Emotional farewell: HIGH END 2025 ends successful era in Munich

With a new visitor record and high international participation, HIGH END 2025 came to an end on 18 May. For exhibitors, visitors and organisers, the conclusion of the audio trade fair was a special moment, as the event bid farewell to the MOC in Munich after more than two decades. The combination of record numbers, emotional moments and the announced change of location made this year's edition a turning point in the history of the trade fair. At the same time, HIGH END 2025 marked the transition to a new phase, as Vienna will become the new home of the event from 2026 onwards. The farewell to Munich was themed ‘Passion for Music’. This enthusiasm for sound, technology and musical experience was present throughout the entire trade fair. HIGH END proved to be not only a product show, but also a meeting place for an internationally networked community seeking to exchange ideas about technology, culture and the future of the audio industry.

A finale with a strong international presence

With more than 22,800 participants from 92 countries and 501 exhibitors, HIGH END 2025 achieved a new visitor record. The fully booked exhibition space underscored the continuing importance of the trade fair for manufacturers, distributors and trade visitors. A wide range of audiophile products was presented – from classic high-end components and innovative loudspeaker concepts to mobile and networked sound solutions. The trade fair served not only as a presentation platform, but also as a venue for intensive discussions. Developers, dealers and media representatives took the opportunity to discuss trends and make new contacts. The strong international presence showed that HIGH END is perceived as the benchmark trade fair for high-quality audio technology far beyond the German-speaking world.

Special formats and media attention

Parallel to the main exhibition, special themed areas provided additional appeal. The WORLD OF HEADPHONES offered visitors the opportunity to directly compare and experience a wide variety of headphone solutions. The GAMING ZONE was aimed specifically at a younger audience and bridged the gap between audiophile demands and interactive applications. HIGH END 2025 also set standards in terms of media coverage. More than 580 accredited journalists from Germany and abroad reported on the trade fair. This response underlines the event's role as an international industry meeting place and a platform where innovations become visible at an early stage.

Strong content and memorable moments

In addition to the product exhibition, the programme featured specialist presentations and panel discussions. The X-PERT Stage focused on topics such as sustainable technology, new production standards and social developments in the audio industry. The trade fair thus offered not only entertainment, but also in-depth content and guidance in a changing market environment. Norwegian musician Anette Askvik, who made several live appearances as the trade fair's brand ambassador, provided emotional highlights. Her performances in immersive audio quality were perceived by many visitors as impressive proof of the interplay between music and technology. The musical finale lent a special atmosphere to the farewell from Munich.

Farewell to Munich with a look ahead

The farewell to the Messe München marks the end of a long and successful era. For many years, the MOC provided the venue for the development of HIGH END into one of the world's most renowned audio trade fairs. For numerous exhibitors and visitors, Munich is closely linked to the history of the event. At the same time, the farewell was deliberately designed as a transition. Organisers and exhibitors emphasised that the change of location opens up new perspectives. HIGH END 2025 thus symbolised both continuity and change: a successful conclusion at the previous location and the start of a new phase.

Vienna as the new location from 2026

From 2026, HIGH END will take place in Vienna for the first time. The Austria Center Vienna offers new spatial possibilities and modern infrastructure that should allow for further growth and new formats. The move to Austria is seen by many involved as an opportunity to further develop the trade fair and tap into new target groups. The new location stands for a new beginning and internationalisation. Vienna, a culturally rich metropolis, offers an environment that fits well with the focus of the trade fair. The next HIGH END is planned for 28 to 31 May 2026 and is expected to build on the successes of previous years.

Outlook after record visitor numbers

HIGH END 2025 marks the end of a chapter characterised by steady growth, international recognition and strong identification with Munich as a location. The record number of visitors underscores the relevance of the trade fair and at the same time forms a solid basis for the new start in Vienna. The farewell to Munich is an emotional one, but the focus is on the future. HIGH END remains a central meeting place for the audio industry – with a new address, but with the same commitment to bringing passion for music, technology and innovation to life.