High-End Audio / Audiophile & Music Industry News

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02 / 01 / 26

Feb 2026 High-End Audio Reviews — Gryphon Antileon & Furutech Premieres
World-premiere gear, FIAE show report, and 30 years of audiophile insight.
The February 2026 issue of Enjoy the Music.com is a celebration of music and romance! We feature a wide mix of premiere high-end audio equipment reviews, the FIAE 2026 show preview, and editorial pieces on audiophile culture — key highlights include the North America Premiere review of Gryphon's Antileon Revelation amplifier and a world premiere review of Furutech's GTO-D3 NCF Power Distributor + Origin Power Cord. The issue is dated February 2026 as we celebrate romantic music as a lasting gift and the importance of bringing new listeners into the hobby, with features on how luxury home audio shows (FIAE, Montreal Audiofest, etc) are rediscovering the joy of attentive listening. These thematic pieces set a cultural and community context for the technical reviews that follow. This issue's mix of long-form reviews, editorials, and show reporting makes it useful both as a buyer's reference and as a cultural snapshot of the high-end audiophile scene in early 2026. Happy Valentine's Day music lovers, and as always... enjoy the music!
---> Feb 2026 High-End Audio Reviews — Gryphon Antileon & Furutech Premieres Plus FIAE 2026 Show Coverage.

Giving The Gift Of Music On Valentine's Day
Roses only last a week, romantic music lasts a lifetime.
Editorial By Roger Skoff
It's coming; Valentine's Day on February 14th, and this year should be something extra special!  Sharing your life and love as you warmly show how you feel about her. And while a simple bunch of roses is acceptable— at least where I live — they run close to a hundred bucks! Sure, they're lovely, and they do check the "romantic gesture" box, but, unlike a romantic relationship, flowers, they just don't last. They start drooping in just a day or two. In just a few days more, they're looking tired, and before a week is up, they're ready for the trash. It's a lot of money to pay for something that isn't going to last a whole lot longer than it takes for your tubes to warm up. Why not give her something that lasts longer, shows your feelings more personally, may cost less than the traditional blooms, and carries a bonus no bouquet can ever match? If it's music, she may have to play it on your system! This is also a great opportunity to get her a sound system, too, but let's save that for another Valentine's Day.
---> Giving The Gift Of Music On Valentine's Day.

Luxury Home Audio Shows Q1 2026 — FIAE, Montreal Audiofest, & AXPONA: Rediscover Hi-Fi Listening
As we report, you can join us at three luxurious home audio events that bring vibrant, immersive music into our lives... and living rooms.
Editorial By Steven R. Rochlin
The excitement builds as there is a particular kind of purified electricity that hums through a hotel corridor when a high-end audio show is in full swing: the deep bass, silky smooth highs, and confident amplifiers warm n' happy. From the soft sounds of small acoustic ensembles to bold bands, the quick, conspiratorial exchange of favorite reference tracks between strangers who will leave as friends. For each of the next three months, Enjoy the Music.com will be there, meeting our fans, and ensuring you get our expert review assessments & info on the latest and best audiophile gear! Our exclusive 2026 high-end audiophile show reports of the Florida International Audio Expo, Montreal Audiofest, and AXPONA promise to remind us why hi-fi matters—not as an indulgence for a few, but as a vibrant, life-enhancing practice that sharpens attention, deepens feeling, and re-connects us to the simple miracle of sound. The Florida International Audio Expo, Montreal Audiofest, and AXPONA 2026 events each offer their own flavor of discovery, but together they form a circuit of listening that celebrates craftsmanship, curiosity, and the communal joy of music heard well.
---> Luxury Home Audio Shows Q1 2026 — FIAE, Montreal Audiofest, & AXPONA: Rediscover Hi-Fi Listening.

Florida International Audio Expo 2026 Show Report
The eighth annual Florida International Audio Expo (FIAE) will convene audiophiles, industry professionals, and music lovers for a three-day celebration of sound from Friday, February 20 through Sunday, February 22, at the Sheraton Tampa Brandon. The show pairs formal demo rooms with fun listening lounges so attendees can hear loudspeakers, high-fidelity audio electronics, turntables, and immersive headphones under realistic conditions, making it a practical venue for side-by-side comparisons and hands-on auditions. Exhibitor participation is strong, with organizers reporting excellent exhibit spaces that bring together international brands, boutique builders, and regional specialists. Reporting on every show to date, Enjoy the Music.com continues to be a valuable resource for the high-end audio industry as we once again sponsor FIAE. As this is a family event with many affluent young adults and children attending, Enjoy the Music.com will have a special Passport to Sound booklet for younger audiophiles. Music lovers will find flagship components and niche products across categories including loudspeakers, amplifiers, turntables, cabling, and headphone systems, while many rooms are staffed by designers and product specialists who can explain technical tradeoffs and setup tips.
---> Florida International Audio Expo 2026 Show Report.

North American Premiere Review!
Gryphon Antileon Revelation Amplifier Review — Dynamics, Detail, & Drive
Class A 160 Wpc power, purity, and the all-important real-world listening impressions.
Review By Tom Lyle
I read somewhere that I praise every audio component reviewed for Enjoy the Music.com; after three decades of listening and testing, I can understand why. Advances in engineering mean that many review samples—amplifiers, preamplifiers, and loudspeakers—now deliver exceptional sound quality plus fit and finish. Just taking one look at the new Gryphon Audio Designs' Antileon Revelation stereo/mono amplifier proves this point in 2026. That wasn't true when I began covering high-end audio in the late 1900s, and my blunt critiques back then sometimes led to awkward conversations with manufacturers and distributors. My aim remains to give clear, practical assessments of how gear performs in real rooms and systems so readers can decide whether it's the right match for their setup and budget. However, what matters more than whether I give a component or loudspeaker system a glowing review is whether it fits one's system, room, and budget. My job is to clearly describe equipment traits.
---> Gryphon Antileon Revelation Amplifier Review.

World Premiere Review!
Furutech GTO-D3 NCF Power Distributor + Origin Power Cord Review — High-End Audiophile Power Solution
Clean, low-noise power delivery for hi-fi systems; NCF damping and precision-engineered Origin cord for ultimate clarity.
Review By Paul Schumann
One of the eternal struggles of audiophiles is getting clean power from their AC outlet. Many have gone to great extremes to get that pure AC sign wave. The most extreme example is the Japanese audiophile who installed their own power pole with a transformer in their front yard. At audio shows, I've been blown away by the size of some power conditioning units, which could easily be mistaken for power amplifiers. A few months ago, I reviewed an isolation transformer. It worked great, but it was large, heavy, and I had to take great pains to keep it out of my wife's line of sight. After that experience, I started looking for a more elegant solution to power distribution. That's when I landed on the Furutech gear. A few years ago, I reviewed the Furutech NCF Clear Line AC Power Line Optimizers within my system, and I was impressed by how seemingly simple devices could make such a difference in my system. I always wondered if I could unlock the full potential of those cool devices by pairing them with other Furutech gear instead of the generic power strip I've been using for years.
---> Furutech GTO-D3 NCF Power Distributor + Origin Power Cord Review.

GIK 4A Alpha Panel Diffusors Review
One of the best values to treating any good listening room.
Review By Rick LaFaver
I have always been a staunch advocate of adding room acoustic devices as an integral part of any high quality sound system. That is unless you listen within an anechoic chamber or a padded cell. There are many different ways to handle standing waves whether it is DSP, diffusion, wide spectrum, or narrow spectrum absorption. GIK 4A Alpha Panel Diffusors are a great way to improve your listening room and here's why: Two of the most important elements in creating the foundation of any great listening room are choosing a world class speaker and an acoustic treatment plan that tames any anomalies in your room of choice. I have used a blend primarily absorption with limited diffusion in my space for many years by using four GIK 244 Bass traps to deal with the rear wave from my speakers. In addition, they are either in two corners that tend to store a lot of energy or at first reflection point on the side walls (when I have my system setup along the short wall of my room).
---> GIK 4A Alpha Panel Diffusors Review.

Black Cat Graceline Level-2 Interconnect & Speaker Cable Review
Worth every freaking penny because your system will appreciate it.
Review By Tom Lyle
In March of 2019, I reviewed Black Cat's 3200 interconnect, speaker, and digital cable in Enjoy the Music.com. I was very impressed by these relatively affordable cables. The Graceline (by Black Cat Cable) Level-2 interconnects and speaker cables reviewed here are a considerable step up from those cables in sound quality. In case one might not have heard of Black Cat cables, and even if you have, I strongly suggest one read the "We Ask 10 Questions..." interview with Chris Sommovigo, which appeared in November 2020's issue as part of the celebration of Enjoy The Music's 25th Anniversary. In this interview, I learned that Mr. Sommovigo is a very knowledgeable, level-headed designer and inventor. Some of his cables were very sonically successful, such as his digital cable, of which he sold several of his designs to Kimber Kable. I'll skip the bulk of the history of Black Cat and what led to the development of the Graceline Level 2 interconnect and speaker cable because a good deal of it is covered in the "...10 Questions..." interview, which again, I suggest one read if one hasn't already done so.
---> Black Cat Graceline Level-2 Interconnect & Speaker Cable Review.

Many more reviews & articles are within our Review Magazine.

01 / 29 / 26

Southwest Audio Fest 2026: Major Hi-FI Show Begins A Day Early
Southwest Audio Fest (SWAF), an exiting affluent high-end audiophile event, announced a schedule shift for its 2026 edition, replacing the traditional Sunday session with a new Thursday opening to boost attendance and preserve family time for visitors. SWAF 2026 will begin July 23th, and end the 25th at the Sheraton Dallas Hotel in downtown Dallas, Texas. Organizers said the move responds directly to long-standing industry feedback about slow Sundays, and positions Dallas as an ideal testbed for a Thursday–Friday–Saturday format. The gear lineup at Southwest Audio Fest 2026 spans the full spectrum of high-fidelity audio and related lifestyle categories: expect floorstanding and bookshelf loudspeakers, vacuum tube and solid-state amplifiers, state-of-the-art Hi-Res Audio DACs and streamers, reference turntables and tonearms, plus premium interconnects and loudspeaker cables. Be sure to learn about room treatment solutions that are showcased in purpose-tuned demo rooms. Music lovers will enjoy meeting up with other enthusiasts during peak days and create a livelier, more efficient experience for exhibitors and attendees alike.

For exhibitors and industry partners, SWAF highlights several strategic advantages to participating in 2026. The Dallas–Fort Worth region's rapid population growth and favorable demographics translate into strong purchasing power for high-end audio and lifestyle products. The Sheraton's downtown location offers easy access to restaurants and two major international airports, and the festival's expanding footprint—now one of the largest venues in the industry—creates opportunities for brands to secure premium rooms early in the show's growth cycle. With a stated track record of integrity and a commitment to building a marquee American audio event, the SWAF home audio festival is inviting manufacturers, integrators, and retailers to join while their 2026 show is still scaling up. Hurry, exhibit rooms are selling fast!

01 / 28 / 26

Coming Soon! Florida International Audio Expo 2026 Show Report
The eighth annual Florida International Audio Expo (FIAE) will convene audiophiles, industry professionals, and music lovers for a three-day celebration of sound from Friday, February 20 through Sunday, February 22, at the Sheraton Tampa Brandon. The show pairs formal demo rooms with fun listening lounges so attendees can hear loudspeakers, high-fidelity audio electronics, turntables, and immersive headphones under realistic conditions, making it a practical venue for side-by-side comparisons and hands-on auditions. Exhibitor participation is strong, with organizers reporting excellent exhibit spaces that bring together international brands, boutique builders, and regional specialists. Reporting on every show to date, Enjoy the Music.com continues to be a valuable resource for the high-end audio industry as we once again sponsor FIAE. As this is a family event with many affluent young adults and children attending, Enjoy the Music.com will have a special Passport to Sound booklet for younger audiophiles.

Music lovers will find flagship components and niche products across categories including loudspeakers, amplifiers, turntables, cabling, and headphone systems, while many rooms are staffed by designers and product specialists who can explain technical tradeoffs and setup tips. The show will also feature a notable car audio presence from IASCA, creating a cross-section of audio culture that connects home hi-fi enthusiasts with custom installers and aftermarket specialists. The emphases is listening with real music, and the event's live performances and curated listening sessions are designed to reveal timbral accuracy, transient behavior, and the emotional qualities that distinguish great systems from merely good ones. These programs are intended to help attendees make more informed purchasing decisions and to shorten research cycles by allowing direct comparisons at reference listening levels. Beyond shopping for new hi-fi gear and seminars, FIAE 2026 promises show-only promotions, preview units, and networking opportunities with designers and fellow enthusiasts—making it both a marketplace and a learning forum. For anyone planning a system upgrade or seeking to discover boutique manufacturers and the latest flagship products, FIAE offers a concentrated weekend to hear, learn, and buy with confidence. Learn more and see Enjoy the Music.com's exclsuyive FIAE 2026 show report.

01 / 27 / 26

AXPONA 2026 Audiophile / High-End Audio Show
Audio Expo North America (AXPONA) 2026 takes place from April 10th through 12th at The Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center close to Chicago. This annual three-day immersive high-fidelity audio experience features a multitude of floors, hallways, and exhibit rooms. The AXPONA 2026 show brings together music lovers, audiophiles, and industry professionals for three days of sound exploration. Attendees can expect a vibrant atmosphere filled with cutting-edge audio demonstrations, product debuts, and opportunities to engage directly with manufacturers and designers. One of the defining features of AXPONA 2026 is its extensive collection of over 220 high-fidelity listening rooms. These rooms allow visitors to audition floorstanding loudspeakers, powerful amplifiers, precision turntables, Hi-Res Audio DACs, and other components in controlled environments that highlight the nuances of each sound system.

Exhibitors range from boutique audio artisans to globally recognized hi-fi brands, offering a rare chance to compare equipment side by side. The event's scale makes it a unique destination for anyone seeking to experience audio gear that is often unavailable in traditional retail spaces. Beyond the listening rooms, AXPONA 2026 will feature a bustling Expo Hall showcasing thousands of personal audio / HeadFi products across categories such as headphones, portable audio, vinyl, accessories, and emerging technologies. Education and entertainment are also central to the AXPONA 2026 high-end audiophile show experience. The 2026 event will include a full schedule of seminars led by engineers, reviewers, and industry experts who will discuss topics ranging from system setup to audio science and industry trends. Live musical performances and special events throughout the weekend add a cultural layer to the expo, making it not just a trade show but a celebration of music itself. Enjoy the Music.com's AXPONA 2026 high-end audiophile event coverage will be online during the event.

01 / 26 / 26

HIGH END Vienna 2026 — High-End Audio Premiere Show
The HIGH END Vienna 2026 arrives with remarkable momentum: the world's leading international audio show is already fully booked several months before opening. Set to take place from June 4th through 7th at the Austria Center Vienna (ACV), the early sell-out signals not only strong demand, but also a collective eagerness across the industry to witness a landmark edition. After 21 years, relocating the event to Vienna marks a symbolic and practical fresh start that many exhibitors and visitors view as a turning point. Moving the show to the Austria Center Vienna represents a strategic milestone for HIGH END. The venue's modern infrastructure and forward-looking facilities create a canvas for exhibitors to showcase cutting-edge audio technology in a professional, flexible environment. Organizers and participants alike expect the center's layout and technical capabilities to elevate demonstrations, listening rooms, and product launches.

Vienna's reputation as a global capital of music lends cultural depth to the 2026 edition. The city's long musical heritage—paired with a thriving contemporary scene—creates a unique backdrop where tradition and innovation meet. For attendees, that means more than trade stands: it promises curated listening experiences and a sense that the event is part of a broader musical conversation. A major highlight is the appointment of Dominique Fils-Aimé as the official brand ambassador. Her internationally recognized artistry and emotive vocal presence bring a human, creative face to a technology-driven industry. Dominique's participation underscores the show's emphasis on the emotional and cultural power of sound, reminding visitors that audio technology ultimately serves the art of listening. Learn more and see Enjoy the Music.com's exclusive HIGH END Vienna 2026 show report.

01 / 22 / 26

The Audio Analyst's 100th Video!
Our Senior Editor, Greg Weaver, reaches triple digit videos!
Video By Greg Weaver
This marks the one-hundredth episode of my channel... and so many things have changed since its launch. Join me in celebrating what we've accomplished, and to see where things are headed over the next six months and beyond. It has been just over one year since I retired from the world of IT Management and refocused all my efforts on my pursuit and enjoyment of my audio passions. I am incredibly pleased to say that at this point, the channel has built a particularly specific and faithful audience and has received some remarkable feedback and support. Further, my video production has changed, some feel for the better, and while I had semi-retired my martini, the response to the survey strongly supported its return. I heard you all, and it will.
---> The Audio Analyst's 100th Video!

On the Road Again: Featuring Greg Weaver's Home Audio System
The New Apartment Lounge's Maurice Jeffries visits the Audio Analyst at home for the third time.
Report By Maurice Jeffries
What would we do without the much beloved road trip? The promise of exploring parts known, and better yet completely unknown, especially in the wake of the Covid Pandemic, strikes many like as perfect balm to months of virus-driven isolation. So, when my dear friend and fellow audio miscreant, Greg Weaver (known to many of you as the audio analyst, famous for his scrupulously detailed show reports and recent highly informative and entertaining foray into the fractious world of YouTube audio reporting), teased with the promise to hear a tantalizing array of new gear, to tussle with a new puppy (a 100 lbs. Great Dane named Stella), and most importantly, to reconnect face-to-face, I leapt into action.
---> Featuring Greg Weaver's Home Audio System.

01 / 21 / 26

Tiny Vinyl Goes Global: Pocket-Sized Collectibles Because... Why Not?
Tiny Vinyl is turning into a new profit center for record labels and music rights holders as these 4" discs cost ~$15. Audiophiles take note as these tiny records may provide the least amount of actual vinyl sound quality due to minimizing the vinyl surface area. Still, it does not make these any less 'collectable' with pop songs on playable records, which has now expanded from the U.S. into Europe. Music available includes songs from Chappell Roan, Rihanna, and KATSEYE. Tiny Vinyl, the Nashville-based startup that presses four-inch playable records, might attract collectors and Gen Z who want another thing to hype such as music memorabilia. The miniature discs are said to be playable at standard 33.3 rpm on most turntables despite their pint-sized format, and each release is often numbered and marketed as a 'limited collectible'. The format's novelty and artist choices have driven some retail partnerships and media attention, possibly positioning Tiny Vinyl more as a lifestyle product, plus it's a new revenue stream for labels and artists.

Tiny Vinyl's catalog includes contemporary pop and legacy acts. Recent drops and retail exclusives have included 4" discs from Chappell Roan, Rihanna, KATSEYE, Ariana Grande, Gracie Abrams, Doja Cat, and more, with some titles appearing as Target exclusives and other retail tie-ins. Thankfully, sound quality may not matter for those songs, whereas acoustic jazz and classical music might demand a bit more than on offer from a 4" disc. Each Tiny Vinyl release typically features one song per side like a normal 45 rpm disc, but at a slower 33.3 rpm, which means there is less vinyl flowing under the turntable's needle. Custom artwork for the 4" product has been scaled for the mini sleeve, and limited press numbers that hark back to 2020's FOMO to encourage quick sell-outs among superfan collectors and record store merch browsers. The company's approach may be seeking novelty shoppers over those who care about the very best possible sound quality from vinyl. Industry observers may say that Tiny Vinyl's success highlights two converging trends: the enduring appetite for physical music formats and the market for collectible merch.

01 / 20 / 26

Luminate Music Report Finds Internet Streaming Dominate All Others
Luminate published its 2025 year-end music report, which provides us a broad snapshot of how audio listeners, sound platforms, and song creators navigated another year of rapid change. The report underscores that streaming remains the primary mode of music consumption, while emerging dynamics — from short-form video virality to renewed interest in catalog and physical formats — are reshaping what success looks like for artists and labels. Luminate's analysis frames 2025 as a year of consolidation for major platforms and experimentation for creators seeking sustainable revenue. Luminate's 2025 music report highlights several notable trends including short-form video and social discovery, which continued to drive spikes in single-track consumption, accelerating breakout moments for independent artists, and prompting labels to rethink release strategies. At the same time, catalog listening showed resilience, with older albums and legacy artists maintaining steady share of total streams, and vinyl LP and premium physical formats (CD, 4" Tiny Vinyl, SACD, etc.) enjoying a modest but meaningful resurgence among collectors. Luminate also points to playlisting algorithms and editorial curation as persistent gatekeepers, even as direct-to-fan tools and creator monetization options expanded.

Industry reaction in 2025 has been mixed optimism with caution. Executives and artist managers quoted in the report praised new monetization pathways that help mid-tier and independent acts earn more from touring, sync, and fan subscriptions, while warning that platform concentration and opaque data practices still complicate fair compensation and long-term planning. The report seemed to call out a handful of breakout artists and surprise catalog revivals that illustrate how a single viral moment or strategic sync placement can translate into sustained listening and touring demand. Looking ahead for the music business, Luminate frames 2026 as a year where business models and measurement will be tested further to find the best path to higher earnings. For labels, platforms, and creators alike, the takeaway may be adapting to fast-moving discovery channels while also protecting music's value, as this may determine who thrives in the next chapter of the music business industry.

01 / 19 / 26

UMG & NVIDIA To Reimagine Music Discovery, Creation, & Engagement
Universal Music Group (UMG) and NVIDIA announced a strategic collaboration to harness NVIDIA's AI infrastructure alongside UMG's vast catalog of millions of tracks to advance what they are calling responsible AI for music discovery, creation, and engagement. The partnership will combine UMG's creative ecosystem and studio resources with NVIDIA's audio intelligence to develop tools and systems that enhance how people find, experience, and interact with music worldwide. Central to the effort is an extension of NVIDIA Music Flamingo, an advanced audio model designed to analyze full-length tracks with deep musical understanding—capturing harmony, structure, timbre, lyrics, and cultural context. By moving beyond simple tagging and surface recognition, the technology aims to surface music by emotional narrative and cultural resonance, improve multilingual lyric transcription and instrument recognition, and enable richer, more personalized discovery for listeners and new pathways for artists to reach audiences.

To ensure artists remain at the heart of innovation, UMG and NVIDIA will create a dedicated artist incubator where songwriters, producers, and performers co-design and test AI tools within real creative workflows. The collaboration will also establish creative laboratories drawing on UMG's Music & Advanced Machine Learning Lab and world-class studios such as Abbey Road and Capitol Studios, with a focus on responsible training, artist feedback, proper attribution, and fair rightsholder compensation. Both companies say the partnership is intended to set new industry standards for innovation and responsibility, empowering established artists to deepen fan engagement while giving emerging talent greater opportunities for discovery. UMG and NVIDIA will work closely with artists, labels, and publishers throughout development to build safeguards that protect creative work, ensure attribution, and align AI-driven capabilities with the long-term interests of the music community.

01 / 16 / 26

audioXpress' February 2026 Issue
Editorial: The Many Opportunities For Microphones
IK Multimedia ARC ON EAR
A Guide For Developers Evaluating And Testing BT
Phase And Delays Part 1—Exploring Different Types Of Delays
MF-100 Measurement Microphone Preamplifier
Michael Fay's Acoustic Essentials For Architects
Innovation, Expansion, And Wireless Evolution
A New Technology Frontier In Microphone Array Architecture
The Evolution Of Echo Cancellation And Noise Reduction
And Much More!

Within his editorial, J. Martins says "Have you noticed that voice interfaces and digital assistants are back, thanks to artificial intelligence? And that adaptive audio has gained a whole new meaning thanks to AI? What about transcription, summarization, translation, and other AI-powered features that now expand voice capture? Voice applications are everywhere, from more widespread communication and conferencing options to voice assistants or simple voice commands expanding to even more product categories. Even automotive is seeing increasing adoption of applications that require the use of more sensors, including microphones for adaptive features and more active control of car acoustics and sound sources. If you have to find a common technology denominator around these trends, it's easy to identify the preponderant role of microphones. None of those important trends—transversal from consumer to professional and even critical communications—can be realized without one or many microphones being involved."
---> audioXpress February 2026 Issue.

01 / 15 / 26

Audiophiles: A Plan We Can All Take Part In
Another crazy high-end audio music lover idea by Yours Truly.
Editorial By Steven R. Rochlin
And what have we as an industry done with this educational opportunity? We've squandered it, that's what! WTF?!?! Of course the idea below is just that, just an idea and frankly while some might like this idea, doubt it'll go anywhere as it requires effort on your part. Go ahead, prove me wrong. Am not going to be a whiney bitch and complain about some gear being incredibly high-priced, as like cars there are Hyundai (very respectable, wife's daughter has one), BMW (wife and my car), and Ferrari (been there, done that, tracked the living daylights out of it until the engine needed a major rebuild). With high-end audio for 'normal people' out there, most music lovers think of whatever is $$$ (not just $$) in the big box stores as 'high-end'. They, you know, normal people, generally, have zero idea we as an industry exist in any true sense... at least in some meaningful way. WTF?!?!? So how are we as an industry going to reach the masses in a meaningful way to educate music lovers that we even exist?
---> Audiophiles: A Plan We Can All Take Part In.

Where Do We Go From Here?
Classic Audiophiles Versus Modern Music Lovers
Will 360-degree audio change the face of old-school stereo 'philes?
Editorial By Steven R. Rochlin
Modern times bring modern solutions. First came recording audio over 100 years ago using a now-primitive needle scraping wax. Eventually we humans invented the microphone, to eventually amplifying musical instruments to the point of going full-out synthesizing via Moog and others producing 100% electronically-created musical instruments. Music lovers over the generations have gone from the wax cylinder and vinyl LP recordings to today's pure digital Hi-Res Music. What was once a challenge to find that special rare vinyl LP record within your 2000+ collection has become to today's computer search feature that instantly streams your fave tune from the millions of albums available online. How are those 'Classic Audiophile' types going to accept the 'Modern Audiophile' is still yet to be fully grasped imho. Binaural and multi-channel sound within the consumer electronics industry has been around for decades. So has Roland's Q Sound that was developed during the 1980's, which is the aural soundscape cornerstone of Roger Water's breakthrough album Amused To Death.
---> Classic Audiophiles Versus Modern Music Lovers.

01 / 14 / 26

Montreal Audiofest 2026: The Ultimate Audiophile Experience
Montreal Audiofest 2026 (Salon Audio Montreal) returns March 20th through 22nd, bringing Canada's premier high-end audiophile event to the city. Organizers expect thousands of visitors eager to listen, see, and handle cutting-edge audio gear, with over luxury 300 brands showcased under one roof. The three-day festival is designed for audiophiles, videophiles, immersivephiles, and curious music lovers seeking modern immersive, hands-on experiences. As the largest audio event in Canada, the event gathers top distributors, manufacturers, and retailers from the high-end consumer electronics industry. Attendees can explore dedicated demo listening rooms, vendor booths, and curated exhibits that highlight the latest in luxurious loudspeakers, top-rated amplifiers, precision, turntables, immersive headphones & portable audio, plus home A/V systems. The show's scale and industry presence make it a must-visit for anyone tracking trends in premium sound and home cinema.

Inside each listening room, exhibitors share their passion for music through focused demonstrations of world-class sound systems. Expect setups ranging from accessible high-performance rigs to flagship installations, with systems priced from $5000 to well overv$500,000. EARVANA is Canada's first and only headphone-focused showcase, taking place inside Montreal Audiofest 2026. Over three immersive days, explore 8,000 sq. ft. filled with the latest Head-FI with headphones, earphones, in-ear monitors (IEM), headamps, Hi-Res Audio DACs, and accessories from top global brands.

Step into Prohibition Night at Montréal Audiofest for an intimate whisky and music pairing that engages every sense. Enjoy a curated tasting of six premium whiskies while listening to demonstrations on the festival's finest audio systems, creating a seamless blend of flavor and sound. In addition, Montreal Audiofest invites you to the Musical Wine Tour, an intimate VIP evening that pairs exceptional wines with world-class audio. Join a private guided circuit through six distinguished exhibitor rooms, where small groups of 8 to 10 guests are led by a professional sommelier. Enjoy the Music.com's exclusive Montreal Audiofest 2026 high-end audio show coverage will be online shortly after the event.

01 / 13 / 26

Home Audio Holiday Sales: Electronics Drive Year-End Gains
Online holiday sales climbed notably in December 2025, driven by a surge in e-commerce activity and a clear uptick in consumer electronics spending; analysts say this momentum supports a cautiously optimistic economic outlook for 2026. Online advertising budgets expanded notably in 2025 as all major brands chased the highly-profitable engagement and conversion rates during the holiday season, with digital channels accounting for the bulk of incremental spend. U.S. and global retailers celebrated December with strong online gains, as shoppers continued to favor digital channels for holiday purchases. E-commerce and online holiday sales in December 2025 rose broadly, with many trackers showing mid-single-digit year-over-year growth—approximately 7% on several measures. Overall holiday sales for November–December were about 4.1% higher year-over-year. Consumer electronics and digitally enabled channels outperformed, with some retailers reporting impressive double-digit online gains! Global online holiday sales were estimated near $1,290,000,000,000 ($1.29 trillion) for the season. High-end audio rejoice as payment-network data and industry trackers showed e-commerce growth outpacing overall retail, with consumers increasingly buying luxurious higher-priced items and tech products.

The consumer electronics category was a standout, with demand for devices rising as buyers enter new territory, or upgrade their existing electronics. Mobile commerce also played a central role: a growing share of online purchases originated on smartphones, amplifying the reach of flash deals and buy-now-pay-later options that supported higher average order values. Broader holiday tallies underscore the scale of the digital shift: aggregated platform data show record online holiday sales totals and a pronounced acceleration in the last two weeks of December, when year-over-year growth outpaced earlier parts of the season. That late-December strength suggests consumers remained willing to spend despite price pressures, and that retailers who optimized inventory and checkout experiences captured outsized gains. Analysts point to AI-driven search and recommendation tools as a key factor in converting intent into transactions during the busiest shopping windows. Looking ahead to 2026, economists and retail strategists are cautiously optimistic. The December momentum—especially the resilience of online channels and the rebound in electronics—supports forecasts for steady consumer spending in 2026, provided labor markets and wage growth remain stable.

01 / 12 / 26

Bob Weir's Legacy: Music, Kindness, And The Grateful Dead
News of Bob Weir's passing lands like a chord that hangs in the air long after the last note fades — as we remember his thoughtful kindness and magical music with the Grateful Dead. For decades, he was a steady presence at the heart of the Grateful Dead, a musician whose gentle authority on guitar and warm, conversational voice helped shape a sound that felt like home to so many. The grief that follows is not only for the loss of an artist but for the quiet, human light he carried through stages, studios, and the lives of countless listeners. In this moment, the music feels both unbearably fragile and fiercely alive. Bob Weir's playing and songwriting were never about showmanship alone; they were invitations to listen, to move, and to belong. He had a knack for turning a simple phrase into a doorway — into improvisation, into community, into a shared story that unfolded differently every night. Those who followed the band learned to expect the unexpected: a new turn in a familiar song, a laugh between musicians, a moment of collective breath. That spirit of openness is one of the truest parts of his legacy.

Beyond the stage, Bob's generosity and curiosity left an imprint on friends and fellow musicians. He mentored younger players, collaborated across genres, and never stopped exploring what music could be or whom it could bring together. Fans remember not just the concerts but the small, human exchanges — the way he acknowledged a crowd, the way he seemed to listen as much as he played. Those memories will be the threads that keep his presence woven into the lives he touched. Grief and gratitude can live side by side, and in honoring Bob Weir we hold both. We mourn the absence of a voice that helped soundtrack so many lives, and we celebrate the countless moments of connection his music made possible. In the days and years ahead, people will gather, play records, tell stories, and pass along the songs — and in those acts his influence will continue, quietly, insistently, beautifully. For now, we sit with the ache and the music, and we give thanks for the light he shared.

01 / 09 / 26

Hi-Fi+ January 2026 High-End Audio Magazine
Editorial: How Do Audiophiles Attract A Younger Audience?
Wilson Audio Sabrina V Floorstanding Loudspeaker
Unitra WSH-805 Integrated Amplifier
Davone Reference Three Floorstanding Loudspeaker
Audiobyte SuperVOX Digital-To-Analogue Converter
Eversolo T8 Streaming Transport
Hana Umami Black Moving Coil Cartridge
Meze 99 Classics (2nd Gen) Headphones
Audio Origami PU8 Tonearm
OePhi Kali Cable System
Wiktor Schulfer On Reinventing Unitra
...And Much More!

Within this month's editorial, Alan Sircom says "According to science-fiction timelines, 2026 plants us in the middle of several dystopian eras. We're lodged somewhere between Soylent Green, Highlander II: The Quickening and Children of Men. So... Happy New Year! In fact, stepping away from international geopolitics and staying in our audio-enthusiast, music-loving lane, things look a lot better. Spotify is rolling out its lossless service to ever more countries, joining Qobuz and Tidal in delivering quality streaming. Meanwhile, LP leads the field in physical formats once more, but reports of CD's demise are greatly exaggerated, and seeing the re-emergence of tape shows people still love listening to music in any way they can. We're also seeing improvements in good audio equipment across the board, too. While it's easy to focus on the big ticket equipment, it's not hard to find outstanding audio products at every price point. And yet, audio companies keep spouting the same mantra; 'how do we attract a younger audience?' Every company is looking for that magic combination of interface, performance and design that will unlock an audience of Generation Alpha buyers."
---> hi-fi+ January 2026 High-End Audio Magazine.

01 / 08 / 26

PureAudioProject Duet 15 Loudspeaker Review
A benchmark performance open baffle loudspeaker.
Review By Dr. Jules Coleman
Featuring the extraordinary Voxativ Pife full range driver mated to a comparably fast 15" woofer, the PureAudioProject (PAP) Duet 15 offers the listener an unrivaled, relaxed, unhurried, yet fully resolved natural and immediate musical experience that box speakers, for the most part, can only dream of providing, and one that competitor open baffle designs will struggle, most likely with only limited success, to equal. These speakers are unassuming, seductive, and enthralling. I found myself unable to resist falling into the music's awaiting arms for the better part of the several months I was fortunate enough to have them in my home. The term 'open baffle' is vague. The standard design consists of a single baffle (think of the 'front baffle' of an enclosed speaker) on which one or more drivers are affixed. All open baffle speakers produced by PureAudioProject are of this sort.
---> PureAudioProject Duet 15 Loudspeaker Review.

LessLoss Giant Steps Equipment Feet Review
Enjoying the purity and immediacy of the music.
Review By Rick Becker
When I caught wind of the new Giant Steps footers from LessLoss audio I contacted Louis Motek immediately. Having written the first review of both his BlackGround Power Base and BlackGround for Speakers, I have very high regard for his work and the review samples of both reside in my system. The Giant Steps footers are even better, he claimed. I would like nine, I said, to try them on three successive components in the rig to experience how the effect intensifies and to try them under the corners of my loudspeakers. There was just one problem. It was the Fall audio show season and I was committed to covering the Toronto Audiofest 2024 in October and the Capital Audiofest 2024 in November. Back-to-back. I finished the Toronto report on a Wednesday and on Thursday I drove down to Rockville, MD. I knew I would not have time to write a review until the January issue....
---> LessLoss Giant Steps Equipment Feet Review.

01 / 06 / 26

CES 2026 Open In Las Vegas This Week For Consumer Technologies
While no longer a showcase for high-end audio, there are still a handful of exhibitors demonstrating high-fidelity audio gear at the Consumer Technology Association's (CTA) Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2026. Running through January 9, and is shaping up as a showcase for AI-driven consumer tech, next-gen TVs, and mass-market audio rather than boutique audiophile gear, Enjoy the Music.com looks forward to the immersive tech-driven sound showcases. The opening day in Las Vegas brought a flood of announcements from major technology manufacturers and startups alike, with the CES 2026 show calendar running media previews from January 4 and public access beginning today. Many consumer electronics and technology companies aim to set product and marketing agendas for 2026; organizers expect attendees and exhibitors across the expanded convention footprint. AI integration may be the dominant theme on the CES 2026 show floor, with everything from wearables to smart home devices and video systems touting on-device or cloud-assisted intelligence as a headline feature.

On the product side, yes home audio, though mainly high-definition television and display technology grabbed early headlines as manufacturers pushed soundbars, next-generation panels and color technologies, while PC and gaming vendors used CES 2026 to tease hardware updates ahead of spring launches. Automotive and mobility exhibits continued to grow, with several automakers and suppliers showing in-car AI, immersive multi-channel surround sound, and internet connectivity demos alongside concept vehicles. Major consumer brands also leaned into immersive audio and home entertainment, unveiling new soundbars, mass-produced loudspeaker lines, and integrated ecosystems aimed at mainstream buyers. CES 2026 is a place to learn and experience broad, mainstream industry direction as high-end audio has long moved onward to specialized shows for a proper luxury environment.

Despite the heavy audio presence from large consumer electronics firms, CES 2026 features relatively few boutique high-end audio manufacturers compared with past years, or the CES 2000s heyday ~25 years ago. With affluent music lovers seeking the best experience, CES 2026 is obviously overshadowed by personalized, exceptional, dedicated fine high-end audio events. The Florida International Audio Expo, Capital / Southwest / Pacific Audiofest, Toronto, Montreal and more benefit those seeking top quality as found only at specialized audio events, a trend visible in exhibitor directories and category previews. Audiophile coverage and exhibitors are best found at the aforementioned shows, and no longer are a realm of Consumer Technology Association's CES technology showcase. While there is representation from hearing tech and mass-market audio at CES, high-end loudspeaker and amplifier makers have opted to skip the Las Vegas floor in favor of targeted audiophile shows or direct launches. You can see many audiophile show reports at this link.

01 / 05 / 26

Coast To Coast Sound: Southwest, Pacific, And Capital Audiofest 2026
Three major regional audio shows are set to punctuate the 2026 listening calendar, offering audiophiles, industry professionals, and Enjoy the Music.com, three distinct chances to hear the latest in high-fidelity home audio sound. Southwest Audiofest will convene in Dallas from March 21st through 23rd, bringing a weekend of room demonstrations, dealer rooms, and manufacturer showcases aimed at the southern U.S. market. Pacific Audio Fest arrives on the West Coast in Seattle from September 11th through 13th, promising a mix of boutique home audio equipment, high-end audio listening rooms, live music sessions, and product debuts that highlight Pacific Northwest designers and retailers. Capital Audiofest closes this trilogy of audio events in the nation's capital from November 13th through 15th, positioning itself as an East Coast hub for home stereo sound systems. All events will feature the latest in lossless Hi-Res Audio streaming music and networking among distributors, dealers, and music lovers.

Enjoy the Music.com will will be at Southwest Audiofest's Dallas luxury home audio event emphasizing both stereo and immersive room setup, plus hands-on listening, with organizers focusing on acoustically treated demo spaces and curated vendor lineups that let attendees compare speakers, amplifiers, and turntables in real listening conditions. The show attracts manufactures, distributors, and independent high-end audio retailers who bring both established brands and custom systems, alongside seminars on various topics. For many visitors, the draw is the ability to audition complete systems rather than isolated components, making the Dallas weekend a practical stop for buyers planning serious upgrades.

Pacific Audiofest in Seattle leans into the region's strong love of music and audio culture while also showcasing full-scale stereo systems. Enjoy the Music.com expects to hear dedicated dealer listening rooms, manufacturer listening rooms, and live music performances that demonstrate how equipment compares with real music. The festival's timing in September often dovetails with product cycles from boutique makers, and organizers usually program panels on topics such as digital streaming quality, DAC design, and the resurgence of vinyl LPs. Local music venues and independent record stores frequently collaborate with the event, giving attendees a taste of Seattle's broader audio and music scene.

Capital Audiofest in Washington DC rounds out the year with a focus on both residential audio and the very best in high-end home sound system installation, offering seminars for music lovers alongside lovely listening rooms. The November dates make it a convenient late season event for manufacturers and distributors to preview holiday releases and for dealers to finalize year-end orders. Enjoy the Music.com expects a mix of home stereo and immersive sound demonstrations, multi-channel Immersivephile^TM audio showcases, and sessions on the latest in streaming platforms and room calibration tools, plus ample opportunity for networking among East Coast manufacturers, distributors, and retailers.

Previous High-End Audio News
For previous high-end audio and music industry news click here.