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 \u201cBest Sound\u201d of the show, and this year promises to be no different.<\/p>\r\n
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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\u2019s 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\u2019s Reference Ultime Two SX loudspeakers will bring speed, scale, and musical realism to the system. While VTL\u2019s 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.<\/p>\r\n
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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.<\/p>\r\n
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In addition to enjoying the sonic spoils of this unmatched system, Nordost is hosting a series of presentations throughout show!<\/p>\r\n
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Friday<\/strong><\/p>\r\n
12:00 PM \u2013\u00a0Lunchtime Listening Hour<\/strong>\u00a0featuring unreleased Newvelle Records LPs<\/p>\r\n
2:00 PM \u2013\u00a0Behind the Recording<\/strong>\u00a0with Igor Fiorini of VDM High End Records<\/p>\r\n
4:00 PM \u2013\u00a0Qobuz Flash DJ Session<\/strong>\u00a0with David Solomon<\/p>\r\n
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Saturday<\/strong><\/p>\r\n
12:00 PM \u2013\u00a0Lunchtime Listening Hour<\/strong>\u00a0featuring unreleased Newvelle Records LPs<\/p>\r\n
2:00 PM \u2013\u00a0Behind the recording<\/strong>\u00a0with Igor Fiorini of VDM High End Records<\/p>\r\n
4:00 PM \u2013\u00a0Exclusive Listening and Storytelling Experience\u00a0<\/strong>with Abey Fonn of Impex Records<\/p>\r\n
5:30 PM \u2013\u00a050th\u00a0Anniversary Listening Session<\/strong>: David Bowie’s Station to Station<\/p>\r\n
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Sunday<\/strong><\/p>\r\n
12:00 PM \u2013\u00a0Lunchtime Listening Hour<\/strong>\u00a0featuring unreleased Newvelle Records LPs<\/p>\r\n
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Lunchtime Listening Hour<\/strong> [12:00 PM Friday, Saturday, and Sunday]<\/p>\r\n
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Every day at noon, hear unreleased recordings from Newvelle Records\u2019 anniversary LPs, the Newvelle Ten Collection, pressed on 180-gram vinyl, featuring\u00a0Martin Wind,\u00a0Ingrid Jensen,\u00a0Elan Mehler,\u00a0Loren Stillman, and\u00a0Sk\u00fali Sverrisson. We will also be spinning a selection of classical pieces, expertly curated by VTL\u2019s Bea Lamm.<\/p>\r\n
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Behind the Recording<\/strong> [2:00 PM Friday and Saturday]<\/p>\r\n
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VDM High End Records\u2019 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:<\/p>\r\n
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Chopin at Home Vol. 2 \u2013 Marco Arcieri:<\/em>\u00a0From microphone signals to vinyl test pressings, experience the recording\u2019s construction.<\/p>\r\n
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Dohn\u00e1nyi \u2013 Dvo\u0159\u00e1k: String Sextets, Sestetto Stradivari:<\/em>\u00a0Original DXD 32-bit masters highlight the texture and complexity of string instruments.<\/p>\r\n
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Qobuz Flash DJ Session <\/strong> [4:00 PM Friday]<\/p>\r\n
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David Solomon from Qobuz hosts a Flash DJ Session, playing an exciting mix of tracks. This is the perfect way to experience this system\u2019s digital capabilities.<\/p>\r\n
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Exclusive Listening and Storytelling Experience<\/strong> [4:00 PM Saturday]<\/p>\r\n
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Abey Fonn, founder of\u00a0Impex Records, presents an exclusive\u00a0listening and storytelling experience. Abey will present highlights from John McLaughlin’s hot new album\u00a0Music From\u00a0Abandoned Heights<\/em>\u00a0and Bud Shank’s just-released AAA LP\u00a0Holiday in Brazil<\/em>, alongside a curated selection of personal favorites. Through rare insights and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, Abey will illuminate what it\u2019s like to work with legendary artists and our production partners to\u00a0meticulously craft the finest audiophile records. This is a unique opportunity to hear not just the music, but the stories etched into every groove.<\/p>\r\n
Celebrate 50 years of Bowie\u2019s groundbreaking 1976 album,\u00a0Station to Station<\/em>. 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\u2019s unique musical artistry.<\/p>\r\n
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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.<\/p>\r\n
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Over three days, explore 220+ high-fidelity listening rooms, thousands of products in the Expo Hall, Ear Gear Experience, Car Audio Showcase,\u00a0 live performances, educational seminars, and cutting-edge audio demos. Whether you\u2019re a seasoned audiophile or a curious newcomer, AXPONA is the place to be. Secure your tickets today and immerse yourself in the world of high-fidelity sound and music!<\/div>\r\n
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SHOW HOURS:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n
Friday, April 10, 2026: 10:00 AM \u2013 6:00 PM<\/p>\r\n
Saturday, April 11, 2026: 10:00 AM \u2013 6:00 PM<\/p>\r\n
Sunday, April 12, 2026: 10:00 AM \u2013 4:00 PM<\/p>\r\n
LOCATION:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n
Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel & Convention Center 1551 N Thoreau Dr, Schaumburg, IL, 60173 \u00a0 \u00a0<\/p>\r\n
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