The slumping economy has hit everyone hard. Product sales are down and there is no immediate or quick path to recovery. In other industries that I participate in companies are making financial business decisions to NOT attend their trade shows due to scaled back budgets. The music industry is different on some level when it comes to the NAMM show. I suspect there are some companies scaling back, but when it comes to attending and exhibiting at the NAMM show the industry seemed to be at full force.

Although I don’t have any official data, this year’s winter NAMM appeared to be well attended in both visitors and exhibitors. Everyone I spoke to is worried about the coming year but encouraged that the bottom has not completely dropped out. Pedals and accessories are selling strong and retailers, distributors, and manufacturers from all corners of the globe seemed to value this unmatched opportunity to see and touch the latest and greatest in new products.

The truth is, for all that technology has advanced (iPhones, Video Conferencing, etc..), there's still no substitute for face-to-face interaction. The music industry is the original social network and NAMM has always been the event to meet, greet, look, listen and support. Key partnerships are formed, joint ventures are discussed and collaboration is at its best at the NAMM show. If you recall, the concept of a common electronic protocol (i.e. MIDI) was first discussed at a NAMM show many years ago. It is this spirit of cooperation and social support that I think is the glue that keeps the industry together and pushing forward regardless of how the economy fluctuates.

I only had one day on the floor this year due to my schedule, but I was able to see a lot, connect with some old friends, and make a few new friends. As always, my NAMM reviews cover products that catch my eye and attract my attention. I’ve highlighted a few new products that I consider “Best In Show”, and I’ve also featured new product offerings from some of my favorite manufacturers. There are so many talented designers out there creating their expression in guitars, amps and effects. Their ideas are fresh and inventive and I am truly inspired by their work.

I hope you enjoy my review and thanks again for visiting my website.

- Chris Conte

WINTER NAMM 2009