SSI 2009

Monitor Audio took advantage of one of the show's larger suites by setting up a home theater system, a two-channel hi-fi, and a static display. Starting from the far right, here we see Monitor's entry-level Bronze series, the Silver series, and the Gold series. The flagship Platinum series, including the new">http://blog.stereophile.com/ssi2009/monitor_audio_pl200/">new PL200 floorstander, is just outside the frame.

Simaudio's Costa Koulisakis was excited to tell us about the company's new "Reach For The Moon" trade-up program. For up to a year after initial purchase, Simaudio customers interested in moving up the Sim price ladder can receive a 100% refund on their well-maintained gear. After the first year, Sim owners can receive a 75% refund on their used gear. "It's a way to stimulate the economy, while building brand loyalty," he said.

Dynaudio's Michael Manousselis palms the Excite X12 loudspeaker ($1200/pair).

It was a pleasure to finally meet Stereophile forumhttp://forum.stereophile.com/forum/ubbthreads.php">forum; member, KBK, also known as, Ken Hotte. If you think he looks a little crazy here, you should read his forum posts.

You would never guess that just moments before the photo was snapped, Tone Imports' Jonathan Halpern was bent over, purple-faced, and teary-eyed with delirious laughter. I'm not sure what it was all about. It had something to do with "championship wood."

Stereophile will be reporting live from the 2009 Salon Son & Image show in Montreal.