Florida International Audio Expo 2026: Where Music, Community, and Experience Come Together
When Trevor Williams of Sound Approach sat down with Bart Andeer, Director of Show Operations for the Florida International Audio Expo, the conversation quickly revealed that this event is about far more than equipment. It’s about people, shared experiences, and the power of music to reconnect us in an increasingly noisy and distracting world.
Mr. Andeer’s journey into audio is anything but conventional. From early dreams of becoming a rock star, to working behind the scenes at a New York radio station with his brother-in-law, or swapping music with fellow sailors during his time in the U.S. Navy, his life has always revolved around sound. Over the past decade, that passion has evolved into his current role shaping one of the most welcoming audio events in the country.
A turning point came during the 2008 housing crisis. Overwhelmed by depressing news headlines, Bart stepped away from the noise, bought a set of headphones, and spent days immersed in music. The result was simple but profound: music provided relief, focus, and emotional balance. A reset of the mind, body, and soul. That realization still fuels his ongoing mission encouraging people to tune out the noise of the world and rediscover music as a source of calm and connection.
That mission led him from his local audiophile society, where he likened the experience to a form of mediation to attending audio shows around the country, where he built lasting relationships with fellow organizers like Gary Gill of Capital Audio Fest and Marjorie Baumert of Rocky Mountain Audio Fest. Through these experiences and connections, Bart gained a deeper understanding of why people attend audio expos. Some are gear-focused, others are music-driven. Some chase technical perfection, while others seek an emotional response. Every attendee brings a different perspective and that diversity is part of what makes these shows special.
It also led him to the realization that this is something he could do with his time. A full-time effort to launch his own Audio Expo in Florida that would offer the best of what he had experienced at other shows. He partnered with a group of friends to create the Florida International Audio Expo.
Now entering its ninth year (with one year lost to COVID), the Florida International Audio Expo has developed a reputation for being personable, friendly, and refreshingly casual. Bart often recalls the first post-COVID show as the clearest expression of what this industry represents: old friends reuniting, competitors embracing, and a genuine sense of joy filling the halls. In audio, collaboration outweighs competition, and that spirit defines the Florida show.
That collaborative mindset extends to exhibitors as well. Hotel-room demos are challenging, and not every vendor arrives with the same level of experience. Instead of guarding secrets, manufacturers and dealers help one another refine setups, share knowledge, and ensure systems sound their best. The goal is collective success and a better experience for attendees, especially those new to the hobby.
Looking ahead to February 20–22nd, 2026, Bart emphasizes preparing attendees just as much as preparing the show. Simple courtesies matter: avoid talking during demos, respect the equipment, and remember that precision and setup are critical to performance. First-time attendees are also encouraged to learn the language of audio. Terms and shorthand used by seasoned listeners can feel like a secret code at first. Understanding that language opens the door to deeper appreciation and more meaningful conversations. Each show guide includes helpful tidbits on what to listen for with particular setups as well as an explanation of commonly used phrases and words. The idea is to make it accessible for everyone, not just audio and technophiles.
At its core, the Florida International Audio Expo is about discovery. It’s a place to form friendships, trade perspectives, learn from golden-ears and gearheads, and experience systems you might never encounter elsewhere. There’s no pressure to buy, no hard sell, just education, exploration, and shared enthusiasm.
This year’s show will also feature a strong car-audio presence, with judging by IASCA. While Sound Approach may only focus on home audio, the crossover between car and home design has long influenced both worlds, and standout innovations often travel in both directions.
Perhaps most importantly, Mr. Andeer is careful to note that the Florida International Audio Expo isn’t about promoting specific brands. It’s about the experience itself. From affordable, high-fidelity headphones and everyday systems to awe-inspiring, multi-million-dollar setups, the show offers something for everyone, regardless of budget or background.
As February approaches, one thing is clear: the Florida International Audio Expo isn’t just an audio show…it’s a reminder of why we listen in the first place. We hope to see you there this February so we can enjoy the experience together!
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