Audio Reference is pulling out all the stops for the first High End Vienna. Instead of a traditional product exhibition, visitors can expect a 2,000-square-meter world of experience featuring elaborately staged listening environments, reference systems, and personal contact with manufacturers and developers. The focus is on three curated demonstrations, for which visitors can even reserve free time slots in advance.
Soundscapes instead of a trade show booth
Audio Reference is pursuing an unusual concept at High End Vienna 2026. Instead of individual product presentations, various listening worlds are being created, each designed to let you experience different facets of high-quality music reproduction. The range of demonstrations extends from a living-room-oriented lounge concept to a large concert hall and a Perlisten home cinema.
Speakers, electronics, room acoustics, and furnishings will be presented as a complete system. The goal is to experience high-end audio not in isolation, but through the interaction of all components.
Free time slots for concert hall, lounge, and home cinema
Audio Reference is using its own reservation system for the three main attractions. Visitors can book free time slots for the concert hall, the lounge, or the Perlisten cinema before the show begins. The number of seats is limited to allow for demonstrations without the usual trade show hustle and bustle.
A regular trade show ticket for High End Vienna is still required, however.
Wilson Audio, Dan D’Agostino, and dCS as highlights
Among the announced highlights is the presentation of the Wilson Audio Autobiography. This reference speaker is one of the most spectacular exhibits at the show and is intended to demonstrate the potential of uncompromising speaker development.
Matching amplifier technology is provided by Dan D’Agostino Master Audio Systems, while dCS contributes the digital source technology. Analog specialists such as SME and VPI are also part of the demonstrations.
Velodyne shows limited 1824 subwoofer
For bass enthusiasts, the premiere of the new Velodyne Acoustics 1824 should be particularly interesting. The limited subwoofer model will be presented for the first time in Vienna and is designed to combine extreme low-frequency capabilities with high precision.
Manufacturers and developers on-site in person
Another focus is on direct exchange with the brands. Audio Reference has announced the presence of numerous developers, product specialists, and company representatives. Prominent guests include Wilson Audio CEO Daryl Wilson and amplifier legend Dan D’Agostino.
The complete high-end portfolio in Vienna
In addition to Wilson Audio, Dan D’Agostino, dCS, Velodyne, and Perlisten, Audio Reference is presenting numerous other brands from its distribution portfolio. These include VTL, Nordost, Vicoustic, SME, VPI, Magnetar, and Bassocontinuo. Together, they cover almost all areas of the high-end market—from analog turntables and streaming components to room acoustics and accessories.
Event information
High End Vienna 2026
June 4 to 7, 2026
Austria Center Vienna
Audio Reference:
L1, Halls L1/L2/L3
Tickets for the curated demonstrations can be booked free of charge: www.pretix.eu/audioreference/highend26
