The more we attend these events, the
more aware we've become of not only identifying systems that produce good images or sound
but also which systems are presented in way that's befitting the price that many
components these days command. To us, these kinds of displays "stand out" in an
important way.
That said, we were thoroughly impressed with the way the
UK's Arcam and KEF set up their High End 2008 display -- it was in a huge room that housed
two full-scale displays. Shown in the photo above was the multichannel setup using KEF's
XQ-series speakers driven by Arcam's Solo, an all-in-one multichannel DVD/receiver. Shown
below is the setup using KEF's Reference-series speakers driven by Arcam's FMJ-series
components.
Obviously, the displays look different, but each was nicely
appointed, quite spacious, very comfortable, and, most of all, extremely attractive.
Furthermore, they were perfect for the kind of equipment on display and indicative of the
kinds of rooms that many people might like to have in their homes.
The result of putting together topnotch displays like these
can't be underestimated in today's competitive marketplace. We visited the Arcam/KEF room
a number of times, and on each occasion we noticed a large number of people relaxing and
enjoying the presentations for quite a long time -- exactly the kind of effect most
exhibitors want but so few achieve.
