Consumer Electronic Show ?

It is not worth it to go to CES, but no for the reasons that you suppose.

I have been to CES once, and that was enough. There seems to be a lot more ego there and a lot less fun. I have been to RMAF twice and would still do that again before going back to Lost Wages for the CES show.

RMAF people are more friendly, and helpful. They know that for the most part they are dealing with hobbiests, not dealers who have to book $50,000 orders.

The main show at CES is waste of time for most people. Static displays, of big $$$ gear, or lots of TV and video. Everyone knows that audiophiles don't care about video!!! Alexis Park and the San Tropez are where the fun stuff is, even though a lot of people never even walk next door to check out THE Show.

Unless you live in Lost Wages, don't waste your time, go to Denver and have a good time. No you won't find every last dealer in Denver. There might be more is Vegas, but companies like Krell were just showing gear, not auditioning it.

Nrchy, the purposes of RMAF and CES are quite different. RMAF is consumer oriented, while CES is for the trade. At CES some high end audio companies choose to have static displays only, although most try to demonstrate. Show conditions being what they are, good sound tends to be the exception, and the same happens at RMAF, in my opinion.

You can cover RMAF in a day or so and not feel as if you've missed much. By comparison, covering CES and THE Show takes much longer, because there are many more companies showing and it's more spread out. Admittedly the significantly lower cost of RMAF and its consumer orientation makes it more attractive to smaller audio companies, including some DIY ones and those selling direct.

I agree RMAF is more relaxed, while CES and THE Show have many more exhibitors and are there for different reasons. Each fills a need. I'll continue to attend both.

Brian

by the way, i bet it costs more to attend the rmaf than the ces . why ?? food and lodging and perhaps airfare.

also,if the rmaf is anything like the stereophile shows in ny and california, ces may allow the opportunity to hyear your own music, without being in a room with a lot of people.

i have never had a problem at ces. i find the exhibitors very friendly and accomodating. it depends upon how you handle yourself.

Brian thanks for agreeing with me...

Nrchy, you are putting words in my mouth. I have been attending CES for well over 20 years and will continue to attend.
Brian