View Full Version : London ( Heathrow )HI-FI Show Sept 09 DEAD
Spectral Morn
01-01-2009, 21:03
Hi Guys
Just read the add placed by Chester Group in the feb issue of hi-fi World.
And I quote "The audio show 09 makes historic move " Roy Bird has decided to move the tried and trusted location to near Silverstone Northants.
There was a fairly large group of audio enthusiasts who traveled from all over the world to Heathrow, an International hub for everywhere. This move as far as I am concerned has now killed this, and I am sure for many others both national and international and the distributors and manufacturers. The number of exhibitors of foreign locale will vanish. It is frankly IMHO absolute lunacy to move this show to the middle of no where and for non UK mainland dwellers a step to far. I suspect for many national(UK) people London Heathrow was easy to get to by Air and while, not cheap for me, coming from Northern Ireland at least it was central.
London Heathrow DEAD.
The first Chester Group show was very good and while the following one was slightly poorer( I was not at the last one, but understand it was very poor by comparison to others ). Roy had the baton (taken from hi-fi News )and he had run with it and well now he has destroyed it IMHO.
Looks like Munich is the only game in town now for a European Show not Heathrow.
He states this was because he could not expand the show ? YEA right. The European/World show case for audio for the entire UK needs to be in the capital and easy to get to. Or at least very close to a major airport. I know this, move will suit some but I fear not the Majority IMO.
PS and the trade Day is gone too (reduced last year, to half a day),now removed by my understanding of what I have read.
Regards D SD L ----- Neil :( :steam:
Very sad news. I have been going to the Heathrow show for umpteen years and it always had something special to offer, even if the rooms in the Penta/Renaissance/Ramada sound evil. The chance to chat with some of the designers was always a rewarding experience, don't know what do to now. Is the Bristol show still going? Chesterfield is just too far away.
Billericay Dickie
02-01-2009, 03:02
http://www.bristolshow.co.uk/next_show.lasso :cool:
Previous show review:- http://www.trustedreviews.com/home-cinema/review/2008/02/26/The-Bristol-Show/p1
Dave Cawley
02-01-2009, 08:36
The problem with the Bristol show, is that the organisers insist that all sales go though them!! So you pay £1,000's for the stand, hotel bills, then give them a cut on everything you sell! That is why we and other small companies will not be there. Put simply, it's a disgrace............
Heathrow was good for us, it got the SL-1200 out in the open and we sold 6 big class A amplifiers that we had at a discount.
So I herby call on the Bristol organisers to make it possible for small manufactures to attended, to sell and to offer discounts.
Dave (Sound Hi Fi & Timestep)
This is a real shame - I've always enjoyed the H'row show, especially as I can almost walk there from my house.
Will probably still go to Brizzle but the Heathrow show, despite its faults, was always more enjoyable.
Beechwoods
02-01-2009, 09:42
If there are few people making the trip to Bristol, say on the Saturday, I'd be happy to organise a pre- or post-show meet at one of the local pubs. The Cornubia (http://www.beerintheevening.com/pubs/s/18/1874/Cornubia/Bristol) is a superb proper little real-ale pub within a couple of minutes walk of the Marriott show venue, so might be a good place to say hello. It's a Roger Protz favourite and was featured in his 'Top 10 UK Pubs' Independent piece a few months ago.
I'll start a separate thread a little closer to the time to coordinate and agree the details :)
Interesting points so far, chaps, and don't get me wrong all are valid, but I had to chuckle at how 'London-centric' the mindset is... All you poor southerners can't cope with having something taken away from your doorstep and having to do a bit of travelling for a change - perish the thought, eh? :lol:
Spare a thought for people from Scotland, for example, or the north of England (yes I know there's the Manchester show, but that only happened fairly recently) who've had to travel 100s of miles for years if they wanted to attend a decent hi-fi show (usually in London)!
Therefore, from my point of view, any proposals to move venues further north so that they're nearer me for a change are most welcomed :)
You can carry on now... ;)
Marco.
Sounds good to me - I'm planning on going on the Saturday.
Spectral Morn
02-01-2009, 11:21
Hi Guys, Marco.
My main point is that Heathrow is an international/national transport Hub. Therefore it is easy to get to from any location, and as the show is/was at the airport easy to travel to even on foot. Loved the walk from the Ibis in the morning( burn of some calories and plan/discuss what to see), before the show on the TRADE day.
This move,frankly and I am not against moving to a location near a major international/national hub/airport that suits UK and world travelers( I hardly think that the M 40,M25,M1 has quite the same value to someone from Northern Ireland or the USA etc.)as Heathrow airport did.
The UK needs a quality show, similar or based on the model used in Munich. This decision by Chester Group is now just another one of his small regional shows. He can call it Heathrow moved, or whatever he likes. Roy has, I think IMHO, got it wrong. Times are tough and based on what I am told about the last show (it was poor on every count),moving to a cheaper venue would be wise just to see if this year 09 is better in attendance figures, both public and Trade. However this move to what is a poorly conceived location will not( IMO ) work for anyone. Please see this from a global trade point of view. Heathrow was one of the premier world shows, as important as CES and Munich, and while it hasn't been that in a few years this move will hardly IMO change that fact.
Sorry Roy but this is just plain dumb and while you hint at other reasons for the move expansion of the show just does not wash with me. Having been on his web site this morning I can see nothing about the move of (his) London show to this new location.
Come on someone out in the trade create the kind of show that everyone involved in this hobby both trade and public can be proud of that includes all aspects of audio. Heck even get Bose and B&O on board as well, plus the majors like Sony etc (who used to do the London Heathrow show.)
London may not be the best location in some ways, but is this some poxy regional show or a show for all the Uk and the Trade to pull together under. This in my opinion is the former not the latter.
The advertisement makes no mention of a trade day at all. Roy this alone will cause major issues for the Trade. How can one discuss trade business on the public days? I know that many felt the half day last year was poor. London Heathrow show in its hay day had 2 trade days, it was a 4 day show. How the mighty have fallen.
Prediction 4 for 09 this will not fly and if it gets into the air at all it will crash and burn.
D S D L----- Neil :( :steam:
Dave Cawley
02-01-2009, 11:35
Neil
I agree totally. R.I.P.
Now if someone could talk to the Bristol guys about small manufactures, then I would be happy to have Marco on our stand with his SL-1200 and DL-103!
Dave
I do mostly agree with you, Neil, as far as your main point is concerned.
I was just making a little tongue-in-cheek remark towards the likes of Martin and Richard (no offence, guys :)) moaning that Chesterfield was "too far away" from their beloved southern UK locations, and felt that as a northerner who's been inconvenienced for years with having to travel miles to hi-fi shows I had to make a point ...
It does 'southerners' good to get a reality check now and then when they're forced to enter the real world (as far as travelling to these sorts of events are concerned that everyone else has had to endure for years) and not take the convenience that their location gives for granted ;)
Incidentally, Birmingham airport isn't exactly an obscure location in the Outer Hebrides with zero links to the outside world, so if international travellers and such like can manage get to London surely they can also do the same with Birmingham?
People don't like change but sometimes change must happen! I don't think it'll necessarily be as disastrous as you think and I wish Roy and the Chester Group all the best.
Marco.
Spectral Morn
02-01-2009, 11:47
Hi Marc
The point is this was/used to be an international show.
The London location close to a major hub was very useful. Everything logistics wise made Heathrow a good choice, everything close reducing costs and time. Basing the show in the middle of no ware with extra costs and time to get there is a non starter.
This decision (if copper fastened ) is a disaster for this show as an international event. Plainly it is no more but reduced to regional status and will suffer as the big international companies will stay away. Yes it will suit many local companies, as a central location will help them. Getting into London is a pain, but its location at Heathrow was better suited to its previous status as an INTERNATIONAL SHOW. Who needs or wants another regional show. Roy all ready has plenty of those. This is not what the industry needs. However it may be what we deserve based on all the politics and lack of team work present in the UK trade. Heck if the UK trade in its entirety was boat team in the Oxford boat race would we win ? Sink yes.
RIP
D S D L------ NEIL :(:(:(:(:(:(:(:steam::steam::steam::steam::steam:: steam::steam:
Any show must add VALUE and this move will not IMHO.
I was just making a little tongue-in-cheek remark towards the likes of Martin and Richard (no offence, guys :)) moaning that Chesterfield was "too far away" from their beloved southern UK locations
It really isn't that, Marco, so much as I want to go to a show to listen carefully to equipment. If I'm facing a three hour drive I will be in no fit state to judge the sound of anything when I get there. Bristol I can manage in 1 1/2 hours, Birmingham in 2 hours. Those are just the practical limits for me attending a show that I want to enjoy as a day trip.
I do think Neil's point about Heathrow being a hub is an important one; it's why some small, obscure but really interesting vendors used to attend. We risk losing those kinds of vendors forever.
Interesting points so far, chaps, and don't get me wrong all are valid, but I had to chuckle at how 'London-centric' the mindset is... All you poor southerners can't cope with having something taken away from your doorstep and having to do a bit of travelling for a change - perish the thought, eh? :lol:
.
Please don't count me amongst those Marco - I cannot stand the bloody place. :(
I don't mind travelling to shows (I go to Bristol pretty much every year and take the bike as there's a big bike parking area over the road) but I think the point about manufacturers and overseas visitors being put off by it not being in London is still valid. I'll still go to the new show as it's less than an hour from us. :)
No worries, Rich, you know what I mean though ;)
You could be right about oversees visitors (mainly manufacturers and distributors I would have thought), but if they're keen enough to demonstrate their products to potential UK clients then they'll just have to put in a bit more effort!
I'm afraid that I just don't have any time for the mentality that if things are no longer laid for you 'on a plate', then you simply give up and don't bother. If I was a foreign hi-fi manufacturer or distributor and had fantastic products to sell I'd go wherever it takes to demonstrate them and generate business - plain and simple. It's the old 'speculate to accumulate' thing - something I've always embraced to good success with my own business. You just have to be super confident that what you're selling is viable in the current marketplace.
And any oversees visitors outside of the trade simply have to fly to Birmingham and make plans for accommodation within that vicinity instead of London. These days I can't see that presenting too many problems as most large oversees city airports operate flights to Birmingham, even if changing is involved en-route.
It's simply a matter of adapting to change; those who are willing to do so will not be put off. Time will tell if Roy's decision to change the venue will be the right one or not. Me? I'll be looking forward to having access to one of the major UK hi-fi shows without spending four hours in car to get there and the same on the way back! :)
Marco.
It really isn't that, Marco, so much as I want to go to a show to listen carefully to equipment. If I'm facing a three hour drive I will be in no fit state to judge the sound of anything when I get there.
LOL! I know what you mean, Martin, but you're completely missing the point. Until 2000 I lived up in Glasgow. What state to judge the sound do you think I was in travelling to the show in London, bloody 600-odd miles away!! ;) And it's still longer than a three hour drive from North Wales where I live now!
It's about time shows were more centrally located in the UK, as not everyone lives 'darn sarf'... Do you see my point now? :)
I do think Neil's point about Heathrow being a hub is an important one; it's why some small, obscure but really interesting vendors used to attend. We risk losing those kinds of vendors forever.
Neil does make a valid point, but I would suggest that if the "obscure but really interesting vendors" (incidentally whose products I generally like) can't afford to absorb the extra costs then they're probably 'one man operating in a shed'-type concerns, which anyway would unlikely survive long term in the current financial climate.
Don't get me wrong, I like the products those types of companies tend to offer but so often many of them just aren't 'switched on' enough in a business sense to survive, often leaving all sorts of problems for dealers and customers in their wake, which ultimately does no one any favours.
Like I said, the 'switched on' and dedicated oversees vendors will successfully adapt to the change if they want to promote their products to UK clients. I still think there is much to look forward to. Let's be positive and give it a chance.
Marco.
The advertisement makes no mention of a trade day at all. Roy this alone will cause major issues for the Trade. How can one discuss trade business on the public days?
I see trade talking all the time on the public days in Munich.
Eg, I always see Ricardo there :)
Since when was Heathrow the only international airport in the UK?
Comments like this:
London may not be the best location in some ways, but is this some poxy regional show or a show for all the Uk and the Trade to pull together under.
Quite frankly make my blood boil!!! :steam:
If it's not in London then it becomes 'poxy' does it?
Do me a favour! :lol:
Indeed. But I was a bit more subtle about it ;)
Although I do appreciate the point Neil was making about small oversees companies.
However no offence, people, but it never ceases to amaze me why everything going on in the UK of interest (hi-fi shows or whatever) has to happen in or around bloody London!
What about giving the rest of the country, particularly those of us who live up north, better access to these events for a change? It's as if life doesn't exist north of Watford... It's that type of mentality that pisses me off.
Marco.
But how do you get to Silverstone ?
The public transport in that area is a nightmare
What's Silverstone got to do with it, Hans?
Marco.
Ahem! See post #1
And I quote "The audio show 09 makes historic move " Roy Bird has decided to move the tried and trusted location to near Silverstone Northants.
:lolsign:
Ah, I see - ta! As if I'm going to remember that far back! ;)
In that case, where's the nearest major airport to Silverstone? My UK geography is rather poor outside of my surrounding area.
And I guess there are roads in Silverstone where one can drive to with a car the same as anywhere else in the UK...
Marco.
Ah, I see - ta! As if I'm going to remember that far back! ;)
In that case, where's the nearest major airport to Silverstone? My UK geography is rather poor outside of my surrounding area.
And I guess there are roads in Silverstone where one can drive to with a car the same as anywhere else in the UK...
Marco.
East Midlands and Brum are the 2 closest I believe.
Exactly - well there you go; not exactly in the wilderness, is it? ;)
Marco.
I just noticed your edit, Neil :)
Hi Marc
The point is this was/used to be an international show.
Yes, and since when did Birmingham not have an international airport? Do people from abroad think there's only one airport in the UK or city worth visiting to attend a hi-fi show?
They'll just have to get off their butts and make some alternative travel arrangements - hardly a tragedy, I would have thought! ;)
Basing the show in the middle of no ware with extra costs and time to get there is a non starter.
Why? All it takes is a change of planning and mindset. And since when was Birmingham in "the middle of no ware"? It's this inflexible diehard London-centric mentality that annoys me. There is always a solution to things if you want one enough!
This decision (if copper fastened ) is a disaster for this show as an international event. Plainly it is no more but reduced to regional status and will suffer as the big international companies will stay away.
Why - do they self-implode if they go outside of London? And what does "copper fastened" mean? :scratch:
Who needs or wants another regional show. Roy all ready has plenty of those. This is not what the industry needs.
Yes but it's not all about the industry, Neil. Or are we talking solely about a trade show here? Me thinks you've got your ex-dealer's hat a little too firmly fastened to your bonce. What about the needs and convenience of the customers who actually pay the industry's wages? I think their needs are also rather important, too...
Oh, and (for a change) particularly the needs of those who live north of bloody Watford. I for one welcome the arrival of a major hi-fi show within reasonable driving distance of me for the first time in my life, and I'm sure other people in the region or who live further up north will feel the same way. I'm confident the punters will be there in their droves providing the exhibitors get their maps out and make the effort!
As long as none of them suffer a nose bleed from going a little 'oop norf', they should be just fine ;)
Marco.
Oi you, leave my posts alone or yours will be edited in a way that you'll never forget :eyebrows: ;)
Marco.
Ok, but first... what does "impode" mean?
;)
http://www.thefreedictionary.com/implodes
You must also bear in mind that I've just enjoyed three Drambuies, half a bottle of Puligny Montrachet, and a glass of vintage port after a rather fabulous lunch, so I think that I can be excused a typo... ;)
Marco.
Thanks for the explanation of "implode"!
But that ain't what I asked, or what you typed! So I corrected it for you... coz I've had no booze. :lol:
Errr... Yet!!!
I for one welcome the arrival of a major hi-fi show within reasonable driving distance of me for the first time in my life, and I'm sure other people in the region or who live further up north will feel the same way.
I'll second that!... several times.... with bells on... and a cherry! :)
Spectral Morn
02-01-2009, 18:30
Hi Guys
Firstly I can probably never pull my dealer hat off. 20 Years of involvement in the trade, just doesn't vanish. Secondly hi-fi Shows must not only pay for themselves and give a profit (which is what I think is behind this shows move, Roy lost money on the last show. Just A guess and not a fact. I could be wrong). Where do you think most dealers and some distributors find new stock for their shops,emmmm, AH HI-Fi Shows. Not always but quite often. So shows are very vital for the trade both as a venue to trade and buy.
Munich is a very different and expertly run. Trade can work (and it is work, not just a jolly.)at this type of venue but not at the type of shows Roy runs. I know this having attended a number of his shows. Trade need a Trade day or 2. I have also helped run Hi-fi shows here in Northern Ireland, as part of a team and the amount of work to make it a success on every level takes you about a week to recover when its over.
The other major fact not even thought about here so far and I was hopiung some one might pick up on it. WE are in the middle of a bloody World Wide recession. Money is tight so going the extra mile will for many just not be possible. Going to a show and being an exhibitor there costs a lot of money.
I have no problem with a show being held in the regions, what I was saying was not meant to be taken as an insult but simply as a statement of fact. For many the costs can not be justified for anything less than a prestige Show in a prestige location. The maximum number of quality ( no insult meant ) people through the door. Costs for all must be recouped and profits must be made to justify the huge costs.
Don't ever think Shows are just to entertain the masses, they are about making money ( sad fact ).
So yes as I said for some this is great news but for those who think like I do (trade), this is not what they want to hear about this show.
Why can't Roy move it to a suitable Hotel near an Airport/ This is my main point. This new location is not going to be easy or cheap to get to.
copper fastened, reference to the deal being done set/cast in stone. Has its origin in ship building and refers to the way ships hulls were held together (I think )
Regards D SD L---- Neil :(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:steam::steam::steam::steam:
this show will not add any value to the number of shows held by Mr Bird all over the country. With little money this year,I suspect most Trade will vote with their feet and stay home.
LOL. My apologies to our southern friends for getting a bit heavy with the London thing, but unless you've lived in the north of the UK for a period of time you've got no idea how pissed off people there are with the endless obsession (from the media and various other sources) about London (and the south) this, that, and the next thing, and people oversees having the mentality that the UK = London.
I don't think people living in the south of the UK realise how many things in life are created for their convenience, and thus often take this situation for granted.
We (in the north of the UK) are sick and fed up of being treated as second-class citizens, not just with trivial things like hi-fi shows, and now and then it feels good to vent our frustrations! :)
Marco.
hi-fi Shows must not only pay for themselves and give a profit (which is what I think is behind this shows move, Roy lost money on the last show. Just A guess and not a fact. I could be wrong). Where do you think most dealers and some distributors find new stock for their shops,emmmm, AH HI-Fi Shows. Not always but quite often. So shows are very vital for the trade both as a venue to trade and buy.
Munich is a very different and expertly run. Trade can work (and it is work, not just a jolly.)at this type of venue but not at the type of shows Roy runs. I know this having attended a number of his shows. Trade need a Trade day or 2. I have also helped run Hi-fi shows here in Northern Ireland, as part of a team and the amount of work to make it a success on every level takes you about a week to recover when its over.
The other major fact not even thought about here so far and I was hopiung some one might pick up on it. WE are in the middle of a bloody World Wide recession. Money is tight so going the extra mile will for many just not be possible. Going to a show and being an exhibitor there costs a lot of money.
I have no problem with a show being held in the regions, what I was saying was not meant to be taken as an insult but simply as a statement of fact. For many the costs can not be justified for anything less than a prestige Show in a prestige location. The maximum number of quality ( no insult meant ) people through the door. Costs for all must be recouped and profits must be made to justify the huge costs.
Neil, explain to me exactly why all of the above can't be achieved at a show held near a major international airport such as Birmingham? Why, at all costs, *must* it be in London?
I'm sorry, I just don't get it... :scratch:
As for the recession, people up north are feeling the effect too, you know! So why should we have to keep footing the bill for long, tedious, trips to London all the time?
Also, not every dealer or manufacturer is based near London - there are plenty in the north of the country so why shouldn't they, for a change, get the opportunity not to have to travel hundreds of miles to demonstrate their equipment with the huge costs that involves, or is it only the London dealers and manufacturers that have costs to pay?
Marco.
Or East Midlands... Near the rather excellent Donnington Park. :)
Lot's of hotels nearby too.
Dave Cawley
02-01-2009, 18:45
I have exhibited at over 200 shows. I agree with Neil, again!
Dave
Spectral Morn
02-01-2009, 18:56
Hi Marco
Try living in Northern Ireland. The butt of the joke for the rest of the UK. You think that London centric thinking is what motivates my comments, hardly the Southerners hate us more than they do the Scots, Welsh, Cornish and they treat you guys like dirt. No I don't love London (nice to visit but am I glads to wave good buy when I leave).
I am sorry but business does not think the same as civilians and the reaction will be very negative to this move, I believe.
I think that either you mis read my post or I did not express my self well enough. I have no issue where the show is but it must be very close to a major international airport or at the least within excellent and easy transportation, something Heathrow had in spades. If you came via air, which is how many if not all of the international brands did and trade.
I remember well the disaster the move to the Novo tell Hotel in Hammersmith was greated as being. I like the venue, though it was a bit cramped. This was the first show I went to( during the late 80's and 90's I was the one who had to mind the shop). I went with the view of treating it as a long weekend and stayed in London, so mixed business and pleasure (also went to The Live show as well At Earls Court at the same time). This sort of thing does not suit business IMO.
Roy tries to praise the area he is moving to but frankly I just don't see what this has to do with an Audio Show.
regards D S D L ----- Neil
I have exhibited at over 200 shows. I agree with Neil, again!
Dave
Well you would do - you're a bloody southerner! Why should you want to travel further? :lol:
;)
Marco.
I have no issue where the show is but it must be very close to a major international airport or at the least within excellent and easy transportation, something Heathrow had in spades. If you came via air, which is how many if not all of the international brands did and trade.
Neil, but Birmingham *IS* a major international airport with excellent transport links - that's the whole point! Granted, it's not as 'major' as Heathrow, but it is plenty 'major' enough to hold a bloody hi-fi show near! Planes do fly to other places than London, you know :eyebrows:
Sorry, we're poles apart on this and, no, you still haven't explained why shows must at all costs be held in London.
Perhaps someone else could try?
Incidentally, I don't get the 'dealer hat' thing either. If it's no longer your profession, and therefore not affecting your livelihood, why does it bother you so?
I can tell you that once I'm retired and no longer in the art/picture-framing business, I won't give a monkey's what costs art galleries or framing shops are having to pay. I'll be too busy sipping cocktails on the veranda in my villa in Tuscany to care ;)
Marco.
Spectral Morn
02-01-2009, 19:23
We will have to agree to differ. 20 years of involvement with trade will, I hope give me some insight to how they think. This show will no longer be what it was a highly regarded showcase for national and international product. Trade will(with the exception of locals) not bother.
Anyway Silverstone is not within a mile of the Airport is it ? It was this factor that helped make the London show what it was. This is why it was considered as an International Show.
I am sorry you can't see this fact.
If Roy had/was organizing the best audio event in the UK ever. A show which will help our industry. An event of the kind of quality that Munich is or even/maybe The Rocky Mountain Audio Festival, then I might be less concerned. It will not be this or close, IMHO. I want to be wrong but in my guts I know it will be poor. I also know that many in audio will not be prepared to give it ago, especially with cash being so tight.
I am sorry but I am not cut from the same cloth as you. I will always view things with a trade eye and mind, as that is what I have ate and breathed for 20 years of my life. I have also not given up on the idea that, somehow I may be able to get back into it, some day in the future, that is my hope. Maybe I am being foolish but that is what I hope for.
Regards D S D L----- Neil
Neil,
No hard feelings, but we'll definitely have to agree to differ! :)
So I'll just leave you with this...
20 years of involvement with trade will, I hope give me some insight to how they think.
I don't doubt whatsoever you're right about how they think, but it is 20 years of ingrained London-centric bias that could do with being eradicated!! ;)
Not on your part, I would hasten to add. "The trade", as you refer to it, is obviously narrow-minded and blinkered in the extreme. Ignoring an event in the Birmingham area because it's not in London is, IMO, the height of idiocy. There's plenty of interest in hi-fi outside of bloody London!
Anyway, hopefully Roy's decision to move it further north will help achieve that. I'm looking forward to attending a show and not dreading the long journey home in shitty London traffic for once (I hate the place and could never live there).
Marco.
Spectral Morn
02-01-2009, 19:40
No problem Marco
I just want there to be a reason to be positive about this show. I just want this to be a quality event, that the whole industry needs.
What do the rest of the Trade think who belong to this Forum. Care to share your thoughts. Obviously only say what you will no doubt say to Roy, or have already done so, both positive and negative.
Regards D S D L ----- Neil
No problem Marco
I just want this to be a quality event, that the whole industry needs.
AND the public who pay the industry's wages... Don't forget their needs too, Neil, otherwise at the next show (in London or wherever) it'll just be you guys giving each other group hugs for nothing ;)
Marco.
Spectral Morn
02-01-2009, 19:48
Hi Marco
Whole meant, whole everyone. Those who make , sell and buy( those who listen to the kit ( civilians ), as do some who work in the trade. We buy stuff too). All of us involved at whatever level.
Lets aim for a Munich typed Model, or better. I think we can all agree that we have not had such an event in the UK anywhere ( if ever )in a very long time.
I also want (the public)to express their opinions too, in this debate.
Regards D S D L---- Neil :)
However if the trade will not go. There will not be a show of any quality, if at all.
Is/was the Heathrow show *THAT* good?
I confess to never having been, mostly due to the reasons Marco has pointed out, but most of the reports I've read were not very positive from what I remember... :scratch:
AND, my own sentiments for moving it further, much further, (if I had my way) are entirely selfish if I'm going to be completely honest. :eyebrows:
However if the trade will not go. There will not be a show of any quality, if at all.
Indeed, Neil. We just have to get them to think 'outside of the box', or rather outside of the M25! :lol: ;)
Munich is a different ball game. I seriously doubt that any UK hi-fi show will ever be like the one in Germany, quite simply because the clientele are so different.
Marco.
Spectral Morn
02-01-2009, 19:58
At one time Mike yes it was in my opinion.
Regards D S D L---- Neil :)
As a punter i really disliked the small crowded rooms and poor audio set ups. I spoke to a few poeple in the industry and they said they managed to sell a good bit of equipment so worth it But I had not gone to one for a few years now
As a Londoner I totally understand Marco view about how we always get the better deal Yeah London has crap traffic and high prices but for music still many plus points!!!
:ner:
Also don't equate the South-East with London. I am 45 miles away from London, which is a poxy 65 minute train journey since it is madness to take the car. Why do I visit London? Because it has three of the best concert halls in the country whereas hardly any good live music comes my way. In all other respects, London hardly registers in my consciousness even though I used to live there.
Absolutely, Martin, but I think it would be a good idea if the industry (and many other things in the UK) were less London (and the south)-centric.
I'm sure you understand my (and Mike's) point :)
Out of interest, have you ever lived in the north of the country for any length of time?
Marco.
As a Londoner I totally understand Marco view about how we always get the better deal Yeah London has crap traffic and high prices but for music still many plus points!!!
:ner:
LOL, John - you're right. Unfortunately for me, though, the negatives of living in or around London vastly outweigh any positives, music or otherwise!
I'm a country (and peace and quiet) boy at heart :)
I don't do 'hustle and bustle'!
Marco.
Out of interest, have you ever lived in the north of the country for any length of time?
No I haven't and I'm not familiar with England north of Manchester. However, I have been to Scotland many times and would love to retire to the west coast highlands one day. The bleakness, beauty and solitude appeal, although perhaps not the weather.
Spectral Morn
02-01-2009, 21:26
And the crowd said Amen
I would love to move to Scotland, but my wife says no. We usually went there twice a year on holiday ( I don't like the heat ). Not this year I fear.
I have been to Manchester and through Birmingham (Horrible ). Love Liverpool and think I would also love Gates Head/New Castle.
Regards D S D L----- Neil :)
BBC 4 Guys Prog Rock at the BBC, Yes etc I am off to watch back later.
Try 'Gateshead' or 'Newcastle' ;)
However, I have been to Scotland many times and would love to retire to the west coast highlands one day. The bleakness, beauty and solitude appeal, although perhaps not the weather.
That's exactly my kind of place :)
I hate grey, soulless, built-up urban or industrial landscapes - it's *so* depressing! And I detest the 'rat race' so evident in places like London; no-one seems to have any time for each other or to relax and enjoy life. I enjoy my relatively chilled-out lifestyle and the fresh air of North Wales too much! :smoking:
I've travelled all over Scotland both for pleasure and on business. Anywhere in the highlands is beautiful, but the most stunning and dramatic landscapes are found on the islands; places like Skye and Orkney. Some of the lochs and mountain ranges there are breathtaking in their rugged beauty - just the place for an amateur photographer! Oh, and the seafood (particularly langoustine and crab) is to die for...
I love Scotland but my heart is where my roots are in Tuscany, which is where we will retire to (hopefully before we are 50, or at the very latest 55!) I'm 43 now and my wife is 45. We don't believe in working ourselves into an early grave. I've seen too many of my family do that. My grandfather, for example, worked in his fish and chip restaurant until he was in his 80s and died soon after - and for what? No, we'll retire while we're still young enough to enjoy life to the full thank you very much...
Neil, like you, I like Liverpool but hate Birmingham (with a passion!) The traffic on the M6 on the outskirts of Birmingham is enough reason for me to detest it, and it's a depressing, grey looking, industrial kind of place - at least the parts I've seen. Perhaps some of the leafy suburbs are nicer - are there any leafy suburbs in Birmingham? Manchester is cool (kind of like Glasgow for shopping) but I prefer Glasgow overall - I think you'd love it. I've only been to Gateshead once (to the Ikea there) and it wasn't a pleasant experience, so I don't know it well enough to comment. I've never been to Newcastle but I like Geordies - they seem like genuine, friendly, people just like Glaswegians, scousers, and of course the Irish! I'd love to visit Ireland someday. The countryside looks beautiful.
Marco.
Spectral Morn
02-01-2009, 23:49
Yes Marco
I love Glasgow. The buildings have soul and as for shopping fantastic. Edinburgh is poor in comparison, though the buildings are better. I didn't like Manchester, sorry but Dark Satanic Mills came to mind. I went there for an interview for the Art College and really hated the place. Liked Liverpool but did not get in there. Ended up coming home and getting into the Art college here. I studied Silversmithing and jewelry design. Ended up working as a Saturday Boy in an hi-fi shop and well the rest is history.
I have always tried very hard to keep the work life balance, with the life bit as more important than the work.
Its the little things that make life beautiful. Like listening to the water go pop in the early evening, standing by the southern shore of loch Ness, for instance.
Love the majestic landscapes, the vistas, the people and the closeness to nature.
Scotland rules.
Regards D S D L ---- Neil :)
London is a great place to be when you young so many things to do so many great bands to see Its not all bad we have some great Parks I have Hampstead Heath not to far from me, my family and friends live hear etc but understand why people do not like London yes the pace is so fast here at times and on the whole people are more guarded than when you travel outside London
But we do have a sense of community here too I manage two community based services for adults who have autism and other complex needs and generally the experience with the public is very supportive and because of the nature of the work we have to tune in quite deeply to what happens in the community and on the whole its a lot more positive than you may imagine.
Dave Cawley
03-01-2009, 08:13
If I had to live in a city it would be Cambridge, Oxford, Munich, Geneva, San Francisco but preferably Oak Park or Evenstone in Chicago. However I am the lucky one, I chose where I wanted to live and did it 10 years ago www.dartmouth.tv
Dave
Dartmouth is beautiful, Dave. I'm more of a country person, but if I had to choose a quaint fishing village-type place to live in the UK, Dartmouth would be high up on my list :)
John, undoubtedly London has lots to offer; the nature of the beast dictates that (you mentioned parks - Hyde park is fantastic), and for sure it has a happening club and music scene, but having lived in Glasgow for most of my life I've done the 'big city thing' (although of course it's not as big as London) and I wouldn't go back to it for love nor money.
I enjoy visiting Glasgow from time to time when visiting my parents, but even when I was in my late teens/early 20s I much preferred going for runs to Loch Lomond and The Trossachs (about 30 mins from Glasgow) see here: http://www.lochlomond-trossachs.org/ for a long walk in the hills and a nice meal in a quaint country pub afterwards than clubbing and drinking at night in Glasgow city centre - I did both but I much preferred the former to the latter.
Even when I took girlfriends out I'd much rather go for a nice meal in a small family-run restaurant somewhere (usually Italian), where we could talk and get to know each other properly, which incidentally usually impressed them as it was different to what most other guys did, than a noisy, smoky, night club, (I've never been a big fan of crowds and noise) so with me it's not an age thing - I just like beautiful scenery with stunning lochs/lakes and mountains, fresh air, and tranquillity, away from crowds of people, and that's about as far away from describing London as you can get!
Marco.
My wife has roots in east Suffolk and the vibe here is like a huge warm and cozy duvet, slow (like Nth Wales, where most of my family are located) and laid back. The Denbigh area would have been a disaster for us outside of my family, as we'd be ex-communicated as "outsiders" apparently. A shame really, as there may have been some HiFi work in Chester (Liverpool's a bit far out for commuting I think).
Trouble is, all the "action" is much further inland than at the coast, so escaping the rat race has had its good and bad points I reckon.
I haven't attended a show for years and although I was tempted by the Heathrow one, the prospect of huge expense, seeing products that noone wants to buy and hearing some dire sounds from all and sundry rather put me off I'm afraid.
....... in east Suffolk and the vibe here is like a huge warm and cozy duvet, slow ...... and laid back.......
Here here......love Suffolk....and I might even make it to Silverstone, not too far down the road.
Heathrow....I went once in the 1980s when living in London, we still have a place there, but you wouldn't, catch me at that show again. Awful location and the the sound!:doh:
Regards
Gerry
GraemeAudion
13-02-2009, 22:33
As an international manufacturer who regularly exhibits at Heathrow, I find Roy's decision to move to a new location both interesting and disparaging at the same time. It is a well known fact that as heathrow has international links that the trade chances and contacts one picks up at such a show will be permanently lost. Munich as a location for trade contacts, which is one of the main reasons manufacturers exhibit at a show seems to becoming the only aceptable location to make these contacts.
However for the general public Silverstone is a good central location, if off the beaten track a little. As an exhibitor my only trepidation is the location for Apres-show events.
Travelling nearly 1000 miles to a show will not make a great deal of difference to me to travel another 100 or so.
I will be exhibiting at heathrow in March and will "feel the waters" for September. However as an international I will probably have the choice of Paris and Milan and also a show stateside..
The South needs a show, London needs to retain a placement in the high end calendar or it will lose out in more ways than one.
Rant over .. Graeme Holland - CEO - Audion
Welcome to AOS, Graeme :)
Would you like your account upgraded to trade status?
Marco.
By the way, Silverstone isn't Birmingham in any shape or form (you have to get through Coventry and Leicester first ;)) - it's NORTHANTS!
I worked in Northampton for four years and Silverstone isn't very far from there. I believe the road access has been improved due to the race-track there and the A14/M1 and M6 aren't too far away.
HiFi really doesn't figure in the UK any more except for a handful of "us" sprinkled over several forums. I have more hopes for the Wigwam show to be honest, but doubt I'll attend that either.
I hope you do come, Dave, because I'd like to meet up for a few beers :cool:
Marco.
Powered by vBulletin® Version 4.2.3 Copyright © 2024 vBulletin Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved.