Focusrite buys Linea Research
- Details
Focusrite’s subsidiary Martin Audio is a major customer of Linea Research and the deal will strengthen the amp modules supply for the brand. The Group also intends to develop the sales of Linea Research products through third-party distribution and to OEM loudspeaker customers.
Following the acquisition, two of Linea Research’s original founders - commercial director Davey Smalley and engineering director Ben Ver - will continue to lead the business. In a joint statement, they said: “We are delighted to be able to continue the Linea Research success story from within the Focusrite Group. Having seen the support and growth of the brands within the Group, we believe this provides us with a secure foundation to further our R&D efforts and product portfolio, strengthening the Linea Research brand while continuing partnerships with our long-standing OEM partners. This can only be a good thing for our customers, end users and very much our staff.”
Tim Carroll, CEO of Focusrite, added: “It is an absolute pleasure to welcome Davey, Ben and the entire Linea Research team to the Focusrite Group. We know the team and the business well given that Martin Audio is a major Linea Research customer. This will lead to many synergies and is expected to improve gross margin for both Martin Audio and the wider Group. Linea Research’s products are globally recognised as best in class and we are all excited about the opportunities and possibilities that lie ahead with the collective expertise of the Linea Research and Focusrite Group R&D and sales teams.”
Linea Research, headquartered in Letchworth Garden City, was formed in 2003 by a team of experienced professional audio specialists, and they design, develop, manufacture and market innovative professional audio equipment globally. The company’s products include a range of ground-breaking amplifiers, including the world-renowned M Series, together with Digital Signal Processors, audio networking and software products.
Martin Audio has pioneered the use of all-horn-loaded bass designs in touring loudspeaker systems for groups such as Pink Floyd, ELP and Supertramp. Today, Martin Audio engages in a mix of acoustic design, research, mathematical modelling and software engineering for a wide range of products in the installation and touring sound markets.
