I had a great experience with sound by Dave in Chico. Tyler is very professional an offer reasonable prices. I was getting quotes from other places to install a deck in my 2015 Jeep Wrangler and most shops quoted anywhere between 700 and $800 one place even said $1000. Sound by Dave. Not only did he saved me money, but the installation was done really well and everything works perfectly. I got a quality deck, and I am very satisfied. I would definitely recommend. If you're looking for quality car audio work at a fair price in Chico, I highly recommend sound by Dave. read more

Sounds by Dave - Nakamichi Deck - Car Stereo Installation Near Me - Chico, California

This shop knows all the knowledge with sound systems and is budget friendly. Will be coming here again for all audio needs

Dave needs to retire! He is an angry old man who seems to hate what he does! I've spent thousands of dollars in the past 6 years and I'll never go back. read more

Just looking in my files and this coming February I will have been buying from Dave for 30 year, and annoying them by looking at car CD players every Saturday for many years before I could ever afford one. He's survived the onslaught of the big box stores, Circuit City, down and he may outlast Best Buy. You can get gear anywhere but it's hard to find people who know anything about the component or the company that sells/builds or even further cares about the industry as a whole beyond making money. The reviews are pretty accurate, the building like 120 years old, watch your step! Dave isn't going to give you a participation trophy for coming in. If you know what you want and/or can explain your needs, they he's going to steer you in the right direction. If you have thin skin and can walk into Bestbuy without a sense of dread then you should probably shop there instead. read more

Friendly staff and killer vintage audio selection! Very helpful and always willing to discuss gear at length. For the novice or well-versed nerd. read more

If you have questions about sound equipment, DON'T GO HERE!!!!! I have a wonderful old record player that needed a new pre-amp, so I called Sounds By Dave to inquire about a replacement. The sales person I talked to was VERY rude. He was condescending and talked down to me. He acted like because I was a women, I didn't know what part I needed. Then he proceed to inform me of what HE did think I 'needed' which would be over $120 dollars. He was so unprofessional, that at one point in our conversation he said, "Yeah.....you can buy a new record player from us. Or you can buy from someone else.....if you want your records to sound like SHIT." After all this, I still ordered (the original requested) part from them. (although I don't know why) When the part finally came in, the owner called and left a very brief, rude and unfriendly message informing me the part was ready to be picked up. I was so disenchanted by the whole experience at this point, I called and told them I no longer needed the part. I ordered the pre-AMP I needed on line and my record player works beautifully again. IT SOUNDS GREAT TOO! I would NEVER call this store again and would NEVER send anyone into there store. HORRIBLE costumer service!! read more

I usually don't write negative reviews, but am making an exception here. I call and ask about subwoofer isolation pads and the lady I spoke with said they do and in particular, Auralex SubDude II's and the HT's. I said that I will need 2 of the SubDude II's and said they show online for around 55.00 each. She said that they have plenty and they will work with me on the price and that she will let a salesman know I'm on my way. I get there and a salesman cavalierly informs me they only have the larger more expensive HT's, sorry. What a joke and a waste of my time. The sad thing, I've bought many things from them, never again. read more

I'm really glad I got my car stereo from this shop a few years ago because the staff (Brian in particular) made sure to explain clearly what I needed, what would be best - and I've been totally happy with the stereo ever since. Recently I went in to update the speakers, and for no charge, the yanked out the stereo and got my newly replaced retractable antenna to go up and down again (on a 25-year-old project car). I was so happy I could have hugged them. Instead I'm writing a very happy Yelp review. You don't get that kind of personal care at a big-box store. I'm pretty sure they'll match the corporate price anyway, so think about stopping here first. There's a lot of very cool sound equipment to browse, high-end to low-end, new and used - and they'll let you park yourself in a huge easy chair and chill out in front of the finest TV while you wait. read more

I worked on some major projects with sounds by dave. I used them as a contractor because the other businesses would not give me an itemized quote. When someone will not give you and itemized quote they are ripping you off. Dave and his team got a very large project with a tight deadline done. We gave them 2 weeks to do a 4 week projects. Dave knows a lot and can come across as condescending but really he just knows a lot. The prices they have are good. Everyone wants to compare brick and mortar prices to online prices. Maybe the lower end stuff is different but when I ordered $35,000 worth of equipment the price I got was maybe 5% higher then I could get online. read more

They did such a good job on my jeep really good service and got the job done fast thanks a lot guys!

I walked in to Sounds by Dave today with a turntable and questions about replacing the cartridge and stylus. I had some reservations about going to Sounds by Dave after reading some of the previous reviews on yelp however I needed a professional opinion and believe in supporting local businesses. Dave and Cory gave me their full attention. Dave was honest about recommending an appropriate cartridge/stylus and installed it there on the spot. Both Dave and Cory were friendly and professional. I will continue to support this local business. read more

Save your time. Owner is an absolute jerk. I had no idea someone could be so rude for no reason. Went to ask questions about my turntable and when he wasn't cutting me off, he was talking to me like I was stupid. An awful visit all around and a waste of time and energy on a salty old man. read more

They know about what they're selling; and they go the extra mile to make sure everything's set up correctly.

My experiance with the owner has always been great. He know is stuff being in the business for over 35 years. Was willing to look at all my options and help me make a good fit for my home system that best fit my budget. Thats for all the help. Love the system! read more

I would like to thank Brian for helping me pick the perfect car stereo and back up camera. It sure helps hooking up my horse trailer. Bobby did such a professional job on the install. I love It all. Would never trust the "big box" store with my truck. Thanks Guys! read more

I bought Teac A-2500 tape deck from Dave through Ebay that he had refurbished. The machine is in like-new condition. I ran into some difficulties trying to upload the contents of a 60 year old reel to reel tape made on some unknown old tape machine that did not seem to play properly on the Teac he sold to me. Dave patiently spent time with me going through various possibilities, thinking through head alignments, how older machines worked, etc. Ultimately, he suggested a solution that worked. I am happy he is in business because one would be unlikely to ever get that kind of service from a big box store. read more

Sounds by Dave is the best! Dave installed our TV and sound system about 5 years ago. Love it! A couple of days ago I wanted to show a PowerPoint from my laptop on our TV screen. Michael, an excellent technician at Sounds by Dave, made it possible for me to push a button to transfer from laptop to TV screen, and he increased the resolution on the TV when I show my slides. I will definitely go to Sounds by Dave for my purchases of sound and vision products. read more

Great audio video store. I've purchased my first speakers from Dave over 10 years ago and the sounded amazing for my first surround system. I recently purchased my first home and had to update my surround. Dave recommended the Monitor Audio Bronze 5 for floor standing speakers with matching Center. We just set them up and they sound amazing!! Thank you Dave for the awesome speakers!!! I will definitely continue to shop eat Sounds by Dave. I need to upgrade my subwoofer, so I will coming in soon. read more

Came in here because my old stereo receiver went out and I had heard from Spin Again Records in Downtown that this was the place for stereo/record player equipment. I was going to see if they could possibly repair it but Dave gave me his honest opinion that I should just replace it. It was donezo...However he did not urge me to replace it with something new & super expensive but with one of the many used vintage receivers they have to select from at a much lower price. He broke down the quality difference and prices since I didn't have much knowledge on the subject and brands. When I found the one I liked he didn't hesitate to show me how to use it. I decided to throw a tape deck (also many to choose from) on to the bill and Dave again gave me the run down on it. Reassuringly before I left he told me if I got home got it connected and had problems with it that I should comeback and he'd help me sort it out. I really appreciated all the help and knowledge I got from the guy. I know for a fact that I never would have ever gotten this quality of service from an online or big-box store. I will be back to upgrade my record player soon. But for now the music I play now has never sounded better or louder. Thanks! read more

I just did business with Dave, and I'm glad I did, If all business worked with their customers like Dave does, this would be a great help to us all. Thanks Dave. read more

Ugh I've used Sounds by Dave for home and car audio purchases in the past and they've always been okay. Recently, my husband and I moved to a new house and needed our LCD TV remounted but SBD said they wouldn't do that service because we didn't buy our TV from them. I was willing to pay good money for their services!!! Way to scare off a long-time customer, Sounds by Dave. I called Galaxy Audio in town and they were SO kind and courteous and were able to come over that week. And for much less $$$. I'll be using Galaxy Audio for all my home theater purchases in the future... read more

The owner was rude to the point of surly. My daughter and I went to the store seeking advice on a car stereo install. When the owner asked if he could help us, I detailed the components we were working with and began to explain that we were open to purchasing another amplifier, and to buy a custom subwoofer box. The owner interrupted me and said: "The first problem is that I don't know why I should help you". Stunned, I replied that we were open to purchasing... and was again interrupted: "I know your type all too well, get out of my store". Never in my 51 years have I been treated so rudely. Even my daughter, home from college on spring break, was taken aback by this unwarranted and surly behavior. While I certainly understand Sound by Dave's desire to provide complete systems, and their disappointment that I had already purchased some of my components, sometimes customer service is what ultimately wins loyalty. I would have liked to use this store in the future for my home and mobile audio needs as they are conveniently located, and I would have like to purchase miscellaneous equipment from the store as required to support my installation. Instead, I sit here typing this negative evaluation, a first for me; and am left wondering about this business' integrety, and how they have remained in business. Perhaps it was a bad day for the owner; I certainly hope so. If not, it's probably time for this store to go. Cc: owner, Sounds by Dave read more

If you ever have a question about something call them and talk to Brian. Awesome guy, very knowledgeable. He'll give you a straight up answer to everything and if they can't do it they'll tell you where to go and how much it will cost. BEST read more

I had recently just gotten a used car and it came with a sub in the back already hooked up. The sub didn't work and I do not know the first thing when it comes to subs, amps, etc. Brian and staff were extremely helpful by getting me in their schedule and diagnosing and fixing the problem. Once everything was fixed Brian took the time to show me the correct settings on my radio to get the best sound. Over all great experience! read more

I went in to get my radio wires connected and they were fast and inexpensive. And the ten minutes I did wait, was relaxing in the a/c watching television on a big screen! I appreciate the good old customer service Sounds by Dave has to offer. Thank You! Keep up the good work. read more

Just picked up 2nd vehicle install from Sounds by Dave, and once again a top notch job. Dealt with Brian both times and he was awesome to work with. Nice clean install, and relatively fast considering the complexities of the install. I wouldn't go anywhere else. read more

We are having a system installed this morning at 10:00 am, we were treated with respect and Brian is extremely well versed when it comes to car audio.. We found installs and components cheaper elsewhere - but we will stick with a company that knows what they are doing and will stand behind what they sell.. JG I hopre whereever you went with your buisness that the install held up.. Sounds By Dave is # 1 in my book.. read more

This review relates not to any purchase. In the few times I've been inside there it's w/a relative there on business. This is relational to customer service and customer safety. Back in the late 90s I was in there one day and w/a relative. I went to go watch TV to while away time and when I went inside this lounge area where there were TVS when I stepped inside the floor wasn't level w the floor and all but fell but wasn't hurt. I go and sit while other is on personal business. Later while waiting this woman walks in to look at tv sets and she like me didn't see lower level and fell to the floor. I jumped up, offering my assistance and she assures me she is well but she's the floor is not level at entrance and complains (I hope she did on way out!, I wish I had)there should at lease be a caution sign psted at glass sliding door! (Stop and reflect:what is that had been a pregnant woman or a senior citizen entering). After we left there I was informed by that relative he overheard the person at desk (I don't know if it was the owner)say to his salesperson about me "What's that guy in there watching television!!??"that same sales person asked me earlier if I needed help and told him I was waiting on relative and he was more than fine w/that. The owner or whoever in charge should've thought to ask " has he been helped?" Or go to me to ask if I needed help. Granted. Maybe he was having a bad day or worried about a loved one not well but that doesn't justify his attitude. Heaven Forbid, if that woman had been injured that morning that could've been a liability for SBD. Be cautious in entering that tv room or lounge, if it's still there. I've never returned and if I were to go to a car stereo place I'd choose another place to go. read more

I have had a buzzing sound, in Zone 2, of my Denon Stereo System since its installation, in 2007. NObody...and I mean NOBODY could figure out the problem. I have had SO many sound guys, electricians, etc. look over the system, and they all had their hypothesis, regarding the problem. They all charged me, they all added a small device, at a charge, and after they left...the buzz came back. For almost seven years...I've had to deal with this buzz...frankly, it sucked! I called Dave and told him I would need to buy a new receiver, as I was told that Zone 2 was fried, in my Denon, by the last guy that came out. Instead of selling me a whole new system, which is what I told him I wanted to do, he suggested he come and take a look at my system, and he might have a $30 part, to rectify the situation. When Dave arrived, he started working on all aspects of the system. It's pretty sophisticated, with a hub station in one room. 6 Zone boxes, sporadically placed around the home, outside speakers, hooked up to the computer, to the TV, etc. He FOUND the problem. It was an interaction between the cable box and the audio system. The Seven Year Itch, I mean Buzz, was gone! Thank you Sounds by Dave. Appreciate your willingness to tackle this challenge...NOBODY ELSE COULD FIGURE IT OUT! -Danny Salas read more

Quite recently I needed help overhauling the stereo system in an old pick up truck. I wanted something that sounded sweet, but to not cost a lot because it was to be installed in an old truck for gosh sakes! Brian at Sounds by Dave really helped me in all phases on my project....helping me save hundreds of dollars in the process, and coming out with a top notch sound system. The deck and speakers I purchased were of the highest quality and cost me $250 in total...where the amazing value was Brian, who helped me in every phase of the installation....helping me save time and money. So in the end I used an old pair of speakers an amp and subwoofer as well and his technical expertise helped that process go smooth as silk. He helped test my equipment for quality and made sure that I had every last part that I needed. It's clear that they want you to have the best possible audio experience, and that is their highest priority at sounds by dave. I know that I saved money and loads of time going here instead of other options. Really, really happy with my decision to shop here! read more

I called Sounds by Dave to see if they had a dash kit for a stereo I was going to install. At the time I left the message, Brian said he would check his inventory and call me back to let me know either way. After about 20 minutes, he called me back to let me know that it was in stock. When I went to pick up the item, everyone in the business was very courteous as I waited for Brian to finish with another customer. He was very knowledgeable and extremely helpful with the process of install and the parts that I would need to make the radio work. Overall I was pleased with the staff's knowledge, sincerity and interest in my concern, not just a sale. read more

Although they do have great product knowledge, they have horrible customer service. I expect, as a customer, to be treated with respect. The way Brian talked to me was absolutely unacceptable. I would have assumed that for being in the industry for so long, he would understand how to treat potential customers. As a result of this unprofessional behavior I, and the person who accompanied me choose to take our business else ware. This type of behavior will send a business spiraling downward, and fast. Best of luck with that. read more

I had been to sounds by dave before, to ask some questions about getting my stock Bose stereo system in my car upgraded a little, and I wasn't pleased. But I decided to go back today and give them another shot to assist me in putting some small upgrades in my truck. Brian was the most helpful, extremely knowlegeable and genuinly nice guy I have talked to out of all the stereo hounds out there. I Explained that I already had a very small amp that I had from a previous car, and would like a small sub jut to give me some bass. I told him my price range and asked him what I would need and what would work with what I had. He gave me several options letting me hear them all and Did not try to up-sell me on items or power I did not want. He also did not push their installation and said even if something happened I still get a 1 year warranty even if I have a friend install it. I think as long as I deal with Brian I will continue to go to sounds by Dave read more

These guys know their stuff! I was impressed that I could get my new car stereo installed right away. They did not try to sell me things I did not need. I love the alpine stereo and microphone so I can send and receive hands free phone calls. They gave me advice on a surround sound for my 4K ultra TV. I will be back for that service in the near future. I love the customer service! read more

I think Sounds By Dave is awesome. I was looking to purchase some car audio equipment, I went to Sounds By Dave, and started working with Brian. He is truly a car audio expert. He helped me get the perfect sound I was looking for. I have also worked with Dave on the home audio side. I found him helpful, and he answered all my questions. Dave also checked my turntable setup, while I waited, which was a big convenience. Having someone local who knows how to repair turntables is a big plus. I also like all the vintage equipment they have in the store. There is some really cool stuff in there. read more

Nobody within a radius of 150 miles of chico has anywhere near the knowledge or ability of these guys, Brian is unquestionably THE master of car audio BUT remember they are there to sell goods and services .. Not baby sit Whiney college students or spend hours trying to solve a ridiculous problem with your ancient Kmart "record-player" or cassette player , grow up and get a life complainers !!! Time to be an adult !!! read more

Hands down, the worst customer service experience I have had in a long time. I have a receiver that needs minor repairs. I was told that I got what I deserved for buying it online. This one phone call has cemented my never purchasing anything from your store. I will also be sure to tell anyone who will listen about what a negative experience I had. I am taking my receiver to the Rock Doc, by the way. He's great. He should be your first call for any musical equipment repair. read more

Such a disappointment that we can't support a local business owner because he's a jerk. We've tried several times to work with Sounds by Dave, but the owner is impossible to deal with. Besides being rude, he stated that he doesn't have the interest, time or resources to service anything that wasn't purchased from him. So unless you've put up with him to buy something there, you won't get any service on your current equipment. The idea of giving him thousands of dollars to replace all of our 2 year equipment just so we can still get treated poorly is ridiculous. After our treatment there over several years, we're done with SBD. He's rude on phone calls, he's been totally dismissive when I've been in the store (I went it to buy a smart part and he literally told me he had no one to help me and to come back later.) they haven't shown up for appointments (when he was still interested in servicing the equipment I bought elsewhere). I don't recommend this place to anyone. He needs a 180 degree attitude adjustment and a class in customer service. read more