I found Pat's Audio Art in my quest to revive an old turntable given to me by my father in law. I was trying to figure out how to marry old technology with a newer amp and needed someone more knowledgeable than the geeks at Best Buy to hook me up with the right equipment. I had the turntable repaired by a small shop in Burnaby but then needed a pre-amp to connect it to my late model receiver. I walked into Pat's Audio Art with little knowledge of what they sold. I brought my 6 year old kid with me and once I made my way up the stairs into one of their sound rooms, I realized this was a place that dealt with very high-end equipment, appreciated only by the most discerning audiophiles. Carver, B&O, Cambridge, NAD were about the only names I recognized. From there the prices went upward, quickly. I was a little nervous to have my kid in the store so I kept him on a short leash. The staff didn't seem too concerned :) Feeling a bit sheepish, I asked if they had any pre-amps in a price range that was for normal folk like me looking to connect my hand-me-down Dual turntable to a new H/K receiver. I was shown a couple options. One was under $100 and the other was about $150. With the pricing came detailed advice as to why they were priced the way they were. Never was I made to feel that they didn't have time for me. They only wanted to be sure that they had given me the best advice possible, no matter what the price. I took the preamp home and hooked everything up. Spinning some vinyl for the first time in 30 years was something to behold. I had purchased a couple of older jazz albums as well as a few newer LPs, all of which sound incredible, even from an otherwise outdated low-tech turntable. Since then, I receive their e-mails and have seen some incredible deals on audio equipment that is not the typical big-box stuff we're bombarded with daily. Make no mistake, Pat's Audio Art is a store that seeks to provide specialty options for those with a keen ear for crystal clear sound with the imagery that demands a perfectly positioned listening chair in a dimly lit room with a glass of single-malt while you close your eyes and imagine a performance that is focused only on you. The sound equipment they sell will take you to another world. If you're looking for that type of experience and are prepared to spend some serious cash, look no further. On the other hand, Pat's also has gear that is substantially better than the best London Drugs has to offer at a price that won't require you to re-mortgage your house or sell your car. These guys know their stuff and if you give them a chance to get to know you, they will steer you in the right direction. Even if you don't really want to buy anything but would like to see how incredible a good loudspeaker can be, wander down on a Saturday and spend some time in their store. You won't be disappointed. read more

I am a long time customer of Pat Tang. For the last decade he has run Pat's Audio Arts. In the late 80s I bought a Classe Audio/Linn LP-12/Magneplanar system from Sound Plus while Pat worked there. Later I bought a pair of Opera Callas speakers from The Sound Room, which Pat worked at and (I think?!) was part owner of. I loved those speakers and enjoyed them for 15 years, while my kids grew up. I got back into HiFi and music once my girls were in high school and I discovered Pat's Audio Arts. It was like coming home. I hadn't decided what my budget was yet, but Pat enthusiastically played Spendor and Quad speakers for me. Then he demonstrated the fabulous Meitner MA-2 DAC for me as well as four different turntables, especially the terrific Brinkmann Bardo. I was so keen on the Meitner, which I ended up buying, but Pat pointed out that the Meitner was wonderful, but for him, analog still carried more of the emotion of the music. He left me alone in the downstairs listening room to play some music (records) and not be pressured by sales people. I have bought the Meitner MA-1 DAC, Stax SR-009 headphones, an RP-1 Rega turntable with the Performance Pack (for my younger daughter), as well as several accessories. When the cartridge on our new Rega didn't work properly, Pat replaced it immediately, no questions asked. We are very fortunate to have Pat Tang in Vancouver. All of the staff at Pat's Audio Arts are excellent to deal with, provide no sales pressure but lots of help and education! Oh, and for the poster who complains about Pat selling only to Chinese people....I'm white. Really pale actually ; ) Pat is a fantastic addition to our HiFi scene in Vancouver. I highly recommend Pat's Audio Arts. Go in, relax, listen to music. Have fun! read more

I just downloaded the Yelp app just so I could leave a review (my 1st). I'm a person who likes to do research via the internet & in particular YouTube. I had been to Pats Audio Art once before to purchase a new cartridge for my existing turntable & thought at the time that I would shop there when next I needed some equipment. Well I was in the market for a new turntable, I wanted my records to sound as good or better than my streaming music, so I did my research & through it all connected with Pat via email for his thoughts on what I had unearthed. He took an amazing amount of time & wrote me back with pages of information all based on technical data & his own considerable experience. I made the hour long trek to the shop, he spent 2 1/2 hours to further educate me through his vast knowledge & obvious passion. He guided me in my pursuit to end up with a system that I would be happy with. He never once tried to up-sell me, he just advised me on how to get the best sound within my budget. When I got home I couldn't wait to set up my new turntable with an upgraded cartridge & new pre amp. Even though I was expecting an amazing sound, I was blown away by the new experience of listening to my records. It's like I was listening to them for the first time. Rarely one is treated to this kind of service, he truly wanted to help me succeed in my goal & was clearly happy to share his passion. I don't care how long it takes me to get there...I will not shop anywhere else! read more

I have been dealing with the stores owner, Patrick Tang for over 30 years for my Audio components. I have purchased everything from CD players to streaming amplifiers, turntables, cartridges, headphones, speaker wire, the list goes on. Even though I now live on Vancouver Island I still deal with Pat, either in person or online. The reason why is simple, his knowledge of audio equipment is well above the industry standard, he carries quality brands who produce some of the best audio gear available, his pricing is very fair and without exception, every piece of equipment that Pat has recommended has performed just as well as Pat said it would. I trust his taste and judgment and he has never let me down, somewhat a rare quality these days. Music is a passion for me and having someone to guide me through the overwhelming number of options in the marketplace is worth a great deal. Customer service is often referred to but seldom delivered but Pat, his staff and his store have always looked after me, I honour our long term relationship. read more

Pat and Arthur helped me to pick a desktop/bookself system that is killer. They did this over the course of many visits and demonstrations to find speakers KEFLS50 and then DAC (Hugo) and a subwoofer (REL). Each choice was made with considerable expertise and advice. Pat helped me to express what I was hearing so that he could clue in on what I was after. Pat also brought or revived the idea of audio workshops to Vancity and holds shootouts on equipment and demo to groups. The crowds that attend these events were diverse and good sources of advice themselves (some of them have dream systems) so it was a pleasure to get visit, get some advice, have fun and even get a free cappucino. This is truly a unique spot on the audio scene. They do not use high pressure sales tactics and would rather spend time and have a conversation with you. WOW. I hope that the personalized time they spend with their customers is experienced by everyone. read more

Recently, I was fortunate enough to discover Pat's Audio Art on Burrard. As a former owner of a High-End store in the U.S., I will say that Pat's is a must stop if you are looking for quality audio and/or video equipment in B.C. Pat and Arthur are very knowledgeable about music (which is, or should be, the reason we buy high-quality equipment) and the audio/video business. They carry excellent equipment, from the affordable to the wish-I-could-afford-it level. As they have been in the audio/video business for a long time, they certainly know their products and their competitor's products as well. They are very happy to demo their equipment, answer any questions and will give you as much time as you need. Most importantly, there is NO PRESSURE to buy. And to top it off, they make excellent espresso (be sure and try one), and Pat even roasts his own coffee beans. Highly recommended! read more

I have been to Pat's Audio Art many times, and purchased a Rega RP-6 from them. As a former record store owner, audio buff and music writer, I believe strongly in supporting retailers who are knowledgeable and service-oriented. Pat and his staff provide superb service at competitive prices. They have gone out of their way several times to assist me with inquiries and the occasional service issue - and are unfailingly polite. I noticed a review above that mentioned a perceived (imagined) Asian bias towards clients. Nothing could be further from the truth! (I'm Caucasian, btw, not Chinese). Consider the source of that review - having been a retailer for several years I can relate to what Pat must be going through after having read that review. The balance of the reviews here relate a high level of customer satisfaction from many different clients over the years. read more

These guys!! I finally had the chance to take my record player in to talk to them. It's an old guy from the 60's/70's and these gents knew exactly how to help. Even though they aren't a record player repair shop, they told me exactly I needed to do. I needed a preamp to get the signal to a point where my modern speakers could work with the sound. After writing down the name of Lee's Electronics on Main and telling me what hours they were open, the guys opened up my record player and manually fixed my rotation speed - which means I can finally play the 78 rpm records (it was stuck on 45). Did I mention that they did this all for free? They just were full of good vibes and have a helpful spirit. Give them a call and drop by - I know I'll be going back when I can afford a killer sound system! Also, feel free to admire their sexy guitars in the side room. read more

I just read a review of Pats Audio Art written by an Andy J. Im not sure what planet he was on at the time but I have dealt with Pat for better than 30yrs. I am caucasian and have NEVER had a problem getting to talk to someone. I have absolutely no idea what this guy was talking about and I dont speak Cantonese either. They all speak English quite well. I have dealt with Commercial Electronics for years too and they can be standoffish unless they think you are spending a wad of cash. Pat and the guys have always given me the best advice and some excellent deals over the years. A buddy of mine( yeah another caucasian) have been following Pat for many years. I do not know of anyone in Vancouver that is more honest and knowledgable and have always been given fair pricing. I dont know what your problem is bro but I dont deal with anyone else. Ever. read more

Another excellent purchasing and educational experience at Pat's Audio Art, just as with my previous dealings there. These positive experiences with the whole team - Pat, Frank and Arthur - keep me coming back. Great fair deal and relaxingly confident atmosphere, this time for upgrading my turntable. I also especially appreciated Pat's excellent professional advice on how to achieve optimal audio performance from the new turntable. Pat is a turntable and analog specialist, knowledge and skills that are becoming increasingly rare. In my experience, Pat's enduring after-sales support and expert advice, and his gracious willingness and patience to share it, was and is always Right On! This has always helped my audio equipment create better music! Thanks to Pat and his team. Absolutely recommended. read more

I can't believe Andy's "review" of the service. I'm white, and have never received anything but excellent service at Pat's Audio. Pat has been in the audio business forever, so has Frank. Arthur, I don't know. Yes, the service can seem laid back at first, while you look around, but when you're ready with questions or to listen, the service is above and beyond, even if you let them know you're just window shopping. Not only was the service at the store first class, but the after sales service (from Frank, in this case), was wonderful. The staff at Pat's are true audiophile enthusiasts, eager to assist anyone, at any price point in getting the best system for their needs. Price range is moderate to ultra high. read more

I have known Pat and Arthur for many years from another high end stereo shop. These guys are first class, and I doubt you can find anyone more knowledgeable about hi-fi music systems in the Vancouver area. They provide invaluable expertise, and can put together a music system for you to fit your budget, that will sound way better than anything you could buy at the big box stores, for less money than you would pay there. There is no pressure to buy, just a genuine desire to get the best for their customer. They have frequent demonstration of audio equipment days, where they will compare different brands of high end audio equipment against each other, and see what the audience prefers. read more

For the audiophiles still kicking around, this is a must visit shop. I bought a MC cartridge recently from Pat (which incidentally was priced under the big internet stores in the US) and had an issue with my system which I needed to resolve. I dropped down and Arthur and Pat spent a good 90 minutes with it, confirmed the cartridge was fine and the problem was elsewhere in my system. For their trouble I offered to make a couple of incidental purchases and Pat flat out refused to take my money. Great gear, great service, very competitive prices and as another reviewer remarked, very relaxed and laid back atmosphere. Just a really nice store. read more

A year or two back I contacted Pat's about a Rega RP40 because there was a nation wide sale on and I was concerned that the sale would end too quickly to take advantage of. They processed my order quickly. Mail orders did not seem to be part of their normal business then, however after a bit of conversation the package was in the mail promptly and they passed on a good tip about using Rega turntables. In regard to the "Chinese only review", I am obviously not of Chinese descent and they went out of their way for me. Wish I had more money to spend there. read more

I have to take issue with the unfortunate review of Andy J. His nasty remarks are not helpful and I suggest that Yelp should more closely monitor their site. I have always experienced friendly, helpful and knowledgeable service from all the people at Pat's Audio Art. They are very experienced and professional, with none of the assertive behaviour of other retailers. Their store should be visited by anyone seriously interested in home entertainment, especially in view of the current difficulties with the work on Burrard Street. read more

I have to take issue with Andy J's critique of Pat's Audio Art, I am not Asian and Pat has been nothing but kind and helpful with my quest for a higher plane of Audio Geekdom, he even let me bring my Dog in the store. His knowledge is breathtaking and he's always game to demo his equipment and discuss my needs and budget. I've purchased a DAC, various cables and some audio furniture from his Store and will continue to drop by and see what audio magic he has in stock. Cheers Jeff Ferguson read more

Hi have dealt with Pat Tang of Audio art since his beginnings in the 1970's. Pat has evolved from the Sound Box to the Sound Room and more to eventually owning his own store Pat's Audio Art. He and his staff have always given the highest level of service with unbiased and insightful recommendations for components. I have always been extremely satisfied and well treated. A wonderful place to shop. Highly recommended. Mark S. read more

I have had nothing but positive experiences while shopping at this store for vinyl cleaning and preservative solutions. I have found the staff to be very knowledgable and courteous at all times while never resorting to any high pressure tactics to make a a sale. The owner and staff are people who really enjoy this hobby and wish to further educate the general public from their overall experience. A great place to shop. read more

I have followed many of the staff from previous stores. They know audio well... And very odd for a business to do.. But they will integrate components that you may already have into their suggestions on improving sound. Not pushy commissioned sales staff... Just bring your music and share your thoughts. The other thing that they do... is actually listen to your wants and needs... AND respect your budget. Great store. read more