Rocky Mountain Audio Fest features “the Affordable to the Absurd” in biggest show yet October 15-16-17

It’s become the largest consumer audio and home entertainment show in the nation – a virtual audio wonderland. Denver’s own Rocky Mountain Audio Fest, founded seven years ago by the two small local audio companies, now showcases more than 400 brands – from the affordable, to the absurd ; from high-end specialty companies, to Industry giants like SONY. The annual event draws vendors and audioenthusiasts from around the globe.

This year, another floor of exhibitors has been added, and the number of international exhibitors has increased. The show also features an increase in the number of “affordable” audio components, a reaction to the current economy. Furniture will be removed from over 160 of the hotel’s sleeping rooms and manufacturers will set up complete stereo systems for attendees to audition. Visitors are encouraged to go from room to room, have a seat and casually listen. Many bring their own iPods, discs or vinyl records to the show, as most exhibitors are happy to play one or two favorite songs as a fair test of the equipment sound quality. A variety of equipment types are demonstrated, ranging from affordable separate components and systems to ultra-expensive high-end gear. In addition to the hotel rooms, most of the Marriott’s larger meeting rooms will also contain exhibits.

First time attendees can get oriented by visiting the Colorado Audio Society table near the registration desk. There, volunteers will explain and give guided tours of the event’s complex and lively layout – including the several floors of demo rooms and displays. Keynote speaker Harry Pearson, with “The Absolute Sound” magazine, will talk Friday and Saturday evening. Other seminars are still being finalized, covering a variety of topics relating to the audio hobby and sound maximization for in-home systems and personal headphone systems.

Admission is $10 for one day or $25 for a weekend pass.

Students and seniors get in for half price. Show hours are Fri. 12 – 6pm; Saturday 9am – 6pm; Sunday 9am – 4pm. Tickets and more information are available at www.audiofest.net.