide. That's how I picked up my Audio Research preamp for half its original price.
This place is a "Music Lovers" dream whether you are just starting out or building your end game system. Ask for Spencer Giel, he's the real deal!
