The Montreal Audiofest opens its doors today at Hotel Bonaventure, marking its 36th edition as one of Canada’s largest gatherings dedicated to high-end audio. Running from March 28 to 30, the annual event continues to attract a mix of industry professionals, hobbyists, and curious listeners with a shared interest in the art and science of sound.
More than 5,000 visitors are expected to pass through the venue over the weekend, where over 300 brands will exhibit everything from precision-engineered loudspeakers to boutique headphone amps and esoteric cables. The show’s scale and longevity—first launched in 1988—cement its place as a key event on the North American audiophile calendar.
Spread across multiple hotel suites converted into acoustically treated listening rooms, the Audiofest focuses on demonstration rather than spectacle. Attendees can sample systems ranging from a few thousand dollars to six-figure setups, with brands and distributors guiding the experience in a way that’s as much about music appreciation as it is about gear.
While the core of the show remains rooted in hi-fi culture, organizers continue to diversify the experience. This year includes themed VIP events like “Prohibition Night,” pairing whisky tastings with curated audio demonstrations, and the “Musical Wine Tour,” which brings together fine wine, sommeliers, and premium gear in small-group settings. Each event costs $125, including full festival access and a light meal.
In a nod to the next generation of listeners, Friday morning introduces “AudioTeens,” a program tailored to attendees aged 12 to 17. Teenagers accompanied by a parent can attend for free, with dedicated programming aimed at making high-fidelity audio more accessible to younger audiences.
Despite the steady rise of digital streaming and portable audio, the Audiofest offers a counterpoint—a slower, more tactile approach to listening. It’s a reminder that for some, sound reproduction remains both a technical pursuit and a deeply personal one.
Montreal Audiofest runs through Sunday, with hours from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.
