Many quality audio retailers have come and gone from the Rochester region. Going back to the early days names like Jake Ouriel of Hudson Ave. in Irondequoit carried reknowned tube gear including the famous Marantz models 7,8, and 9. Dynaco, HH Scott and several others to name a few.
Also in Irondequoit Dave and Judy Craig ran Craig Audio Lab and catered extensively to the members of the Rochester Philhamonic orchestra. I was working at Lafayette down the street at the time and would often stop there on my way home to see what was new. They would send me people on a regular basis who were looking for less expensive equipment than what they carried. They specialized in McIntosh, Bose, Advent, Thorens, Stereotech ( a working man's McIntosh), Bozak, Revox tape recorders and other brands.
Across town Bob Hyatt was a household name and had a reputation as the "goto" guy for the majority of mainstream audio gear. He also gave many other dealers their start as a wholesale supplier. He still operates a video rental store in East Rochester today. A huge Pioneer dealer, he carried virtually everything else available in the day. EPI (Epicure) speakers, Burhoe Acoustics, and Dual turntables were some of his major lines. I went there when I was 18 and bought a Soundcraftsmen equalizer. Interestingly enough, I always got a huge discount even though fair trade laws were in effect at the time.
DLK was in Henrietta. David L. Kendig modeled the store after Lafayettes where he also got his start. He carried numerous mid-line products and had a line of private label speakers bearing his stores name. He later went on to open The Speaker Place in Henrietta, as a replacement part and diy kit center. This later migrated into a primarily automotive stereo source,and is still run today by his son, also named Dave.
Rochester Radio Supply downtown started in the '60s. Audio was a small part of their business, but they did have a small sound room crammed full of huge Altec and Electrovoice speakers. A large outlet for technicians and hobbyists, they had several floors and electronics galore.
Maynard's Sound World was on State St. next to Maynard's Electric and was absolutely huge! I remember hearing Klipschorns there for the first time at ear splitting levels. They specialized in home multi track recording for the home studio enthusiasts with the Tascam line. They also carried Teac, JVC, Micro Acoustics, Philips and several other lines.
I worked for Dave Craig, Craig Audio from 1970 to 1973 doing repairs and installs. It was a lot of fun! We sold a Sherwood receiver, Garrard turntable and small Advent bookshelf speakers for 400$. Dave gave a year or more of free service, he lost $$ on many sales.
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