CES is dead for high-end audio and that’s not a bad thing. Having been in Tampa twice over the past two weeks, the strength of this excellent regional show in a booming market is the best thing for our tiny corner of the consumer A/V market.
By sheer coincidence, we stayed in another hotel down the block and I took a trip over to visit the Embassy Suites and will certainly be making the trip to Tampa in February.
Florida is struggling somewhat with all of the post-pandemic growth and whilst my parents live in Palm Beach County, we spend a lot of time here on both sides of the state and there is a lot to like about the Tampa area. The population is decidedly younger than it used to be and a lot of families have relocated from New York, New Jersey, California, and Illinois. This is a show that attracts consumers from Florida, Georgia, Texas, Alabama, Louisiana, South Carolina, and even Canada.
Who the hell comes from Canada to a show in Tampa? People who make Florida home in the winter and as someone who grew up in Toronto — that number is increasing with each passing year.
The Florida International Audio Expo has announced the dates for its fifth show, taking place Friday–Sunday, February 16–18, 2024, at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore hotel. Tickets and hotel reservations are now available.
Attendees will have the opportunity to explore over 12 floors of audio systems from the industry’s most coveted brands from all over the world—electronics, loudspeakers, turntables, headphones, and more. The event will provide attendees with the incredible opportunity to meet industry influencers, icons, and product designers as they roam the halls, enjoying music together.
“We’re excited to be returning for our fifth year with almost all of our exhibit rooms already sold out,” said Managing Partner Bart Andeer. “It’s a testament to the atmosphere we’ve created here that so many of our 2023 exhibitors are returning, and we’re also welcoming some established brands for the first time. Attendees will have the opportunity to see a wide variety of products on display, making it easier to find the best option for their music-reproduction needs. We welcome everyone to the Sunshine State to celebrate our passion for music—it’s the reason we created this show!”
Tickets are on sale now: Single-day admission, $25; admission for all three days, $35; free admission for students, children, and spouses.
The Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore, originally built as condominiums, has acoustically isolated suites and offers a feeling of comfort and luxury to attendees and exhibitors alike. The hotel is conveniently located just minutes away from Tampa International Airport.
Additional benefits for attendees and exhibitors staying at the Embassy Suites include a free airport shuttle, complimentary breakfast and happy hour. Hotel reservations are open now but will go quickly, so don’t hesitate.
Founded in 2018, the Florida International Audio Expo was developed by an experienced team of successful, professional, and motivated individuals with the mission to present a strong show that welcomes to the Southeast market dealers and manufacturers from around the world, and offers a fun atmosphere for enjoying music.
Related reading: Naim & Focal Unleash The Heat at Florida Audio Expo 2023
