For first-timers, understand that the exhibitor list is misleading. Example, if a room is listed for, let's say Wilson, there will be Wilson products. But also, there will be all of the electronics and cabling etc that's needed to form a system. So, the Wison room might also be showing McIntosh, or Pass, and Transparent, and Aurrender and so on. There might be a room sponsored by a cable company and then, of course, all of the electronics and speakers needed to complete the system.
As to the Chicago area audio stores that are represented, those mentioned above are only a few. There are more, all showing numerous products that they deal with.
Lastly, the mask mandate in Il has been lifted. Any mask requirement at the show will be Axponas' call. I haven't seen anything on the web site that mentions a change. Personally, I'm ok with it if it means a little extra protection. If years past are any indication, the place can get pretty crowded. Packed elevators, hallways and rooms could be cause for extra caution. The show will be worth the aggravation.