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A debut that impressed, bringing together innovation, international appeal and the unifying power of music.

With a brilliant Vienna premiere, the HIGH END Vienna 2026 has opened a new chapter in its success story. From 4 to 7 June, the Austria Center Vienna transformed into the international meeting point of the audio industry and provided the perfect setting for the world’s leading audio show.

A Successful Start on the Danube

The Austria Center Vienna proves itself as a modern stage for the international audio world

Expectations around the move from Munich to Vienna were high on all sides. Yet from the very first day, the positive response from many exhibitors and visitors was clearly noticeable. “The premiere of the HIGH END Vienna has exceeded our expectations in many respects. We are very pleased about the numerous positive responses from all sides, which confirm us in the path we have chosen and demonstrate the potential that the Vienna location offers for the further development of the show,” explains Manuel Pinke, Managing Director of the organising HIGH END SOCIETY Service GmbH. Exhibitors, trade visitors, media representatives and music lovers alike were impressed by the possibilities of the modern venue. The spacious architecture with wide, airy aisles, plenty of natural daylight and attractive outdoor areas created an open, relaxed and at the same time lively atmosphere. Despite high visitor numbers, the exhibition areas remained pleasantly accessible at all times. Well-attended demonstrations, busy rooms and strong interest at the booths reflected the exceptional appeal of the event. Overall, HIGH END Vienna 2026 recorded a total attendance of 23,106, including 10,603 trade visitors, 11,957 consumers, and 549 media representatives.

An International Platform for Business and Innovation

The HIGH END Vienna brings the global audio industry together

With trade visitors and guests from 104 countries, the HIGH END Vienna underlined its international significance as the world’s most important platform for high-quality audio technology. The first two days of the trade show were dedicated entirely to B2B business and offered ideal conditions for in-depth conversations, new contacts and successful deals. Many of the approximately 500 exhibitors reported high visitor quality and numerous valuable business contacts. The response on the two public days was equally positive throughout. Particularly striking was the strong interest from a broad audience that extended well beyond the traditional Hi-fi community.

The trade show presented itself as a showcase for innovation, creativity and entrepreneurial pioneering spirit. Numerous companies seized the new opportunities of the location to stage their brand worlds with great commitment and impressive concepts. International trade media reported on a wide range of world premieres, product launches and technological innovations that made Vienna the centre of the global audio world during these days.

Once again, the Start-Up Area received great recognition. The young companies welcomed the strong interest from trade visitors, media representatives and potential business partners. The high level of attention once more confirmed the importance of the platform as a springboard for new ideas and innovative business models. The exhibitors of the specialised IPS (International Parts + Supply) trade show also experienced rising demand for premium components and accessories for the audio industry.

The Power of Music Captivates the Audience

Musical experiences, personal encounters and emotional moments shape the event

A particular highlight was the extensive supporting programme, through which the central theme “The Power of Music” came alive in many ways. At its heart was the Canadian singer and this year’s brand ambassador, Dominique Fils-Aimé. With her listening sessions and her exclusive live concert, she made HIGH END history: for the first time ever, a concert of this kind took place at the HIGH END. The charismatic artist captivated the audience with her warm-hearted, approachable personality and created numerous emotional moments.

The power of music was tangible throughout the entire event. Time and again, goosebump moments emerged in the demonstration rooms when music was made experiential in all its facets. Many exhibitors took their guests on musical journeys, presented exclusive listening sessions or offered personal consultations and individual demonstrations. The popular special areas also contributed significantly to the success of the event. On the X-PERT Stage, renowned experts shared valuable expertise, the WORLD OF HEADPHONES attracted numerous headphone enthusiasts, and the GAMING ZONE once again showcased the intersections between gaming, technology and audiophile sound worlds.

An Enthusiasm That Reaches Far Beyond the Trade Show

Positive response from around the world confirms the successful new start in Vienna

Favoured by mostly pleasant weather, many visitors took the opportunity to linger in the outdoor areas or the beer garden between appointments and listening sessions. This combination of a professional business environment, inspiring product experiences and high quality of stay shaped the character of the event. Numerous companies also used the HIGH END Vienna to celebrate significant anniversaries. They look back on decades of company history and thus demonstrate the innovative strength and lasting power of the audio industry.

The response from the international community has been correspondingly positive. Many visitors described the event as impressive, brilliant and inspiring. The striking entrance area, the modern infrastructure, the international atmosphere and the palpable sense of new beginnings were highlighted again and again. International reporters particularly praised the size of the new location, the high density of exhibitors and the successful further development of the world’s most important audio show.

The HIGH END Vienna 2026 has thus impressively demonstrated that the new location is not only a worthy successor, but takes the event to a new level. The successful premiere in Vienna sends a strong signal for the future and confirms the HIGH END as an indispensable meeting point for the international audio industry.

The HIGH END Vienna 2027 takes place from 6 to 9 May at the Austria Center Vienna.

Exhibitor statements HIGH END Vienna 2026:

"The energy and enthusiasm at HIGH END Vienna 2026 have been truly exceptional. The organization of the event provided a fantastic platform to connect with a deeply engaged and passionate audiophile community. We experienced incredible foot traffic and fantastic engagement from media, distributors and attendees."
Kyle Leng, Thierry & Wango Audio Ltd.

"HIGH END Vienna 2026, exceeded our expectations in terms of visitor quality, international exposure and industry networking opportunities. We have received strong interest in our latest products and enjoyed valuable discussions with partner, press and end users.The event remains one of the most important platforms in high-end audio industry."
Felix Li, Defini International Ltd.

"Amazing show for us. Great support from High End Society and ACV staff. Trade days and Saturday were very strong days."
David Patching, PMC

"Throughout the four days, our booth was consistently busy and we were satisfied with both the visitor traffic and our booth location. The event exceeded our expectations and wer are pleased that we will return to exhibit again at HIGH END Vienna next year."
Li fen Wu, Jinwei Cable

"I just wanted to congratulate the team for putting on a great show in Vienna! We all really enjoyed ourselves and all the attendees we spoke to agreed it was a massive step up from Munich which was already a good show, well done!"
Patrick Mitchell, Chord Company

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