Audiotonix Acquires Sound Devices: CEO Reveals Plans For New Brand

Audiotonix, the group which comprises the Allen & Heath, Calrec, DiGiCo, DiGiGrid, Group One Limited, KLANG:technologies, and Solid State Logic entertainment technology brands, has announced the acquisition of US-based Sound Devices LLC as part of its expanding group.

The transaction, which was concluded today, further extends the Audiotonix professional solutions for audio production environments.

“The addition of Sound Devices and their fantastic team to our portfolio of premium audio brands is a proud moment for all involved,” said James Gordon, CEO of Audiotonix.

“Their expertise and technical pedigree in film production, broadcasting and professional recording is a great fit. As with previous acquisitions we always look to increase the knowledge share group-wide and, with FPGA-based solutions and RF wireless technology at their core, we have an enviable opportunity.”

The acquisition will coincide with co-founder Jon Tatooles departure from Sound Devices after 23 years. Co-founder Matt Anderson, who has been chief engineer of Sound Devices since inception and CEO since 2013, will continue to serve in both roles.

“I’ve enjoyed getting to know James and the team during the past few months,” said Anderson.

“In terms of values and culture, Sound Devices fits perfectly within the Audiotonix group of companies. In a way, it will be ‘business as usual’ at Sound Devices, as we will carry on doing the same thing we've been doing for the past 23 years: focussing intensely on making the best sound products we can.

“However, the Audiotonix group brings us more strength in terms of access to capital, depth in manufacturing, knowledge in engineering, sourcing of parts, and expanding our sales and marketing expertise. I am extremely excited about this new opportunity.”

“It has been incredible to build Sound Devices over the last 23 years into the organisation it is today,” added Tatooles.

“I am very excited about the next chapter for the company, and I leave it in great hands. Audiotonix is a great organisation who will build on the success we have achieved. I don’t believe there is a better partner.”

For over 20 years, Sound Devices’ multi-track audio recorders, field production mixers and related equipment have been used on the sets of award-winning movies, TV shows, and documentaries.

James Gordon, CEO of Audiotonix opened up about the acquisition and revealed the company's plans for Sound Devices:

What new opportunities does the acquisition open up for Audiotonix?

Sound Devices is a premium brand for location recording and mixing. This is a new area for Audiotonix but there is a lot of technology crossover, and the team at Sound Devices are impressive.

Which new markets does this allow Audiotonix to target?

It is a move into a new area for us, but in reality Sound Devices know their space extremely well – we just want to help them achieve their product aspiration and use our experience and scale to help them get there faster.

What was it about Sound Devices’ products that made you certain that this was the right move for Audiotonix?

The attention to detail that goes into all their products; they really are amazing – such compact units but expertly thought out, developed and manufactured.

Which products are you particularly excited about getting behind / which do you see lots of potential in?

I don’t want to single any of them out, but I have to say the A20-Mini caught our eye midway through the process as it was not something we looked at in too much detail, then when we finally saw one for real, the unit’s size, design and abilities created a real WOW moment for the complete team… It’s a very clever sound device.

How does Sound Devices complement your other brands?

It’s a great brand with fantastic people that haven’t stopped wanting to learn. A perfect fit for us..

What are your immediate and long-term plans for Sound Devices?

We need to get to know them and they need to get to know us. They are doing a great job, so it is really about understanding the brand, the clients and where we can add help. As with all our brands, we tend to sit in the background and just try and help them do what they are really good at doing.

Sound Devices designs, assembles and supports its products at their Reedsburg, Wisconsin headquarters and their Madison, Wisconsin and Watford, UK offices.