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March 2024 by Eric S.
10/10 experience. Available to ask questions. Had refurbished products available at healthy discounts. Came to ask questions, left with some hardware. A joy of an experience.
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February 2024 by Phoebe G.
First, even if they sucked, you need this business, which is why you're on their yelp, right? And who else in the world dare try to sell not just high end audio but also used? That's some D&D, Tolkien, Magician dedicated shit. These people are so real. So you pass through the door, and while the setup is modest compared to other "we only sell audio" shops nowadays (referencing my experience in San Francisco... looking at you Music Lovers) these guys are keeping it accessible. As a business owner myself, and now a customer, I am impressed by: (1) This business's total dedication to getting people great music. New? Used? Budget? Doesn't fucking matter. Vinyl? Tape? Digital? All solutions available. But let's be clear people (I'm speaking to you reader) you do NOT have the set up you need, and when you start interacting with these folks, you are gonna unlock a part of your human sensitivities you haven't felt before. You're gonna know where that money is going. Stereo not fucking obsolete with bluetooth and Spotify. We are humans and we have sensory receptors you will rediscover, and be inspired by. (2) You can actually purchase used equipment with their imprimatur. I have a hard time (personally) with the amount of great equipment (and the fleeting interest of consumers) going to the dump, only for me to purchase some new crap that doesn't even do it as well, for the same price, etc. Blah blah the fate of the human race... I am sure, very sure there is little or negative funds for Hawthorne to deal in used equipment but their willingness to do so underlines their commitment to the trade. These people are true professionals. [Rant over] Highly recommend. At the very least, worth a drive or a ferry ride to visit. Will be back when it's time to upgrade the amazing, used, Advent speakers I'm enjoying right now as I write this review. Thank you Hawthorne for being an outstanding example of a small business.
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January 2024 by Danny Quaranta
Very friendly, knowledgable staff give the the customer respect no matter their price range/prior knowledge.I recently broke my cartridge on my turntable and I'm kinda happy about it because it means I have an excuse to go back to Hawthorne and talk to the staff
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January 2024 by Trevor Gilmore
I feel lucky to have Hawthorne Stereo as a resource in Seattle. I know enough to be dangerous with vinyl but get lost in the online reviews. I went in, explained what level of audiophile I am, what my rough budget was, and I was in great hands. Not only did they set up my new turntable with me, they even helped me load everything into the car! 100x better than trying to do this all online by yourself. Highly recommend!
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December 2023 by Daniel Spencer
Incredibly helpful staff that worked with us to build a great turntable sound system on a relatively modest budget. Personal and patient, we learned a lot and had a great experience shopping here. We’ll definitely be back when it’s time to upgrade!
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December 2023 by Terry G
Have only had great, honest experiences with Hawthorne. Been going there for probably 15 years. Great new and used equipment as well as advice and repair services.
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December 2023 by Mark Salum
One of my favorite hifi stores in the PNW. Great selection of new and used products. Excellent prices. Superior customer service. Each time I come here - whether I spend a little, a lot, or nothing at all, I’m treated like I’m their favorite customer. In fact, they treat everyone who walks in the door like their favorite customer! This place is everything a hifi store should be. The store is always organized and clean. Everyone here works hard and is always going the extra mile. Can’t say enough good things about Hawthorne Stereo!
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December 2023 by Ken H.
Bought a used Sony carousel CD player from Hawthorne Stereo. It arrived quickly and works perfectly, just as expected. Thank you, Hawthorne.
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August 2023 by Xenia Lyne
I had an okay experience here. As someone who is new to turntables and records, I felt pretty uncomfortable with how the staff interacted with me. I came in knowing I wanted a beginner turntable, but unsure about speakers. I was hoping to be guided and educated more, but was left in a room to listen to a record (which was fine and I’m glad I could do that) but I had to find the employee “helping me” 3 times. I was one of only customer in the store at the time. It’s almost like they didn’t really care that I was even there.They have lots of great options and I felt good about my purchase but I was disappointed with the sales experience. If someone is coming into something interested, excited, and ultimately spending money at your business — why not provide them with a good low ego experience? We aren’t all experts and that’s okay.
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August 2023 by Ethan W.
Coming from someone with no audio equipment knowledge. They set me up with some High quality stuff at a good price, great service, and followed up on phone when I had questions. Really nice guys
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July 2023 by Nikolas Toenyan
I have bought new and used gear at Hawthorne over a decade.Excellent customer service.Trade in trade up.Support local!
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July 2023 by Stuart Aller
This is one of, if not the best, places to shop for home audio. With a great staff and many brands to "surprise," actually listen to!Have fun.
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July 2023 by Janet Summerfelt
Gary is fantastic! I brought in a 45 year old turntable that is of great sentimental value. Gary worked for months to find and order replacement parts and essentially rebuilt my old Pioneer PL-510A until it worked like new. He was patient in answering questions and went above-and-beyond to complete this job for me. Thank you, Gary! I will recommend Hawthorne Stereo to all of my friends.
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June 2023 by Eric Thompson
A friend recommended Hawthorne because of the quality of product and customer service. I was looking for a turntable as gift for a friend and had done some online research. I had an idea of what I wanted, so I went in to the store and was helped by Sotirios. I told him that John put a turn table on hold that I wanted, but also let him know I wanted his input. I explained that I was looking for a turntable for a gift and talked about the pros and cons of both turntables and I ended up buying a turntable that was less expensive and fit my needs better than the one I thought I wanted. I will definitely be returning to Hawthorne for other stereo needs.
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April 2023 by David Bartle
Not many stores like this left - a classic example of a great stereo store. Lots of very cool (and relevant) vintage equipment as well as latest technology in active speakers. Staff is very helpful, knowledgeable and professional. Very pleasant shopping experience. Highly recommend!
