My wife was out of town so I took the opportunity to visit Shelly's Stereo in Woodland Hills, CA. I have not been there in a few years so this gave me the opportunity to hear some of the new speakers out there such as the new Magnepan 3.7 and the new Nola speakers and electronics such as McIntosh and Rogue Audio.

The owner Alon Moscovitch was there and this reminded me why this is such a great place to shop for audio gear and so much better than going to the chains. I have bought a number of items from Shelly's in the past including our family room home theater, however, today I was there just to browse. Alon still personally to care of me including answering all of my questions and making sure I got to hear the Magnepan 3.7's which were hooked up to all McIntosh gear. He put a record of Tchaikovsky on the McIntosh turntable and all of sudden it seemed like there was an orchestra in the room. I can now fully understand why the Magnepans 3.7 were getting all of the accolades. He also played the Nola boxer speakers connected to a Rogue Audio amplifier which also sounded great.

After listening I realized this is why it is still worth it to patronize the boutique brick and mortar high-end stores. Alon even gave me recommendations for my current set up at home.

For those on a budget, Alon pointed out they carry a number of inexpensive products such as the Magnepan MMG's (599/pr). These are set up and you can buy them right from their store so you don't have to take anyone's word (including mine) about how
great they are. You can go listen for yourself.

What a great day off.