Where can I find high-end stereo equipment in NYC?

If you are looking for a high end audio store in NYC, visiting a dedicated audio showroom like In Living Stereo in NoHo allows you to audition premium systems before purchasing. Unlike big-box stereo stores, we offer carefully selected amplifiers, speakers, and turntables designed for a true audio enthusiast experience.

How do I choose the right high-end stereo system for my home?

Choosing the right stereo system depends on factors such as room size, listening preferences, and music genres. An experienced audio specialist can help recommend components that match your listening space and ensure that speakers, amplifiers, and sources work well together.

What makes high-end stereo equipment different from regular audio systems?

High-end stereo equipment is designed to reproduce music with greater accuracy, detail, and dynamic range than standard consumer audio systems. Premium components such as high-performance amplifiers, reference-grade speakers, and turntables are engineered to deliver a more realistic and immersive listening experience.

Where is In Living Stereo located and what are your store hours?

In Living Stereo is located at 2 Great Jones Street, New York, NY 10012, in the heart of NoHo. We are open Wednesday through Friday from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and Saturday through Sunday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Weekend hours are completely by appointment to ensure dedicated listening session time.

How do I book a high-end audio listening session or appointment?

You can request a private listening audition or equipment consultation by emailing us directly at inlivingstereo1968@gmail.com or calling the showroom at 212-979-1273. We personalize setups for your target systems prior to your arrival.

Does In Living Stereo act as a dedicated headphone store in NYC?

Yes. Beyond full-sized home systems, we serve as a premier headphone store in NYC for enthusiasts, offering high-performance personal audio gear for critical listening.

Benz Micro

Swiss Precision and Musicality

The Benz Micro Philosophy: Mastering the Moving Coil Signal

For decades, Benz Micro has been renowned for hand-crafting some of the world’s finest Moving Coil (MC) cartridges in Switzerland. Indeed, their meticulous process involves winding coils by hand and assembling each unit under intense magnification. The Benz Micro sonic signature earns praise for its organic warmth, rich tonal texture, and exceptional musical flow. Furthermore, these qualities appeal strongly to both tube amplifier and solid-state enthusiasts.

Benz Micro MC Cartridges

The Gullwing is a hybrid design that features a non-resonant brass frame, a streamlined open-air design, and a high-power neodymium magnet. In addition, the cartridge offers airy detail and transparency without sacrificing the characteristic Benz Micro tonal warmth. Consequently, it provides an ideal balance of musicality and resolution.

The flagship Benz Micro LPS (Low-Output Pure Silver) is considered the ultimate expression of the Benz Micro sound. It features a massive brass frame for superior coupling to the tonearm, an aged ebony wood body for dampening, and a low-mass ruby plate generator. Therefore, audio enthusiasts particularly regard the LPS for its deep, controlled low-frequency performance and vast dynamic contrast.

How to Choose the Right Benz Micro Cartridge

Choosing a Benz Micro cartridge involves more than comparing models. The right option depends on your turntable, tonearm, phono stage, and listening preferences. The Gullwing and LPS offer different designs, so consider your system’s requirements before choosing.

The Benz Micro Gullwing features a brass frame and open-air design, while the Benz Micro LPS uses a brass frame, aged ebony body, and ruby plate generator. Both are moving-coil cartridges, but their construction and specifications should be considered when matching them with your equipment.

Before selecting a cartridge, consider:

Output voltage: Make sure the cartridge’s output is suitable for your phono stage or step-up transformer.
Phono-stage loading and gain: Check the recommended loading and gain requirements for the exact cartridge version.
Tonearm compatibility: Consider cartridge weight and compliance alongside your tonearm’s effective mass.
Cartridge setup: Confirm the recommended tracking force and alignment requirements.
System matching: Consider your existing turntable, phono stage, and amplification as a complete system.

If you are unsure which Benz Micro model is suitable, our team can help you evaluate your current setup and compare the available options.

Matching a Benz Micro Cartridge with Your Tonearm and Phono Stage

A moving-coil cartridge needs to work within the electrical and mechanical requirements of your turntable system. With Benz Micro, output voltage, phono-stage gain, loading, cartridge weight, and tonearm compatibility are important considerations.

Many Benz Micro cartridges are available in different output versions. These versions can require different phono-stage settings, so do not assume that one loading or gain setting applies to every model. Check the specifications for the exact cartridge before installation.

Your tonearm also plays an important role. Cartridge weight and compliance should be considered alongside the tonearm’s effective mass to help determine whether the combination is suitable. Proper installation and alignment are essential to getting the cartridge working as intended.

Explore our turntables and phono cartridges to discover more options for your analog system.

Testimonials

What Our Customers Say

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Alex U. 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The best stereo dealer in NYC, especially if you’re looking for analog equipment. Steve M. is down to earth and very easy to talk to. He is an industry veteran who really knows his stuff and is full of great advice and options no matter what your budget is.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   J-ray 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I first went to In Living Stereo in 2010 or so with a modest budget and walked away with a used Rega P5, new cartridge and a phone stage. Later I got Prima Luna integrated amp then Dynaudio Focus 350 floor standing speakers. Eventually, as time has gone by, I upgraded to a Leben 600x, Leben phonostage and Devore Super Nines.

As I built up my system bit by bit, Steve Mishoe and Steve Cohen have guided me to a place where I am truly satisfied. I can't thank them enough!

They have great taste and can work with any budget. I trust them implicitly and am thankful that a place like this is here in New York City.

Highly recommended!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Larry Ginsberg 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have been a faithful customer of In Living Stereo for over the last ten years and believe it is a must-visit even if you are not a hardcore audiophile.

First, hands down, the store has the best audio equipment in terms of sound realism, price, durability, and aesthetics. (Note that they don't carry video equipment.)

Second, the store is owned and operated personally by Steve M., whose knowledge and attention to detail are unmatched. Steve gives you personal attention, helping you select the best equipment in your price range that meshes and achieves the best collective sound possible. Importantly, Steve doesn't skimp on the details and matches, for example, speaker wires, interconnects, and sound conditioners to complement cartridges to turn tables.

Finally, Steve is an extremely nice and honest individual, singularly focused on making sure you're happy with your purchases for years to come.

As an added bonus, he listens to all types of music -- and is happy to audition the equipment with any music you bring.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   andrew lux 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My old amplifier shorted out and stopped working. Every amplifier I had since I was a kid was either a worn hand-me-down, or thrift store finds. I finally have enough money to invest in something nicer. I stoped by In Living Stereo, and Steve showed me a bunch of different options for an amplifier. He was was super helpful with all my questions.

I've never had a good Amplifier despite collecting records for over 20 years. I looked at getting a refurbished vintage amp, but found that most prices were the same as a new one. With Steve's help, I picked up the Rega Brio, and my records have never sounded so good. Even music streaming sounds so much better.

I highly recommend stopping by and talking stereo equipment. You never know just how good your collection can sound.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Andrew Ludke 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. It's audio nirvana at In-Living Stereo.   You won't find a more knowledgable and passionate group to explore the sonic possibilities.  I am blown away everytime I stop in to listen.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Tanner Mahoney 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I walked into In Living Stereo as a beginner audiophile and was greeted by Steve who walked me through various speaker brands and educated me on buying high quality speakers. The store is amazing, a well curated selection and really cool listening rooms. He let me listen to a bunch of the high end speakers on the floor. He ended up giving me a great deal on a floor version of Dynaudio speakers, which are my first pair of high fidelity speakers. Steve was super helpful and FaceTimed me to help me set up the speakers at home. Highly recommend!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Peter McCormick 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I purchased two great sounding systems - and learned a ton about hi-fi - from Steve over the years.  It is a joy to listen to records on world class equipment at the In Living Stereo showroom.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Tom 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was looking for a turntable and a pair of speakers. Steve set up a couple of systems for me to listen to and I was able to compare them (Spendor and Devore speakers). He was knowledgeable and patient.

I also a got chance to listen to the G.I.P. horn speakers. It was like the musicians were in the room with me, they were truly amazing. Too bad G.I.P. is way outside of my price range.  I had a great experience.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   A D 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Steve was very helpful in teaching me about stereos and what to look for in audio equipment.

I didn't have a huge budget but it sounded great, even better than I expected!

He showed me the Rega Planar 3 turntable and the Dynaudio bookshelf speakers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Benz Micro Cartridges in NYC

Benz Micro cartridges are known for their handcrafted design and high-performance moving coil technology. The following questions address key considerations when choosing and integrating a Benz Micro cartridge into a high-end analog system.

What makes Benz Micro cartridges different from other brands?

Benz Micro cartridges are handcrafted in Switzerland using precision components and proprietary moving coil designs. Their focus on craftsmanship and detailed tuning allows them to deliver a natural, balanced, and highly musical sound.

Are Benz Micro cartridges suitable for high-end turntable systems?

Yes. Benz Micro cartridges are widely used in high-fidelity systems due to their detailed sound and compatibility with a wide range of tonearms and phono stages. Their multiple output options make them flexible for different setups.

Do Benz Micro cartridges require a specific phono stage?

Many Benz Micro cartridges are low-output moving coil designs, which typically require a dedicated MC phono stage or step-up transformer. However, some models are available in higher output versions for compatibility with standard MM inputs.

What is the difference between a low-output and high-output Benz Micro cartridge?

The main difference is the electrical output level, which affects the phono-stage gain and input requirements. A low-output MC cartridge generally needs more gain or a suitable step-up transformer, while a high-output version may work with a wider range of phono-stage inputs. Always check the specifications for the exact model.

Does a Benz Micro cartridge need a step-up transformer?

Not necessarily. The need for a step-up transformer depends on the cartridge’s output and the capabilities of your phono stage. Some systems can accommodate a low-output MC cartridge directly, while others may require a transformer to provide additional gain.

How do I know if a Benz Micro cartridge is compatible with my tonearm?

Check the cartridge’s weight and compliance alongside the tonearm’s effective mass. Also confirm that your tonearm’s counterweight and adjustment range can accommodate the cartridge. A dealer or qualified technician can help assess the combination.

Can I upgrade from another moving-coil cartridge to a Benz Micro?

Often, but the new cartridge should be checked against your existing tonearm and phono stage. Differences in output, weight, compliance, and recommended loading may require setup changes or different phono-stage settings.

Get Started

Experience Benz Micro in Our NoHo Showroom

Choosing a high-end MC cartridge like those from Benz Micro requires precise matching of impedance, gain, and effective tonearm mass. Our experts provide detailed consultation to ensure your phono stage and tonearm achieve optimal synergy with the Gullwing or LPS, revealing their full potential.

Not sure whether the Benz Micro Gullwing or LPS is right for your turntable system? Contact In Living Stereo with your turntable, tonearm, and phono-stage models. Our team can help you review compatibility, compare cartridge options, and consider the setup requirements for your analog system.

Benz Micro

Swiss Precision and Musicality

The Benz Micro Philosophy: Mastering the Moving Coil Signal

Benz Micro MC Cartridges

Benz Micro Gullwing

Benz Micro LPS

Matching a Benz Micro Cartridge with Your Tonearm and Phono Stage

What Our Customers Say

Experience Benz Micro in Our NoHo Showroom

Store Hours

Newsletter

Follow Us On:

Contact Us