TAS (Alan Taffel) posts IMO an interesting article http://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/why-munich-is-different/ addressing the differences between the Munich audio show and those in this country. The article also speaks to the differences between the way Americans and Europeans view music. It does appear to me Europeans have a much more encompassing music palette and possess a love of well reproduced music both live and reproduced that dramatically exceeds the majority of Americans. Perhaps it's because of the slower lifestyle and proliferation of small European towns. By contrast this country appears distracted by price/convenience and new technology. There are frequent discussions speaking to good audio being a niche in this country. Even many (most) live events with the exception of classical music are often more loud and piercing than musical IMO. Does anyone have any other thoughts as to why this cultural difference exists?