Great vintage and new shop. Steve and Mary are very gracious and knowledgeable proprietors. I took in Thorens TD165 in need of a a LOT of TLC just to be playable. After Steve went through it top to bottom ant it now works and sounds fantastic! I can once again Play my prized vinyl! Thanks Mary and Steve for a job well done.Kyle Smith

Handled my transaction with grace. Thank you.

We are just getting into the world of vinyl. The first turntable I bought turned out to be a lemon and stopped working after a year. I took it to Paragon, unfortunately it wasnt repairable, but they put the diagnostic charge towards a new turntable. They were so friendly and helpful and helped us settle on a much better turntable that we love. As a heads up, they are a small shop, so there will be some wait time if you bring something in for repairs. But for us, that was perfectly okay. We were just fine waiting a bit longer for the excellent customer service and advice we received. As we move forward and keep building our little vinyl set up, well definitely be back!

I love this place, I only have vintage equipment and they have helped me every time. I wished everyone could see what Steve and Mary have in this building. It is mind blowing.

Mixed feelings about Paragon.tldr;Wide selection of great equipment, more expensive than market, takes advantage of ignorance to up-sell, hates Bob Carver (ask for clarification).Long:I toured around the shop with the (or an) owner - an incredible array of vintage and new-vintage equipment. However, all items cost premium levels, and I was told for good reason - they are refurbished by hand in the back using the highest grade eBay materials, and they claim to stand by their work. This is totally fine. 5/5.Nonetheless, I was a bit disappointed when my non-premium budget wasnt going to get what I was after, and the owner literally said I was wasting his time and promptly went off to do something else. Not cool, I had still wanted to buy an item in the store, but not after that. There were no other customers in the store I was taking him away from. After having fact checked some of his statements about a rare new item which had just come in I ought to buy, they turned out to be sales tactics, and completely false. 0/53/5 because I like small businesses.Cheers.

Incredible knowledge and understanding of different perspectives, are the reasons I love this place. Dont be shy. I feel lucky to be within driving range of them.

I’m happy with my Bryson amp & preamp and with my Mchintosh speaker I bought from Steve. He’s a great guy

Turntable excellency! I purchased an old Technics SL-1200 off eBay that was damaged during shipping and I contacted Paragon to see if I could bring it back to its former glory. Russ was extremely knowledgeable on the matter and took to the task himself. I mentioned how I was leaving the state very soon and he managed to put in the extra work to meet with my deadline. The recommendations that were offered to me did not go without serious thought put into it, the Orotofon 2M Blue is such a stellar cartridge for the money!! Its been almost 3 years since I brought in my turntable and I can say confidently that the service I received and the impression I was left with was nothing short of spectacular.

High end audio along with a HUGE selection of used, vintage audio gear. Definitely a funky vibe in this place, run by a very knowledgeable guy. If Apple ear buds are your idea of good music, dont go here.

One of my favorite shops for used audio.Steves quite a character and he knows his stuff.

The staff at Paragon impress me each time Im there. Russell helped my husband and I, through several visits and attempts at repairs of old record players, set up a great home record player system that was within our budget. I felt he was honest and didnt push us to pay more for something we didnt want or need .Weve also worked with their repair services side, trying to repair old record players that were hopeless, and they were again honest and helpful.Im not sure about the bad reviews on here, I was surprised they only have 3.8 stores, I think this is a great local business and were now loyal customers.

Great selection of new and vintage gear and very knowledgeable staff to add. Brought my children with me, and it turned out to be educational experience for them as well. The staff was very kind and took time to show us some amazing equipment.

Not Recommended. Like F Stanford, I was conned out of $52.75 for a repair evaluation. The owner, who seemed very friendly and likable at first, did the evaluation on the spot in less than 5 minutes and pronounced the equipment worthless. Thats when the sales pitch kicked in to buy something from the store with the $52.75 applied to the purchase! My antenna went up so I said Id think about it... AFTER he showed me several over-priced, mediocre potential replacements. He then told me there was a time limit on the offer to apply the evaluation fee, which completely turned me off since he had charged me so much for such a cursory evaluation to begin with. I later found out that the vintage gear I had brought in for repair was NOT worthless and was in fact valuable and in demand, even in its state of partial disrepair. Needless to say, I didnt go back and buy anything... too slippery for me.PS I added this note after the owners strange reply (below): I have no idea who Jozef V.K. is and why the owner thinks Im him. I stand behind my review.

Sold us a vintage turntable, which we used maybe five times before it began to fail. They assured us it was in perfect working order. I was willing to pay for repairs, etc. and they diagnosed it as too old to be worth repairing. . . and charged for that diagnosis as well. I’m certainly not going back there.

Steve is a total cheat! I keep posting how he has literally stolen from me over the years but my posts always get taken down. Go across the street and ask the record store if Steve does any service work for them, he doesn’t! Stay away, don’t get ripped off by him.Secondary note in response to Paragon;At least you didn’t deny STEVE IS A CHEAT!

I was in the store less than two minutes before I turned around and walked out and will never enter this store again and will never recommend to anyone.My son is not your typical 10 year, He shares my love of records and old music. Our record player recently broke and we were on Monroe street when we saw Paragon Video & Stereo. We were both super excited to go buy a new player. We entered the store, my son walked over to a turntable to check it out. The woman behind the counter screamed at the top of her lungs DONT YOU TOUCH THAT!. There was so much hate and venom in her voice and the look she was giving him was so full of hate. She didnt say please dont touch that as most people would. There was so much hate in her towards my kid and she did this in front of several customers. I said F$&@! You and walked out. This woman clearly hates children and does not care about sales. My advice is to go somewhere where you dont have to work with people; youre not good at this!

The folks at Paragon really know their stuff! And they were friendly and so helpful! I had an older piece of equipment that needed speakers and they helped me select a nice set that suited my retro style and my needs. Then they made sure I knew exactly how to set it up when I got home. They have a great selection of new and refurbished equipment, and I really appreciate their insights and expertise.

One of my favorite places in Madison. I dont like shopping, but I love coming into buy audio gear from Steve and friends. Theyre a friendly bunch of people who invoke a sense of nostalgia for a time when more transactions took place in small stores like this.

My vintage JVC A-E5 mini-component integrated amplifier failed. I use it at my computer desk because of its small size and outstanding performance. I took it to Paragon where they quickly diagnosed a defective speaker switch, repaired the switch and cleaned all other internal contacts and had it done in two days for less than the cost of return shipping to any other service center. Total satisfaction.

I recently bought an old Pioneer receiver and a Dual turntable to get back into listening to vinyl. I was told by the seller of the turntable that it needs a new stylus and cartridge so I went to Paragon to have them install one and tune it up. I had trouble with the left channel going out when I was playing records so I thought the new cartridge would fix this. Unfortunately, the new cartridge didnt help. I called Paragon and spoke to Russ and told him of the issue. He said to bring in the turntable and receiver so he could try to determine where the problem actually is. Turns out it was dirty switches on the front panel of the receiver that was causing the problems. Russ got right on it when I was there and took care of it for me. Im now enjoying listening to my vinyl again thanks to Paragon.

Wow. Extraordinarily bad. If you yearn for the used car sales tactics of the 70s, then this is your shop.The short summary is I was charged $52.75 to be told that it would cost $800-$1000 to fix my amplifier. But the good news was I could apply the $52.75 towards a new amplifier purchase at Paragon. I then took the amp to another local technician who diagnosed and fixed the amplifier so quickly I now question if Paragon even removed the cover. It seems that I paid $52.75 to receive a sales pitch.The longer blow by blow account. I took my Carver Amp to Paragon for repair because of a problem with the output dropping off after a few minutes of running. I paid $52.75 for an initial evaluation and was told it would take about a week to get word back. After a week I received a call - I believe from the owner. He informed me that the bias was all over the place and that it would about $800 to fix, but the good news was I could apply my $52.75 towards the purchase of a new amplifier at Paragon (presumably costing 1000s).I then started asking some specific questions (Im an engineer) about what they were seeing in the diagnosis and the responses got fishy. I was told that the bias was out of control and all over the place. Also that they couldnt get the schematics for this amp. I then informed this guy that I had found the entire service manual (service manuals contain schematics and quite a bit more useful information for repairing) online previously. The response back was well yeah we found that but Bob Carver would often just modify production amplifiers on the fly and thats what we have here so your amp doesnt match the schematic. Uh-huh.At this point it was fully apparent that the fix was in. However the voice on the phone didnt sense my loss of faith at all. For the second time I was robotically advised that the good news is you can apply the $52.75 towards the purchase of a new amp.I stopped in the next day to pick up my amp. Got the amp. Got the paperwork with an $800-$1000 estimate to repair, at that point the person I was talking to on the phone previously came into the area. He didnt really seem to remember our conversation. But he did remember to tell me once again that the good news is I can apply the $52.75 towards the purchase of a new amp. No thanks. I am not going to make a multi thousand dollar purchase from someone I cant trust.I then found a technician working out of his home in the area. The difference between Paragon and this technician was huge. Competent and professional I watched as this technician used his specialty equipment and his head to narrow the problem down to a few possibilities in about 15 minutes. I then left -- but within a few hours I received an email. The repair was complete and he was in the middle of a 6 hour test to ensure that everything remained stable with time. The technician commented that this was one of the easiest repairs he has performed. He didnt see any bias problems (which is what Paragon claimed), the problem was fixed by replacing 4 rather small transistors. When I picked up my amp I asked him about the service manual. He had found it online. So I asked if the actual circuit matched the schematics. Yep, it did.So in the end I got my amp back. It sounds as sweet as it ever did and Im a little wiser for the experience.I noticed that in the few good reviews on repairs the reviewers actually were sold on buying new equipment or the repair was very simple like a switch or a cord. I didnt see any reviews where equipment was ever actually repaired at the circuit level. I wonder if it ever is. I want my $52.75 back. And no, I dont want to apply it towards the purchase of new amp.

Rude, condescending, and on my one visit the staff told multiple customers their inquiries werent worth the employees time. Made me feel like an idiot just for asking for direction on what to buy. A prime example of independent, local businesses having too much ego and zero customer service skills.

These guys are great. They have helped me repair my speakers! Im very glad I have contacted them!

The staff was very friendly and helpful. I had an old turntable I bought off w00t and they took the time to look at what was wrong and clearly explain why it was junk (made of plastic, non-standard needle head [forget the technical term]). A quote that really stuck with me was when I explained I didnt really know what I was looking for and the different mechanisms of a turntable and he said well we can teach ya. It wasnt about making a sale - it was about making me an educated consumer. I ended up buying a beautiful turntable that has treated me wonderfully for the year Ive owned it.Im looking to return to upgrade my speakers and would (and have) refer(red) this place to friends.

Great local store for your audiophile needs! Many unique items also.

If you need vintage electronics, see russ and steve. Seriously do it before you start buying stuff on eBay. You will find great equipment that’s clean and stood behind. If you go in to browse, have an extra while. Steve will talk your ear off but he knows his stuff and he loves to share it. I have a sick record room and it’s floor to ceiling paragon!

Awesome audiophile gear new and used plus expert installation and service.

DON’T GO HERE.My son went there to buy me a pair of large speakers I could use to play load rock music (I’m a drummer and practice that way)The owner Steve told my son “he would not sell anything that was not well suited for my needs” which was clearly explained as playing loud along with a live drum setAfter hooking up the speakers and buying a lot more powerful equipment (amp an preamp) we still could get the volume we needed and clarity we needed.It wasn’t until we called Paulk Audio (the manufactures of the speakers) we were informed that these speakers were not intended to be used for loud rock type music. More suited for jazz or classical.When I call Steve to inform him about what we had learned. He got very irate, said the speakers worked perfectly and would not accept a return. Then hung up on me.I called back and his wife answered and treated me the same way.I also learned they overcharged my son for the speaker. Anyone that would take advantage of a kid buying his dad a present for Christmas is a bad person. Don’t be a victim.Read the reviews of this store! I wish I had.They are rude, and unethical.DON’T GO THERE!In another incident. I took one of my amps to be evaluated. Everything checked out until steve learned that I was interested in trading up to a more powerful amp. As soon as he learned that the amp had serious issues and wasn’t worth anything.If you read their reviews you will see this is a common tactic of theirs.STAY AWAY. THESE PROPLE DON’T DESERVE ANYONES BUSINESS.

Excellent experience. Incredibly knowledgeable and friendly people. Bought a refurbished turntable and learnt what to look for in a decent product. Also learned the dos and donts with vinyl care...great to deal with passionate people who love what they do.

Mary...Steve...and Russ have always been kind helpfull and wonderful. Great audio!

3 years ago we bought a great record player and speaker system from Paragon and we really liked it. It was in storage for a few years and when we picked it up, it was missing a few parts and we went to get them replaced. The owner Steve told me that this record player was a piece of junk now and he then proceeded to run a series of tests to show me how every part of my turntable was broken. He generously offered me a $50 trade in value for the turntable (which we had spent over $600 on), towards one that cost $500. Something about this seemed off so I decided against listening to his advice and instead picked up my turntable and brought it to another repair shop in town.Lo and behold, my turntable was anything but a piece of junk and is still in good shape other then missing a couple parts which this other shop was glad to order from the manufacturer.Look: I get that its tough right now with the construction on Monroe Street, but thats no excuse to be a slimey POS. Avoid at all costs unless you like being screwed over.

Steve and Mary and Russ know the business great to work with

Three extremely knowledgeable people work at Paragon. They are passionate about what they do and If you take the time you will find them very helpful and genuinely kind and generous.It is not the type of place that is a quick in and out, BUT when it is your turn in line they treat you like you are the only customer in the place. They really take their time to make sure all your questions are answered and that you are satisfied when you leave.Ive even asked questions about online purchases and ones from stores around the area. They know their stuff and are not afraid to share what they know.My first experience with Paragon was a year ago. I had an old broken receiver and a turntable that needed servicing. Steve fixed both and they worked fine. A year later I had different issues with my receiver (remember its old.) They were willing to allow me to trade it in towards a purchase a year later! They didnt have to do this but they did. And they gave me a very good trade in value for it.This year I was interested in upgrading my system. At this point I was thinking all tube. Russ helped me; he didnt talk me out of it, but in the end he put me on a better path that made more sense with what I already had (Adcom amps and Advent speakers.) I ended up purchasing a NAD preamp (amazing) and a Thorens turntable (also amazing.) I am very pleased with the help I received and with the products I purchased.Leave your expectations at the door.If it takes a while just have a seat up stairs and test out some speakers or walk around and check out all the cool stuff in the basement! This place is worth it.Thanks again, Russ, for all your help!

Stay away from this place.Bought Pioneer SX1980 from them for $2,000. Took it to my tech who became speechless after he opened it up. All the parts replaced with cheap knockoffs and even some parts where incorrectly replaced.Tried to get in touch with them after the purchase to no avail.Steve the owner avoids my calls and never returns my voicemail.

Great vintage audio store, very helpful and friendly people.

BUYER BEWARE! I did not heed the negative reviews for Paragon Video & Stereo to my regret. I recently bought an expensive used professional turntable from Paragon. Steve, the owner, assured me verbally and in writing that he had a 30 day return policy for store credit only, and that if I didnt like it I could return it and get something else. I was present when he prepared it for transport home. After several days I decided to return it after all and to buy a new stereo system instead, spending even more money. Steve peered at the turntable as it sat in my car and said there was something wrong with the tonearm. I had transported it back exactly as he had prepared it and with the tonearm twist tied to its cradle. He removed the tonearm headshell, took it in to his shop and made an elaborate show of inspecting the cartridge & needle under a microscope, declaring that the damaged tonearm had caused the new cartridge to track wrongly making the needle worn and that it had peeled off a strip of vinyl! This was absurd and not possible. Claiming that I had damaged the tonearm by driving it home and back over rough roads bumping it up and down (I had told him my driveway had icy ruts and I wanted to make sure he had it safely prepared, and had driven very carefully) he said he would not accept its return because it was no longer in perfect condition as sent out. The turntable was fine and it operated flawlessly. He also falsely claimed that the tonearm he had installed was an expensive make, when in fact it was an entirely different, low cost make. He then went on to insult me further by stating he would not do business with me as he had already spent too much time on me; that I would return everything that I bought; and if I did not want it I should sell it on Ebay (which I subsequently did, selling it for more than I paid for it, but coming out even after selling fees and considerable time & effort). It was clear to me that he had my money, he had made it all up, and that he wasnt going to accept a return under any circumstances. His return policy is worthless as is probably his warranty, and he was highly offensive to me. This is a dishonest business. You would be well advised to steer clear of Paragon and take your business elsewhere.

After over a year of sitting on an NAD 314 amplifier that was begging for repairs I finally decided to take it into Paragon. I dont take online reviews to heart, but I was hesitant to take it in after reading some of them here. Then a co-worker told me he had went in to get some equipment and that he had a great experience. It was time to see what my visit had in store for me.The younger gentleman (Im bad at remembering names) that I talked to at the desk was courteous and helpful. I explained how I diagnosed the amplifier as being the culprit in my setup by swapping out DACs and speakers. They asked for a ~$50 deposit and they told me they would call me back within a week and a half. They called me back within 5 days and told me it would cost between $200 and $250 to repair. Seeing as how that was more than I paid for it in the first place I decided to buy a new NAD 326. I got to use the deposit towards the purchase and I took the old amplifier home to give to a friend for parts.Before leaving with my purchase my girlfriend and I ended up talking with the younger gentleman and Steve (the owner) for at least an hour. Its always fascinating seeing people talk and demonstrate something they are skilled at. Steve showed us all sorts of vintage equipment from the turn of the century and the story of his business.Given how good of an experience I had Im not sure how others are having such an unpleasant one. Perhaps there are good days and bad days? Or perhaps other issues are at play. Regardless, I would recommend Paragon and would certainly take future audio repairs there.

Well informed friendly staff.

Awesome repairs and classic equipment

Amazing selection of gear for the audiophile!