Simply Stereo — Local services in Palatine Township

I usually don't do online reviews but I think Simply Stereo deserves one. A few months back I decided to ditch my soundbar and get a full 5.1 stereo setup with a sub I have. I met Dave and explained the content I listen to, my limited technical knowledge of audio systems and my price range. In an hour Dave suggested some great quality for the money Paradigm speakers and a Yamaha Receiver that could handle it all. He never tried to upsell me but was genuine and you could tell he is an audiophile. He actually cares for the customer. He then auditioned the speakers for me. About a week later after ordering the system (they carry a lot but not everything) Simply Stereo opened the items and verified that they were no surprises when I got home with them. I was given some advice on settings to use and asked to call if anything were to happen.

About 2-3 months later my receiver kept on shutting off at a certain audio threshold. I had suspected a speaker wasn't working correctly and emailed Simply Stereo. The following day, Dave emailed me with his number to call him to troubleshoot the issue. The issue was the right-angle banana plugs I installed are probably not completely insulated. So I made sure they were not touching in the back of the receiver and the problem was resolved within the hour.

Sure you can go on Amazon but this is an important and costly decision. Simply Stereo understands your needs unlike say Best Buy. Also you won't have the support from Simply Stereo if you go somewhere else, you get the speakers quickly and undamaged and you can be assured they...

It's unfortunate stores like these are going out of business to the big box stores where the employees don't know the difference between HDMI and component, but I digress.

I bought a ton of speaker equipment from Simply Stereo and they worked with me for about a month while I tried different speakers, amps, pre pros etc. They let me try things out at home and if I liked them great I'd pay for it, or if not try something else. What big box offers that?!

I ended up purchasing all paradigm/Anthem products for my HT:

3 x Paradigm Reference 100s v5's for LCR 2 x Paradigm Reference ADP-590 v5 for Surrounds 1 x Paradigm Reference 10's v5 for Rears 1 x Anthem AVM50v Pre Pro 1 x Anthem MCA50 Power Amp for surrounds and rears 1 x Anthem MCA30 Power Amp for LCR

I hope they stay in business - great service, prices and very...

Outstanding and highly recommended! There is nothing like experiencing in-person, the sound of quality audio from the experienced staff here.

I had an excellent experience with Ken, who is straightforward, honest, and very knowledgeable. I originally ended up with an outstanding pair of speakers that substantially exceeded my expectations, and now I have 2 pair. This store, Ken, and the owner (Rod), and Dave have a ton of experience and really help the customer to get what he or she needs without any of the used-car salesman feel. A rare instance of old fashioned excellent service and knowledge (and I am young)...

I have bought two pairs of speakers and a subwoofer, and I am very happy with my purchases and their straightforward...