Focusrite plc has announced the acquisition of Linea Research Holdings Ltd, a UK-based designer and manufacturer of professional amplifiers, controllers and software.
Linea Research becomes the ninth marque to come under the Focusrite Group unbrella, joining Focusrite, Novation, Ampify, Adam Audio, Martin Audio, Optimal Audio, Focusrite Pro and Sequential.
Headquartered in Letchworth Garden City, Linea Research was formed in 2003 by a team of experienced professional audio specialists, and they design, develop, manufacture and market innovative professional audio equipment globally. Their products include a range of ground-breaking amplifiers together with 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 subsidiary Martin Audio is a major customer of Linea Research – the company’s technology is behind the iKon amplifier series that powers Wavefront Precision line arrays seen on live tours and at prestigious festivals such as British Summer Time in Hyde Park.
The acquisition strengthens the critical source of supply of amplifier modules for Martin Audio and will enable greater integration of loudspeaker and amplifier technology in Martin Audio products. However it is also the intention to continue to develop the sales of Linea Research products through third-party distribution and to OEM loudspeaker customers.
By extending the Group’s business into new products and markets, which complement its existing offerings, the acquisition is strategically aligned with the Group’s previously communicated aims of growing the core customer base, expanding into new markets, and increasing lifetime value for customers.
‘We know the team and the business well given that Martin Audio is a major Linea Research customer, says Chief Executive Officer, Tim Carroll. ‘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.’
‘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,’ said Davey Smalley and Ben Ver in a joint statement. ‘This can only be a good thing for our customers, end-users and very much our staff.’
