Yeah, great bumping into you also. Unfortunately, I had a pretty abbreviated visit. Overall good time, though both in exhibitors and vistors it seemed a significant step down from last year. Interestingly less vinyl also and for those with tables only one was using it when I visited (Zu, their only source).
The MBL Radialstrahlers** sounded so dead on with one track, so dead on the next. Still curious to hear more. Zu Essences were intriguing with Steve Earle sons newest LP, but I had very limited listening and The Police just sounded like The Police (hint: not a fan). Was pretty surprised at the bang for buck from the $650 pair (I think show price) Martin Logan LX16s bookshelves** and new Motion 20s ($750 each) floorstanders. Ribbon tweeters. High point was the Win Audio room (photo below). Those monoblocks were stunning in every respect. Wish I remembered the pyramid speakers they were paired with. Largest disappointment was the KEF Blades, but again I only heard two songs and may not have been in the sweet spot.
Also joined BAAS and picked up some Blue Coast music. Poor mans adventures at this kinda show.
** Both played those silly drum demos.
EDIT: I should mention the Sony SS-AR1s, like last year, sounded pretty incredible if you like 'big sounds.'
EDIT2: Not that I could tell much by the show setup, but the Music First Audio Passive Magnetic Preamp was interesting.