Got to visit Audio Alternatives


Rick is the owner and what a fun guy he is.  He offers a dizzying selection of gear at all price ranges.  He's been doing this since 78 and has knowledge that you can't pay for.  He's a set up genius.  He has Logans, Wilson, Paradigms, Linn, Harbeth and offers the only full Vandersteen system 9 set up.  That's the system I wanted to hear and I have to say that it is probably the best system I've ever heard.  Those added sub nine subs take the 7's to a level that is scary good.  I also loved the Mustang cherry red with gold metallic flake. If I didn't have my Quatro's in Audi Havana Black, I'd get them in this color.  They pop, but the system was sick.  Vandy amps with D'Agastino pre amp and all top AQ cabling and power conditioning.  It was all about setting them up. He gave me some tips and I think I'll have my buddy come over to reset my own system. 

He played some fun music and not 'audiophile' stuff.  He showed me that you can set up a top system in any room if you are careful.  You dont' need expensive devices or pads, just real world stuff on the walls and racks of albums work GREAT to diffuse the sound.  If anyone is looking for gear in the Denver, Wyoming or Nebraska area, Rick's store is a MUST visit as he has a selection and knows what gear sounds best with what.  

I'm so glad that I got to meet him today.  Honest as the day is long and helpful as heck.  
ctsooner
Wow, you get around.
First, Ayre, now Audio Alternatives.
How far away from each other are they?
Bob-
It is Audio Alternative.  AA is in Fort Collins, Ayre is in Boulder.  About 60 miles or so.
ctsooner, you didn’t mention his record collection! I am sure it is the biggest I have ever seen. I was there one night when Michael Fremer was for a music matters event there and he seemed very very envious.

But you are right, I don’t think I have ever met such a wealth of audio equipment knowledge contained in one head. Plus his music knowledge is incredibly deep.
Sorry about getting the name messed up guys. Tired when I posted. His record collection is sick. We laughed about it. Meticulously taken care of. He turned me into some cool music. 
I remember- I think- an Audio Alternative in Cali- San Diego? Maybe I was dreaming. Or it was a publication like the early Stereophile. Talking 70s here.
Or it was a publication like the early Stereophile. Talking 70s here.

There was a magazine called "Audio Adventure" back in that time.  I have a few copies.
There used to be an Audio Alternatives in the south east, but they don’t owe up anymore.
HiFi Buys now in Buckhead (Atlanta) used to be Audio Alternative in Lilburn, Ga.  They moved and changed their name.  I purchased my Plinius integrated amp from them in the 1990’s.
Funny as HiFi Buys is also a stellar Vandersteen dealer, lol...  Never made it there though.  Travel is getting so much harder for me.  Thank goodness my wife is here to help me etc...  I"m blessed.  :). 
Rick is top notch.  I’ve known Rick since the late 80’s.  My wife calls him “no shoes” because he was nice enough to remove his shoes when he came to our dingy “just married” apartment to set up a pair of Linn Kans—circa 1987. 

Rick will still travel to my house if I need him.  Nobody else touches my LP12.  

I’m sure there are other great audio dealers out there and Rick is surely one of them.  

Great post ctsooner. 


I've been blessed in my life to meet so many great dealers and manufacturers.  I have a few who stand out for various reasons, but mostly because they are good people who want to share with others.  It doesn't matter what they sell, it's about educating and sharing a passion in gear or music or both (I'm the rare both breed).  

I loved his fully tricked out LP12.  It's still one of my favorite tables.  I do miss my Basis table though :(.  with the MS, I can no longer get up and change and clean albums.  That's why I have the best server I've ever heard, lol.
Rick at Audio Alternative is a great dealer for us at Vandersteen.  In fact as our only System NINE flooring dealer we are honored to introduce the new KĒNTO Carbon alongside Rick at RMAF.  We hope to see you there to hear Richard's next creation.  All the best - Brad O'Toole - Global Sales Manager at Vandersteen
Thanks Brad.  I have yet to go to a show in my life, lol.  So excited about the Kento as I've heard about it for so long.  I'm sure it's amazing.  
Heard that the Kēnto really blew folks out of the water.  Told they they will quickly become the go to under 40k for many.  I can't wait to hear them.  Very exciting times.