Carlson Audio Systems

Awesome, attentive, on par.
As you can probably see, I’ve had a rocky past with carlson, simply due to an «out of office» notice. They’ve since very much remedied that, and more.
They encouraged me to come back and try them again, so i did! a few times.
Every visit was very helpful and above expectations.
Nic was very helpful in explaining what i was renting and teaching me how to use it if needed. He and I also spend time talking about other audio/​tech stuff and he’s super helpful!
Thanks guys for being awesome.

I had last minute audio needs for an event at SXSW in Austin, TX (check out #uberlive with Chase Jarvis on
) and Nic in the rental office pulled through for me in every way. He suggested great gear for my budget (try the Mackie DL1608 for your next gig), communicated quickly and effectively, offered as many options as I asked for, and was super flexible in shipping everything to me. All of the equipment was in great condition, packaged cleanly and ready to use. Five stars, two thumbs up, and a cyber high five! THANK YOU!

Best in the Northwest! These guys know sound. And nothing too small; very helpful with little rental items up to full production concerts!

I was webcasting a sports event, for which others hired Carlson to provide audio for opening/​closing ceremonies. About a week before the event, I emailed them to see if I could get an audio feed so that I could also webcast the opening/​closing. Not only did they say yes, they provided all the necessary equipment at no additional charge. Wireless receiver (since my webcast booth was 100 feet from the podium microphone), cables, etc. The on-​site technician was easy to work with and ensured that I was happy. Overall, my experience with Carlson was excellent. I may not have been the one to hire them in the first place, but I would certainly hire them in the future.

I’ve rented equipment from them a few times when I have needed audio reinforcement for an event. Their equipment is new/​well cared for, and they have always been helpful with recomendations and solutions.

Had a perfectly fine experience with Carlson, I purchased something from their eBay store, asked them if I could pick up the purchase from HQ, and was obliged. The item was in good enough shape for the price, the employees were friendly and helpful, and as per the poor reviews I asked about getting an item I own repaired and was informed by the employee that they had shut down their repair shop.

I looked up Carlson Audio before I went there, and decided to take a vocal processor to them for repair based on their website, stats, etc. with high hopes of a professional quality repair and quick turn around. What I received was so far from that, and was so hopelessly messed up, that I am writing my second review ever, to warn people.
I took in my TC-​Helicon Vocal Live 2 processor for repair in August of 2011. At the time I sent it in, I explained that it had a intermittent display problem, but if left plugged in for a few minutes it would show up. After a month, they contacted me and said it was fixed. I went and picked it up, took it home and plugged it in. Same problem as when I gave it to them… I called and explained, and asked what they did. They said they actually didn’t find anything when they turned it on, so they cleaned it up and called me. I asked how long they ran it and got a long pause. I reminded them of my original notes. they said they would get back on it and get it right this time… Cost? $ 85.00
After after another month, they contacted me and said the problem was actually the main board and that it would need to be ordered and replaced. I OK’d it. After two more months (Now December 2011) they said it was ready. I picked it up, took it home and Viola! Same problem… (display quits after a few minutes). I called and explained and asked how long they tested it. Another long pause… Cost? $ 185.00
I sent it back in… A month and a half later (now January 2012) they said it was the small external power supply (wall wart). I told them to get it ASAP. 2 weeks later I emailed asking for status, and was told «it has been shipped, and should bee here any minute». 2 more weeks later (now end of February) I emailed again asking for status, and was told that it was actually never ordered, and that they had ordered a non factory unit from another place, but it was the wrong one and the plug was «loose».
I was a bit incredulous at this point since I had been borrowing another unit from a friend and had to pick it up and drop it off twice a week since originally sending this in, as my friend gigs during the day during the week and we play/​practice on weekends, so as you might imagine I was quite anxious at this
point. I said, get it here and quick so I can start using this dang thing.
I emailed asking for status 2 weeks later I got notice that the wall wart was in and it was ready. Cost? $ 42.00 for the wall wart (yes a tiny little plug in unit) and $ 90.00 for shipping (yes for a tiny thing that weighs a few ounces) Cost? $ 145.00
Total Cost: $ 415.00 (The device retails new for $ 750.00
Matt (the guy I worked with) knew that this whole affair was so completely, hopelessly, hosed up. Carlson didn’t do anything though to make me whole. Not themselves or even sticking up for me with the manufacturer. In the end, they were very unprofessional, and I was compelled to tell this story as a warning to anyone that might consider taking something to them for repair.