I'm not actually a gear person, but I really enjoy the networking and meetups at NAMM. Anybody going to be in Los Angeles Jan 24-27? I got to meet Scott and Ali last year. I'm definitely up for socializing around drinks or whatever.
Yeah NAMM is badass. Every rockstar you ever wanted to meet, killer after parties (w/ free booze), great people and more gear than you could ever imagine. It's not open to the public, but sometimes I have an extra pass or two, so let me know if anyone is interested and if I can help I will.