HiFi PiG REPORTS FROM THE MONTREAL AUDIOFEST 2025

Joseph Greenham brings you his Montreal AudioFest 2025 Report, with fab photos and insights into his favourite rooms of this Canadian HiFi Show.

Join our guest reporter, Joseph, as he snoofles his way around the Montreal AudioFest 2025, picking out his highlights for HiFi PiG. Expect many homegrown Canadian brands, systems from two-channel to Dolby Atmos and Spatial Audio, and a lot of love for the French HiFi brands.

Please note, all content and photos are the copyright of HiFi PiG Magazine/Big Pig Media LLP and must not be copied or reproduced in any way without the prior, written consent of the editor.

MONTREAL AUDIOFEST 2025 REPORT

In the few years I’ve been attending audio shows, since 2018, the Montreal venue and spirit of the show stands out.

Now in its 36th year, show organizers Sarah Tremblay and Michel Plante with their incredible team associated with PMA Magazine, set out over 300 brands, 62 rooms, an after-hours ‘Prohibition’ HiFi tour, Saturday night 80s themed industry gala, Earvana Fest (headphone focused area), and The Audiofilies (Women in HFii focused group) to bring the most and best to all variety of guests of the show.

I’m honoured to return for my 4th visit. Id like to share what makes this show special and highlight what is new and exciting in 2025.

If you care to, put on some music in the background and join me on a photographic tour of the 2025 Montreal Audiofest.

BAETIS / TOUGH NUT AUDIO

A brand designed and made locally in Montreal, Baetis Audio system included Reference x 4 Streamer/server/Roon Core + Endpoint ($18,000 cnd), T+A DAC200 Dac Preamp ($10,375 cnd), T+A A200 Power amp ($7,970 cnd), Saturn Audio Power Filter – 103C ($2800 cnd), all powering the Magic A3 speakers ($22,000 cnd). An incredibly clear and impactful sound. The system was supported by the Tough Nut Rack and isolation footers. The Pirs 39 Isolation Rack ($6,293 CND) The Magico had a smooth accurate character to songs. An offering of Thievery Corporation with symphony accompaniment was dynamic that allowed subtle layers to breath in the sound stage.

ALTITUDO AUDIO

The name – Altitudo Audio, based out of Winnipeg, Canada (yes – they travel two provinces over to display in Montreal each year – 25 hour drive or 2,270km) has become a staple at Canadian audio shows. They meticulously assembly a wide variety of gear. They are able to A/B demo for visitors upon request and will regularly play requested songs from streaming sources.

The first room:

At the time of my demo, the gear was as listed: Elac Vela 404 bookshelves, Atlas – Eclipse Reference monoblock Amp, Trilogy Pre 914, GoldNote DS 1000 Dac, GoldNote PSU 1250, Alpha Audio Stream, Oefi cables and Tri-Art Stands. Something special happens when I hear songs in the A.A. rooms. The ELAC Vela 404 were able to envelop the sweet spot with such clarity. With perhaps only 4-5 feet this was delightfully near-field in which case the room effect is less effective. Easily a system I could sit and listen to all day – and especially when Leonid is playing obscure Russian electronica music! This system was also amazingly smooth with wild realism in well recorded acoustic tracks.

The Second room (right across the hall – kudos for that )

This will have been my first time hearing Ø Audio, more specifically the Frigg 02 model tower speakers. The remaining signal chain, a Unison Simply 845 Amp, Electrocompaniet DAC / Streamer ECM 1 mkii. The Ø Audio is a mid sized tower but a lovely big sound – A natural sound, great midrange tonality. Viktor was playing a vocal track that was so detailed and transient, the Ø Audio were essentially presenting an audible journey into the vocal chords. It was incredible. A great first showcase on the capability of Ø Audio.

AUDIONATION / PHONOGRAPHE

I became more familiar with Revival Audio through a good friend, Jay Lee, and I was pleased to see that Phonographe was showcasing the Revival Audio Atalante 5 ($7,495 CND) + stands ($750). A fantastic full sound with great midrange presence. The system was powered by Sudden Audio Masterclass IA4 integrated Amp ($10,285 CND) and a Wattson Audio Madison Lounge Edition Doc handling the source input. I really enjoyed this space and experience. It was the scented humidifier that did it. A half joke as the atmosphere really sets a tone to enjoy the ‘sweetness’ of the sound. Definitely see why these speakers are getting wonderful reviews.

ESSENTIA / Q ACOUSTICS

The Q Acoustics 5050 were set up out of many other models and options on display. These are a multiple award winning product that definitely earn their keep. Ghost Rider song filled the room with solid thunderous bass. Acoustic guitars and solo vocals were suspended in air between the speakers. I have a feeling the numerous other models in the room, including the new Sub80, 100, and 120, act a bit like diffusion resulting in an accurate front sound stage. The New Sub line has a really clever back panel and access hole on the bottom rear so that cables are not jutting out of the back. This is really great for keeping the wires managed in any space.

SOLEN / SB ACOUSTICS

This room features various types of DIY audio kits for speakers. The pair of “PURE“ bookshelves offered by Solen Canada, powered by Primare A35.2 power amp and Primare Pre 35 Prisma, sounded easily three times their cost at $1000 CND for a flat pack. There are options to purchase them ready made. The room was also treated for acoustics with Artofix products. This was a real surprise and a good sign for all audio fans to have a relatively inexpensive entry into an amazing system.

ISOACOUSTICS

I will always highly recommend a demo with IsoAcoustics. The brand has continually added new products across multiple ranges of audio applications. Bookshelves, threaded feeds, pucks, mounts for suspended speakers and a variety of OEM models for brands. The A/B demo in different rooms at many shows always reveals just how effective these isolation solutions are. No matter what speakers or rooms are used, the differences are consistent and audible.

BLISS ACOUSTICS

This was a 2nd, smaller, room that Bliss acoustics was showcasing. This system presented the world premiere of Audionec OBI Max Black Edition ($41,500 cnd) open baffle design tower speakers. In the signal chain behind these a plethora of really sophisticated gear: CSPort TAT1M2 Turntable ($42,950 CND) – AFU1-2 Tonearm ($13,850 CND) – C3EQM2B Phono PreAmp ($17,000 CND), CSPort CSPR PreAmp ($25,750 CND), CSPort GM70PA-C Stereo Power Amp ($30,500 CND). In the demo I heard from this chain of gear was surreal. The open baffled design and careful position presents the immersive sounds without losing accuracy around the sound stage. I was most impressed with the visual designs of the turntable. Always great to experience new speakers in person.

GALION AUDIO / PEARL ACOUSTICS

Thomas (and stereo) has been a remarkable success story in HiFi. The Galion Audio brand brings a level of price to performance that I admire for an industry that strives to welcome a next generation. The Pearl Acoustics speakers, which feature a 4inch driver in a solid oak transmission line cabinet, with no crossover, may just be my Best Of Show. The new Odyssey Pre amp paired with the TS A20 (20 watts class A) presented with incredible level of dynamic power and control. The designer of these Pearl Acoustics, Sibelius CG, played a live drum solo recording that absolutely stunned many show guests. Transient response on a 4inch driver with no crossover was almost indescribable.

THE GRAMOPHONE / THE SOUND CHOICE / TRI-CELL

The most nostalgic feeling room with warm tones and wooden luxury, this room was sharing the Fine Audio Vintage Classic Gold X SP with SuperTrax Super Tweeter. Connected by a loom of Luna Cables and Synergistic Research audio control accessories, the LAB 12 supra mkii Class A Tube amp, LAB 12, prel tube preamp, Lab 12 Reference DAC, Watson Audio Emerson Digital streamer, and for vinyl playback a VPI Model One Turntable. The word that comes to mind with this finely tuned system is effortless. The combination of 2way coaxial and super tweeter seamlessly presented soundstage accuracy yet spacious feel. Floating center image and fine details heard from beyond the walls. A lovely sound and great sounding room.

LALIBERTE ELECTRONIQUE – SVS

I can say with 90% confidence, there is nothing really like hearing an SVS system next to all the other HiFi systems at a show. In this system, SVS Ultra Revolution Pinnacles / Ultra Revolution SB17. Using the new Eversolo DMP A10 Preamp / DAC / Streamer as the source to stream Qobuz and two Eversolo Amp F10 (bridged mono) for power. Let me tell you how the immense power of this system could be mistaken for the train station close by. Two 17 inch 2500watt subwoofers, even when dialled back, really demonstrate why subwoofers low end is important in 2 channel music listening. The Ultra Revolution Pinnacle towers handled all genres of music with precision and finesse. Great detail across highs and midrange to balance tonality even with 4 8inch woofers in the cabinet. SVS really hit a ‘pinnacle’ in HiFi with the new technologies poured into this Ultra Revolution Series.

ATOLL / STABLE 33.33 / DAVIS ACOUSTICS

This room showcased the Davis Acoustics – The Stage speakers which have a somewhat unique design, unlike typical towers however present a wide sound. Atoll Electronique handled the signal chain, the IN400 Evolution Integrated amp, ST-200 Signature Streamer and PH100 phono stage for the Stable 33.33 Turn table. The cartridge, a Goldring Erotica LX. The speaker design while unassuming surprised me with giant and lush sound. A sensitivity I wouldn’t expect but enjoyed a lot. From both streaming and vinyl, the room was touch live but some treatments in the corners helped manage bass well. Sitting up front the imaging was accurate and not cluttered by room reflections. The front baffle width and materials likely helped present this enjoyable controlled sound image. Very lovely.

ATELIER AUDIO

Atelier Audio presented the new Diptyque DP140 mkii. I had already been delighted with the sound and performance of the previous models at nearly every show for the past 2 years. Powered by Kora PreAmp 140 and Kora Mono 150w Classe A Power amps, The sweet spot means something different when you face off with Diptyque. Bass! From a panel speaker? Oh yes – and lots of it too. With the clean power from the Kora amps and quality signal chain via the Playback Designs MPD 8AI DAC from the 432 EVO Aeon Mk3 Music server, this wasn’t just listening to music – this was being inside the music. The modestly treated room and a hidden section off to the right side allowed the system to breathe. Definitely a speaker system that I highly recommend queuing up your favourite songs and prepare to fall behind on all your tasks for the rest of the day. Magnifique!

ARTIST CLONER

Artist Cloner is one of our beloved underrated ‘all-in-one’ / Makes everything in Canada types of designers I could not shout loud enough from mountain tops about. Last year, presenting the Mekanika model (1 photo for reference) which had a Steam Punk look was pretty amazing. This year, something even more incredible and jaw-dropping. The Depth Wave X Series. The Towers ($137,000) standing at six and half feet tall! The same designed look also carried to the Preamp ($46,000 CND) and Power amp ($44,000). A matching concentric wave effect which is machined into the chassis (also locally sourced labour) the music source is also a Artist Cloner built Server, DAC, Archive ($3600 CND) and connected by A.C. Cables. Nothing short of amazing. Effortless dynamics and musical performance. Even with a Mundorf AMT, every song was smooth and welcoming, eliciting a sense of drifting inside the music. Remarkable examples of skill and passion from Sylvio Comtois. Bravo!

SPL

SPL is a brand often associated with Pro Audio and studio applications. In this system, SPL Director mkii Preamp / DAC, and a pair of SPL Performer M1000 monoblock power amps the elegant KEF Blade 2. The sound staging and character was very cohesive and pleasant. The UniQ driver in the KEF blades, as a bit of a taller speaker, was ideally placed for my seated height. Sound was smooth, clear details with tight bass, even for a hotel room. Nothing left to desire – this is a great system.

NORTHSTAR AUDIO

The Northstar room this year featured the Von Schweikhert VR.Thirty towers ($88,000) which features a hybrid bass-management system that provides highly resolving bass and tonal control. The rear facing unable tweeter projects spaciousness to a sound stage and can be dialled to desire. The music source was provided by an Antipodes Oladra server-streramer ($39,995) for reliable high res digital playback, a wise choice as some hotel locations often have network issues for vendors. The two REI Mono Blocks ($55,000 each) at 100watts held composure even during high dynamic transients in orchestral music. With a controlled dynamic performance and adjustable sound stage breadth, the Von Schweikhert speakers continue to be in my top tier list.

HEGEL CANADA

Hegel Canada had the MoFi 888 tower speakers paired with the H400, The New D50 DAC, and the Viking CD player. I’ve always loved how the Hegel brand sends out an entire room shell made of cloth to change the atmosphere of the space and to treat the spaces for harsh reflections. The system was powerful paired with the MoFi. As with any hotel type room, the bass at the door was fantastic for bass heads yet the middle seats were well balanced and accurate. There is a smoothness to the MoFi 888 that allows any genre to play with ease. A great speaker for me invites you to forget what you were doing, sit back, and listen for hours.

FOSI AUDIO / AURALIS DISTRIBUTION

I was delighted that Fosi audio was showcasing at this show. The is the first time I’ve been able to hear the sound and performance of the amps that I’ve only read about or seen reviewed online. The Fosi Pre/DAC ZD3 ($259.99 CND)  and VA3 Stereo amp ($199.99 CND) powered the Triangle Comet 902 ($399 CND) in one system – An absolute phenomenal deal for highly refined and clear sound. The second system, Fosi V3 Mono amps ($389 CND ea) with Fosi P4 ($139) powered Focal Chorus 716V ($1498 CND). Both systems really reveal the scale for “High End“ and choices for great sound. I think these Fosi products, when used properly, can easily satisfy 80% of music fans.

KANTO AUDIO

Kanto audio is a [Canadian] brand that I often don’t hear about in the trendy media stream, but they have an amazing wide range of powered and non-powered bookshelves to offer. From the nearly impossible smallest & newest UKI ($199.99 USD)  and Ora ($349.99 USD) models, barely larger than my hand, up to the REN ($649.99) USD and TUK ($849.99) models, Kanto has something for everyone looking for desktop or stand mount solutions. Their room features a switching system to visitors can sit and hear the sound from all their models which are set up at along the back wall and indicated when each model is playing. Truly a great way to hear and choose which is best for your taste.

AUDIO NOTE UK

For me, year after year in the Audio industry year as a musician, music lover and gear-head, it is always a pleasure and unique experience meeting up with Daniel Qvortrup of Audio Note UK and Vincent Belanger, a world renowned cellist from Montreal. The room this year feature wonderful art work by Amin Morradi as a backing wall which helped to direct sound energy into the room. The Speakers: AN-E/SPe HE .. The Amp: Jingo 211 Integrated .. Turn Table .. TT3 w/ PSU 3, Arm 3 & IO2 MOC Cartridge, For Power .. AN-S4 Step Up Transformer, The CD Player .. CD4.1x = Magical Moments. From heavy metal to soft orchestral, AudioNote UK have this musical quality that is quick with dynamic transients, smoothness and sensitivity. The layers of heavy dense music of Fallujah were distinct and tonal. With louder hitting moments in orchestra, performance of the system remain composed, balanced, articulate. Loving the music is the highest praise I could ever give. Audio Note UK takes a top place in my heart for the love of music.

ROTEL / MONITOR AUDIO / KEVRO

Meeting up with my friends at Kevro each year for their system demos always ends in smiles. This year on display the new Rotel Michi Q5 CD player DAC feeding into the Michi S5 Stereo power amp. For speakers, the new Monitor Audio Gold series – 500 6G. I was treated to a number of demos through out the weekend and consistently across multiple genres of music, the 5006G and Michi sound was ethereal. Sound stage appeared as if a cloud up and out in front of the towers. The room was treated appropriately with curtains around for reflection and in the back corners with diffusor panels. The top end transient and quality tones were so satisfying. The all black (the center striping is darker on the black models) aesthetic of these Gold 6G is right up my ally. A fantastic, dynamic and realistic sound.

MARANTZ / BOWERS & WILKINS / DENON

With a wide selection of audio products from headphones to high end tower speakers, the Masimo room provided music lovers all levels of selection. The New Marantz Horizon lifestyle wireless speaker was out in full display, even a table showing the internal components. For a stereo sound solution, the horizon would fit comfortably into most living space without casting a traditional audio system footprint. It was also great to see Marantz pairing the new Model 10 integrated amps (2 units as monoblocks) and a Link 10 as a streamer / preamp powering a system with the gorgeous 801 D4 in a luscious California Bramble finish. I’m grateful to hear these new Model 10 Amps as I’ve been keen on the design choices. There was also a display table showcasing all the internals of the amps. A real treat for HiFi fans who are a bit more technical.

FOCAL NAIM AMERICA

FNA team has set up the new DIVA utopia Speakers in a semi inclosed space. These wireless speakers are very capable and power by 4 NAIM electronic amps ( 1 for the tweeter, 1 for midrange-woofer, and 1 sub amp for each pair of woofers on the sides of the tower) All these NAIM amps are controlled by some very clever and advanced room calibration software. With a multitude of inputs, including a vinyl input, The Diva Utopias are a statement in what wireless HiFi speakers can achieve. Truly remarkable sound character. The flanking halls of the display room for FNA were lined with Musical Fidelity electronics, including the M8x Turntable, a wonderfully clear dual platter masterpiece. Other systems were ‘Powered by NAIM’ (wink, wink – see what I did?) which complemented other Focal speaker products, such as Utopia, Theva and Vestia series.

BRYSTON

Bryston; a strong Canadian classic brand that does everything. ( except cables, I believe ) This year on display, on either side of a proudly flown Canadian Flag, were the Middle T10 Towers, powered by 7B³ Mono Power Amps and the BP19 as PreAmp. With James Tanner himself sitting to my right, the system so effortlessly performed all the classic tracks, from ‘Tin Pan Ally’ to ‘Thanks To You’. Around the room were all variety of other models of speaker and amplifiers. Axiom Audio (Now a full fledged partner and co-habitant with Bryston) had the new Performance series M80 on display that will feature a vinyl wrap and a few other chances to bring a reduced price category for music fans. There were also examples of the 3 way module designed crossover plates for Tri-amplifying the T10 towers. This is a really nice direction as customers can start with a base tower and amp then choose to pursue other amp alignments for tweeter, mids and woofers for an uncompromising top quality sound. From the warmth of the interactions with reps in the room and wonderful musical sounds, all I can say is “Oh Canada“.

LENBROOK AMERICAS – NAD / DALI / PSB / BLUOS / ROKSAN

PSB speakers is about as classic Canadian Audio as it gets. The PSB T600 remain some of my favourite speakers I could listen to all day with ease. This year though, DALI took front and center with their new Epikore 9 towers, a world first public appearance I am told by Nick Fantetti. The system headed off with NAD M66 PreAmp/Streamer/DAC and powered by M23 Stereo power amp. The Dali have a gentle precision that is quite interesting. Any busy passages in music never lose tone and clarity. Heavy hitting bass tracks such as pop genres are exciting, thrilling, and rhythmic. The finish options are flawless and elegant. The Maroon high gloss looks great with the special woofer material Dali uses. I loved the Epikore 11 last year and now I am convinced Dali are using some witchcraft to design speakers this consistent and amazing. But wait! There is one more thing: PSB New Subwoofer. A new BP12 has been nudged into the market. I would have missed it had I not had Nick to divert my eyes off the Dali. Dual opposed 12 inch woofers and plenty of power. A fantastic addition to the PSB Speaker family.

MOON AUDIO / DYNAUDIO

Moon Audio presented their system with the Dynaudio Contour Legacy speakers. The Moon Audio North Collection 641 integrated Amp and 681 Network player handled the power and streaming source. I’ve become a fan of how Moon Audio sets up and treats their room with consistency each year. The Contour Legacy speakers are incredibly enjoyable. Their smoothness and subtly in detail retrieval in music is never harsh. Vocal and midrange has a sultry essence to it. Bass response was excellent for a moderately sized space, with a few intelligently placed bass tubes. The solid performance of the Moon Audio North Collection with Dynaudio Contour Legacy made me want to give up my work and just sit down to enjoy music. I am very glad I could experience these limited edition speakers.

GENETIC / KLIPSCH / WIIM / TEAC / PRO-JECT

The Genetic room was a large two level space featuring 3 systems which all have Klipsch speakers and Wiim brand streamers. I discovered that W.I.I.M. Stands for “Wireless Interface Internet Music” The first featuring some RP series Klipsch playing from a new Wiim Vibe Link Amp. The Vibe Link functions as a wireless amp for multi-room or additional amp channels within a system. The second system was showcasing New Klipsch K-Horn AK 7 model speakers, featuring all new tri-amp configuration options and DSP control unit for coherent time alignment. The lower section featured an array of Project turntables and TEAC electronics. The 3rd system had the new La Scala AL 6 models paired with TEAC Electronics. Overall, each system offered layers of sound quality and the signature horn really does project a sound stage control that keeps the quality sound in a controlled dispersion pattern. A very nice treat to see at this show.

WYNN AUDIO / AUDIO GROUP DENMARK

With Vimberg and Vinnie Rossi on one side of the room and Børresen Acoustics and Aavik on the other, this was a Win-Wynn experience. To the left of the large space, Vimberg Mino powered by the new Vinnie Rossi Brama Preamp and Drama Mono Power amps. Handling the CD source duties is a Metronome T|AQWO2 Transport and C|AQWO2 DAC. Wynn and his team have a keen sense for space and using the best locations to present such high class systems. The large space allowed the Vimberg to breath and expand the sound to a point with eyes closed I could not tell how far or where the towers we placed. An incredibly elegant system. Around the other end of the room, taking turns through out the day, Peter Hansen of Audio Group Denmark is poised to treat visitors to a variety of great songs. In the AGD system, the new Børresen Acoustics C2 tower speakers are powered by the Aavik U288 Integrated Streaming/DAC Amp. A full complement of Ansuz cables and power management ties the system together. Aside from the C2 looking like a futuristic, carbon wrapped Hyper-space Racing ship, they also sound out of this world. The clarity and lifelike sound is uncanny and indescribable in word. It was not uncommon to observe a few guests at the show literally cry after some songs. This system is like an emotion extractor that wants to cradle your heart as you dance or weep. I think the plants are magical. There are always plants, but Børresen Acoustics always sound phenomenal.

ACORA

This is typically a room that Val Cora likes to remind me is ‘the reference you always come back to’. He’s an honest man, modest, and not wrong. The new Acora Acoustics MRC Series is such a phenomenal range of speakers that outperform so many others at this price, in my learned experience. The MRC 2 in the room today paired with the New Audio Research L-3 Pre amp and S-100 Power Amp. Sources for music, a VPI Model 1 /Goldy Turntable and Grimm MU Streamer and Cardas loom of cables. The MRC 3 and MRC 1 were on static display inside and outside the room. ( along with a few other great looking New items from Audio Research) The Acora experience is often unlike anything else. The density of the marble, in the MRC series, projects such a life-like sound. The high quality drivers react in such delicate way, none of the micro details in instrumental tracks are lost. Loud? Yes – Not ironically, these Marble speakers can really rock out! With a wide speaker set-up, one could be forgiven for forgetting they are still in a hotel and not sitting inside the recording studio or audience in a concert hall. This is why Acora is often my Reference system at any show.

ATMOS / SPATIAL AUDIO SYSTEMS

This year, for the first time in all my show going history, we had 3 rooms set up 9 and 11 channel Spatial Audio systems for visitors to experience. To keep this section concise I will give a brief summary of the room gear and allow the images to tell the bigger picture.

PARADIGM SPEAKERS / ANTHEM ELECTRONICS

The Paradigm room was set up to welcome guests with an entry display of the exiting products from all the current series speakers to the left and Anthem electronics to the right. The rear of the room hosted the 11 speaker surround that featured Founder Series 120H towers up front, C90 Center, and 4 B40 standpoints for side and back. Up top mounted to a truss system frame were equivalent in-ceiling CI Series speakers. Also up front were a pair of Persona 5F towers for 2 channel music demos in the space. Impressions: The Founder series speakers are very detailed and dynamic. Room control using ARC (Anthem room correction) Genesis helped balance the tremendous bass output. Everything on the playlist was incredible. Very happy to see Paradigm represent Canada this way.

MARTIN LOGAN

Martin Logan is likely known for their Electro-Stat panel speakers, in the room for Montreal 2025 they rolled out SEVEN Motion XT F100 – that’s 1 tower in all 7 positions around the floor level for the surround system. Mounted overhead in a truss system ( M.L. is a sister company to Paradigm Electronics after all ) were 4 Masterpiece Sistine 4XC aimed toward the middle seating area. For bass, three massive New Gratto 15 subs. Anthem electronics were taking care of power and source duty. Impressions: The Pink Floyd tracks were like being in the studio. If I were not working, I might have sat wiping away tears. Then it was recommended I experience Kraftwerk – This was nothing short of being launched into cyber-space. All the panning and effects were crystal sharp and clear in all directions. Truly a great experience for anyone new to the concept of spatial audio.

EMOTIVA

I have to say, I think ‘Big Dan’ and his team at Emotiva, Jake and Damon, really pulled out all the stops this year. They seemed to display 1 of everything in the catalogue in the room. Focusing on the 5.4.2 Surround Demo space, Air Motive XT2s up front, XC2 Center, XT1s for sides, XA2s for rear and front height speakers mounted on a portable truss frame. For bass, two XS12 subwoofers calibrated for maximum effect. This 9 channel system enclosed a small seated area with curtain walls at the sides. The 85inch TV really brings immersions of surround all together. Impressions: Playing movie demos, such as Interstellar and Top Gun, I could feel empathy swell in me during the dramatic scenes with effects and music enveloping the space (likely thanks to Hans Zimmer soundtracks also now that I think of it. Haha) Overall, the Emotiva experience was complete and extensive. A very valuable addition to the Montreal Audiofest 2025.

To conclude the show report, three additional notable features that make Montreal Audiofest stand out.

EARVANA: A wide assortment of brands and opportunity for visitors to listen to all kinds of headphones, DACs, and amps.

AUDIOLESENCE:  This was a give-a-way contest for youth under 25 years old. A draw was made on Sunday Afternoon for those present to win 1 of 6 ready to go audio systems. I was there for the few give aways and it made me emotional to know that some young people were going to get inspired like I was. The systems were actually better than what I had back then. Impressive and inspiring idea!

AUDIOFILIES: A female lead group and comfortable space to represent women in the audio world. For me personally, I think Montreal show is easily 50/50 from a production side. I also see year over year that more and more youth and women are coming to visit the show. A great movement and definitely a welcomed change.

That’s all from me. I truly hope you’e enjoyed these insights from a humble audio show in Montreal, Quebec Canada. I thank you and wish you all the best in your own personal audio journey.

Au revoir!

Joseph Greenham

Please note, all content and photos are the copyright of HiFi PiG Magazine/Big Pig Media LLP and must not be copied or reproduced in any way without the prior, written consent of the editor.