Nowadays, almost everything can be ordered with a single click. It’s therefore tempting to buy your next set of speakers, amplifier or turntable online. But when it comes to something as personal as your sound system, nothing compares to attending a specialist audio equipment store.

From the ability to compare audio equipment in store, to receiving expert audio advice from professionals who live and breathe hi-fi, there are countless reasons why visiting an expert shop is still the gold standard, especially for discerning music and cinema lovers.
The Value of a Real Hi-Fi Demonstration
Nobody would buy a car without test driving it. So why trust your ears to an audio system you’ve not tested? One of the biggest advantages of a proper audio equipment store is the chance to experience a hi-fi demonstration before you buy.
At Soundcraft in Ashford, we invite our customers to sit down and listen—listen deeply—to the equipment they’re considering.
Whether you’re auditioning a Rega turntable, a Linn LP12, or a premium music streamer, nothing beats hearing the difference for yourself. Online reviews might help you narrow down your options, but they can’t tell you how a system will sound in the real world. That’s where we come in.
Expert Audio Advice You Can Trust
Online reviews are helpful, sometimes. But it doesn’t compare to speaking to someone who truly understands audio systems.
When you visit an audio equipment store, especially one with decades of experience like Soundcraft, you get expert audio advice tailored to your needs.
Are you looking for a system that brings out the warmth of vinyl? Or are you diving into the world of high-resolution digital streaming? Do you want your hi-fi to double as part of your home cinema setup? These are questions our team answers every day.
Try Before You Buy: Compare Audio Equipment In Store
There’s no shortage of choice when it comes to audio gear. From amplifiers and DACs to headphones and turntables, the sheer number of options online can be overwhelming. The trouble is, it’s almost impossible to make an informed decision without being able to physically try the gear.
That’s why being able to compare audio equipment in store is so valuable. You can listen to different speaker models side-by-side, test out headphones, or compare digital streamers through the same amplifier to hear subtle differences.
You can even bring in your own records, CDs or files to test them on our systems. Now that definitely isn’t possible online!

Installation, Servicing and Ongoing Support
A quality audio equipment store doesn’t just sell you boxes and send you on your way. At Soundcraft, we offer a full service from consultation through to installation and post-purchase support.
Want to know the best place for your speakers? We can come to your home in Kent and help set things up. Need help configuring your music streamer or Wi-Fi network? We’ve got you covered.
And when it comes to maintenance, you can’t just return your vintage Linn LP12 through the post. As a certified Linn LP12 Service Station, we provide specialist repair, upgrades and fine-tuning right here in our workshop.
We Know the History of Audio, And Its Future
Soundcraft has been part of Ashford’s audio landscape for over 70 years. In that time, we’ve seen formats come and go: cassette, DAT, MiniDisc, Laserdisc. But our commitment to quality has never changed. We’ve stayed at the forefront by adapting to new technologies without losing sight of the timeless pleasure of great sound.
Today, we embrace both ends of the spectrum, from vinyl to lossless streaming. At our store you’ll find products from the UK’s finest brands as well as international leaders. Whether you’re into analogue nostalgia or digital clarity, our audio equipment store is equipped to guide you through it all.
A Personal Experience That Online Can’t Match
There’s something deeply satisfying about walking into a shop where the staff remember your setup and are genuinely excited about helping you upgrade your system. That’s the kind of personal service an online retailer just can’t replicate.
When you visit our audio equipment store, you’re not just a customer: you’re part of our community. One that values great sound, proper equipment, and friendly expertise. We run open events, product launches, and hands-on demos, giving you the chance to meet fellow enthusiasts and keep learning.
Come In and Hear the Difference
If you’re serious about sound, don’t gamble with your ears. Avoid the hassle of returns, and experience the true potential of your music or home cinema setup at a proper audio equipment store.
Whether you’re just starting your hi-fi journey or fine-tuning your dream system, Soundcraft is here to help with expert audio advice and full demonstrations.
Come visit us in Ashford and hear for yourself why in-store still wins. For more details, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
