Best West Los Angeles Audiophile Shops?

I second Ambrosia. David has strong opinions, but hasn't steered me wrong. I've purchsed a few things there over the years. Also, GNP (Pasadena location only -- extensive selection, good stuff) and Optimal Enchantment (limited selection, but good stuff -- ARC, Vandersteen, Oracle). If you want to drive, Upscale Audio (not on the Westside). If you're driving to Upscale, pick up four ultra matched, super low noise Mullard gold pin 6922's for me :-)

Definitely go see Ambrosia. I also have bought quite a few things from them. See Bob Grant he'll take great care of you, if he's not around the whole staff is great. Great customer service & knowledgable salesmen. I've purchased Revel, Meridian, Levinson, Classe from these guys.

Jon

Can I forth Ambrosia? (I am a mail order customer of theirs on the east coast.) How's that for an endorsement?

I'll fifth Ambrosia. I'm a happy mail order customer.

For selection and maybe service, Ambrosia is probably "the best." But, although Ive never bought anything from him, I have really enjoyed my visits with Randy at Optimal Enchantment ((310)393-4434). Especially if you are interested in analog, call him and make an appointment.

That's all there is on the west side of town. And, frankly. that's all there is in Los Angeles proper. GNP in Pasadena is pretty good. Upscale Audio way out there has good stuff.

Closer to the west side, in the South Bay, not a store but you can make an appointment to audition stuff at Reference Audio Video in Torrance. They have BAT, Sony sacd stuff, Proacs, lots more. And, again, to be frank, there is no one in this business more pleasant, honest and informative to deal with than Ken Ito, the proprietor of Reference. Call him at 310 517-1700.