RMAF Etiquette

I agree, it is rude and inconsiderate at minimum. But where do you go these days and not find rude, inconsiderate and disrespectful people? I know that is a blanket assessment and I apologize to those whom take offense. I don't want to turn this in EtiquetteGon, but I do share your sentiment. It's an AUDIO show and the gear should be heard. But as mentioned I go every year and it seems to be a gathering of friends as well and that part invites the talking, laughter etc. Obviously the vendor could control it by telling people to be quiet, but they can't risk offending potential customers, dealers or prospective dealers.
Either way I always enjoy the show, I just wish it was a different venue than the DenTech Marriott. Parking and elevator accommodations are much less than favorable.

An audio show isn't a place for serious listening any more than an auto show is a place to test drive a car.  It's a meet and greet, industry and friends event intended to showcase product.  It's really about manufacturers and distributor/dealers with the public there to help defray the costs.  Use it to narrow down what you want to seriously listen to at a dealer.

I have used RMAF to narrow the search, however, many of the products I like are not sold in Colorado so I cannot go listen to them at a local showroom.  My only opportunity is at the show.  

Since this industry is apparently struggling I would think vendors would want to create the best possible environment to highlight their products and sell them at the show.  

The sad reality of every audio show I’ve exhibited at is that putting on a worthwhile demo is extremely challenging due to the noise bleeding through from the hallways.

Exhibitors for the most part leave their doors open to welcome attendees (and to not collapse from the heat).

Couple this with the bad show citizens (exhibitors) who seem compelled to partake in volume wars and we have a recipe for disaster.

An after hours demo is your best chance, but realize that exhibiting is a physically demanding experience and many exhibitors need a break after show hours. Additionally, they likely schedule off hours to network and collaborate.

The noise floor is one reason I stopped exhibiting. I now have more time to network at the show.

Onhwy61 said it best:

An audio show isn’t a place for serious listening any more than an auto show is a place to test drive a car. It’s a meet and greet, industry and friends event intended to showcase product. It’s really about manufacturers and distributor/dealers with the public there to help defray the costs. Use it to narrow down what you want to seriously listen to at a dealer.

Cheers,
Thom @ Galibier Design