Focusrite plc has acquired Sequential LLC, bringing Dave Smith’s pioneering American synthesiser company into the Focusrite Group. Under the terms of the agreement, Sequential becomes a wholly owned subsidiary of Focusrite plc. Its day-to-day operations and product development remain unchanged, and will continue to be guided by Smith and his team.
Both companies expect to benefit from the the acquisition – the Focusrite Group adds the Sequential line instrument line to a product portfolio that includes Focusrite, Focusrite Pro, Martin Audio, Optimal Audio, Adam Audio, Novation and Ampify, while Sequential gains resources to expand its global markets and future R&D efforts.
‘With Focusrite, we’ve found an ideal home and a perfect cultural and technological fit,’ says Smith. ‘Phil Dudderidge and his team have a long history of quality, vision and focus on what musicians and audio professionals really want. We’re excited to join such an industry powerhouse and contribute to our mutual success. I expect great things.’
Sequential has been a leading force in the resurgent popularity of analogue synthesisers over the past decade. Its instruments, which include the Prophet 5 Rev4, Pro 3 hybrid monosynth, and Prophet X Samples + Synthesis keyboard, are known for their versatility, ease of use, and excellence of sound. They are a mainstay of performing and recording artists and can be seen and heard on countless stages and recordings.
‘Dave Smith’s history as an innovator speaks for itself,’ says Focusrite founder, Phil Dudderidge. ‘From his creation of the world’s first fully programmable polysynth, the Prophet 5, to his co-invention of Midi, Dave has literally changed the world of music several times. We’re looking forward to continuing his history of innovation and expanding the global market for Sequential’s instruments.’
‘Sequential products are exceptional and the company is run extremely well, and the passion of the people at Sequential aligns perfectly with our Focusrite Group ethos,’ adds Focusrite Group CEO, Tim Carroll. ‘It’s tremendously exciting to be able to bring Sequential into the Focusrite family, further the incredible journey that Dave Smith started, and keep growing together.’
