During his tenure at the Audio-Technica Corporation, Abe helped the company grow internationally and was instrumental in launching groundbreaking products including the AT4033 Cardioid Condenser Microphone, the microphone that is credited as being the first high-quality, studio-grade microphone available at a price within the reach of the home and project studio market.
He was one of the key people who helped Audio-Technica develop a relationship with the Olympics, beginning with the Barcelona Olympic Games in 1992, when A-T first supplied microphones for coverage of the Games, a tradition that continues to this day. He also contributed to Audio-Technica Corporation President Kazuo Matsushita's vision and dream with the opening of Technica House/AstroStudio, located in Tokyo. Abe travelled to almost all trade shows where Audio-Technica exhibited, and over the course of his career, he accrued millions of miles flying around the world on behalf of the company.
"Abe-san led the growth of global sales for Audio-Technica Corporation with a truly international perspective, combined with traditional Japanese values and culture," said Phil Cajka, Audio-Technica US president/CEO. He was a multi-faceted, well-rounded individual. Abe-san was a trusted business associate, teacher of Japanese culture and business practices, had a good sense of adventure and humour, and he was someone who truly enjoyed American country music, a fine red wine and a good cigar. His legacy and contributions will long be remembered. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and all who knew him."
(Jim Evans)
