High End audio is a hobby filled with hundreds of so called “experts,” to the point it is sometimes difficult to discern who really knows what. And now, with the proliferation of social media “influencers” the matter has only been exacerbated. Fortunately, in the “old school” world of analog, there is one expert I am always confident will provide thoughtful, reasoned, carefully measured advice—none other than “Mik” at Unique Audio. Where else might you find a fellow whose been selling turntables since his early teens, whose “audio laboratory” contains copies of just about every hi-end turntable produced over multiple decades, and who works with cartridge manufactures to prototype different windings and suspensions gaining first hand knowledge of how each change affects the sound? On top of that, Mik is a real gentleman whose easy to work with. I’d be confident referring even the most seasoned audiophile, Mik is truly one of the ‘great guys’ in the business.
I first called Mik about ten years ago to buy an SME IV tonearm for my Michell Orbe. I visited him, bought the arm and started a relationship that has been simply amazing. In the intervening years I have enjoyed the privilege of owning equipment that I would never have seen in a standard hi-fi dealership. Mik’s advice has always developed my system to new heights of fidelity; and I am comfortable that I can rely on exceptional levels of dedicated service and support, tailored specifically to me. My system sounds amazing thanks to Mik. I don’t just feel that I’ve found a good Hi-Fi dealer, it’s more like I’ve joined an exclusive club, run by a good friend, dedicated to getting the best possible sound from my system.
I have bought a number of products from Unique Audio over a period of several years including SME 20 turntable, SME V tonearm, LFD cables and Etsuro cartridges. On every occasion the service has been first class. His knowledge and expertise has been very impressive and I can’t think of a better place to go for anything vinyl. Can wholeheartedly recommend.
Miks understanding and dedication to all things analogue is breahtaking as he has been dedicated to the hobby since he was a young boy, What sets him apart is that he is an audiophile himself who truly enjoys listening and learning. Unlike other dealers who will only know about what they sell Mik listens and purchases other products so he can learn and appreciate what is on the market. I recently upgraded my cartridge Mik knew exactly what would work in my system and more importantly what suited my tonearm, I have made many costly mistakes in my 25 years of being an audiophile but I now feel confident that I am truly looked after.
I recently Purchased an Etsuro Gold phono cartridge and then Upgraded to the Master Gold built to Unique Audio specs, again this shows Mik does not settle for standard anything he wants perfection. I currently use this with a Airtangent Reference Tonearm together with a vintage Thorens Reference turntable the tonearm cable is the LFD Golden Cobra all put together by Mik. Mik spent alot of time modyfying the Airtangent with a custom air supply system comprising of a high spec dental compressor and custom fileration he was listening for weeks before he came to the conclusion what would suit my needs. If it were not for Miks deep knowledge and understanding my needs and musical preferences I would never known what is possible from the grooves of vinyl. Mik is not just any hifi dealer he crates modifies and works with manufacturers to produce absolute works of art. If you are looking for the absolute best at any given price point, checking out Mik will be one of the most mind blowing experiences you have ever had. All I can say if Mik is not satisfied he will not sell it.
I have dealt with Unique Audio since Mik started his business as a teenager and over the years he has become a good friend. At the heart of his business is a desire to try to get the best sound for the customer whatever the price point. Mik is more than willing to put in the time to fully understand what his customers musical preferences are, what their goals are in terms of sound, and to then recommend and source appropriate equipment, providing a number of possibilities on how to reach those goals within a given budget. As a result of my dealings with Mik, I have had many years of enjoying wonderful sounding music at home from many different combinations of HiFi and fully intend to continue my relationship with Unique Audio in my future adventures in HiFi delivering first class sound.
I’ve known Mik at Unique Audio for years, and his expertise in high-end audio is unparalleled. What truly sets Mik apart is his passion for what he does and his ability to understand the customer’s needs. Over the years, our journey has included renowned audiophile products including LFD amplifiers and cables, SME turntables, and Etsuro cartridges, and Mik’s knowledge and attention to detail ensure each purchase delivers exceptional performance. Most recently, Mik supplied and installed the Etsuro Urushi Bordeaux Special Edition MC cartridge, and the results exceeded all expectations. Highly recommended!
In a world full of drop shipping and second hand opinions, nothing beats lived experience. I can’t think of another dealer with more hands on lived high end experience than Mik at Unique Audio. When Mik shares his opinion on kit it’s based on having heard it in his room in his system – This is priceless (and quite possibly insane.)
