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fanthorpes HiFi
28-02-2025, 13:30
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A Week in the Life of Fanthorpes HiFi – Behind the Scenes

Hi everyone, and welcome to our new weekly thread! Each Friday, we'll plan to share a glimpse into life at Fanthorpes HiFi, giving you an insider's look at what goes on in our store and out on the road.

From in-store demonstrations to home visits, we'll take you through the exciting systems we set up, the distances we travel, and the services we offer to help our customers get the best from their HiFi.

We hope you enjoy following along! If you have any questions about the equipment mentioned, feel free to call us on 01482 223096 or email shop@fanthorpes.co.uk.

Services We Offer


Trade-Ins
Thinking about upgrading your HiFi? We love to trade in! Get in touch, and we'll let you know what your existing equipment is worth as part of a trade-in deal.

Finance Options
We offer buy now, pay later on orders over £400, allowing you to spread or defer payments over a year.

Nationwide Delivery & Installation
When you purchase from us, we provide a nationwide delivery and installation service within mainland UK. Our expert installer will bring your new HiFi directly to your home and set it up for you.


For more details, contact us at shop@fanthorpes.co.uk or call 01482 223096.

Stay tuned for our first weekly update – we can't wait to share our experiences with you!


A Week in the Life at Fanthorpes HiFi – Speaker Shootouts, Installations & Industry Visits

Welcome to our latest weekly update, where we take you behind the scenes at Fanthorpes HiFi! This week has been packed with exciting in-store demonstrations, industry visits, and a road trip to install some incredible HiFi equipment. Here’s what we’ve been up to…

Monday 3rd March – The Great PMC Speaker Shootout

We kicked off the week with an eagerly anticipated in-store demonstration of the brand-new PMC Prophecy1 (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/pmc-prophecy1-speakers) speakers, putting them head-to-head against their predecessor, the PMC Twenty5 21i (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/pmc-twenty5-21i-speakers).

PMC has built a strong reputation for creating dynamic, transparent, and highly musical speakers, and the new Prophecy range is no exception. We were excited to hear how the latest model compares to its well-regarded predecessor, especially in terms of clarity, soundstage, and bass response.

If you are curious about the results, get in touch—we’d love to share our thoughts and perhaps even arrange another listening session for you!


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Tuesday 4th March – A Visit from Martin Logan

Tuesday saw us welcoming Martin Logan (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/brands-en/martin-logan-en) to the store. Known for their electrostatic speaker technology, Martin Logan produces some of the most detailed and immersive speakers in the industry.

It was a fantastic opportunity to discuss their latest advancements, from panel technology to hybrid designs. If you’ve ever been curious about electrostatic speakers and how they differ from traditional driver-based designs, feel free to reach out—we’d be happy to chat!

Wednesday 5th March – On the Road to Derby for a Turntable Installation

Midweek, we hit the road and headed to Derby for an exciting installation. The customer had ordered the stunning Pro-Ject Signature 10 Super Pack (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/project-signature-10-superpack-turntable), a high-end turntable known for its precision engineering and superb sound reproduction.

While there, we've also agreed to collect a Pro-Ject 6 Perspex SB as part of a trade-in. This is a fantastic turntable, and if anyone is interested in learning more about it or considering a trade-in themselves, just let us know!

Thursday 6th March – REL Acoustics Showcase

Thursday was another special day at the store as we hosted REL Acoustics (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/brands-en/rel-subwoofers-en) for a look at the new REL T9 Special Edition subwoofer.

REL is renowned for their high-performance subwoofers that seamlessly integrate with both HiFi and home cinema setups. We're excited to experience how the T9 SE enhances bass depth and musicality, offering that signature fast, tight, and controlled low-end response.

If you’re interested in upgrading your system with a REL subwoofer, we’d be happy to arrange a demonstration!

Friday 7th March – Another PMC Showdown

We rounded off the week with another PMC demonstration, this time comparing the larger PMC Prophecy5 (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/pmc-prophecy5-speakers) against the PMC Twenty5 23i (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/pmc-twenty5-23i-speakers).

After making a huge impression at the Bristol HiFi Show, the Prophecy series has been generating a lot of buzz. These speakers are built with cutting-edge technology, refining PMC’s already stellar sound signature. Seeing them go up against the existing Twenty5i range has been a fascinating experience, and we’re excited to share our insights.

Want to hear the difference for yourself? We’re always happy to set up a personal demonstration in-store!


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That’s a Wrap!

It’s looking like action-packed week full of exciting demos, industry visits, and customer installations. Whether you’re interested in the latest speakers, a new turntable, or expert advice on setting up your system, we’re here to help.

If anything from this post has caught your attention, don’t hesitate to get in touch! Call us at 01482 223096 or email shop@fanthorpes.co.uk—we’d love to chat HiFi with you.

Until next week, happy listening!

fanthorpes HiFi
07-03-2025, 10:04
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A Week in the Life at Fanthorpes HiFi – Amplifier Shootouts, Installations & Industry Visits

Welcome back to our weekly blog, where we take you behind the scenes at Fanthorpes HiFi. This week has been all about amplifier comparisons, exciting installations, and catching up with industry experts. From in-store demonstrations to road trips across the UK, here’s a look at what we’ve got planned.

Monday 10th March – Luxman 505z vs 509z Amplifier Shootout

We kick off the week with a thrilling in-store Luxman amplifier showdown, pitting the Luxman 505z (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/luxman-l-507z-integrated-amplifier) against the Luxman 509z (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/luxman-l-509z-integrated-amplifier). Both are stunning integrated amplifiers from one of the most respected names in high-end audio, and we were eager to hear how they stack up against each other.

To make the test as revealing as possible, we built a high-performance demo system, consisting of:


Speakers: PMC Twenty5 24i (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/pmc-twenty5-24i-speakers)
DAC: Chord Electronics TT2 (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/chord-hugo-tt2-dac)
Streamer: Innuos (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/brands-en/innuos)
Cabling: Chord Company Signature


The 505z and 509z both delivered Luxman’s signature rich, detailed, and dynamic sound, but with distinct differences in power handling, transparency, and musicality. If you're considering upgrading your amplifier and want to experience the Luxman sound for yourself, get in touch—we’d be happy to arrange a demonstration.


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Tuesday 11th March – Mission 778X Installation & Cyrus Audio Visit

The week continues with a local installation of the Mission 778X (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/mission-778x-integrated-amplifier) amplifier. A compact yet powerful amplifier, the 778X is known for its versatile connectivity and warm, engaging sound—perfect for both modern digital sources and classic vinyl setups.

Later in the afternoon, we had a special visit from Cyrus Audio (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/brands-en/cyrus-audio-en). Their new 40 Series has been making waves in the HiFi world, and we were keen to learn more about what makes them so special. If you're curious about Cyrus’s latest amplifiers, DACs, or streaming solutions, drop us a message—we’d love to share our insights.

Wednesday 12th March – PMC Twenty5 26i Installation in Sheffield

On Wednesday, we hit the road for Sheffield, where we installed a pair of PMC Twenty5 26i (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/pmc-twenty5-26i-speakers) loudspeakers for a customer upgrading from the PMC Twenty5 23i (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/pmc-twenty5-23i-speakers).

The Twenty5 26i is a significant step up, featuring:


A dedicated midrange driver for enhanced clarity
Advanced Transmission Line bass technology for deep, controlled low-end
Exceptional imaging and detail, making it a favourite for both music lovers and professionals


We took the customer’s Twenty5 23i in part exchange, so if you're in the market for a fantastic pre-owned pair of PMC speakers, get in touch before they’re gone.

Thursday 13th March – Musical Fidelity KW550 Delivery to Spalding

Thursday sees another road trip, this time to Spalding, where we delivered a pre-owned Musical Fidelity KW550 to its new owner.

The KW550 is a powerhouse of an integrated amplifier, known for its:


Massive power output with a dual-mono design
Smooth yet highly detailed sound
Excellent control over a wide range of speakers


For those looking to experience high-end Musical Fidelity gear without the brand-new price tag, we always have a selection of quality pre-owned equipment—just ask.

Friday 14th March – A Stunning Arcam & Pro-Ject System Install

We wrap up the week with a local installation of a truly well-matched and musical system, featuring:


Amplifier: Arcam A25 (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/arcam-a25-amplifier)
CD Player: Arcam CD5 (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/arcam-cd5-cd-player)
Turntable: Pro-Ject X1B (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/pro-ject-x1-b-turntable)
Speakers: Wharfedale Linton (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/wharfedale-linton-speakers)
Cabling: Chord Company Shawline


If you're looking for a balanced system for both streaming and physical media, this combination is definitely worth considering.

That’s a Wrap!

From Luxman amplifier battles and PMC speaker upgrades to Cyrus visits and stunning system installs, next week looks to be packed with exciting moments.


If you’d like to book a demonstration, trade in your existing equipment, or discuss your next HiFi upgrade, we’d love to help. Give us a call at 01482 223096 or email shop@fanthorpes.co.uk (mailto:shop@fanthorpes.co.uk)—we’re always happy to chat HiFi.

Until next time, happy listening!

We hope you enjoy following along! If you have any questions about the equipment mentioned, feel free to call us on 01482 223096 or email shop@fanthorpes.co.uk (mailto:shop@fanthorpes.co.uk).

Services We Offer


Trade-Ins
Thinking about upgrading your HiFi? We love to trade in! Get in touch, and we'll let you know what your existing equipment is worth as part of a trade-in deal.

Finance Options
We offer buy now, pay later on orders over £400, allowing you to spread or defer payments over a year.

Nationwide Delivery & Installation
When you purchase from us, we provide a nationwide delivery and installation service within mainland UK. Our expert installer will bring your new HiFi directly to your home and set it up for you.


For more details, contact us at shop@fanthorpes.co.uk (mailto:shop@fanthorpes.co.uk) or call 01482 223096.

fanthorpes HiFi
14-03-2025, 11:23
https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/storage/tinymce/DcIcZZHhSsM0paSj5Ce2sqvUfPVRIenkIFNC2VrT.jpg

Welcome back to another behind-the-scenes look at our week at Fanthorpes HiFi! Next week, we're crossing borders for a special subwoofer delivery, hosting some exciting in-store demonstrations, and finishing with a high-end AV installation.

Monday 17th March – A Trip to Scotland for a REL Carbon Special

We start the week with a road trip across the border, heading up to Annan in Scotland to deliver a REL Carbon Special subwoofer (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/rel-carbon-special-subwoofer). REL has built a stellar reputation for producing some of the best subwoofers in the business, and the Carbon Special is no exception. It combines high-power amplification with a carbon fibre driver, delivering deep, fast, and musical bass.

While we were there, we'll also be collecting a REL HT1510 subwoofer in part exchange. The HT1510 is a serious home cinema sub, designed to deliver powerful and controlled low frequencies for an immersive experience. If you're in the market for a high-performance pre-owned subwoofer before we list it online, get in touch with us.

Tuesday 18th March – Sugden IA4 vs. Luxman L-507Z Amplifier Shootout

Tuesday brings an exciting in-store demo as we put two fantastic integrated amplifiers head-to-head: the Sugden IA4 (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/sugden-masterclass-ia-4-amplifier) and the Luxman L-507Z (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/luxman-l-507z-integrated-amplifier).

The Sugden IA4 is a pure Class A amplifier known for its rich, warm, and highly detailed sound. Meanwhile, the Luxman L-507Z is an incredibly refined and dynamic amp, offering a blend of precision and musicality that makes it a favourite among audiophiles.

The rest of the demo will comprise of:


Speakers: PMC Twenty5 26i (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/pmc-twenty5-26i-speakers)
DAC: Chord Hugo TT2 (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/chord-hugo-tt2-dac)
Streamer: Aurender A200 (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/aurender-a200-music-serverstreamer)


Wednesday 19th March – PS Audio Aspen FR5 Speaker Demo

On Wednesday, we continue our in-store demos, this time with a dedicated speaker listening session featuring the PS Audio Aspen FR5 speakers (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/ps-audio-aspen-fr5-speakers).

The Aspen FR5s have been a real favourite in-store, offering exceptional clarity, imaging, and musicality at their price point. They're designed to deliver a huge, natural soundstage with deep, articulate bass and stunning midrange performance.

Thursday 20th March – AVID Sequel SP Turntable Installation

Thursday sees us heading over to Sheffield for a very special turntable installation. The customer had opted for the AVID Sequel SP (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/avid-sequel-sp-turntable), a high-end turntable that delivers outstanding performance with rock-solid engineering and precision.

The system we installed featured:


Turntable: AVID Sequel SP
Cartridge: Ortofon Quintet Black (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/ortofon-quintet-black-s-cartridge)
Phono Stage: AVID Pellere (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/avid-pellere-phono-stage)


Friday 21st March – High-End AV Installation in Swindon

We wrap up the week with a top-tier AV installation in Swindon. The customer was upgrading from an Arcam AVR31 receiver to a Lyngdorf AV processor and power amplifier setup—a serious step up in performance.

The new system included:


Processor: Lyngdorf MP-40 2.1 Multi-Channel Processor (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/lyngdorf-mp-40-21-multi-channel-processor)
Amplifier: Lyngdorf MXA-8400 8-Channel Power Amplifier (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/lyngdorf-mxa-8400-multi-channel-amplifier)
Cables: Chord Company (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/brands-en/chord-cables)


That's a Wrap

This week has been packed with exciting demos, road trips, and high-performance installations. Whether you're interested in a new subwoofer, integrated amplifier, turntable, or full AV system, we're always here to help.

Services We Offer


Trade-Ins
Thinking about upgrading your HiFi? We love to trade in! Get in touch, and we'll let you know what your existing equipment is worth as part of a trade-in deal.

Finance Options
We offer buy now, pay later on orders over £400, allowing you to spread or defer payments over a year.

Nationwide Delivery & Installation
When you purchase from us, we provide a nationwide delivery and installation service within mainland UK. Our expert installer will bring your new HiFi directly to your home and set it up for you.

fanthorpes HiFi
21-03-2025, 11:34
https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/storage/tinymce/DcIcZZHhSsM0paSj5Ce2sqvUfPVRIenkIFNC2VrT.jpg

A Week in the Life at Fanthorpes HiFi – High-End Demos, Installations & Exclusive Trade-Ins

Another week at Fanthorpes HiFi brings more exciting demos, customer installations, and rare trade-ins. From listening sessions with Chord Electronics to hands-on setup of legendary turntables like the Garrard 301 Classic, we look to have a packed schedule filled with some of the best HiFi equipment available.

Here’s a look at what we’re been up to next week!

Monday 24th March – Chord Electronics Demo

We kicked off the week with an incredible Chord Electronics demo for a customer eager to experience the Chord Ultima Integrated Amplifier (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/chord-ultima-integrated-amplifier). This powerhouse amplifier was paired with PMC Twenty5 26i speakers (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/pmc-twenty5-26i-speakers), the Chord DAVE DAC (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/chord-dave-dac), and an Aurender A200 Streamer (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/aurender-a200-music-serverstreamer).

The Ultima Integrated is known for its stunning clarity, precision, and musicality—hearing it in action was a real treat. If you’re curious about how this amplifier performs, get in touch—we’d love to arrange a demo for you!

Tuesday 25th March – A Visit from YG Acoustics

Tuesday is an exciting day as we welcomed YG Acoustics (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/brands-en/yg-acoustics) to the store. Known for their ultra-high-end loudspeakers, YG designs some of the most precise and revealing speakers in the industry.

We currently have the Cairn (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/yg-acoustics-cairn-speakers) and Tor (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/yg-acoustics-tor-speakers) standmount speakers available for demonstration. If you're interested in experiencing these stunning speakers for yourself, contact us to arrange a listening session!

Wednesday 26th March – High-End Turntable Installation in Sheffield

Midweek sees us hitting the road to Sheffield for a very special turntable installation. Our mission? To set up the legendary Garrard 301 Classic turntable, fitted with an SME M2-12R Tonearm and an Ortofon Verismo cartridge (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/ortofon-verismo-mc-cartridge).

For any true vinyl enthusiast, this is a dream setup. The Garrard 301 Classic is one of the most revered turntables of all time, and combined with the SME arm and Ortofon cartridge, it promises a level of musicality and detail that few setups can match.

While we were there, we also took a SME 20/12 turntable with a V12 tonearm and an Ortofon Cadenza Black cartridge in part exchange. If you're interested in this high-end trade-in, let us know before we list it online!

Thursday 27th March – Delivering a Mark Levinson 585

Thursday sees us heading down to Uttoxeter to personally deliver a pre-owned Mark Levinson 585 Integrated Amplifier to its new owner. This is a beast of an amplifier, and we knew it deserved special handling.

Mark Levinson is synonymous with high-end amplification, and the 585 is no exception, offering incredible power, control, and musical refinement. If you’re looking for premium pre-owned HiFi equipment, keep an eye on our listings, or contact us for first access to new arrivals!

Friday 28th March – Local Delivery of KEF Reference 1 Meta Speakers

We're wrapping up the week with a local delivery of a stunning set of KEF Reference 1 Meta speakers (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/kef-reference-1-meta-speakers), complete with their dedicated stands.

KEF’s Meta material technology continues to impress, and the Reference 1 Meta is a phenomenal bookshelf speaker, delivering exceptional imaging, detail, and low-end extension. A perfect choice for those wanting reference-level sound in a more compact form factor.

That’s a Wrap!

It looks to be another busy and exciting week at Fanthorpes HiFi, with high-end demos, turntable setups, and premium equipment deliveries. Whether you're looking to experience world-class audio through in-store demos, upgrade your system with carefully selected trade-ins, or need a professional installation service, we’re here to help.

If anything from this week’s blog has caught your attention, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Call us at 01482 223096
Email us at shop@fanthorpes.co.uk (mailto:shop@fanthorpes.co.uk)

Until next week—happy listening!

Services We Offer


Trade-Ins
Thinking about upgrading your HiFi? We love to trade in! Get in touch, and we'll let you know what your existing equipment is worth as part of a trade-in deal.

Finance Options
We offer buy now, pay later on orders over £400, allowing you to spread or defer payments over a year.

Nationwide Delivery & Installation
When you purchase from us, we provide a nationwide delivery and installation service within mainland UK. Our expert installer will bring your new HiFi directly to your home and set it up for you.

fanthorpes HiFi
28-03-2025, 11:21
https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/storage/tinymce/DcIcZZHhSsM0paSj5Ce2sqvUfPVRIenkIFNC2VrT.jpg

A Week in the Life at Fanthorpes HiFi – Speaker Showdowns, High-End DACs & Classic Amplifier Installs

Another week at Fanthorpes HiFi to look forward to, and we’ve got an exciting lineup of speaker comparisons, in-store demonstrations, brand visits, and installations. From PMC vs. Audio Physic to a trip down to Wisbech, here’s what’s happening next week in the world of Fanthorpes HiFi.

Monday 31st March – Speaker Showdown: PMC Prodigy1 vs. Audio Physic Classic 3

We kick off the week with an in-store speaker comparison. A customer is keen to hear how the PMC Prodigy1 (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/pmc-prodigy1-speakers) stacks up against the Audio Physic Classic 3 speakers (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/audio-physic-classic-3-speakers). Both are outstanding compact speakers but offer very different sonic signatures—PMC’s signature clarity and precision vs. Audio Physic’s smooth and immersive soundstage.

To complete the setup, we'll pair them with the Arcam A25 Integrated Amplifier (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/arcam-a25-amplifier), an excellent choice for those looking for a high-quality amp that delivers warmth and musicality. It’s always fascinating to hear how different components interact.

Tuesday 1st April – A Visit from Henley Audio

We always love when Henley Audio pays us a visit. As distributors of some of the biggest names in HiFi, they keep us updated on the latest innovations from brands like:


Musical Fidelity (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/brands-en/musical-fidelity-en) – Iconic British amplification
Pro-Ject Turntables (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/brands-en/project-turntables-en) – High-quality turntables at all price points
Klipsch Speakers (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/brands-en/klipsch-speakers) – Legendary horn-loaded speaker designs
Ortofon Cartridges (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/brands-en/ortofon-cartridges) – World-class phono cartridges for vinyl enthusiasts


If you’re interested in any of these brands or want to book a demo, let us know—we’d love to help.

Wednesday 2nd April – Chord DAVE DAC & Innuos ZEN NG Music Streamer Demo

Midweek, we are set to host a fantastic digital audio demonstration featuring some of the most exciting components in HiFi today. The star of the show was the Chord DAVE DAC (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/chord-dave-dac), one of the best digital-to-analogue converters available, offering incredible detail, resolution, and musicality.

We'll pair it with the brand-new Innuos ZEN NG (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/innuos-zen-ng-music-server) music streamer, ensuring a seamless, high-quality digital source, and run it through the Luxman 509Z Integrated Amplifier (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/luxman-l-509z-integrated-amplifier) and PMC Fact 12 Signature speakers (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/pmc-fact-12-signature-speakers).

Thursday 3rd April – QUAD 303 Install & Part Exchange Opportunity

Thursday sees us back on the road, this time heading to Wisbech to install a pair of classic QUAD 303 power amplifiers (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/quad-303-power-amplifier). These vintage-themed power amps have a legendary reputation for their warm, smooth sound, making them a fantastic choice for those who love classic British HiFi.

As part of the installation, we took a pair of Quad Artera Mono Power Amplifiers in part exchange. If you’re interested in picking up a pair of these highly regarded power amps before we list them online, get in touch.

Friday 4th April – Cyrus 40 Demo with Audio Physic Spark Speakers

We end the week on a high note with a Cyrus Audio system demonstration. The customer was particularly interested in the Cyrus 40 Integrated Amplifier (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/cyrus-40-amp-integrated-amplifier), paired with Audio Physic Spark speakers (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/audio-physic-spark-speakers).

To complete the system, we also set up the Cyrus 40CD Player (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/cyrus-40-cd-cd-player) with a pair of Cyrus 40PSU power supplies (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/cyrus-40-psu-power-supply), creating a powerful, high-resolution HiFi system. The synergy between the Cyrus and Audio Physic speakers is something we're fans of here at Fanthorpes HiFi.

That’s a Wrap!

If anything from this week’s blog has caught your attention, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Call us at 01482 223096
Email us at shop@fanthorpes.co.uk (mailto:shop@fanthorpes.co.uk)

Until next week—happy listening!

Services We Offer


Trade-Ins
Thinking about upgrading your HiFi? We love to trade in! Get in touch, and we'll let you know what your existing equipment is worth as part of a trade-in deal.

Finance Options
We offer buy now, pay later on orders over £400, allowing you to spread or defer payments over a year.

Nationwide Delivery & Installation
When you purchase from us, we provide a nationwide delivery and installation service within mainland UK. Our expert installer will bring your new HiFi directly to your home and set it up for you.

fanthorpes HiFi
04-04-2025, 08:58
https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/storage/tinymce/DcIcZZHhSsM0paSj5Ce2sqvUfPVRIenkIFNC2VrT.jpg

A Week in the Life at Fanthorpes HiFi – Speaker Shootouts, High-End Installs & Exclusive Demonstrations

Another exciting week ahead at Fanthorpes HiFi, packed with in-store demos, home installations, and trade-ins! From PMC Prophecy vs. Dali Epicon speaker comparisons to setting up Martin Logan electrostatic speakers and listening to the new Bryston Bi200 amplifier, we’ve got another busy week ahead.

Here’s what we’re up to next week:

Monday 7th April – Speaker Showdown & Martin Logan Home Demo

We kick off the week with an in-store speaker shootout for a customer who already owns a Devialet Pro amplifier. The contenders? PMC Prophecy 1 (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/pmc-prophecy1-speakers) vs. Dali Epicon 2 (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/dali-epicon-2-speakers). Both of these compact high-end speakers offer incredible performance, but in different ways – the PMC Prophecy 1 with its dynamic and precise presentation, and the Dali Epicon 2 delivering a rich, detailed soundstage.

On the same day, our installer hits the road to Southampton for a home demonstration of the Martin Logan ESL 9 electrostatic speakers (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/martin-logan-classic-esl-9-speakers). Martin Logan’s hybrid electrostatic designs create an open, immersive sound, and we love setting them up for customers to hear just how magical they can be.

Tuesday 8th April – Chord Ultima Setup & Bryston Bi200 Listening Session

On Tuesday, we traveled to Ilford, Essex, to install a Chord Ultima Integrated amplifier (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/chord-ultima-integrated-amplifier) for a customer. The Ultima series represents Chord Electronics’ finest amplification technology, offering incredible clarity, speed, and transparency. We love the Chord Ultima range here at Fanthorpes and we can't wait to hear the difference it made in the customer’s system.

Back at the store, we look forward to a visit from PMC and Bryston to demo the brand-new Bryston Bi200 amplifier (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/bryston-bi-200-amplifier). We can't wait to hear this powerhouse of an amplifier paired with the PMC Prophecy speakers. If you’re a fan of Bryston’s legendary solid-state performance, get in touch – we’d love to share our thoughts or arrange a demo!

Wednesday 9th April – Chord DAVE Home Demo

Midweek, we head out for a local home demo of the Chord DAVE DAC (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/chord-dave-dac). The customer already owns a Chord Hugo TT2 (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/chord-hugo-tt2-dac), so we're looking forward to showing off what its bigger brother can do. DAVE is one of the most advanced DACs on the market, with incredible resolution, depth, and realism. If you’re curious about how it compares to the Hugo TT2, we’d be happy to set up a demo for you!

Thursday 10th April – Martin Logan ESL 13A Install & Exciting Trade-Ins

Thursday saw us back on the road, this time heading to York to install a pair of Martin Logan Expression ESL 13A speakers (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/martin-logan-expression-esl-13a-speakers). These full-range electrostatic speakers deliver an astonishingly detailed and lifelike sound, and we always love setting them up.

As part of the installation, we'll also take in a Pass Labs INT25 and a Sugden Masterclass LA-4 in part exchange. If you’re interested in either of these before they go online, get in touch!

Friday 11th April – PMC Prophecy 5 Demo

We wrap up the week with another in-store demonstration, this time featuring the PMC Prophecy 5 speakers (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/pmc-prophecy5-speakers). To get the most out of them, we paired them with a Chord Ultima Integrated amplifier, Hugo TT2 DAC, and the Innuos Zen NG streamer (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/innuos-zen-ng-music-server).

The Prophecy 5 has been generating a lot of excitement since its launch, and hearing it in action confirms why! Contact us to hear them yourself....

That’s a Wrap!

If anything from this week’s blog has caught your attention, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Call us at 01482 223096
Email us at shop@fanthorpes.co.uk (mailto:shop@fanthorpes.co.uk)

Until next week—happy listening!

Services We Offer


Trade-Ins
Thinking about upgrading your HiFi? We love to trade in! Get in touch, and we'll let you know what your existing equipment is worth as part of a trade-in deal.

Finance Options
We offer buy now, pay later on orders over £400, allowing you to spread or defer payments over a year.

Nationwide Delivery & Installation
When you purchase from us, we provide a nationwide delivery and installation service within mainland UK. Our expert installer will bring your new HiFi directly to your home and set it up for you.

fanthorpes HiFi
25-04-2025, 09:30
A Week in the Life at Fanthorpes HiFi – PS Audio Power, Monitor Audio Showdowns & Danish Adventures

Welcome back to another behind-the-scenes look at what we're planning up to at Fanthorpes HiFi. Next week looks crammed full of thrilling in-store demos, international visits, and some seriously impressive systems. Here’s how it all looks set to unfold…

Monday 28th April – PS Audio Aspen FR30 + Full Chord Ultima System

We kick off the week in serious style with a customer demo of the stunning PS Audio Aspen FR30 speakers (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/ps-audio-aspen-fr30-speakers). These are some of the most impressive floorstanders available today, and to do them justice, we paired them with a full Chord Electronics Ultima setup.

On duty were the Ultima 3 Mono Amplifiers (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/chord-ultima-3-mono-power-amplifier), Ultima Pre 3 Preamp (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/chord-ultima-pre-3-pre-amplifier), Chord DAVE DAC (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/chord-dave-dac), and Innuos ZEN NG Streamer (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/innuos-zen-ng-music-server)—an all-star system. A great way to begin the week.

Tuesday 29th April – Speaker Comparison: Monitor Audio, PS Audio & Audio Physic

Tuesday brings another in-store speaker demo, this time for a customer looking to narrow down between three outstanding standmount speakers: Monitor Audio Platinum 100 Mk3 (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/monitor-audio-platinum-100-3g-speakers), PS Audio FR5 (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/ps-audio-aspen-fr5-speakers), and Audio Physic Spark (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/audio-physic-spark-speakers).

With their existing Bryston electronics forming the backbone of the system, we'll have a Bryston pre/power system ready to go.

Wednesday 30th April – Off to Denmark!

Midweek, Marc headed out to Aalborg in Denmark to visit Audio Group Denmark. These trips are all about staying up to date with the latest innovations and products from some of the finest HiFi brands in the world. We’ll be sure to share more about what we learned (and heard) very soon!

Thursday 1st May – Arcam A5 vs Audiolab 6000A

Back in the demo room on Thursday, we put two integrated amps up against each other: the Arcam A5 (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/arcam-a5-amplifier) and the new Audiolab 6000A MK2 (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/audiolab-6000a-mk2-amplifier).

To keep things honest, we used the same supporting gear throughout, including a WiiM Ultra streamer (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/wiim-ultra-music-streamer) and DALI Opticon 6 MK2 speakers (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/dali-opticon-6-mk2-speakers). This looks set to be a great comparison of two budget-conscious integrated amps with very different sonic signatures. It’s amazing how far great sound can go at this price point!

Friday 2nd May – Floorstander Face-Off: DALI vs PMC

We wrapped up the week with a speaker shootout between the DALI Opticon 6 MK2 and the PMC Prodigy 5 (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/pmc-prodigy5-speakers).

Both are compact floorstanders that punch well above their weight, but with very different approaches to sound delivery. The PMC Prodigy 5 brought that classic PMC speed and transparency, while the DALI offered warmth and musicality with plenty of punch. A fantastic way to end the week!

That’s a Wrap!

From monster high-end setups to affordable amp battles and everything in between, next week looks set to be a blast. Whether you're looking for guidance on your next upgrade or just fancy a listen to some of the best gear in the industry, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

If anything from this week’s blog has caught your attention, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Call us at 01482 223096
Email us at shop@fanthorpes.co.uk (mailto:shop@fanthorpes.co.uk)

Until next week—happy listening!

Services We Offer


Trade-Ins
Thinking about upgrading your HiFi? We love to trade in! Get in touch, and we'll let you know what your existing equipment is worth as part of a trade-in deal.
Finance Options
We offer buy now, pay later on orders over £400, allowing you to spread or defer payments over a year.
Nationwide Delivery & Installation
When you purchase from us, we provide a nationwide delivery and installation service within mainland UK. Our expert installer will bring your new HiFi directly to your home and set it up for you.

fanthorpes HiFi
02-05-2025, 10:21
A Week in the Life at Fanthorpes HiFi – Preamp Perfection, ESL Installations & CD Player Deliveries

Welcome back to another behind-the-scenes look at life here at Fanthorpes HiFi! As we look ahead to next week we’ve got a mix of in-store demonstrations and road trips to install high-end gear. Let’s dive into what’s coming up…

Tuesday 6th May – Chord Ultima Pre 3 Demo & DALI Visit

We kick off the week with a superb in-store demonstration of the Chord Electronics Ultima Pre 3 preamplifier (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/chord-ultima-pre-3-pre-amplifier). It’s a piece of kit that never fails to impress — both visually and sonically. Our customer has the chance to experience it in all its glory, partnered with the powerful Chord Ultima 3 mono power amplifiers (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/chord-ultima-3-mono-power-amplifier) and PMC Fact 12 Signature loudspeakers (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/pmc-fact-12-signature-speakers).

The synergy between these components is something truly special. The Pre 3’s detailed sound and dynamic control brought out the best from the PMCs, sure to make it an unforgettable listening session.

Later in the afternoon, we had a visit from our friends at DALI (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/brands-en/dali-speakers-en). They stopped by to share all the latest updates from both DALI and Lyngdorf (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/brands-en/lyngdorf). If you’re a fan of either brand — or just curious — feel free to reach out and we’ll fill you in!

Wednesday 7th May – Musical Fidelity M8Xi Installation

Midweek takes us out for a local installation of the Musical Fidelity M8Xi integrated amplifier (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/musical-fidelity-m8xi-amplifier). This is a serious bit of kit — sheer muscle with delicacy and refinement to match.

Thursday 8th May – Martin Logan ESL X Delivery to Wiltshire

On Thursday, we hit the road for a drive down to Perton, Wiltshire, delivering and installing a pair of Martin Logan Electromotion ESL X speakers (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/martin-logan-electromotion-esl-x-speakers).

These electrostatic speakers are something else. Their open, airy soundstage and lifelike detail make them a joy to listen to — and to install! Whether you’re down the road or across the country, we’re proud to offer a nationwide delivery and installation service for all of our customers. If you’ve been eyeing a new set of speakers, let us know — we’ll come to you.

Friday 9th May – Luxman CD Player in Sleaford

To finish the week, we head out to Sleaford in Lincolnshire to deliver and set up a Luxman D-03X CD player (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/luxman-d-03x-cd-player). This unit is a real gem — beautifully built and capable of coaxing the very best from your CD collection. Now available for £2999, it represents remarkable value in high-end digital audio.

That’s a Wrap!

From state-of-the-art preamps to timeless CD players and everything in between, next week looks packed with premium HiFi moments. Whether you're after a system upgrade, curious about the latest releases, or looking to arrange a demo or home install, the team at Fanthorpes HiFi is always here to help.

Got questions? Interested in anything you’ve read about? Give us a call on 01482 223096 or email shop@fanthorpes.co.uk — we’d love to hear from you.

Until next week, happy listening!

Services We Offer

Trade-Ins
Thinking about upgrading your HiFi? We love to trade in! Get in touch, and we'll let you know what your existing equipment is worth as part of a trade-in deal.

Finance Options
We offer buy now, pay later on orders over £400, allowing you to spread or defer payments over a year.

Nationwide Delivery & Installation
When you purchase from us, we provide a nationwide delivery and installation service within mainland UK. Our expert installer will bring your new HiFi directly to your home and set it up for you.

hifinutt
02-05-2025, 11:13
A Week in the Life at Fanthorpes HiFi – PS Audio Power, Monitor Audio Showdowns & Danish Adventures

Welcome back to another behind-the-scenes look at what we're planning up to at Fanthorpes HiFi. Next week looks crammed full of thrilling in-store demos, international visits, and some seriously impressive systems. Here’s how it all looks set to unfold…

Monday 28th April – PS Audio Aspen FR30 + Full Chord Ultima System

We kick off the week in serious style with a customer demo of the stunning PS Audio Aspen FR30 speakers (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/ps-audio-aspen-fr30-speakers). These are some of the most impressive floorstanders available today, and to do them justice, we paired them with a full Chord Electronics Ultima setup.

On duty were the Ultima 3 Mono Amplifiers (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/chord-ultima-3-mono-power-amplifier), Ultima Pre 3 Preamp (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/chord-ultima-pre-3-pre-amplifier), Chord DAVE DAC (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/chord-dave-dac), and Innuos ZEN NG Streamer (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/innuos-zen-ng-music-server)—an all-star system. A great way to begin the week.

Tuesday 29th April – Speaker Comparison: Monitor Audio, PS Audio & Audio Physic

Tuesday brings another in-store speaker demo, this time for a customer looking to narrow down between three outstanding standmount speakers: Monitor Audio Platinum 100 Mk3 (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/monitor-audio-platinum-100-3g-speakers), PS Audio FR5 (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/ps-audio-aspen-fr5-speakers), and Audio Physic Spark (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/audio-physic-spark-speakers).

With their existing Bryston electronics forming the backbone of the system, we'll have a Bryston pre/power system ready to go.

Wednesday 30th April – Off to Denmark!

Midweek, Marc headed out to Aalborg in Denmark to visit Audio Group Denmark. These trips are all about staying up to date with the latest innovations and products from some of the finest HiFi brands in the world. We’ll be sure to share more about what we learned (and heard) very soon!

Thursday 1st May – Arcam A5 vs Audiolab 6000A

Back in the demo room on Thursday, we put two integrated amps up against each other: the Arcam A5 (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/arcam-a5-amplifier) and the new Audiolab 6000A MK2 (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/audiolab-6000a-mk2-amplifier).

To keep things honest, we used the same supporting gear throughout, including a WiiM Ultra streamer (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/wiim-ultra-music-streamer) and DALI Opticon 6 MK2 speakers (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/dali-opticon-6-mk2-speakers). This looks set to be a great comparison of two budget-conscious integrated amps with very different sonic signatures. It’s amazing how far great sound can go at this price point!

Friday 2nd May – Floorstander Face-Off: DALI vs PMC

We wrapped up the week with a speaker shootout between the DALI Opticon 6 MK2 and the PMC Prodigy 5 (https://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/pmc-prodigy5-speakers).

Both are compact floorstanders that punch well above their weight, but with very different approaches to sound delivery. The PMC Prodigy 5 brought that classic PMC speed and transparency, while the DALI offered warmth and musicality with plenty of punch. A fantastic way to end the week!

That’s a Wrap!

From monster high-end setups to affordable amp battles and everything in between, next week looks set to be a blast. Whether you're looking for guidance on your next upgrade or just fancy a listen to some of the best gear in the industry, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

If anything from this week’s blog has caught your attention, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Call us at 01482 223096
Email us at shop@fanthorpes.co.uk (mailto:shop@fanthorpes.co.uk)

Until next week—happy listening!

Services We Offer


Trade-Ins
Thinking about upgrading your HiFi? We love to trade in! Get in touch, and we'll let you know what your existing equipment is worth as part of a trade-in deal.
Finance Options
We offer buy now, pay later on orders over £400, allowing you to spread or defer payments over a year.
Nationwide Delivery & Installation
When you purchase from us, we provide a nationwide delivery and installation service within mainland UK. Our expert installer will bring your new HiFi directly to your home and set it up for you.


how did it go with the shootout between arcam and audiolab ?