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.

Wharfedale

British Heritage Sound and Music Lover Value

The Wharfedale Philosophy: Accessible High-Fidelity Since 1932

Wharfedale is one of the oldest and most revered names in British audio, with a legacy stretching back to 1932. Their philosophy has always been to make true high-fidelity loudspeakers accessible to a wider audience. They achieve this by combining classic design principles with innovative, proprietary driver technology. Their modern designs retain a sound signature known for its natural tone, robust bass, and engaging musical presentation.

Wharfedale Loudspeakers

The Diamond 225 is a highly acclaimed bookshelf loudspeaker from Wharfedale’s famous Diamond series. It features a unique slotted bass port (known as the “Slot-Loaded Distributed Port”) which dramatically reduces distortion and standing waves, allowing the speaker to be placed closer to walls while delivering a clean, powerful, and deeply extended bass response. The Diamond 225 offers outstanding high-fidelity performance for its size and price.

Specification	Details
Speaker type	2-way bookshelf loudspeaker
Enclosure	Bass reflex
Bass driver	165mm woven Kevlar cone
Treble driver	25mm soft dome
Sensitivity	87dB (2.83V/1m)
Nominal impedance	8 ohms compatible
Minimum impedance	4.2 ohms
Recommended amplifier power	25–120W
Frequency response	45Hz–20kHz (±3dB)
Bass extension	40Hz (−6dB)
Dimensions (H × W × D)	355 × 196 × 262mm, plus 28mm for terminals
Weight	6.5kg per speaker

Is the Wharfedale Diamond 225 Right for Your System?

The Wharfedale Diamond 225 is a two-way bookshelf loudspeaker designed for stereo and home audio systems. Its 165mm woven Kevlar bass driver, soft-dome tweeter, and rear bass-reflex enclosure make it an option worth considering for listeners looking for a compact passive speaker.

When deciding whether it suits your system, consider:

Room and placement: Allow enough space for positioning and follow the manufacturer's placement recommendations.
Amplifier compatibility: The Diamond 225 has a recommended amplifier power range of 25–120W. Also consider the amplifier's ability to handle the speaker's minimum impedance
Speaker stands: Consider suitable stands to position the speakers at the appropriate listening height.
System requirements: Think about your source components, amplifier, and listening preferences when planning your setup.

Explore our loudspeaker collection to compare other speaker designs.

Pairing Wharfedale Diamond 225 with Amplification

The Diamond 225 is rated at 87dB sensitivity and has an 8-ohm nominal impedance, with a 4.2-ohm minimum. When selecting an amplifier, consider these specifications alongside your room size and preferred listening level.

In Living Stereo can help you evaluate the Diamond 225 as part of a complete stereo system. Explore our amplification collection to learn more about available options.

Testimonials

What Our Customers Say

    
 
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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!
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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!
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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 Wharfedale Loudspeakers

Wharfedale loudspeakers have a long history in high-fidelity audio and are known for their balanced sound and accessible design. The following questions address common considerations when choosing Wharfedale speakers for a stereo system.

What makes Wharfedale loudspeakers unique?

Wharfedale speakers are known for combining decades of British audio engineering with modern design and materials. Their focus on balanced sound and low listening fatigue makes them a popular choice for both casual listeners and audio enthusiasts.

Are Wharfedale speakers suitable for high-end stereo systems?

Yes. While Wharfedale offers entry-level models, many of their speakers are also used in high-fidelity systems due to their natural tonal balance and reliable performance. Their range allows users to build systems at different performance levels.

Do Wharfedale loudspeakers require specific amplifier matching?

Wharfedale speakers are generally designed to work with a wide range of amplifiers. However, pairing them with suitable amplification and placing them correctly within a room can significantly improve sound quality and overall system performance.

What amplifier power does the Wharfedale Diamond 225 need?

Wharfedale recommends amplifier power between 25 and 120 watts for the Diamond 225. Actual requirements depend on listening distance, room size, and preferred volume.

Can the Wharfedale Diamond 225 be placed near a wall?

The Diamond 225 uses Wharfedale's Slot-Loaded Distributed Port design. The manufacturer describes this design as helping with placement closer to walls, but actual placement should still be evaluated in your room.

Does the Wharfedale Diamond 225 need a subwoofer?

A subwoofer is not automatically required. The Diamond 225 has a stated frequency response of 45Hz–20kHz (±3dB), with bass extension to 40Hz (−6dB). Whether you need additional bass depends on your room, listening preferences, and system requirements.

Can I listen to Wharfedale speakers in NYC?

Contact In Living Stereo to ask about current Wharfedale availability and listening opportunities at our NoHo, Manhattan showroom.

Get Started

Experience Wharfedale in Our NoHo Showroom

Wharfedale loudspeakers are renowned for their versatility and exceptional performance with a wide variety of electronics. Our experts provide consultation on achieving optimal placement and system synergy, especially concerning the unique slotted port design, to maximize the musical and dynamic presentation of the Diamond 225.

Wharfedale

British Heritage Sound and Music Lover Value

The Wharfedale Philosophy: Accessible High-Fidelity Since 1932

Wharfedale Loudspeakers

Wharfedale Diamond 225

Pairing Wharfedale Diamond 225 with Amplification

What Our Customers Say

Experience Wharfedale in Our NoHo Showroom

Store Hours

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