Axpona

Two years ago was my first Axpona (first audio show ever actually).  Was lucky enough to go early on the first day so it wasn't that crowded.  I had a great time.  Was able to check out so many new products.  Really couldn't believe how many companies are out there that I had never heard of!  

As many have stated, don't go there expecting to hear everything at it's best.  But, I think you can get a good idea of what a speaker might sound like in your room.  I was blown away by the sound in a few rooms though - Vinni Rossi, Maggie LRS, Sanders, DeVore, just to name a few.  Ended up buying the LRS shortly thereafter.  

Totally worth a trip IMO.  Even just to go once.  I am looking forward to going again in April.

@woots 

IIRC the Chicagoland dealers present in 2019 were Saturday Audio, Holm, Music Direct, Quintessence.  They had a variety of stuff on display.  Just took a look at the 2022 exhibitor list and it looks like the same are there this year.  There are also dealers from around the country sporting various gear.  Check it out:

Most of the major brands will be on display in some fashion.  As koslekt1 said, it does pay to go through the list and try and whittle it down a bit.  It really is a quite a lot to see in one day.  I was hoping to go 2 days this time but a little thing like work will probably not let that happen!

Again, totally worth the price of admission IMO.