Turntables & Trails — Local services in Seattle

The good

They have a nice selection of well priced CDs, where you can find a cool jewel here and there. They also have some video games (mostly NES), DVDs, vinyl and Blu Rays that are somewhat reasonably priced as well thought look a little neglected. The focus of the shop seems to be hifi equipment, like used record players, speakers and cd players, which I think is very cool to have locally (we need more of these!). They owner seems knowledgeable of what he has and how it works, so overall the shop has all the elements that I would want to become a regular.

The not so good

As I entered the store with my daughter, we were greeted by the owner in a very friendly laid-back manner. However, as soon as he heard my accent, Mr. nice guy banished, and we were met with dead silence, awkwardness and tense one-word responses. A drastic and very noticeable change contrasting on how other customers were treated. For reference, there were only about other two people at the store, so not crowded at all or stressful. We put a few items over the counter that we wanted to purchase, and the owner asked several times if were sure, because "it amounted to $50 already", in a very noticeable tense and unpleasant demeanor (Why would one do that? What's the angle or possible benefit? Who's this helping? so many questions...). We still made our purchase and left with a sweet-sour taste.

I strongly believe 1st impressions can be easily mis constructed and I love supporting local businesses so we decided to come back and check if there were any new games or CDs my daughter and I would enjoy, or maybe something we missed last time. Let's try this again! Sadly, our experience was just as unpleasant as the first time, (you know when in western movies a foreign enters the bar and it all goes quiet?) so, we did not buy anything this once and I don't think we will be coming back anytime soon.

I read another review who seemed to have had a similar experience, so I guess this...

Going to Turntables and Trails was one of the best decisions I’ve made in awhile. A couple of people had recommended that I go there when I was ready to get a record player. When I walked in, I had only a vague idea of what I wanted. Dave went through the decision with me thoroughly and patiently, demonstrating several sets of speakers to make sure that I liked what I heard before I made the purchase. When I left, I felt very comfortable about the choices I had made and extremely excited to go home and set everything up.

Everything sounded great, except there was a slight, repeating soft pop that was only audible when no music was playing. When I called, they encouraged me to bring back the used receiver I had bought. Of course, there was no pop when they plugged it in at the store. But Spencer was so great about swapping it out for something else—a slightly more expensive receiver, and he didn’t even charge me the difference! When I brought it home, the issue was resolved. It is so rare anymore to get this level of customer service—they were so patient and kind throughout. As a little bonus, they have a dog that hangs out at the store who is as nice as can be.

Now I have an amazing sounding new setup. I feel better than ever about the guidance I was given, and so happy with the results every time I give a listen. Big thanks to Dave and Spencer! I couldn’t recommend this store more highly. Do yourself a favor and pay...

Without a doubt the best place to go to get a set up or upgrade your equipment. The owner Spencer spent three hours working personally with me to swap out different equipment to hear the differences in speakers, cartridges, etc.

They have something at every price point, so you can make a set up for $150 or $1,500. The staff is warm, accommodating, knowledgeable, and reasonable.

They buy gear/take trade ins of old stuff you may have. They have a decent vinyl collection. I found the vinyl prices to be a little higher than I would have liked but vinyl is pricey almost everywhere now. The speakers, receivers, turntables, and everything else was great value.

I’ve seen some other reviews of people having negative experiences. I couldn’t have had a more different experience. I’ve sent friends there to get their gear and everyone has loved their time in the store. My brother referred me to the store and I’m so glad he did.

I plan on returning to add some more speakers to complete a surround...