Rives
When did you last dine in London? While true that the French and Indian foods are good, many critics now think the food is better than New York and/or Paris across a variety of cuisines. I think that is a bit of a stretch but it is very good in the last few years -- even British. (Just don't forget your Amex black card?!?!?!)
Jond -- depends on your musical taste. The Royal Albert Hall is a wonderful, historic venue -- check the program.
Near Bar Italia in Soho mentioned above, try Berwick and surrounding streets for music and vinyl. You will find more dancey trancey MDMA and Red Bull music but can be fun. Just around the corner from the Bar Italia there is a bar that usually has live music at nights and weekends.
Don't know if you listen to LOUD but Brixton Academy is a legendary historic venue for head banging. Saw Henry Rollins there once which was terrific.
There is a tiny blues bar off Oxford Street near the Liberty store called "Aint Nothin but the Blues" which depending on the night can be excellent. Highly recommended.
The hi fi retailing scene is pretty sad, despite the number of quirky British manufacturers.
Outside of London you might find some shops selling
mini monitors and Naim amplifiers, Linn etc but nothing to knock your socks off, at least by NYC standards.
In London, Tottenham Court Road is electronics central. You can pick up the English hifi magazines at any newsagent for more ideas.
Good luck.
