British audio pioneer Cambridge Audio is making waves yet again by launching Mic Check, a new video series in collaboration with renowned independent music retailer Rough Trade. Set within the iconic Rough Trade stores, Mic Check promises to bring viewers intimate and entertaining interviews with a variety of talented artists and bands, right before they take the stage for their in-store performances. This move further strengthens Cambridge Audio’s position as not just an audio company but a true supporter of the music industry, committed to emotionally connecting listeners with the music they love.
A Unique Experience: Behind-the-Scenes with Artists
The Mic Check series goes beyond just the music. It offers a rare glimpse into the personal lives and musical inspirations of the artists. Set against the dynamic backdrop of Rough Trade’s stores, the episodes feature candid conversations about the bands’ musical tastes, their favorite records, and occasionally quirky topics like dinosaur parks and 80s Miami nostalgia. By taking a more personal and informal approach, Mic Check aims to create an authentic connection between the artists and their fans.
Episodes that Engage: Nilüfer Yanya and Los Bitchos Kick Off the Series
The first two episodes showcase British singer-songwriter Nilüfer Yanya and the all-female instrumental quartet Los Bitchos. Known for her genre-defying sound, Yanya dives deep into her creative influences and shares the records that have shaped her journey. Los Bitchos, on the other hand, bring their lively personalities to the forefront, offering viewers a lighthearted and engaging interview that perfectly reflects their eclectic sound.
With such an exciting start, the series is poised to become a hit among music lovers, who not only get to know these artists on a deeper level but also gain access to unique behind-the-scenes moments that aren’t typically shared in traditional media formats.
Cambridge Audio’s Partnership with Rough Trade: A Match Made in Musical Heaven
Since May 2024, Cambridge Audio has been the official audio partner for Rough Trade stores in key locations including London (both East and West), Bristol, Liverpool, and Berlin. This partnership has resulted in a seamless fusion of high-quality sound with the vibrant, music-first ethos of Rough Trade. Cambridge Audio’s presence in these iconic music hubs is not just about providing audio equipment but creating immersive listening experiences that enhance how fans experience their favorite songs.
Alva ST Turntables & Alva Duo Preamps: The Heart of Rough Trade’s Listening Stations
A significant highlight of the Cambridge-Rough Trade partnership is the exclusive use of Cambridge Audio’s Alva ST turntables and Alva Duo phono preamps in Rough Trade’s listening stations. These turntables offer visitors the perfect setup to experience vinyl records in their full analog glory. Cambridge Audio’s precision engineering ensures that every track played feels like a personal concert, perfectly in tune with Rough Trade’s dedication to delivering authentic music experiences.
Cambridge Audio: More Than Just an Audio Company
While Cambridge Audio is widely recognized for its technical expertise, the company’s passion for music sets it apart from its competitors. Following the success of their Made By Music podcast in 2023, which delved into the stories behind iconic songs and artists, the launch of Mic Check further solidifies Cambridge Audio’s status as a true music advocate.
Mic Check is more than a promotional tool; it’s a testament to Cambridge Audio’s deep-rooted connection to music. From its London-based music venue and HQ, Melomania, the brand continues to design, tune, and engineer its products with one goal in mind: to connect listeners emotionally to the songs they love.
Expanding the Portfolio: New Products and Exciting Collaborations in 2024
2024 has been a monumental year for Cambridge Audio, with the release of seven new products that push the boundaries of innovation in audio technology. Among the most notable additions are their first-ever over-ear headphones, offering superior sound quality and comfort, and their first wireless streaming speaker, designed to fill any room with Cambridge’s signature crystal-clear sound.
But Cambridge Audio hasn’t stopped there. The brand has embarked on exciting collaborations, including a partnership with DeLorean, the iconic automobile brand, as well as creative ventures with Tim Burgess, frontman of The Charlatans, and Hikerdelic, a fashion brand. These collaborations highlight Cambridge Audio’s versatile appeal, merging cutting-edge audio with cultural icons in music, automotive, and fashion.
Where to Watch: Catch All Episodes of Mic Check on YouTube
Fans can watch all episodes of Mic Check on Cambridge Audio’s YouTube channel, where new episodes will be released regularly. With exclusive interviews and performances, this series is set to become a must-watch for anyone passionate about music, from audiophiles to casual listeners.
Each episode promises to bring something new and unexpected, whether it’s an in-depth discussion about an artist’s creative process or lighthearted moments of humor. By bringing artists into the intimate space of Rough Trade, Cambridge Audio and Rough Trade continue to foster a deeper connection between musicians and their fans.
Cambridge Audio’s Commitment to Music and Innovation
Cambridge Audio is no ordinary audio company. With a legacy spanning decades, the brand has consistently pushed the boundaries of sound, combining expert engineering with a genuine love for music. Every product in their portfolio is crafted to deliver an unparalleled listening experience, whether you’re streaming the latest hits, rediscovering a vinyl classic, or tuning into an exclusive Rough Trade session.
As they continue to launch innovative products and collaborate with industry leaders, Cambridge Audio reaffirms its dedication to bringing music to life for its global audience.
Conclusion: A Future Full of Music and Innovation
Cambridge Audio’s Mic Check series is yet another example of how the company is bridging the gap between technology and the art of music. Their collaborations with Rough Trade and notable artists demonstrate that Cambridge Audio isn’t just about creating products—it’s about cultivating experiences that resonate with people on an emotional level.
As the Mic Check series grows, fans can expect more exciting episodes, featuring a diverse lineup of artists, all delivered through Cambridge Audio’s exceptional sound technology. Whether you’re an audiophile or a casual music lover, the combination of Cambridge Audio’s engineering prowess and Rough Trade’s indie spirit promises to deliver something truly special.