Part 3 — Industry Gala Banquet: Celebrating Innovation And The People In High-End Audio
A premier gathering of luxury audio professionals, brands, and creators shaping the future of sound.
Montreal Audiofest Show Report By Rick Becker

As a way of encouraging young people in the high end industry, the Montreal and Toronto Audiofests have established the Next Wave Award for a young person who exhibits character and enthusiasm for propelling this industry forward.

At Montreal Audiofest 2026 this year, the Next Wave Award went to Sebastien Thibault. Sebastian has been passionate about audio for many years and joined the Canadian Audiofest team a few years ago. About 18 months ago, he became a brand representative for KEF and now works for Motet Distribution, which distributes Accuphase, Audio Note, HiFiman, Lumin, PMC, Triangle, FiiO, and more. He is widely appreciated by the stores he serves and the brands he represents. 

One of the store owners Sebastian serves, mentioned to Sarah Tremblay (without knowing Sebastian was getting the award) that Sebastian is a fantastic rep who really understands what the industry needs, and that he is putting a lot of time, effort, and passion into his work. This industry needs more like him.

The Lifetime Achievement Award has been given for many years now, and many who were founders of the high end industry have been so honored with this award. It is a small statue of weathered river stones that is as individualistic as the people who have received the award.

This year, the Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Isadore Nudell, who is the owner of Codell Audio, a high end store in Montreal since 1972—the year the Linn LP12 was introduced. It should be no surprise that Codell Audio is also a Linn dealer, as well as a purveyor of a great many high end brands.

Isadore is affectionately known as Izzy by those close to him in the industry.

Isadore Nudell and Sebastien Thibault shake hands after the presentation.

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