Choosing the right hi-fi dealer can be a tricky process and one that is only made easier with experience, both good and bad. The knowledge of the staff, value for money, customer service and of course their approach to business and longevity are all factors that one must take into account; particularly when investing a significant amount of money in a hi-fi system.
Today the spotlight is on Moorgate Acoustics of 643-645 Chesterfield Road, Sheffield. Moorgate are a family run business, founded in 1981 by Keith Hobson. An engineer by trade with a passion for music, Keith was frustrated by the relatively poor stand of customer service offered in the South Yorkshire area. After his redundancy from Sound 70’s on Barclay Precinct, Keith was afforded the opportunity to start his own company – Moorgate Acoustics – offering the no-quibble customer service that he believed customers deserved, staffed by those who shared his passion for music and backed by his sound-first approach. Following Keith’s semi-retirement, Moorgate Acoustics is now run by Paul Hobson, Keith’s son; though Keith still has an active role in the running of the company and attends most of their musical evenings.
The product range stocked by Moorgate Acoustics was, and still is, chosen based on a sound-first principal. They were also one of the first companies to introduce demonstration rooms, allowing customers to hear their potential new purchases before handing over any cash. The products stocked by Moorgate Acoustics are chosen based on listening tests in their own listening rooms; the same rooms used for product demonstration. Products are auditioned in systems relative to their real value, using suitably priced components and sensibly priced cables as would any customer looking to purchase the system.
Moorgate Acoustics sell products via their physical premises, eBay and of course via their own Website. They offer installation and home demonstration in the south Yorkshire area, home trials and on-sight servicing of both Naim Audio and Linn products (including the legendary LP12 turntable). Trade in and equipment disposal is also available, as is a bespoke multi-room audio/video design service with a free on-site survey for both new builds and home renovations.
Moorgate Acoustics are active on social media, with Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, Instagram and LinkedIn profiles. Their Facebook page in particular is full of interesting discussions and links to articles from around the web. Messages are answered promptly; a refreshing change, as despite us nearing the end of 2015 many of the businesses in this industry either neglect social media entirely or simply fail to use it effectively.
I’ve purchased from Moorgate Acoustics on a couple of occasions and communicated with their staff both over the phone and on social media. The recently reviewed Rega RP6 and Audio-Technica AT150 were both purchased from Moorgate. On both occasions, their customer service was exceptional, as was the friendliness and knowledge of the staff. At no point did they attempt to ‘hard sell’ me a product, at no point did I feel as though I was under any obligation to go through with the purchase; and, best of all, I couldn’t argue with the price.
Both products arrived on time, neatly wrapped in recycled brown paper. The cartridge was further packaged with layers of bubble wrap and an outer box. Both items arrived in perfect condition and working order as expected.
If you’re looking to purchase your first hi-fi system, upgrade your existing kit in search of better performance, or simply require some honest, dependable advice, give Moorgate Acoustics a try. It’s rare for me to recommend a hi-fi dealer (and I certainly wasn’t asked to do so), but I can’t think of a company more deserving of their place in the service spotlight series. It’s easy to see why they’re recognised as one of the 20 best hi-fi shops in the UK. Highly recommended.
