CES 2009: Our budgets are lower say the big brands, but expectations remain high

On the eve of the 2009 Consumer Electronics Show, organisers CEA say they expect the show to be hit by the economic downturn. While last year's event attracted over 150,000 visitors, this year's expo is expected to max out at around 125,000. The tone of the show will be different too.

Sharp is just one of the big brands taking a different approach. 'This year our booth won't be as lavish as previous events,' says Judah Zeigler, VP of marketing. 'There's no more three-ring circus. We're going to concentrate on showing new products with the right content.'

Budgets may be tighter, but 2,700 exhibitors will still fight against each other to claim eyeballs over the 1.7 million net square feet of space that the show sprawls across. So observers can still expect fireworks.

Samsung will be amongst many at the show downsizing its TV line. The Skorean giant is expected to unveil an LCD screen just 6.5mm thick (or thin, if you prefer).

Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer will kick off the show with a keynote speech on the Jan 7, followed by Sony chairman and CEO Howard Stringer. For the highlights, stay tuned to homecinemachoice.com.