Top 10 best and worst of CES

Yet another edition of the Consumer Electronics Show has come and gone. And with 2012's conference in the books, it is time for V3 to take a look at what made the show great and what made us long to be on the plane back home.

This year, we saw a packed house at the conference, giving hope for an industry resurgence and the return of strong financials. Microsoft's farewell address was earmarked by the emergence of Intel, while Nvidia and Sony made strong pitches of their own.

On the other hand, the lack of real progress and innovation gave reason to question the direction many of the largest firms in the business are taking.

Best of CES

1. Healthy crowds return

In recent years, attendance at CES had been dwindling. With the economy in turmoil, many people didn't have the money or interest in attending the show. This lead to a noticeable drop in attendance and trepidation among vendors and exhibitors.

This year, however, the crowds were back. Along with the usual throngs of press and bloggers, there was no shortage of buyers and general expo attendees. In total, the CEA estimated that 150,000 people attended this year's conference.

While the larger attendance may have added onto the already long lines and packed venues, it is also an indication that interest and, perhaps, investment in PCs and consumer electronics is picking up again.

2. The stars were out

High-profile celebrities were out in force this year, proving that the show is still a major draw.

Justin Timberlake, part-owner of MySpace, was on stage to unveil a partnership with Panasonic as he continues to try and revive the ailing social network.

50 Cent stopped by to promote his own range of wireless headphones made by SMS Audio, as he looks to emulate the success Dr. Dre had with Beats Audio. Even teenage heart-throb Justin Bieber showed up to unveil the mRobo Ultra Bass, a dancing robot that plays music.