AXPONA 2026 Highlights And New Gear Guide — The Biggest Moments From The Audiophile / High-End Audio Show 
Inside the top room demos, breakthrough gear launches, and must-hear systems from Audio Expo North America 2026.

  Audio Expo North America (AXPONA) 2026 takes place from April 10th through 12th at The Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center close to Chicago. This annual three-day immersive high-fidelity audio experience features a multitude of floors, hallways, and exhibit rooms. The AXPONA 2026 show brings together music lovers, audiophiles, and industry professionals for three days of sound exploration. Attendees can expect a vibrant atmosphere filled with cutting-edge audio demonstrations, product debuts, and opportunities to engage directly with manufacturers and designers. 

AXPONA 2026 Show Report / Coverage
Enjoy the Music.com's industry anticipated AXPONA 2026 high-end audiophile event coverage will be online during the event.

About The AXPONA 2025 High-End Audio Show
One of the defining features of AXPONA 2026 is its extensive collection of over 220 high-fidelity listening rooms. These rooms allow visitors to audition floorstanding loudspeakers, powerful amplifiers, precision turntables, Hi-Res Audio DACs, and other components in controlled environments that highlight the nuances of each sound system.

Exhibitors range from boutique audio artisans to globally recognized hi-fi brands, offering a rare chance to compare equipment side by side. The event's scale makes it a unique destination for anyone seeking to experience audio gear that is often unavailable in traditional retail spaces.

Ear Gear Experience
Beyond the listening rooms, AXPONA 2026 will feature a bustling Expo Hall showcasing thousands of personal audio / HeadFi products across categories such as headphones, portable audio, vinyl, accessories, and emerging technologies. The Ear Gear Experience, a dedicated section for personal audio, will return with an array of headphones, IEMs, and portable players for hands-on testing. The Car Audio Showcase adds another dimension, giving attendees the chance to explore high-performance automotive sound systems. Collectively, these exhibits create a comprehensive view of the modern audio landscape.

Audiophile Seminars
Education and entertainment are also central to the AXPONA 2026 high-end audiophile show experience. The 2026 event will include a full schedule of seminars led by engineers, reviewers, and industry experts who will discuss topics ranging from system setup to audio science and industry trends. Live musical performances and special events throughout the weekend add a cultural layer to the expo, making it not just a trade show but a celebration of music itself. For those seeking an elevated experience, the Gold Pass offers perks such as VIP check-in, lounge access, refreshments, and exclusive hospitality areas.

IASCA Car Audio Competition
A car audio showcase by IASCA (International Auto Sound Challenge Association) will offer live demonstrations, interactive exhibits highlighting some of the best in-car audio technology from top-tier manufacturers. Car audio enthusiasts will compete for top honors in achieving audiophile sound clarity and precision in custom-built car audio systems. Competition vehicles will be on the expo floor in a designated area and also be available for spectator demos throughout the show.

Tickets
Tickets for AXPONA 2026 are available in several tiers, including single-day, multi-day, Gen-Z, child, trade, and the premium Gold Pass. With thousands expected to attend, the event continues to grow as a cornerstone of the North American audio community. Whether you're a seasoned audiophile or someone curious about high-end sound, AXPONA 2026 promises an engaging, hands-on journey through the best that modern audio has to offer. 

Where
The Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center
1551 N. Thoreau Drive
Schaumburg, IL 60173

When
Friday, April 10 from 10am to 6pm
Saturday, April 11 from 10am to 6pm
Sunday, April 12 from 10am to 4pm

Previous AXPONA Show Reports
Enjoy the Music.com's previous coverage includes AXPONA 2025, 2024,2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011 and 2010 coverage.