Clarity, the hi-fi trade association, held its Hi-Fi Industry Awards at the Bristol HiFi Show 2206, marking a return to the show for its presentation ceremony, at which the winners, voted for by the members of the industry, were announced.
Following the success of the first Hi-Fi Industry Awards, held last year, this year’s categories were once again focused on key participants in the industry, rather than the previous “Best of Show” format. Many of the categories were open to the industry to vote, with the winners chosen being those with the greatest number of nominations.
The winners chosen by the industry’s votes were:
Manufacturer of the Year - Gold Note
Distributor of the Year - Henley Audio
Retail Salesperson - Paul Clarke of HiFi Lounge
Manufacturer Salesperson - Stuart Marchant of REL Acoustics
Most Significant Product Launch - Michell Gyro & Revolv
The latter category, Most Significant Product Launch, was also open to the audiophile community for nominations, with Michell’s win cited for the ambition demonstrated in replacing such an established and iconic product.
The Clarity board of directors reserved three categories for people it felt deserved special recognition. These were:
The Women in HiFi Significant Achievement Award, presented to Linette Smith of Hifi Pig for her dedication to the cause of women working in the industry.
Emily Beale from Monitor Audio, was recognised for the real and valued difference she has made for her employer in her marketing role. Emily picked up the first Unsung Hero Award.
Understanding that the industry needs younger people to ensure its longevity, the Rising Star Award was presented to Chris Burton from Home Media Maidstone, for his infectious enthusiasm, dedication to customers, product knowledge and expertise.
Elizabeth Gould, Clarity chairman, comments, “We are delighted to be able to recognise the talents and achievements of people in the industry and are particularly pleased that the majority of these awards were voted for by the winners’ peers and members of the public. It is very encouraging to see the participation of the industry and the obvious admiration and good standing in which the winners are held. I would like to add my personal congratulations to all who won and those who were nominated.”
Clarity would like to thank the management at PMC Loudspeakers for hosting the awards in its room, following on from its own event celebrating the first anniversary of its prophecy range. PMC was presented with a special recognition award as a thank you.
