To me, the main thing gained at audio shows is an ability to see and hear different stuff, not so much for an in depth evaluation but more of an introduction. I don't think it's possible to get much more than that from an audio show. But as an introduction, I would prefer it be a warm one, not a cold shoulder. If the people in the room aren't approachable, eager to talk with guests and willing to let you play your favorite music selection, it's not even an introduction. It's little more than a static display, which I think is no fun at all.

On the other hand, you can't really expect to do much real listening. I've heard comments from people that thought it was rude for people to talk in the rooms, that it disrupted their listening experience. They forget these things are public shows, not personal auditions. They're like car shows. You can look, but you can't drive. Even if you could drive, you can't race and you can't tour. It takes some time to get aquainted with a piece of equipment to know if you'll really like it or not.

So anyway, the whole point of audio shows, to me at least, is for introductions between people and manufacturers and their products. It's for things you could not see elsewhere, like products offered directly from the manufacturers, specialty products often made in small shops with no dealer network. If the shows are filled with stuff you can see at retailers and from dealers, it's a waste of time and money to go, in my opinion. That's why I've not bothered to go to RMAF. Without more kits and DIY there, I'm not really interested.