This weekend we launched our OB1 speaker at the Dutch Audio event (DAE) in Veldhoven, a town near the city of Eindhoven. And what a wonderful experience that was. Although physically exhausted, we are still buzzing with excitement from this experience.
The design of our OB1 speaker was completed by this summer, after three years of development. We did not really want another deadline. But the opportunity to participate in the Dutch Audio Event was an opportunity too big to pass.
As this would be our big entrance, we wanted to do something special. The backdrop of our booth was made out of burned wood, reminiscent of our speaker's appearance. The speakers would be standing in a water basin, part as a show piece, part to show off the effectiveness of the vibration dampening system of our baffle suspension. Most show visitors didn't realise the speakers were standing in water, as no ripples were visible, so we can think this was a success. Our good friend Jonathan, who has golden hands as a cinematographer and part time carpenter, made it all happen. We are forever grateful to him. Not only did he build a beautiful booth, he managed to make it all stand out by having a good eye. Lighting, exhibit layout, picture mounting, he pulled out all the stops.
The night that we were preparing to head out to Veldhoven we called the van rental company where we booked a van 2 months before, only to be told that they were bankrupt and we were left without transport... Again Jonathan came to the rescue, borrowing a full-blown 10-ton truck from a friend. Did I mention Jonathan can also drive trucks? What can't he do?
Our team of three became four when Michael joined us on Saturday, thank you so much Michael for the great help and good company!
We also wanted to extend special thanks to Elisabeth from Franken for arranging a beautiful carpet last minute, Emmanuel from The Rotating Company for the use of his truck, and Jochen from Meubelen Makri for the stylish furniture.
The moment the show opened and the first visitors started showing up, all tiredness disappeared and excitement took over. Finally showing our labour of love to the world was a magical moment. The positive responses, feedback and meeting so many enthusiastic people made it all worth it.
DAE, it was a pleasure, we look forward to seeing you next year!