Munich High End Show 2025 – Exhibition Report

We recently participated in the Munich High End Show.

This year, more companies than ever showcased phono equalizers compatible with optical cartridges. As a result, 11 different rooms featured demo systems using our optical cartridges—our largest presence to date.

During the show, over 10 manufacturers approached us with interest in developing their own optical cartridge-compatible equalizers. It’s clear that support for this technology is rapidly growing.

We’re truly grateful that so many companies are now releasing compatible products. As the only manufacturer in the world producing optical cartridges, we feel both honored and responsible for continuing to lead this field.

When we first made our equalizer circuit public, we weren’t sure if anyone would adopt it. Since DS Audio is the sole maker of optical cartridges, there’s always a risk—if we stopped making them, the compatible products would become unusable. If I were an amplifier maker, I might have been hesitant too.

That’s why it means so much to us that so many brands have decided to support this technology. They believe not only in the potential of optical cartridges, but also in the future of DS Audio. We’re committed to living up to that trust—by continuing to improve, step by step.

This year’s show was especially busy, as it marked the final time the event will be held in Munich. Many industry professionals attended, and I spent nearly every hour in meetings. I only had time to walk around briefly on the final day.

Even in that short time, I was reminded of how competitive this industry is. At this show, you see many new brands every year—but only a few survive over time.

To stand out and be remembered, a brand needs more than good products. It needs a clear identity, real innovation, and continuous effort. Otherwise, it’s easy to be forgotten in such a crowded market.

At DS Audio, our motto is “Creating the Future of Analog Music.” Each time I attend the show, I feel even more strongly that we must make products that only we can create—not copies of what others have done.

Though I didn’t have much time to explore the show, the meetings and conversations I had were very meaningful. It was a productive and inspiring event.

Next year, the show moves to Vienna. While we don’t yet know what to expect, I truly hope the energy and excitement of Munich will carry over into this new chapter.