DPA Microphones has acquired UK pro audio distributor Sound Network, following a close working relationship spanning more than 20 years.

Established by Pete Wandless and Ralph Dunlop, Sound Network is regarded for its audio expertise, committed staff and technical support, and has been key to DPA’s success in the UK broadcast, live sound and theatre markets. The acquisition was prompted by Sound Wandless and Dunlop intention to retire from the business they had founded in 1994.

‘Sound Network has been a marvelous ambassador for DPA for many years and has invested heavily in the brand,’ says DPA CEO, Kalle Hvidt Nielsen. ‘By acquiring the business, we can maintain our close cooperation with the company and build on the strong relationships Sound Network already has with our all-important UK dealers and customers. Sound Network has a large range of prestigious customers, including most of the West End theatres that are influential beyond the borders of the UK. We will now be much closer to these important customers and that will give us even more insight into the environment in which our microphones are being used.’

For Dunlop and Wandless, the decision to part from Sound Network was not taken lightly, but both believe DPA’s acquisition is a sign of progress of the company: ‘This secures the longevity of the company Pete and I built together, and for the most fantastic team that exists within it,’ Dunlop says. ‘It will offer greater opportunities for those involved, on both sides, and I am convinced its future is in safe hands.

‘The years catch up with you, and the time has come for us to hand the baton to a new generation of innovators. Pete and I have no regrets and many, many, happy memories, some of which cannot be repeated. We wish our dedicated team and the new owners all the success in the future, convinced the company will take microphone technology and education to new heights.’

On a day-to-day level, the acquisition means business as usual because all of Sound Network’s staff will remain with the company in their established roles. The company name will also continue, as will its distribution arrangements with other manufacturers such as Sony Pro Audio, Meris, Bubblebee Industries, Quested Monitors, Smart Research and China Cones.

‘Sound Network has aligned itself with DPA’s philosophy since its inception, so this is the next logical step for both companies to continue their growth and ambitions in the UK market,’ says Sound Network Sales & Marketing Director, Adam Pierce, who will now head up the company and report directly to DPA EVP of Sales Nikolaj Forsberg. ‘Sound Network’s reputation for high-level service and expertise will only be strengthened by a closer partnership with DPA Microphones and while it is ‘business as usual’, our customers and our other manufacture partners will definitely benefit from this move. DPA have always inspired us as a brand, through its incredible product portfolio and its people, so we are delighted to become part of the family.’

‘Our opportunity to get closer to Sound Network will benefit everyone in the DPA sales channel, even outside the UK,’ Hvidt Nielsen adds. ‘DPA is growing at a rapid pace and is committed to developing new products that accurately reflect the needs of our customers. More involvement in the UK market and closer communication between Sound Network and DPA’s head office in Denmark will allow us to better determine market needs.’

More: www.dpamicrophones.com