Today we’d like to introduce you to Jack Steiner.
Jack, please walk us through your story. How did you get to where you are today?
While many know Merchants on Broad for its curated Memphis-themed gifts and local art, the back of the shop holds the true soul of my latest venture: Steiner Audio. My journey started with a deep appreciation for mid-century design and a frustration that so many beautiful cabinets were being gutted or left to rot. I didn’t want to just ‘fix’ them; I wanted to reimagine them.
Today, Steiner Audio specializes in taking iconic consoles—the kind your grandparents owned—and completely modernizing the internal architecture. We’ve moved past simple Bluetooth hacks. We’re building high-fidelity systems with integrated WiiM streaming, HDMI ARC audio for TV connectivity, and brand-new Audio Technica turntables, all housed within perfectly restored vintage wood.
Has it been a smooth road? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It’s definitely been a learning process. The ‘smooth road’ in this industry is often just taking the easy way out—like slapping a cheap speaker inside an old box. The struggle, and the reward, has been in the technical precision. Sourcing original parts for a Magnavox or Motorola while simultaneously engineering a way to fit modern, high-res components without compromising the aesthetic is a delicate balance.
Navigating the transition from a general retail space to a specialized audio workshop required a shift in focus. However, specializing in high-quality, tactile products has allowed us to connect with a community that values longevity over disposable tech.
What do you specialize in, what are you most proud of, and what sets you apart from others?
I specialize in the restoration and modernization of mid-century modern stereo consoles. What sets Steiner Audio apart is our refusal to settle for ‘good enough’ audio. While most ‘restored’ consoles rely on outdated Bluetooth, we prioritize high-res streaming and HDMI ARC—meaning your 1960s console can now be the primary soundbar for your 4K television.
I am most proud of the fact that we are saving these pieces of history (like Zenith, Grundig, and Telefunken units) and making them relevant for the next fifty years. We aren’t just selling furniture; we’re selling a modernized HiFi experience that honors the craftsmanship of the past.
What matters most to you? Why?
Authenticity and the ‘soul’ of the listening experience. In a world of plastic smart speakers, there is something irreplaceable about the warmth of a vintage cabinet and the ritual of putting a needle on a record. Providing that connection to the past, while ensuring the technology works flawlessly with a modern lifestyle, is what drives Steiner Audio.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.steineraudio.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/merchants_on_broad
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17987yh3mW/
