Whether you’re looking to vibe out to a pristine mix on a custom-built sound system or discover rare grooves, Toronto’s hi-fi bars blend sound, style, and atmosphere to create the perfect listening haven. Let’s dive into six standout spots where vinyl enthusiasts can get their fix of high-quality sound and music culture.

• Location: 1756 Dundas St W, Little Portugal
• Features: Vinyl-only playlists, custom horn-based sound system, and a diverse menu
• Atmosphere: Mid-century modern meets audiophile heaven

Sounds Good on Dundas West is a sanctuary for those who crave impeccable sound quality and a relaxed, retro vibe. Dreamt up by DJ and audiophile Dylan McArthur in 2020, this bar was built around an early American horn-based sound system powered by full amps, designed to deliver an audio experience unlike any other in Toronto. Upstairs, the mid-century modern decor features seafoam green cushions, walnut booths, and a ’70s-style walnut bar, creating a sleek yet cozy atmosphere. Meanwhile, the downstairs area transforms into a minimalist party space for up to 120 guests, complete with festival-grade speakers and colored strip lighting.

The focus here is sound, and the vinyl-only playlists spin everything from deep house to jazz, all while chef Carson Corbeil (formerly of Alo) crafts a menu of high-low snacks that match the eclectic vibe. Whether you’re grabbing a bite or vibing to the beats in the downstairs listening room, Sounds Good offers an immersive experience that’s as much about the music as it is about the setting​

• Location: 418 College St, College Street
• Features: Cozy atmosphere, curated sound system, vinyl DJ sets
• Atmosphere: Low-key, neighborhood charm with a sound that packs a punch

Nestled on College Street, The Little Jerry is Toronto’s first vinyl-only listening bar, inspired by Japanese jazz kissas. Launched in late 2019 by co-owners Jodie Dewald and Saad Qaatan, this cozy wine bar is an audiophile’s paradise, boasting a rare set of Klipschorn speakers and modified Technics turntables. Dewald and Qaatan meticulously curated the sound system, fine-tuning it over the pandemic to deliver a pristine, conversation-friendly listening experience that showcases everything from obscure ’80s Japanese pop to deep American disco-funk cuts​

While the sound system is the star, the wine and vermouth selection is equally well-crafted, making The Little Jerry a go-to spot for both music lovers and wine aficionados. Guest DJs regularly spin vinyl, bringing an eclectic mix of genres, while the vinyl collection itself is curated by the staff—passionate record collectors who eschew algorithms for true musical exploration. It’s a neighborhood bar with a serious love for sound, perfect for those who appreciate both cozy vibes and high-end audio​.

• Location: 619 King St W, King West
• Features: Multi-level bar, ’80s–2000s vinyl, custom-built sound system
• Atmosphere: Sleek, upscale, and built for sound purists

Toronto’s Kissa, a vinyl-only cocktail lounge and listening bar, opened its doors on July 12, 2023, at 619 King St W. Created by hospitality veterans Dan Gunam and Vito Tomasicchio, the Japanese-inspired space draws heavily from the concept of kissaten—20th-century Japanese tea houses—and fuses it with King West’s nightlife energy. The main floor features plush velvet interiors, infinity mirrors, and an impressive custom sound system blending vintage JBL speakers with modern Bryston amps. Gunam’s passion for music is clear, with over 2,500 vinyl records—no track newer than 2015—powering the old-school soundscape​.

Upstairs, the vibe shifts to a more energetic lounge complete with a second DJ booth, a karaoke room, and padded banquettes, channeling the wild charm of Studio 54. Guests can sip on inventive cocktails named after iconic albums, designed by mixology director Blake Canning. Whether for a pre-dinner drink or a nightcap after belting out karaoke hits, Kissa offers a multi-sensory experience, mixing swanky design, a vintage-inspired soundtrack, and an upscale yet nostalgic atmosphere​.

• Location: 15 Dupont St, Dovercourt Village
• Features: Japanese-inspired decor, guest vinyl sessions, Sunday listening parties
• Atmosphere: Chill, welcoming, and made for audiophiles

Hidden in plain sight on Dupont Street, 915 Dupont is where audiophiles and vinyl junkies come to worship sound. By day, vintage Altec 19 and JBL L100 Mk1 speakers, powered by Sansui 717, Sansui 317, and Marantz 1530 amps from the ’70s and ’80s, create a warm, nostalgic vibe. But when night falls, the serious gear comes out. A custom 4-way stack system steps in, with McIntosh MC275 amps driving the Altec 803B horns and Fostex T90A tweeters, while the McIntosh MC452 handles the mid/low bands, and a Yamaha PX5 powers the sub, delivering crystal-clear highs and deep, rich bass without distortion.

The space feels like a ‘70s living room reimagined, complete with sunken tiki hut vibes. Sunday vinyl sessions let you bring your own records to spin on this world-class system. It’s the kind of place where music is savored, ideal for those who want every detail of analog sound to hit just right.

• Location: 165 Geary Ave, Geary Avenue
• Features: Vinyl-only DJ sets, rotating pop-up kitchens, art installations
• Atmosphere: Nordic minimalism meets warehouse chic

At Standard Time, food and music go hand in hand. The spot’s killer sound system, featuring Joseph Crowe speakers, is paired with a rotating roster of pop-up kitchens that keep the dining as dynamic as the playlists. Currently, SeeYouSoon is dishing out Asian-inspired avant-garde comfort food, and the kitchen has previously hosted culinary names like Uncle Mikey’s and Jamil’s Chaat House. With vinyl-only DJ sets spanning all genres and temporary art installations, Standard Time is where creative expression in food, music, and design meet for a truly immersive experience.

The space itself is a striking mix of Nordic minimalism and Geary Avenue’s industrial charm. Half dance bar, half full-service restaurant, the room balances a laid-back vibe with a serious edge. Art installations like Fang Design Studio’s temporary hanging paper piece add an evolving artistic element to the space, while the dining area remains distinct but connected to the dance floor. With its transient design elements and ever-changing lineup, Standard Time is all about living in the moment, embracing the ephemeral magic it offers every time you visit.

• Location: 1188 Queen St W, West Queen West
• Features: Vinyl and digital DJ sets, craft cocktails, charcuterie boards
• Atmosphere: Laid-back, social hangout with a focus on sound

Located at Queen Street West and Gladstone, Boogie is all about the audio experience. Inspired by global listening bars, it’s a go-to for locals and audiophiles alike, offering curated music sets on both vinyl and digital platforms. The bar features a robust drink menu, from craft cocktails to mocktails, plus a small selection of beer and wine. Hungry? Grab a charcuterie board or other shareable plates to go with the tunes. With its casual yet music-centric vibe, Boogie delivers an immersive experience where the drinks are stiff, the food is fresh, and the music is always on.

The Toronto Audiofest is coming!

But wait, there’s more! In less than a month, the Toronto Audiofest is coming, and for audiophiles, it’s the must-attend event of the year. From October 18-20, 2024, the festival will gather the best in high-fidelity gear, including turntables, speakers, and much more. Whether you’re upgrading your setup or just want to dive into the latest audio innovations, this is the ultimate spot for sound enthusiasts.

And don’t forget EARVANA, part of the Toronto Audiofest and Canada’s only event dedicated to headphones. Spanning 8,000 square feet, it’s packed with the latest personal audio tech from top brands. For Toronto’s sound lovers, it’s a hi-fi haven you simply can’t afford to miss!