Nordost Connects Stenheim & VTL at AXPONA 2026

After three Best Sound wins at previous AXPONAs, the Nordost, Stenheim, and VTL team returns to the Schaumburg F Ballroom with a reference-level system for AXPONA 2026 not to be missed.

Each brand will present its flagship products as part of a seamlessly integrated system, expertly set up by Audio Systems Optimized. This collaboration goes beyond a simple money-no-object showcase; it promises a cohesive musical event from all partners.

Nordost’s room will feature the Odin Gold and Odin 2 Supreme Reference cables, which will bring all the components together. This is described as “a rare opportunity to hear Odin Gold in a public setting.”

VTL’s new US$100,000 Lohengrin 400Watt Reference Monoblocks, supported by their TL-7.5 Series III Reference Linestage and TP-6.5 Series II Signature Phono Stage, will set the scene.

The top-flight amplifiers will power Stenhiem’s Reference Ultime Two SX loudspeakers, promising speed, scale, and musical realism.

Source material will be presented through components from dCS for digital and VPI for analogue. Room treatment will be courtesy of Audys by VDM acoustic panels.

In addition to showcasing the sonic superlatives of this statement system, Nordost will host a series of presentations throughout the show.

Lunchtime Listening Hour

Noon on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday

Listen to unreleased recordings from Newvelle Records’ anniversary LPs, the Newvelle Ten Collection, pressed on 180-gram vinyl. Featured artists include Martin Wind, Ingrid Jensen, Elan Mehler, Loren Stillman, and Skúli Sverrisson. Bea Lamm of VTL has also curated a selection of classical pieces to be played.

Behind the Recording

2:00 PM on Friday and Saturday

Igor Fiorini from VDM High End Records reveals how a recording is created. Discover how a master recording becomes a cultural and symbolic message, shaped by the artist and sound director. Learn how microphone choices affect sound, and follow the process through to test pressings, giving you practical insight into mastering and production.

Qobuz Flash DJ Session

4:00 PM, Friday

David Solomon from Qobuz will host a Flash DJ Session and play an exciting mix of tracks. This is a great way to experience the system’s digital capabilities.

Exclusive Listening and Storytelling Experience

4:00 PM, Saturday

Abey Fonn, founder of Impex Records, presents an exclusive listening and storytelling experience. She will play highlights from John McLaughlin’s new album Music From Abandoned Heights and Bud Shank’s new AAA LP Holiday in Brazil. Abey will also present personal favourites. Through rare insights and anecdotes, she will show what it is like to work with legendary artists and production partners. Each record is crafted with care for audiophile listeners. You will hear not just the music, but also the stories in every groove.

50th Anniversary Listening Session

5:30 PM, Saturday

Celebrate 50 years of David Bowie’s groundbreaking 1976 album, Station to Station.

Hear every detail of this iconic recording played on a world-class audio system. This session lets you discover the subtle nuances and dynamic range of the LP, enhancing your appreciation for Bowie’s unique artistry.

More to Experience in Room 716

In addition to the events at Schaumburg F Ballroom, Nordost will also conduct live cable demonstrations in Room 716, in partnership with local retailer Holm Audio.

Attendees can listen firsthand and experience the improvement Nordost cables and audio enhancers make in sound quality. Expert staff will answer questions and explain the technology, helping you make informed decisions for your own system.

AXPONA 2026 runs from April 10–12 at the Schaumburg Convention Centre in Illinois.

For more information visit Nordost