Nordost, in collaboration with Stenheim and VTL, have put together a must-hear listening experience in the Schaumburg F Ballroom at AXPONA 2026. For three years running, this partnership has yielded world-class, reference-level systems, earning “Best Sound” of the show, and this year promises to be no different.
This powerhouse system features flagships products from each brand, expertly set up by Audio Systems Optimized, to create one cohesive musical event. The centerpiece of Nordost’s room will be their Odin Gold and Odin 2 Supreme Reference cables. This is a rare opportunity to hear Odin Gold in a public setting. Stenheim’s Reference Ultime Two SX loudspeakers will bring speed, scale, and musical realism to the system. While VTL’s new Lohengrin 400Watt Reference Monoblock, supported by their TL-7.5 Series III Reference Linestage and TP-6.5 Series II Signature Phono Stage are the featured components. Rounding out the system, dCS and VPI will provide enviable digital and analog source options, and Audys by VDM will supply acoustic panels for room treatment.
Axpona is the perfect setting to see aspirational systems performing at their best. In Schaumburg F, attendees will be treated to the impactful experience of live music thanks to the combination of cutting-edge technology, passion for audio, and elegant design.
In addition to enjoying the sonic spoils of this unmatched system, Nordost is hosting a series of presentations throughout show!
Friday
12:00 PM – Lunchtime Listening Hour featuring unreleased Newvelle Records LPs
2:00 PM – Behind the Recording with Igor Fiorini of VDM High End Records
4:00 PM – Qobuz Flash DJ Session with David Solomon
Saturday
12:00 PM – Lunchtime Listening Hour featuring unreleased Newvelle Records LPs
2:00 PM – Behind the recording with Igor Fiorini of VDM High End Records
4:00 PM – Exclusive Listening and Storytelling Experience with Abey Fonn of Impex Records
5:30 PM – 50th Anniversary Listening Session: David Bowie’s Station to Station
Sunday
12:00 PM – Lunchtime Listening Hour featuring unreleased Newvelle Records LPs
Lunchtime Listening Hour [12:00 PM Friday, Saturday, and Sunday]
Every day at noon, hear unreleased recordings from Newvelle Records’ anniversary LPs, the Newvelle Ten Collection, pressed on 180-gram vinyl, featuring Martin Wind, Ingrid Jensen, Elan Mehler, Loren Stillman, and Skúli Sverrisson. We will also be spinning a selection of classical pieces, expertly curated by VTL’s Bea Lamm.
Behind the Recording [2:00 PM Friday and Saturday]
VDM High End Records’ Igor Fiorini reveals how a recording is created. A master recording is a cultural and symbolic message, shaped by the artist and the sound director, and carried through the recording to reach the listener. During this presentation we will hear individual microphones, each with its own character, and discover how they form the final sonic balance. Featured releases include:
Chopin at Home Vol. 2 – Marco Arcieri: From microphone signals to vinyl test pressings, experience the recording’s construction.
Dohnányi – Dvořák: String Sextets, Sestetto Stradivari: Original DXD 32-bit masters highlight the texture and complexity of string instruments.
Qobuz Flash DJ Session [4:00 PM Friday]
David Solomon from Qobuz hosts a Flash DJ Session, playing an exciting mix of tracks. This is the perfect way to experience this system’s digital capabilities.
Exclusive Listening and Storytelling Experience [4:00 PM Saturday]
Abey Fonn, founder of Impex Records, presents an exclusive listening and storytelling experience. Abey will present highlights from John McLaughlin’s hot new album Music From Abandoned Heights and Bud Shank’s just-released AAA LP Holiday in Brazil, alongside a curated selection of personal favorites. Through rare insights and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, Abey will illuminate what it’s like to work with legendary artists and our production partners to meticulously craft the finest audiophile records. This is a unique opportunity to hear not just the music, but the stories etched into every groove.
50th Anniversary Listening Session [5:30 PM Saturday]
Celebrate 50 years of Bowie’s groundbreaking 1976 album, Station to Station. Experience every detail of this iconic recording, played on a world-class audio system. This session offers a rare opportunity to hear the nuances and dynamics in this classic LP that highlights Bowie’s unique musical artistry.
In addition to the happenings in Schaumburg F Ballroom, Nordost will also be conducting live cable demonstrations in Room 716, in partnership with local retailer Holm Audio. This will allow attendees to listen firsthand and experience the difference Nordost cables and audio enhancers make, with expert staff available to answer questions and provide insights into the technology behind the products.