Ken Berger and Jim Sides unite to launch Vue Audiotechnik
Published: ASIA
WORLD: Ken Berger, the co-founder of EAW, has united with former Meyer Sound Germany CEO and Apogee Sound co-founder Jim Sides to launch Vue Audiotechnik, a San Diego-based manufacturer promising to ‘redefine high-output, low-distortion loudspeaker performance through road-tested design expertise, advanced technologies and global manufacturing’.
The launch of the new company was officially announced two days before the commencement of the Pro Light & Sound 2012 exhibition in Frankfurt, Germany, with Mr Berger named CEO, and Mr Sides taking the title executive vice president. Among the sectors that it will target are tour sound, theatre sound, the nightclub industry, portable PA, houses of worship and commercial audio.
Crucially, Vue has already formed a partnership with Speaker Trade of Solingen, Germany, which grants the start-up access to a 290,000 sq-ft production and R&D facility in Asia. Design, sales, marketing and operations will all be based in San Diego.
Though specific product details have not yet been released, the company’s launch pointed towards ISO-standard ‘purpose-designed transducers, world-class enclosures with precision-engineered transport and flying hardware, and an expanding range of digital and analogue electronics’.
Leading the manufacturer’s R&D programme is head of engineering Michael Adams, described as ‘a skilled acoustic engineer whose design talents balance science with a practical, real-world approach honed from nearly four decades as a FOH/monitor engineer and system designer’.
At the time of the launch, Mr Berger was quick to explain the reasoning behind Vue’s arrival in the market: ‘Today’s system designers are pushing the boundaries of performance at an exponential rate,’ he commented. ‘At the same time, many loudspeaker companies are struggling to keep pace as they adapt to modern manufacturing or navigate the murky waters of buyouts and acquisitions.
‘We’re launching Vue Audiotechnik to meet the growing demands of today’s market with innovative design, advanced technology, and responsive global manufacturing. But even more, Vue is about a return to long-term relationships and exceptional service. These are the values that launched our industry decades ago, and now is the time for a return to those principles.’
Jim Sides added: ‘I’m very excited about the resources and passionate team that have come together to make Vue Audiotechnik a reality. We all share a deep appreciation for the products and people that have forged our industry’s history. This passion fuels our commitment to the future, and Vue Audiotechnik is the vehicle we will use to get there. I can’t wait to show you what’s next.’