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April 16 – 18, 2027
Schaumburg Convention Center | Chicago, IL

Author: Liz Smith

Episode 68: The “Diamond” Secret to Perfect Audiophile Sound


Episode 68: The “Diamond” Secret to Perfect Audiophile Sound

In this episode, Lenny Florentine is joined by a powerhouse panel including Randy and Nick from Rhythm Distribution and Martin from Sweden’s premier luxury manufacturer, Marten. Together, they pull back the curtain on a family-run legacy that has spent nearly 30 years perfecting the “DNA” of sound—using exotic materials like diamond mid-ranges and 7-inch beryllium drivers to create a level of realism that can’t be unheard. The conversation moves beyond simple specs to explore the emotional weight of a true luxury system. You’ll learn how these designers use a proprietary “live-to-recording” studio to voice their equipment, ensuring that every note—from a jazz trio to a full symphony—retains the raw energy of a live performance. Whether it’s a limited-run extreme system or a handcrafted stand-mount speaker, this episode reveals why the world’s most discerning listeners are looking toward Scandinavian engineering to redefine their sonic expectations. It’s an essential deep dive into the craftsmanship, materials, and passion required to build a system that doesn’t just play music, but recreates a moment in time.

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Episode 67: This Tube Amp Makes Audiophiles Rethink Everything


Episode 67:This Tube Amp Makes Audiophiles Rethink Everything

Lenny sits down with TJ from Axiss Audio to dive into Phasemation, a Japanese brand focused on high-end analog playback and tube-based electronics. TJ explains the company’s roots in precision engineering and how that translates into meticulous, in-house manufacturing and long-term reliability. They break down the lineup, starting with phono cartridges that aim for an open, natural, slightly laid-back sound, scaling up in refinement, detail, and realism at higher price points. The conversation moves into phono preamps, highlighting the new EA1500, which combines tube sound with modern flexibility, including support for emerging optical cartridges while reducing noise through a separate power supply. A standout point is Phasemation’s focus on lowering noise across all products, even using passive line-stage preamps that require no power at all. On amplification, TJ explains their tube-based designs, emphasizing a more lifelike, spacious, and “liquid” presentation compared to solid state, while noting system matching is key. They also touch on new tech like optical cartridges, the importance of system synergy, and upcoming product reveals at AXPONA. The episode wraps with a broader discussion on listening habits, demo music, and how different genres can reveal a system’s true capabilities.

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Episode 66: Modern Tech Meets Vintage Speakers


Episode 66: Modern Tech Meets Vintage Speakers

Don’t settle for a “standard” sound system when the future of high-end audio is arriving in vibrant orange and handcrafted Polish timber. In this episode, Lenny Florentine sits down with Michael from Luxury Hi-Fi Distribution to go behind the curtain of the most talked-back brands heading to AXPONA 2026. Michael shares his lifelong journey from childhood listening sessions with McIntosh and Klipschorns to becoming a powerhouse in North American distribution. The heart of the conversation dives into the arrival of Pylon Audio, a Polish manufacturer offering everything from the “vintage-cool” Jade series to the ultra-modern, time-aligned Jasper speakers—all at price points that actually remain approachable. The “insider” talk doesn’t stop at speakers. Michael breaks down the modular magic of Pink Fawn music servers, the low-noise revolution of fiber optic connections, and why you might just fall in love with a high-performance integrated amp from Perreaux—especially if it comes in Aston Martin Gray or eye-popping Orange. Whether you’re a streaming skeptic or a seasoned audiophile, this episode is a deep dive into the gear that is redefining the AXPONA showroom floor.

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Episode 65: The New Way Audiophiles Listen to Music


Episode 65: The New Way Audiophiles Listen to Music

On this episode of the AXPONA Audio Insider Podcast, Lenny Florentine sits down with Brad Lunde of Lone Mountain Audio to explore the world of professional studio monitoring and its connection to high end home audio. Brad shares his journey from aspiring musician and hi-fi salesman to becoming the U.S. importer for ATC speakers. The conversation dives into how ATC became one of the most respected studio monitor brands in the world by designing and manufacturing every component in house, focusing on extremely low distortion and true accuracy rather than exaggerated sound. Brad explains why many legendary artists and recording engineers rely on ATC to produce their music, and how audiophiles can hear recordings exactly the way they were intended to sound. They also discuss the surprising connection between audiophiles and recording engineers, famous studios using ATC, and what attendees can expect to hear from the brand at AXPONA.

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Episode 64: Audiophile Amplifiers are on Another Level!


Episode 64: Audiophile Amplifiers are on Another Level!

On this episode of the AXPONA Audio Insider Podcast, host Lenny Florentine sits down with Randy Bingham and Nick Lucini of Rhythm Distribution to explore the extraordinary world of Goldmund and its flagship Telos amplifier lineup. The conversation dives into the full range of Telos amplifiers, from the Telos 800 stereo amplifier with its massive 3200VA transformer all the way up to the statement level Telos 8800, highlighting the engineering philosophy, performance goals, and luxury craftsmanship that define the brand. Randy and Nick share real world listening experiences, including customers comparing the Telos 800 against amplifiers costing several times more and still preferring the Goldmund sound. They also discuss Goldmund’s broader ecosystem, including elegant lifestyle speakers, ultra limited statement designs, and fully integrated cinema systems designed entirely in house. The episode also previews the North American show debut of a Goldmund system at AXPONA, where attendees will be able to experience the Swiss brand’s meticulous approach to high end audio firsthand.

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AXPONA 2026 TO SHOWCASE LANDMARK PRODUCT DEBUTS APRIL 10-12

For immediate release

AXPONA 2026 TO SHOWCASE LANDMARK PRODUCT DEBUTS APRIL 10-12

March 9, 2026 Schaumburg, IL — AXPONA (Audio Expo North America) 2026 will once again serve as the premier stage for the high-end audio industry’s most anticipated product launches. AXPONA 2026 welcomes hundreds of exhibitors from around the globe, bringing together an international community of manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. The Exhibit Hall, Ear Gear Experience, Car Audio Showcase and Listening Rooms will feature a dynamic mix of returning industry leaders alongside exciting first-time exhibitors, creating a vibrant showcase of both established excellence and emerging innovation. This April’s event will feature world premieres, U.S. debuts, and breakthrough loudspeaker, electronics, and digital innovations from leading global manufacturers.

Among the headline debuts:

Audio Note (UK) Ltd, Room 1403
Presenting the U.S. premiere of the newest version of the Oto integrated amplifier.

AXISS Audio, Imagination, 1129, 1130, 1628, 1632- Aster
AXISS Audio Distribution proudly presents the USA debut of the new optical phono system from Lithuania based Reed. The system includes a customized optical cartridge and phono EQ stage with separate power supply that reflects the deep knowledge of analog design principles and techniques. The result is an audio experience that delivers unmatched quality, clarity, and immersion — the unique benefits that only an optical cartridge can provide. Visit them in room 1128.

AXISS Audio Distribution proudly presents the North American debut of the 787 Turntable from Swiss-based Soulution. The 787 is a innovative linear tracking reference turntable with a moving platter and a minimal excursion pivoted tonearm, engineered for audiophiles who demand nothing less than perfection. Visit them in Aster Suite on the 16th floor.

Decibel Plus, Room 1109
The online store features accessible high performance systems and will unveil new products including the Neoson Genèse (integrated amp), the SoulNote A-1 ver2 (integrated amp), Atlantis Lab AT-16 & AT-21 (Speakers), and the AudioByte SuperVOX and SuperHUB (DAC and Streamer) at AXPONA.

Dinaburg Technology, Ear Gear Booth 9425
Dinaburg Technology developed and patented a loudspeaker transducer architecture that address fundamental limitations in traditional driver design. Our core innovation, C2S (Concentric Coplanar Stabilizer), repurposes wasted energy into controlled acoustic output, reducing distortion, improving clarity and intelligibility, and enabling smaller, lighter, more efficient audio products. The technology scales from headphones to home audio, automotive, and smart devices. Experience the new C2S headphone transducer (60×72 mm oval format) and C2S 6.5-inch loudspeaker drivers making their debut at AXPONA.

Gato Audio & Copenhagen Loudspeaker Company, Room 731
The CLC65 — the world’s first commercial 3-way loudspeaker built exclusively with Purifi drivers — makes its highly anticipated introduction, setting a new benchmark for advanced driver integration and system coherence.

MAGICO, 15-Club Room
The S7 (2026) loudspeaker system will make its a world premiere debut for Magico. The monumental conclusion to Magico’s critically acclaimed S Series has arrived. Introducing the S7 2026—a 384-pound, five-driver, three-way loudspeaker and the ultimate expression of the S Series legacy.

Mojo Audio, Room 360
Experience the Mystique Z Quantum DAC along with the “One Box Wonder” music server.

Mimic-Audio, EG 8119
Will feature the Rockna Sinum digital source component, highlighting cutting-edge DAC architecture and signal processing refinement.

Nobius Audio, EX9315
Introducing the N1-9B Bass Module designed to complement the N1-9 Bookshelf Speaker, alongside the S2-5 and S1-2 bookshelf loudspeakers.

ORCHESTALLS, Room 728
See the mini versions of its previous loudspeaker models, expanding accessibility while maintaining performance integrity.

PARAMAX CORPORATION, EX9326
Experience the new powered monitor speaker samples in a first-time launch event presentation.

Quintessence Audio, Connection 1 Perfection 1, Knowledge 1
Experience multiple world debuts, including the new Dohmann Helix One MKIII turntable, alongside additional forthcoming product introductions. Their room will also feature the dCS Varese digital system from dCS and the Nazare music server by Innuos.

Rhythm Distribution, 2- Prosperity, 2- Utopia Lounge
The Goldmund Telos 8800 stands as a monumental achievement in high-end audio, engineered to deliver an unparalleled 1400 watts of Class AB power with surgical precision. As one of the world’s most powerful amplifiers, it utilizes a unique lateral MOSFET design and advanced thermal management to maintain absolute signal integrity under any load. Housed in a striking, architectural silver chassis, the Telos 8800 is more than an electronic component; it is a statement piece designed to drive the most demanding loudspeakers with effortless dynamics and a noise floor that borders on the edge of theoretical silence.

The Goldmund Mimesis Reference is the ultimate analog command center, designed to preserve the absolute purity of the audio signal without compromise. This flagship preamplifier features a completely decoupled dual-mono circuit architecture and a proprietary mechanical grounding system that eliminates the microscopic vibrations that often mask fine musical detail. By maintaining a strictly analog signal path with an ultra-low noise floor and high-speed signal processing, the Mimesis Reference provides a level of transparency and spatial accuracy that allows the listener to experience the original recording in its most unadulterated form.

A limited-edition masterpiece of Swedish engineering, the Marten Coltrane Quintet Extreme features a world-class driver array that includes the world’s largest pure beryllium midrange (7-inch) and a massive 3-inch pure diamond high-midrange, complemented by a 1-inch diamond tweeter. This “Extreme” version utilizes the same flagship driver technology found in the 1.3 million-dollar Coltrane Supreme Extreme, housed in a sophisticated carbon fiber laminate cabinet for near-perfect resonance control. With Jorma Paragon internal wiring and a first-order crossover, the Quintet Extreme offers a level of speed, resolution, and lifelike scale that is virtually unmatched in a single-cabinet design.

The Luxman L100-C is a definitive Pure Class-A integrated amplifier that prioritizes tonal richness and a liquid-smooth musical delivery. By operating in constant Class-A, it ensures the output transistors remain fully active at all times, virtually eliminating crossover distortion and providing a warmth and immediacy traditionally associated with elite vacuum tube designs. Equipped with Luxman’s latest LIFES feedback engine and a high-current power supply, the L100-C delivers a robust, 3D soundstage and an organic presence, making it the ideal heart for an uncompromising high-fidelity system.

The Luxman D100-C is a high-precision digital source designed to extract every nuance from both physical media and high-resolution digital streams. Built around the ultra-stable LxDTM-i transport mechanism and a flagship-grade DAC architecture, it treats digital signals with the same reverence Luxman gives to its analog circuits. Whether functioning as a dedicated SACD/CD player or a high-performance DAC for external digital sources, the D100-C delivers a jitter-free, organic performance characterized by deep textures, exceptional timing, and an expansive, natural soundstage.

The Jorma Paragon represents the absolute pinnacle of high-end signal transmission, engineered to complement the world’s most sophisticated loudspeaker systems. These flagship cables utilize pure copper conductors of the highest possible grade, shielded by a unique, multi-layered dielectric system that minimizes signal loss and interference. What truly sets the Paragon apart is its specialized Marten-tuned geometry and the use of ultra-premium connectors, ensuring that the cable acts as a completely transparent conduit for the audio signal. By achieving a perfect balance of inductance and capacitance, Jorma Paragon cables allow for a level of micro-detail, transient speed, and organic texture that brings the listener closer to a live performance than ever 

Silent Angel. EX 9112
See the latest flagship audiophile streamer, the Silent Angel MX, as well as a long-awaited upgrade to its popular N8 network switch.

SoundCrewe Audio, Room 546
SoundCrewe Audio currently has three standard models in the SC-750 line. Each pair is its own piece of art with nearly limitless wood and finish options.
— Model 350 Desk Tops: 3” woofer (Tangband) and ¾” tweeter (Peerless);
— Model 450: 4 ½” woofer (SEAS Excel) and 1” tweeter (ScanSpeak Illuminator);
— Model 550 (in R&D) 5 ½” woofer (SEAS Excel) and 1” tweeter (ScanSpeak Illuminator);
— Model 750 Flagship: 7”woofer (Accuton CELL) and 1.2” tweeter (Accuton CELL)
Speaker housings, tweeters and bases are handcrafted wood (Maple, Poplar, Cherry, Mahogany, and Walnut are just a few)

SVS, Rooms 1442, 1444
SVS introduces the SVS 3000 Micro R|Evolution, a groundbreaking compact subwoofer that delivers flagship-level engineering and reference-grade bass performance from an elegantly proportioned 11-inch enclosure. Featuring force-balanced dual opposing 9-inch drivers, a 1,200-watt (4,000+ watt peak) Class-D amplifier, and advanced Analog Devices DSP, it produces deep, articulate, and room-filling bass with exceptional control and precision.

Swan Song Audio, Room 1644
Multiple launches include:

  • 3D-printed 7-foot “Rocket” speakers
  • 3D-printed tower-style turntable
  • 3D-printed battery-powered single-ended phono preamplifier
  • 3D-printed battery-powered DAC/preamplifier
  • 3D-printed 11.5-watt battery-powered Class A mono block amplifiers
  • In-house Argentium silver cables
  • 3D-printed acoustic treatment solutions

T+A North America, Schaumburg G
See the new streamer/DAC/preamp called the SDX 3100 HV, along with the new A 3100 HV stereo amplifier and PS 3100 HV external power supply.

Vandersteen Audio, Room 1434
Vandersteen Audio designs music components engineered together to perform as one. The result is a level of coherence and realism that can only come from matching components and speakers with Time and Phase-Correct accuracy. Experience the all-new Line Stage that features purist circuits and fully defeatable tone, stereo/mono, and matrix functions.

VPE Electrodynamics, Room 502
The new “Elevon” Active DSP Convertible Loudspeaker — is a 3-way active powered system with integral DSP-based crossover, equalization, and level control. The Elevon features an innovative tilt-filter adjustment for seamless in-room response matching. Also premiering is the new “Aileron” bookshelf speaker, configurable as a left/right mini-monitor or center channel solution.

Woo Audio, Room 1125
The Woo Audio WA300B-BAL pure tube power amplifier driving Ø Audio and Aretai speakers will debut at AXPONA. Each amplifier is designed, hand assembled and shipped from our New York workshop. Warranty and product support are handled by our U.S.-based team members. Every Woo Audio product uses the best quality parts and components available to ensure lifetime reliability and exceptional sound quality.

With hundreds of listening rooms, an expansive Expo Hall, Ear Gear Experience and thousands of passionate attendees, AXPONA 2026 continues to define the North American high-performance audio landscape. This year’s slate of launches underscores the event’s role as the industry’s most important annual debut platform — where engineering innovation meets experiential listening.

For exhibitor information, tickets, and event details, visit www.axpona.com/register.

ABOUT AXPONA

AXPONA (Audio Expo North America) is North America’s largest event for audiophiles, manufacturers of high-end audio equipment, musicians and music lovers. The three-day experience features 200+ high fidelity listening rooms, providing guests the enviable opportunity to experience the newest technology in high-end consumer audio products. Attendees are encouraged to go from room to room and sit, listen and compare the various systems. The Expo Hall and Ear Gear Experience play host to thousands of products and accessories from cables to headphones to LPs and SACDs.  The Hi-Fi Car Audio Showcase brings together the best in high-fidelity car audio systems, featuring a thrilling Sound Quality (SQ) competition.

Beyond the exhibits, AXPONA includes live musical performances and educational seminars with industry experts and demonstrations. 

For more information including updates on AXPONA’s exhibitors and schedule, visit axpona.com call 203-3072691. 

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Episode 63: The Speaker Design Audiophiles Can’t Ignore


Episode 63: The Speaker Design Audiophiles Can’t Ignore

On this episode of the AXPONA Audio Insider Podcast, Lenny Florentine sits down with Jeremy Porter of JPorter Studios to explore his lifelong obsession with hi-fi and the engineering philosophy behind his striking, asymmetrical loudspeakers. Jeremy shares how growing up around his father’s hi-fi system led him to study electrical engineering at UT Austin and spend decades refining speaker design. The conversation dives deep into his Baltic birch, multi-angled cabinets built to reduce resonances and diffraction, his folded transmission line architecture that reaches down to 16Hz, and the differences between ceramic and beryllium drivers in the Waterloo and Wellington series. They also discuss active vs. passive designs using Hypex amplification and DSP, the innovative three-way Waterloo Micro with dual opposed subwoofers, and what to expect from the new active Wellington Micro debuting at AXPONA. It’s a technical yet passionate look at modern speaker design from a true audio obsessive.

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Episode 62: Audiophiles Are Rediscovering This Legendary Brand


Episode 62: Audiophiles Are Rediscovering This Legendary Brand

On this episode of the AXPONA Audio Insider Podcast, host Lenny Florentine welcomes Randy and Nick of Rhythm Distribution, the U.S. importers for Luxman, for a deep dive into one of high-end audio’s most iconic brands. Randy shares his decades-long journey through hi-fi retail and manufacturing, while Nick details his path from pro audio and recording into the high-end two-channel world. The conversation explores Luxman’s 100-year legacy, its meticulous Japanese build quality, and the intentional design philosophy behind its celebrated integrated amplifiers—from the 505 and 507 to the flagship 509—as well as the leap into separates like the M10X and C10X. They also break down new product releases including the D-03R CD player/DAC, P-100 headphone amplifier, and E-07 phono stage, highlighting Luxman’s signature balance of honesty, musicality, and emotional connection. Plus, the team teases major upcoming debuts at AXPONA and what the next century holds for the legendary brand.

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Episode 61: How to Achieve an Audiophile Streaming Experience


Episode 61:How to Achieve an Audiophile Streaming Experience

On this episode of the AXPONA Audio Insider Podcast, host Lenny Florentine sits down with Stephen Healey of Innuos to trace both a personal and technical journey into high-end streaming audio. Stephen shares how a childhood surrounded by vinyl and classic hi-fi sparked a lifelong passion for music that eventually led him into the industry, before diving deep into the origins and philosophy of Innuos — from its early experiments with music servers in 2009 to becoming one of the most respected names in digital audio. The conversation explores Innuos’ full-stack approach to streaming, why software, power supply design, and system efficiency matter just as much as hardware, and how modular streamers, dedicated network switches, and separates can dramatically impact sound quality. They also break down Innuos’ current product lineup, explain digital connections and DAC options, and preview the U.S. debut of the flagship Nazare system at AXPONA, offering a clear look at how far high-end streaming has evolved — and where it’s headed next.

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Episode 60: You NEED To Know THIS About The Future of the HiFi Industry


Episode 60: You NEED To Know THIS About The Future of the HiFi Industry

On this episode of the AXPONA Audio Insider Podcast, host Lenny Florentine sits down with Lucca Chesky of Chesky Audio, one of the youngest and most compelling new voices in hi-fi today. Lucca shares how growing up surrounded by music and reference-level sound led him to start a loudspeaker company while still in high school, and how that early exposure shaped his design philosophy. The conversation dives deep into Chesky Audio’s fully 3D-printed speaker cabinets, why traditional MDF construction limits performance, and how monocoque printing allows for greater control, rigidity, and value at accessible price points. They discuss the rapid success of the LC1, the evolution to the reference-focused LC2, breakout moments at AXPONA, and why thoughtful design, aesthetics, and affordability are key to bringing a new generation into hi-fi. From speaker engineering and manufacturing to the future of 3D printing, home theater, and entry-level audio, this episode explores where high-end sound is headed—and why the future of hi-fi may be younger than anyone expects.

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