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How to listen /audition at audio shows?

I’ve been to RMAF a few times and learned a lot. Great fun and I eventually bought quite a bit of gear that I heard there. Right now I am going to Capitol Audio show to try to audition several high-end streamers (Aurender, Lumin, Innous, 432 EVO, Grimm and Antipodes are on my list). My request is for advice on how to compare models that will, of course, be in different systems in different rooms, etc. We all know how limited listening is in hotel rooms and that it will always sound different in your house with your system, etc etc. Accepting that, what are some of the smart strategies you’ve found to compare components at an audio show? Wouldn’t it be great if I could get two of the streamer vendors to connect their units to the same system, say after hours ... Not likely I know but any other ideas, tips or strategies? thanks
mcmanus
fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,636 posts
 
Does that go for upchuck fest too?
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
13,072 posts
 
i do think getting a feel for the operating software is valuable as someone noted above.

sonics…meh…

build quality of casework, etc a plus.

establishing some level of relationship w dealer manufacturers, etc a plus. possibly meeting other users….

have fun, enjoy
jond's avatar
jond
5,911 posts
 
I also agree @tvad nailed it you're listening to a system. If you like the system then you may like the streamer you may not. Also consider with a streamer functionality and interface are on par with sound quality in terms of importance.
chorus
976 posts
 
Pretty much the same way you get a great meal
at the Golden Arches.
cd318
2,636 posts
 
I was at one a few weeks back (nary a mask anywhere) and was again reminded of the importance of being organised.

With so much going on, you really need to know beforehand how best to use your time.


For the first hour or so, I was having trouble distinguishing large sonic differences between the various rooms.
Nothing initially seemed to stand out in an easily identifiable bad way this year and that certainly has not been my experience previously at shows!


I can’t also remember seeing so many folks using their phones as cameras this year. It can seem a little obtrusive but if done with some discretion it will help with preserving memories afterwards.

It’s also best not to be too shy or reticent. Often the designers are there in person and most will appreciate a few choice questions.


Most will also accommodate requests for tracks. Allan Hendry of Monopulse even handed out a couple of sheets with his favourite 100 tracks to select from!


The main problem is just how fast time flies when you’re having such fun!

Here’s a detailed write up by Ian Ringstead in HiFi Pig

https://hifipig.com/uk-audio-show-2021-show-report/#more-141151
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