Nestled in the beautiful English countryside of the Peak District and named after its location, PMC dealer Peak HiFi has been operating since 2004. Founded by Shaun Daniels, the history of how and why the company started explains why they are not your average Hi-Fi shop. As managing director of a large-scale engineering company – Shaun had four divisions under his command, including a precision engineering facility.
Shaun’s extensive business experience and love of all things Garrard led to the set-up of a website to sell second-hand turntables and other Hi-Fi equipment. Utilising his engineering skills, he began designing and manufacturing ‘proper’ plinths for the Garrard decks, later sold to other enthusiasts. This was quickly followed by the supply of tonearms and cartridges leading to the decision in 2014 to leave engineering and go full time into retailing with his wife, Julie. Today, they manufacture SMD Acoustics turntables alongside their Peak Hi-Fi retail business.
Growing up in the 70s & 80s provided the perfect opportunity to experience so many styles of music. His parent’s and grandparent’s radiograms often belted out the likes of Frank Sinatra, The Beatles and Tamla Motown. While with his school friends they shared vinyl such as Led Zeppelin, David Bowie, ELO, AC/DC, The Stranglers, The Clash and after leaving school the 80s witnessed the rise of Michael Jackson and the New Romantics such as Human League, Ultravox etc. Today he is still experiencing new musical genres through work and family life, his kids have even got him into the Arctic Monkeys!
Music was his first love, Shaun played guitar in a rock band that gigged and recorded for many years but never quite ‘made it’. It was this experience that guided him towards PMC loudspeakers explaining – “I know what sounds more faithful”. Today the fact.8 is Shaun’s speaker of choice, regularly using them to demonstrate other equipment.
Outside of Hi-Fi, road cycling in the Peak District and photography are Shaun’s biggest passions. Both are done with the same enthusiasm and dedication the business receives, with his recent street/architecture photography winning a Leica Society competition. And of course, once a rocker, always a rocker – the guitar collection keeps on growing with the addition of vintage Gibson, Fender and Martin guitars.
Peak HiFi’s customers visit the store for pieces they can’t get from anywhere else. Shaun says they encourage anyone who has an interest to get in touch and come along. Offering a relaxed environment to chat over a coffee about all things music and offer support and recommendation about your Hi-Fi needs. “We’re very flexible on time, it’ll take as long as necessary and we’re not interested in box shifting – it’s about the right kit, not the deal.”
If you are in the Peaks look up Peak HiFi – click here for contact details
