Soundstage Hi-Fi - FAQs
We answer your Hi-Fi questions:1. I’m new to hi-fi – where should I start?
If you’re upgrading from a Bluetooth or wireless speaker such as Sonos, start with an all-in-one system or a compact streaming amplifier with speakers. We can help you build a simple, great-sounding setup that fits your budget and space.
2. What’s the difference between an all-in-one player, an amplifier, and a streamer?
An all-in-one combines everything (streamer, amplifier, and DAC) into a single box - just add speakers.
An amplifier powers your speakers, while a streamer lets you play digital music from Spotify, Tidal, or your music library. Separates give you more flexibility and upgrade options. Read our blog post by Jason Kennedy on ‘How to optimise your Hi-Fi - a set-up tutorial’.
3. Do you offer complete systems for small rooms or apartments?
Yes! We offer carefully matched systems that sound amazing without taking over your space. These packages are perfect for city living and can be easily expanded later.
4. Can I listen to the equipment before I buy?
Absolutely. Book a demo with Dean in our dedicated listening room and hear the difference for yourself. He can advise on combinations and set up comparisons so you can find the sound you love.
5. Do you offer advice on system matching?
Yes – it’s one of our specialities. We’ll make sure your speakers, amp, and source work beautifully together for the best sound and performance in your room.
6. Do you sell pre-owned or ex-demo equipment?
We often have a rotating selection of Pre-owned and ex-demo gear, fully tested and guaranteed, at excellent prices. Check out our current pre-owned hi-fi here.
7. What brands do you stock?
We carry carefully chosen brands known for their performance and reliability – from Exposure, Linn, and Rega to ATC, Wilson Audio, Dan D’Agostino and more. Click here for all the brands we supply.
8. Do you offer installation or setup support?
Yes. We can deliver, install, and set up your system, including cabling, speaker placement, and network configuration for streamers.
9. What are your shipping options and delivery times?
We ship across the UK with tracked delivery, and most items arrive within 1–3 working days, with FREE DELIVERY to Mainland UK.
10. What is your returns, exchange, and warranty policy?
Most products come with a manufacturer's warranty, and we offer a 14-day return period if you change your mind (terms apply).
11. Do you provide servicing or upgrades for existing hi-fi gear?
Yes. We offer servicing for many popular brands and can recommend upgrades to get even better performance from your system.
12. How can I keep up with new releases, events, and offers?
Sign up for our newsletter or follow us on Instagram for updates on new hi-fi, special promotions, music & events.
13. How do I choose the right hi-fi system?
The right system depends on your room, the music you listen to, your budget and how you like to listen. We can help you choose and match the right components, then demonstrate the system in our North London listening room.
Read our blog post: How to choose the best hi-fi for your space by Jason Kennedy
14. How much should I spend on speakers?
There’s no set rule. Your budget, room and listening preferences all matter, as does the rest of your system. We can help you find the right speakers and get the best performance from your budget.
15. Can I audition hi-fi in London?
Yes. Our dedicated North London listening room allows you to listen to a wide range of high-end hi-fi, including loudspeakers, amplifiers, turntables, digital sources, and headphones. We recommend booking a listening session in advance.
16. Can you match an amplifier to my speakers?
Absolutely. We’ll consider your speakers, room, listening preferences and the rest of your system to find the right match. Where possible, Dean will demonstrate different combinations so you can hear the difference for yourself.
17. Can you set up a Linn LP12 Turntable?
Yes. We offer Linn LP12 servicing, setup and upgrades from our North London shop, carried out by Alan, our experienced LP12 specialist. We can also advise on which upgrades are likely to make the biggest difference.
18. What's the difference between an active and passive loudspeaker?
A passive speaker needs a separate amplifier, while an active speaker has built-in amplification. Active speakers offer excellent integration, while passive speakers give you more flexibility to choose your amplification. The best choice depends on your system and how you like to listen. For more in-depth insight, read our blog post: Active vs Passive - Which is right for you?
19. Do I need a separate DAC for my Hi-Fi?
Not necessarily. Many streamers, CD players and amplifiers have excellent built-in DACs. A separate DAC can offer greater flexibility and potentially improve performance, depending on the rest of your system.
20. Is vinyl better than streaming?
Both have their own qualities, and you can have the best of both! A good vinyl system can be incredibly engaging, while streaming offers convenience, huge choice, detail, high-resolution and incredible sound quality. Many of our customers enjoy both, depending on how they want to listen.