I just got back from HIGH END Munich 2025, the world’s most prestigious high-end audio exhibition, held at the iconic MOC – Event Center Messe München (Lilienthalallee 40, 80939 Munich, Germany). If you love audiophile gear, premium sound systems, or just enjoy being blown away by incredible music experiences — this is the place to be.
And honestly? This year’s event was one for the books.
What Makes HIGH END Munich So Special?
Let’s talk numbers:
500+ exhibitors from over 40 countries
1,000+ brands presented
Over 30,000 m² of exhibition space
22,000+ visitors across four days
580 accredited journalists from around the globe
That scale alone tells you it’s serious. But the real magic? It’s what happens inside those exhibition halls — demos, world premieres, immersive sound stages, and conversations with people who live and breathe music.
Key Highlights and Experiences
🎧 World of Headphones
In Hall 1, visitors were immersed in the World of Headphones, featuring more than 70 headphone brands showcasing their latest and greatest. From planar magnetic monsters to ultra-portable wireless designs, you could sit down and compare them all — side-by-side.
🎮 Gaming Zone
Yes, gamers had their own space too. The Gaming Zone highlighted how premium sound enhances gaming immersion. There were live demos, console setups, and plenty of gear to test in real-time.
🛠️ IPS — International Parts + Supply
This section was all about the behind-the-scenes heroes of the audio industry — parts manufacturers, OEM providers, and service specialists. Great for networking or just understanding how the magic gets made.
💡 SOUNDSCLEVER
One of my favorite parts of the show was SOUNDSCLEVER — a showcase proving you don’t need to spend a fortune to get great sound. Exhibitors presented complete, ready-to-play hi-fi systems under €5,000 that delivered exceptional audio performance. Smart, accessible, and inspiring.
🎶 Immersive Audio with Anette Askvik
Norwegian artist Anette Askvik, this year’s event ambassador, presented her latest album Liberty in a 3D immersive audio format, thanks to a collaboration with Kii Audio. The sound experience was otherworldly — a perfect example of how music can be reimagined through modern sound technologies.
🎙️ X-Pert Stage Talks
Throughout the event, the X-Pert Stage hosted insightful panels and discussions. Audiophile legends like Michael Fremer and Roland Hoffmann shared deep dives into analog resurgence, digital trends, and the future of high-fidelity listening.
🔥 Major Product Highlights from the Show
🎸 REVO x Alice Cooper: The Boldest Reel-to-Reel Release
Hands down, the showstopper for me was REVO's black and red reel-to-reel tape recorder, created in collaboration with rock legend Alice Cooper.
This machine was a statement: sleek matte black design with blood-red reels, vintage VU meters, and premium analog hardware. It wasn’t just about aesthetics — the sound had depth, warmth, and raw analog soul.
It’s not every day you see a rock icon and audiophile engineering come together this beautifully.
🎧 Astell&Kern SP4000: The Next-Level DAP
The other major buzz came from Astell&Kern, who officially unveiled their new flagship portable player: the A&ultima SP4000.
With dual DACs, upgraded amp architecture, support for native DSD and 32-bit/768kHz playback, and a stunning industrial design, the SP4000 is built to redefine what portable hi-fi can do. And yes — I got to try it. And yes — it blew my mind.
🎼 Other Notable Premieres
Chord Electronics introduced a new component in their Ultima Reference line — analog excellence meets next-gen performance.
Meze Audio launched the 105 SILVA, a stunning hybrid that blends elements of the 109 PRO and the 105 AER.
Nagaoka celebrated its 85th anniversary with a special edition MP-700 phono cartridge, promising pristine analog playback.
iFi Audio presented two new portable DAC/amp units for audiophiles on the go.
Qobuz introduced Qobuz Connect, their answer to Spotify Connect, enabling seamless hi-res streaming to compatible devices.
Final Thoughts: HIGH END Munich Is More Than an Event — It’s a Movement
From iconic brands to indie innovators, from immersive audio to budget-friendly setups — HIGH END Munich 2025 was a reminder of how vibrant and creative the audio world is right now.
It’s not just about chasing specs or spending thousands. It’s about finding the gear that moves you. And in Munich, you’re surrounded by thousands of others who get that.
If you’ve ever thought about going — make it happen next year. You’ll leave inspired, informed, and probably with a long shopping list.
This was the last HIGH-END exhibition held in Munich. The next HIGH-END exhibition will be held in Vienna. I hope this will be for the better development of the music and audiophile industry.
