Series 1

The relative calm outside the RCA Dome...

...doesn't hint at the bustle inside. Exhibits are set up inside the Dome, in two huge adjacent areas, and in many hallways.

One subject that's always discussed at shows is who has the loudest (and most obnoxious) demo. This year, the honor goes to SpeakCraft, who hired a live band to play -- and drown out all other noise. But to drown showgoers' sorrows about the noise, SpeakerCraft offered free beer, too.

Runco's elaborate display was based on an Olympics theme and included a track around the entire area.

Guitar-amp makers are starting to use Analysis Plus wire inside their products, and to underscore this point, the company created this guitar outline from its Solo Crystal Oval 8 speaker cable. [www.analysis-plus.com]

Mark Markel of Analysis Plus was especially proud of the mat he found for use in his booth -- which is made up of small pieces of leather. Doug Schneider liked it so much he had Mark pose for a photo with it. [www.analysis-plus.com]