Audiogon: Events: AudioFest 04

Birth of a New Show

This was the first year for AudioFest, held in Denver CO. It’s backers wanted to offer audiophiles in the middle of the country an opportunity to see and hear some of the top audio gear without having to travel to either the east or west coast. They certainly succeeded in attracting the best gear as evidenced by over 60 rooms filled with killer stuff.

Definitely, in the bonus category for show attendees was an appearance by recording artist Patricia Barber. With special permission, Audiogon was able to photograph her performance and thus we are privileged to show over thirty images of Patricia doing her thang.

Unlike CES, most of the exhibitors were dealers rather than manufacturers or distributors. The neat thing about this is the systems presented were well thought out and allowed the dealers to present their version of the best sound at the show. Audiogon dealers and factory direct manufacturers were well represented at AudioFest.

	Audio Unlimited's John Barnes blew it out with six demo rooms of fantastic equipment.

	Showcase Dealer Star Sound Technologies’ room highlighted their Sistrum Platform technology and some intriguing new speaker stands.

	Well known Factory Direct speaker maker Tyler Acoustics previewed a godzilla size speaker; along with some slick looking tube amps from DeHaviland Electric who is another of our Factory Direct manufacturers.

	Our new dealer Colorado Audiophile Sound and Design showed his best wares from Alon, Kharma, and Manley Labs.

Other Audiogon dealers who exhibited at AudioFest are: Thee High End, Rives Audio, and Audio Federation.

We commend the promoters of AudioFest 2004 for organizing an event which was pure high end audio. They advertised the show enthusiastically on the internet and radio as well as print. Audiophiles' best bet is for us all to promise to attend next year so they will be encouraged to stage an AudioFest 2005.