Focusrite plc has announced the acquisition of Linea Research, the UK-based designer and manufacturer of power amplifiers, controllers and software, becoming the ninth brand of the Focusrite Group in joining Focusrite, Novation, Ampify, ADAM Audio, Martin Audio, Optimal Audio, Focusrite Pro and Sequential.
Headquartered in Letchworth Garden City, UK, Linea Reserach was formed in 2003 by a team of experienced audio professionals, with products that include a range of power amplifiers as well as digital signal processors, audio networking and software products. Two of the original founders, commercial director Davey Smalley and engineering director Ben Ver, will continue to lead the business post-acquisition.
Focusrite’s subsidiary Martin Audio is a major customer of Linea Research, with technology that’s behind the iKON amplifier series that powers Wavefront Precision line arrays. The acquisition is intended to strengthen the critical source of supply of amplifier modules for Martin Audio and will enable greater integration of loudspeaker and amplifier technology in products. It is also the intention to continue to develop the sales of Linea Research products through third-party distribution and to OEM loudspeaker customers.
“It is an absolute pleasure to welcome Davey, Ben and the entire Linea Research team to the Focusrite Group,” says Tim Carroll, CEO, Focusrite. “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.”
A joint statement from Smalley and Ver, adds, “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.”
