PAMA MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Casey Johnson | VP of Business Development for the Americas, d&b audiotechnik

Casey Johnson’s journey into the world of audio began in a deeply personal way—inside the walls of a church. Growing up, his father served as the media director for a large congregation, which broadcast services on live television as early as the mid-1970s. As a child in the 1980s, Johnson would accompany his father during these early mornings, organically learning the ins and outs of production. It was here, in the quiet moments before broadcasts, that Johnson first started tinkering with the technology that would define his career. 

“I started on the spotlight,” he recalls, “and worked my way up to sound. I remember the thrill of mixing for smaller meetings and being amazed by how sound could shape the emotion in the room.” By the time Johnson was a teenager, he was not just playing around with equipment—he was actively running sound for events. “I was hooked,” he says. His first paid audio job came at just 14 years old, working Sundays at the church, and eventually his responsibilities expanded to weddings, funerals, banquets, and other events. During summers, he’d spend hours cleaning out storage closets filled with old equipment, powering things up and figuring out how they worked. This hands-on experience was a formative part of his education, setting him on the path to a successful career.

After finishing his degree at Belmont University in Nashville, Johnson secured an internship at CTS Audio in Franklin, TN, where he worked for eight years. He started, as many do, from the bottom—cleaning cables and learning the ropes. “I wrecked trucks, dropped trusses, and made plenty of mistakes,” Johnson admits, “but I learned quickly that audio was something I was good at.” His time at CTS allowed him to hone his craft, eventually serving as a monitor engineer on touring productions, a role that taught him how to listen carefully to the artists and serve their needs in the best possible way.

As his career progressed, life brought changes. Johnson met his future wife, and her suggestion to move to Atlanta opened new doors. He heard about a job opportunity at a rep firm, which gave him a crash course in the business side of the audio industry. “It wasn’t easy,” he reflects. “I had no direction or sales experience, but I was a roadie with opinions, and I started asking a lot of questions.” Those questions helped him learn about the end users of the different products and their unique needs. This seven-year stretch as a sales rep for nearly 20 manufacturers was a period of growth, but it wasn’t until 2012 that he made a pivotal move—to a single manufacturer.

That year, Johnson joined d&b audiotechnik as the Southeastern Regional Sales Manager, spending his first year studying the market and solidifying his strategy. It was a key to his future success. Today, as Vice President of Business Development for the Americas, Johnson leads a team focused on creating demand for d&b products, ensuring they are specified in upcoming projects. “Our goal is to get the market to ask for d&b,” he explains, adding that his team members each bring a unique focus to the job, whether through relationships or specialized industry knowledge.

Staying current in the ever-evolving audio landscape has become more complex for Johnson as his role has shifted. Where once he may have focused solely on technology, his attention now includes market reports, construction forecasts, and industry associations like AVIXA and NSCA. “It’s different from what it used to be, and maybe not as fun, but it’s crucial for staying ahead,” he says.

Reflecting on his career, Johnson can point to several key moments that shaped him. One came early on when, as a kid, he unmuted the pastor’s microphone before the lead engineer noticed the pastor on stage. His attentiveness earned him the trust to mix more often, instilling a sense of confidence. Another moment came in the early days of digital consoles, where his comfort with new technology led to opportunities at festivals when other mixers hesitated.

For those just starting out in the audio industry, Johnson offers valuable advice: “Success often comes from building strong relationships. Figure out what you’re passionate about, stay humble, and absorb knowledge from everyone around you.” He also emphasizes the importance of staying flexible in your career as life changes. “What excites you in your 20s might not be the same in your 40s, but the connections you make will help shape your path.”

 As for PAMA, Johnson describes his participation in a PAMA retreat this past summer as a rewarding experience. “It was great to talk shop with other members, hear about their paths, and learn how they approach similar markets,” he says. More than just networking, PAMA has provided Johnson with a sense of community. “It’s heartwarming to be part of an organization that leads with helping others. Part of the week was spent connecting with those who built our industry, and another part was focused on identifying who we can help next.” For Johnson, this diversity of thinking and the sense of shared purpose is a major benefit—not just for him, but for d&b audiotechnik as well.

Posted November 2024

Golden Preciado | Training Specialist, QSC

In her role as QSC Training Specialist, as well as her work as freelance audio engineer with her firm Golden Audio Mix, Golden Preciado operates by a few simple precepts that she learned from her father Evan Williams, an acclaimed audio engineer himself and her primary audio mentor: “First, be teachable, and don’t be afraid to ask questions,” she remarks. “The best teachers are those willing to be taught. Second, if you want to leave a legacy, you must ‘reproduce yourself’; in other words, teach others to do what you do. Third is striving for excellence, and in a practical sense that means further study of my craft through continual research and development on new equipment and technologies, while creating innovative ways to teach others. That also means staying grounded spiritually and treating others with graciousness and respect no matter their walk of life. And fourth is to be humble; humility means being willing to receive instruction and learn from it, and it means not degrading someone else to elevate myself.”

As someone who cherishes the continued exchange of ideas, lifelong learning and mentorship, Preciado ardently supports how PAMA serves the audio industry. “I have certainly enjoyed being involved in a few of PAMA’s panels, both as an opportunity to share my perspective and hear from others. When we are in the PAMA tent, there are no competitors, only peers.” She also appreciates how PAMA has made significant strides in fostering diversity and education within the pro audio industry: “Their commitment to promoting women in a traditionally male-dominated field is not only commendable but also essential for industry growth and innovation.” She is also particularly supportive of PAMA’s dedication to nurturing the next generation through scholarships: “This reflects a forward-thinking approach, ensuring that the industry continues to evolve with fresh perspectives and skilled professionals. I believe these initiatives contribute to a more inclusive and dynamic professional audio community.”

Preciado began her audio journey as assistant to her father, who served as professor at Golden West College in record producing and audio engineering and also led a separate business in live sound and video production. “I was his little worker bee, or maybe more accurately his free help. I learned a tremendous amount from him, and he taught me all about the intricacies of sound. But furthermore, he taught me those four precepts that I try to operate by. He literally laid them out for me on a walk one day. Timeless wisdom, delivered on an everyday stroll. I think about that all the time.”

She eventually pursued the path of performer and achieved success as songwriter, musician and worship leader, but the rigors of touring presented certain challenges. She recalls, “The knowledge imparted by my father became my ally, allowing me to navigate the technical demands of performances across the U.S. and abroad.” Eventually, the priorities of family life got her off the road, and she was able to rely on her audio education and all the wisdom gleaned from her father. “Finding roles in the technical side of audio has allowed me to orchestrate a balance between my passion for music and the responsibilities of parenthood.”

Networking at a NAMM Show led to a direct interaction with QSC Live Sound Training Manager Jason Fernandez, which opened the door for Preciado to showcase her skills with a series of QSC-related engagements. “From running sound at company events to consulting and creating educational content, I carved a niche for myself within the company, and it all culminated in securing a full-time position with QSC in May 2022 as Training Specialist.”

In this role, which also includes a focus on house-of-worship audio, Preciado is tasked with sharing her expertise in operating QSC audio equipment and instructing others how to achieve overall excellence in live audio engineering. “As an educator and content creator, I find myself at the intersection of technology and knowledge,” she notes. “My days are filled with the hum of activity, from trade shows to on-site training sessions and writing audio blog articles. My most impactful teaching unfolds through the creation of step-by-step video instructions, guiding learners across the digital landscape. This blend of mediums allows me to reach a diverse audience, each with their own unique learning journey.”

Appropriately, her advice to aspiring audio professionals has echoes of the lessons learned from her father: “Make it your life’s goal to never stop learning, be inquisitive and don’t be afraid to ask questions, always approach your fellow co-workers and artists with graciousness and humility, and don’t be so focused on your end goal that you forget to enjoy the journey. If you place a priority on these things and work very hard, you will find success in audio or any other chosen field.”

Posted July 2024

Yvonne Ho | Co-founder and Vice President Sales & Marketing, Point Source Audio

Before co-founding Point Source Audio, and where she serves as the Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Yvonne Ho found herself working for an assistive hearing device manufacturer, Phonic Ear, where she uncovered a passion for both helping those coping with hearing impairment, and participating in advocacy and outreach on the topic of hearing loss. This era planted a seed of interest that she now nurtures at Point Source Audio, where she is able to merge her fascination with audio and her desire to help people.

“After my early career with more than a decade in the audio industry, I had left for a period and spent it at a multinational telecommunications firm and with a software company,” she recalls. “These business roles were interesting and challenging, but none were emotionally gratifying, where I felt the product was connecting and improving people’s lives. That’s when the opportunity presented itself around 2008 to join forces with my partner, James Lamb, to launch Point Source Audio, and I was suddenly back in the audio game! The establishment of this company was a wonderful chance to get back to the things I was missing; plus, I always had plans of owning my own business, so this was an ideal opportunity to mesh a passion with a goal!” Today, Point Source Audio is a highly respected and successful manufacturer of innovative professional miniature microphones and audio headsets that have been used on premier stages across the globe, including on Broadway and in other top-tier theatrical and live sound productions. Its commitment to quality and innovation has earned the company a reputation as a trusted partner for sound engineers and professionals in the entertainment industry.

Ho is optimistic about the positive impact that Point Source Audio’s PAMA membership will have. “Point Source Audio is a new member to PAMA,” she notes. “There are many familiar faces I know from my years in the industry, but we’re also looking forward to developing our relationship with those whom we don’t know yet and contributing to the conversations. We’re excited about how we can collaborate and leverage our collective expertise to drive innovation and advancement in the audio industry.”

Ho’s early tenure at Phonic Ear firmly established her as not only an authority on hearing technology, but also someone acutely willing to collaborate with other parties – even competitors! – to shape assistive hearing technology and its application in a positive way. “Phonic Ear was involved in serving the hearing-impaired community through its partnerships with audiologists,” she recalls. “We knew many audio engineers and musicians suffered from hearing loss as a hazard of the job, so we were always engaged in educating this segment of high-risk individuals. Around the time the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) was up for a vote, I met with lawmakers to help organize hearing tests at the Capitol and bring awareness of the issues. When the ADA finally passed, it thrust Phonic Ear deep into the pro-audio sector. It was a chaotic time, as there were no prior mandates for hearing assistance and no norms to follow.” Phonic Ear and representatives from other manufacturers collaborated with a coalition of audiology professionals to establish guidelines that helped AV integrators and their customers navigate the new law and determine what systems to spec and how to install hearing assistance systems to ensure coverage (and compliance) in challenging public spaces like movie theaters, houses of worship, and stadiums. “I am so grateful to have been able to participate in shaping the emergence of this industry sector,” she notes. “We proved it was possible to harness the collaborative efforts of manufacturers, integrators, audiologists, and businesses—parties with diverse interests—to work together towards a unified objective.”

Her work at Phonic Ear expanded further: “Having witnessed the impact of hearing loss, I felt a pull to champion amplification in mainstream classrooms, where children are often impacted by mild or temporary hearing loss or improper acoustics. I wrote a white paper summarizing the research and put the information into the hands of key thought leaders in audiology for their review. You could say the ‘chatter’ started around the concepts from the paper, and this became instrumental in the advocacy of amplification in school classrooms. By illuminating the learning barriers caused by even mild hearing loss and how children could benefit from wireless hearing enhancement in classrooms, we broadened the acceptance of amplification in K-12 classrooms and created this new standard for hearing accessibility.” 

And naturally, things have come full-circle for her: “Now at Point Source Audio, helping production crews hear clearly is just as rewarding as it was back then. It inspires me when customers comment on our in-ear headsets and call them ‘life-changing.’ One videographer said that hearing above the noise while using our in-ear headset was like seeing color for the first time! That brought me back!”

At Point Source Audio, Ho maintains a customer-centric philosophy. “Every company’s products are the reason for its existence, but my main goal is to make them meaningful to the customers we serve,” she notes. “One way to do that is to stay connected to our customers—not only with our dealers and partners but also with the consumers of our products. Listening involves hearing them out and observing their workflows and likes and dislikes. Then, we translate those findings into tangible solutions and improvements.”

Staying up to date with industry trends is very important to Ho, and that involves plenty of industry media consumption as well as hearing the perspective of real customers who use these products in the field. “I like to keep my ears as close to the ground as I can. Of course, I keep up with all the industry magazines. However, I also like to read comments and watch trends about the industry, both positive and negative, on professional-oriented social media and blog sites. Our industry is staffed with experienced, trained professionals confident in sharing what they see that works and what doesn’t.”

Offering advice for young professionals just starting out in pro audio, Ho stresses being willing to try new things: “If you’re choosing to enter the audio industry, it’s likely because you have a personal passion for some aspect of it. Maybe it is music, or audio engineering, or even from a tangent direction like hearing assistance! Whatever your baseline, if you’re offered an opportunity to do something new, and expand into new territory, say yes! Also, you must be willing to take action to make changes. While knowledge is power, action on that knowledge is what will get you results.”

Ho has particular advice for those who may feel like they don’t fit the mold of a pro audio professional: “From time to time, I get presented with the question of gender imbalance (i.e. the fact that the pro audio industry is a majority-male community), and my advice is that if you find yourself a minority in this space, don’t focus on changing who you are to fit in. Instead, focus on your chosen craft, then keep finding ways to do it better than you did the day before. This mindset will set you soaring and build your self-confidence. Soon, others will notice too, and the opportunities will keep growing!”

Posted April 2024

Robert Clyne | President and CEO, Clyne Media Inc.

“It’s about who you know”: It’s an old aphorism, and it’s easy to take it for granted. It’s basically self-evident, yet in our current age, with a constant stream of LinkedIn requests, professional development events, and op-eds reminding us to expand our networking footprint, one can be forgiven for becoming a bit jaded by the whole prospect. But not Robert Clyne. He has built a long and fruitful career out of his relationships, fully blurring the line between the personal and professional in a way that is as admirable as it is rare. And it comes from a genuine and honest place, always treating people with respect and integrity.

For decades now, Robert has been among the leading talents in public relations, marketing, advertising, media relations, and other interconnected specialties for the high-technology entertainment market sector, serving clients in Pro Audio, M.I., Broadcast, Sound Contracting/Fixed Installation, and Consumer A/V. He has built a career out of being “the person who knows the right person” and being there at all the right times with helpful advice and an optimist’s do-anything attitude. Those traits are matched with a pragmatic notion of logistics and a realist’s view of an industry that is not always all sunshine and rainbows. His friendly demeanor, incisive wit and well-rounded perspective make him a first-round phone call whenever something new happens in the industry. He is a true insider, with intricate knowledge of the behind-the-scenes goings-on among both manufacturers and the media. And after all this time, he still emphasizes having his ear to the ground to keep up with market trends and accurately predict what might come next.

Robbie, as he is known to his friends (and who isn’t his friend?), has built an impressive portfolio of clients served by his fiercely loyal team at Nashville-based PR firm Clyne Media. Relationships with such current clients as Audio-Technica U.S., Focusrite, Genelec Inc., Iron Mountain, Waves Audio, Korg USA, the Recording Academy P&E Wing, the Guitar Center organization, and others go back years (in many cases, literally decades).

Involvement with PAMA is a natural fit for Robbie. He remarks, “I was introduced to PAMA two decades ago during its formative phase under the leadership of Paul Gallo. In the years since, I believe that PAMA has provided a platform to champion the ideals of excellence in professional audio along with the advocacy of best practices. My personal involvement with PAMA has not only afforded me the opportunity to connect with more of the industry’s premier audio brands but has also provided me with firsthand insights on the evolving professional audio landscape. While these brands compete in the marketplace, PAMA is a cohesive force that unites all its members in a shared commitment to the greater good of our industry. My company and I have new avenues to further contribute meaningfully to the industry, allowing me to give back to a community that has been instrumental in shaping my professional journey.”

Robbie and his team have a special responsibility in the PAMA organization: “Clyne Media is not only a PAMA member, but we are a key part of the PAMA marketing team. We actively engage in managing public relations efforts and play a role in shaping the organization’s marketing and communications strategies.” The firm’s primary responsibility is to enhance the visibility of PAMA and its activities. “Elevating PAMA’s profile ensures that its mission of dedication to high-quality and excellence in professional audio is effectively communicated to diverse audiences,” he adds.

Robbie’s personal and professional background were fueled by a curious attitude and an eagerness to learn new things. He recalls, “I embarked on my journey as a keyboardist in Long Island and NYC, immersed in the world of music. Exploring new avenues and encouraged by a friend, I was intrigued by the intersection of my musical background and the advertising industry. I fell into a position as copywriter for a New York-based agency specializing in pro audio and M.I., where I was able to utilize my musical knowledge and channel my creativity into the dynamic field of advertising and eventually public relations. I learned the discipline of working with a team to craft compelling messages tailored to the unique needs of these markets – messages that could reach the intended audience with clarity and pique their interest.”

As a young professional, Robbie soon found himself in uncharted waters: “This was a small boutique firm, so we all wore many hats, and it was a comprehensive learning experience that gave me the foundation to continue to grow in this role.” He delved into the domain of media buying/placement, gaining insights into the intricate process of selecting and placing ads to maximize impact. He also found himself immersed in account servicing, where he developed a keen understanding of client needs and expectations. “I then expanded into artist relations, cultivating and building sustained relationships with musicians, engineers, producers, studios, etc., and leveraging my musical background to foster meaningful collaborations on behalf of my clients.” Eventually, based on the needs of the clients, Robbie explored public relations, navigating the landscape of shaping and managing the public image of both clients and the agency itself, and taking on the responsibility of helping the firm’s clients with in-person trade-show representation. Event participation showcased the agency’s prowess and strengthened its industry presence. “When I finally founded my own firm, the nominal focus was on public relations and media relations but, depending on what the client needs for the situation, we offer any and all of services I’ve delivered throughout my career.”

Robbie has always been highly interested in people, their lives, and our shared experiences. “I was a psych major in college, because I was intrigued by the intricacies of human behavior (plus the influence of my father, who was a talented and prominent psychoanalyst),” he reflects. “When I entered the workforce, the connection between psychology and the skills needed to foster effective communication strategies with clients and the public became clear to me. And I don’t look at it as ‘calculated’ or some sort of manipulative strategy; if you can strive to understand the motivations of people and the organizations they work for, you can meet them where they are at, deliver what is needed for a project, and exceed their expectations. Everyone benefits, simply because you took the time and effort to listen, comprehend them, analyze a problem, and communicate effectively. Empathy and understanding – it’s basically the greatest life-hack there is!”

He approaches his role as President and CEO of Nashville-based Clyne Media with a similar tact: “My main responsibility is not just about overseeing daily operations and client satisfaction, but also about building and sustaining a workplace that fosters enduring relationships, both internally among our team and externally with our valued clients. The long-term commitment and loyalty of our team members not only reflect the positive work culture we have cultivated, but they also represent the wealth of experience and expertise that define our company.”

To keep current, Robbie takes a comprehensive yet adaptable strategy: “I adopt a proactive stance by not only immersing myself in the latest publications specific to each market sector but also by fostering ongoing dialogues with influential journalists, editors and members of the audio community. This deliberate effort ensures that I gain valuable insights and perspectives directly from industry thought leaders even before their analyses reach the public.” This well-rounded approach enables him to grasp the nuanced trends, emerging technologies, and market shifts in the audio industry.

As advice for everyone from novices to industry veterans, Robbie emphasizes the mentor-mentee relationship. “A pivotal piece of guidance is to seek out a mentor whose expertise you admire and from whom you can absorb valuable insights. Cultivating a mentor-mentee relationship provides an invaluable source of knowledge and guidance, enabling you to navigate the intricate nuances of the industry with a seasoned perspective. I think back to a pivotal time in my career. I was working as account manager for Korg USA. The company’s then-president, the late Michael Kovins, shared some insights he had about me, my skill set, and my potential. That singular conversation changed the whole trajectory of my career and encouraged me to start my own firm. He was someone I respected deeply, and his guiding hand nudged me in the direction I needed. I think about Mike nearly every day with a sense of gratitude, acknowledging that without his timely encouragement and belief in my abilities, the inception of my firm might not have occurred when it did. Everyone in our industry should be as lucky as I was to have a mentor like Michael, and everyone should also find a new way every day to be that mentor to someone.”

His additional advice circles back around to interpersonal relationships and networking: “You must recognize the significance of networking within the industry. Forge connections with a diverse array of professionals, as the bedrock of successful companies lies in the individuals that compose them (‘companies are made of people’ is a maxim that I hold close). Relationships cultivated through networking not only open doors, but also foster a collaborative environment where knowledge is shared, and skills are honed collectively. In essence, proactively engaging with a mentor and establishing a robust network are twin pillars that can significantly propel one’s trajectory in the audio industry. Through these connections and mentorship you will acquire the wisdom and experience needed to flourish.”

Posted February 2024

Jim Barry | Chief Growth Officer and Director, RF Venue

Jim Barry is among a rare subset of pro audio professionals: those with a background in the U.S. military. He notes, “I was fortunate to be a Marine Corps Officer (infantry and logistics), served in an infantry battalion during the Gulf War, an artillery battalion in CA, and spent a bit of time while serving in Washington, DC as a Social Aide in the Reagan and Bush White House.” And chalk it up to his military service or just his detail-oriented, analytical nature, but he has found a home at RF Venue as Chief Growth Officer and Director. “I’m inspired by companies with excellent teams and products, that solve meaningful problems – or bring us to a better place. That’s what excites me about RF Venue. The company is singularly focused on making wireless audio work and sound better regardless of mic or IEM system brand. Inspired by Hugh Tripp’s leadership as RF Venue’s CEO, the company simply believes that any customer challenge can be addressed with excellent engineering, elegant design, a great team, and attentive customer focus.” 

After his military service, and before his current role at RF Venue, Barry worked for a health care tech and marketing leader, where they provided cancer testing and information to help doctors and their patients diagnose, cope with, and manage their disease. He then transitioned to a private equity firm and a leading tech and information company in aviation and aerospace. He then founded an advisory company. “I’ve worked with and been inspired by smart information and technology that, for example, diagnoses, predicts, and manages disease, predicts and reduces flight delays and improves the travel experience while concurrently reducing CO2. You’re probably thinking it’s a weird career progression, but not at all! I’m inspired by the winning equilibrium of team and product, solving meaningful problems.”

Barry is particularly data-minded and inspired by continuing to gain knowledge, which informs his weekly review of major audio publications and associated websites including Church Production, Church Sound, Worship AVL, System Contractor News, ProSound Web, Sound and Video Contractor, Commercial Integrator and others. “I’m a data and information hound: in every organization I’ve been part of, we first look to the data. Data and information focuses, explains, predicts, and forecasts. All allowing for smarter and more informed decisions.” He has found PAMA to be a nexus for the kind of data that drives industry innovation and keeps everyone well-informed: “I really like the regular PAMA webinars, which also provide me with another knowledge base to learn from. There’s always something new to learn and apply to your life or business. Chris [Regan, RF Venue’s co-founder and the current PAMA president] does a great job facilitating the discussions, and the webinars cover a wide variety of topics. Some of my favorite talks have been from Mike Ross at Sweetwater and Peter Schneider at Gotham Sound, both of whom provided real-world advice. You’re able to take part in presentations and discussions with the leaders in audio, and that is a priceless opportunity that PAMA offers.”

He is relatively new to the pro audio industry itself but no stranger to the world of radio frequency-based antennas, devices, and communication. “I’ve worked with RF in other industries. I know how complex it can be and the potential problems that can arise. As the RF spectrum continues to shrink, its impact on wireless audio becomes more severe – it’s getting tougher to be heard with wireless microphones and in ear monitors. I was hooked when I heard that RF Venue’s customers don’t need to understand the complexities of RF to make their wireless audio work and sound better. I couldn’t wait to contribute!” Barry’s experiences in the band world also inform his work in audio: his early years involved playing trombone in his school’s jazz band and a professional band, and when he was stationed in Washington, DC, he worked alongside the Marine Band (The Presidents Own) and Marine Corps Drum and Bugle Corps while serving in a Washington, DC-based Marine infantry battalion. “I’ve always been inspired by great music, musicians, and music technicians,” he notes.

Barry’s current responsibilities are clear to him: “Growing RF Venue to achieve its full potential, while working with a competent, energetic, and focused team and surpassing customers’ expectations! I am involved in the marketing and positioning of our products and I provide real-world feedback from our integrators and end users to our engineering department.” In fact, all the jobs in his professional career have something in common in his mind: “The way I see it, the beauty of business is that with focus, resources, and hard work, huge problems can be solved. Just build something that is different, solves a problem, and is priced right. I like the raw honesty of it. It’s a part of what makes our country great.”

“If you are like me, you are driven by meaningful work,” says Barry. “If you are lucky, you will find a company or a team that inspires you – inspiration of the type that abounds in PAMA member companies who all share a commitment to delivering and promoting great audio experiences.” His parting advice to anyone starting out in the industry is this: “Be excellent at what you do: whether you’re at the mic, setting up the mic, building the mic, or selling the mic, work hard and be excellent!”

Posted December 2023

Dane Roth | Shure, Senior Director, Global Corporate Communications

Dane Roth brings something unique to the audio industry: the mind of an investigative storyteller, and that informs his role in Shure’s communications department. He remarks, “I believe that everyone has an interesting story to tell, and I have the honor of uncovering those stories in the audio community and telling them to others and sharing the industry’s accomplishments with the rest of the world.”

He continues, “I think that is part of why PAMA is such a valuable organization to me. Interesting people from all around the audio industry, talking shop and sharing their stories. Not as competitors, but as peers. To keep current, I’m an avid follower of the trade industry media and communications – including social media – but what I really appreciate more now than ever before is the ability to talk directly with people in industry settings, and that is an opportunity PAMA provides.”

The intersection of technology and storytelling goes back to his origins: “I was always personally invested in how audio is used to convey information. I think I fell in love with audio when I snuck a transistor radio under my pillow at night and scrolled through AM stations – even catching channels based far outside of my home state of Ohio. To this day I love listening to radio. News, sports, talk – I enjoy listening to live radio productions in my free time. There’s a magic to the audio that brings to life the imagery in your head.” In fact, one of his first gigs melded the worlds of audio and news-gathering. “In high school in the early 90s, I had a job interviewing players and coaches after games for local radio and the local paper. I used my own full-size Emerson tape recorder. So I think I was destined to eventually find a vocation that blends audio with storytelling.”

But before he found his role at Shure, he worked in public relations – first at a steel company, then at two PR firms. “At the steel company, my first press release was about the specialty bearings in the Mars Pathfinder (fascinating to me, truly). And then at those PR firms, I got to work with an incredible range of companies in technology, automotive, healthcare, retail and food industries. All very interesting, in my opinion, but maybe mundane on the surface to some people. So I took pride in my role, to find a way to bring out the interesting angle in each news item.”

He has worked at Shure for the past five years, where his interests have come full-circle. “The people in the audio industry have accomplished so much, and the opportunity for me to communicate with the general public about the history of audio, what the industry is presently doing, and what the future holds for us is immensely exciting.”

Roth also places a high level of importance on giving back and making an impact, and his role at Shure gives him that opportunity: “I also handle Shure’s community relations efforts, where we provide audio products to help give organizations a stronger voice. We have a great collection of volunteers who also provide guidance for initiatives focusing on STEM and diversity efforts for the industry, which is extremely important.”

He thinks fondly on one particular recent event that showed the potential impact of audio and technology on the community. He recalls, “I was with Shure volunteers at a Museum of Science and Industry event in Chicago. We had a ‘Be a Podcaster’ booth set up as part of a Black Creativity Showcase Day at the museum, and so many young students were reluctant to participate. But once they put on the headphones and spoke into the mic, their eyes lit up because they heard how strong their voice sounded. It gave them immediate confidence. It also sparked interest in how the technology works, and I think the experience genuinely gave many of those kids a new perspective.”

Roth believes that being open and curious about everyone else’s stories is key to thriving in any industry, but particularly audio. It can be the connecting tissue that fosters friendships and professional relationships, and it can share the wisdom that only comes from experience. He notes, “As a relative newbie to the audio industry, I’ve found that people genuinely take great pride in what they do and are eager to share their knowledge with you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn from others.”

Roth’s participation with PAMA has recently expanded. “For a while, I served as PAMA delegate member, which meant I’ve participated in meetings where Shure’s official board member could not attend. Recently my role with PAMA has increased, as I have joined the PAMA marketing committee and am enjoying being part of that team.”

His involvement with both Shure and PAMA has meant that he has played a key role in the administration of a lasting legacy to the next generation of audio professionals: the Mark Brunner Professional Audio Scholarship, founded in honor of the late Mark Brunner, who served as a mentor to Roth and countless others in the Shure organization. Roth notes, “I’ve been proud to be involved in the selection committee for the scholarship recipients. Having worked with Mark, he was very passionate about helping others find themselves. I am fortunate enough to review all of the scholarship submissions from the next generation of audio professionals and I’m floored by the drive and dedication they have to becoming a part of the audio community. PAMA’s efforts on this have been outstanding, and I’m particularly thrilled that it has been able to expand to reward multiple scholarships yearly, especially among a pool of more diverse candidates. This is a program that would make Mark proud – and that makes me proud.”

Posted September 2023

David Fuller | QSC, Vice President, Product Development – Pro Division

David Fuller is a perfect example of a familiar phenomenon in the pro audio industry: for many professionals in the pro audio field, from entry-level employees to executives, audio is more than merely a job. In fact, it’s far more than a hobby outside of work; it’s a passion and a lifestyle. In citing his audio background, Fuller notes, “My story isn’t exactly unique in our industry. I was always drawn to music, and I began playing in bands as a keyboard and guitar player as a teenager, partly because it was fun and a great way to socialize. But I gravitated toward the technology aspect of live sound reinforcement and studio recording, and a lifelong audio professional was born! I’m lucky to work in an industry that aligns with my interests. It’s like we are in a club or a family together – most of us got our stripes the same way and have similar stories, and we’ve been able to take our passion and make it a vocation.”

Fuller and many others “in the club” have found a natural home with the PAMA organization. “I have been a PAMA Board member since 2020, and I also participate in the PAMA Committee for Market Research,” he notes. “PAMA is a valuable vehicle for networking with industry peers, and that is very important to me. Some of our fellow PAMA representatives are people I view as mentors, whether they know it or not. Industry trade shows can sometimes fall short in terms of networking and socializing, simply because everyone is busy with jam-packed days of meetings and a million other distractions. But PAMA has really provided me with that opportunity, especially during our offsite meetings.” 

Straight out of high school in the mid-80s, Fuller found work at a music store in his native New Zealand, eventually managing the high-tech department, including keyboards, drum machines, sequencers, and (crucially) P.A. gear. Fuller cites his early sales experience with getting his foot in the door professionally. “You can use a piece of gear and read manuals and articles all day, but there is something about interacting with customers, making sales, and occasionally troubleshooting systems that really takes you to school. Retail was like a bootcamp that prepared me for the next level, which was working in sales on a regional level.”

After a position managing pro audio distribution for all of New Zealand, he landed at QSC, where he managed International Sales for the manufacturer. “Once I had my foot in the door at QSC as a sales manager, I followed my passion and transitioned into product development.” In his most current role, Fuller heads up Product Development for the QSC Pro Audio Division, including R&D functions, project management office and product management.

Staying up to date is a priority for Fuller, and he makes a point of reading ProSoundWeb daily. “And because I was so heavily involved in international sales for much of my career, I also like to monitor what is happening in Asia and the MEA regions in particular. So I will regularly follow the Pro AVL Asia and Pro AVL MEA newsletters.”

Fuller deeply values the relationships he has built in his years in pro audio, and he recalls a few bits of wisdom he has gained over the years from his peers and mentors: “I often think about something that Jim Brawley, a veteran acoustic consultant, shared with me when we were working on a large project in South Korea: ‘You never finish tuning a sound system, you only stop.’ And that ties in with another aphorism that one of my mentors at QSC, Barry Ferrell, would always say: ‘Perfect is the enemy of good.’ Both statements are about recognizing the point of diminishing returns and knowing when you should stop, because in the world of non-linear acoustics, perfection is unattainable. I think a practical and sensible approach is to do your homework, stay curious, and be open to learning from the next expert you meet. Don’t be obsessive, but trust that if you put the work in, the results will speak for themselves.”

Looking forward, Fuller has some advice for aspiring audio pros: “It’s hard to know every direction that the industry is headed, but I know this: there are lots of full-time opportunities for young people with an electrical, mechanical or software engineering degree. Every audio brand is continuously on the lookout for good R&D talent, and I do not see that trend changing in the future. If you have a passion for audio and the discipline to be an engineer, learn everything you can and then go out and find a great engineering job at a company whose product vision and corporate culture align with your own values. That’s a successful formula for a great career.”

Outside of his life in pro audio, Fuller enjoys walking his cherished beagles, “and going to the cinema!” he enthuses – but even there, he can’t really turn away from his lifelong passion. “Our local AMC Dolby Atmos theater has an absolutely rocking sound system,” which just so happens to include QSC components.

Posted June 2023

Gary Boss | Audio-Technica, U.S. Marketing Director

Those who have been to an audio trade show or other major industry event in recent decades have likely run into Gary Boss. As a key member of the Audio-Technica U.S. team for the past 33 years (currently as Marketing Director), he is omnipresent at A-T exhibition booths and elsewhere, serving as not only a true brand ambassador for Audio-Technica, but an on-the-ground resource on the past, present and future of audio – acting as a connecting tissue between manufacturer and consumer in the worlds of pro and hi-fi audio, M.I., sound contracting and beyond.

And it’s not hard to see why Gary has thrived in his role at A-T, considering his personal background in audio. “I have always been interested in audio,” he recalls. “Growing up I was always the guy with the best stereo and was always fiddling around with gear. I also began my first high school job around 1982, working at a local electronics store in Akron, Ohio, called Olson Electronics. And it was also around this time I joined my first band. So looking back, I was immersed in the world of audio at a relatively young age – on the gear aficionado side, the performer side, and the sales side. I was getting my audio education from all directions, and it allowed my passion to keep feeding itself. A career in audio for me was basically inevitable. And since I was always looking at the world of audio from multiple sides of the fence, I think it has allowed me to balance the needs of the business while keeping the end user at the forefront. That’s very important to me – to look at everything we do, whether it’s a new product introduction or a website redesign, through the consumer’s eyes.”

Gary applied to Audio-Technica right out of college, aiming to work on the marketing team. “A major audio brand, with a U.S. headquarters right near my hometown area? It was an obvious fit for me,” he remarks. “But at that time, they didn’t actually have a formalized marketing department, so they didn’t have a role for me just yet. I ultimately landed a role at A-T in an inside sales position. A-T’s U.S. business was really growing over these years, and I found myself taking on marketing tasks as they came up. When it was decided to establish a formalized marketing department, I made the transition and have been able to help grow that department since its inception.”

He has been a firsthand witness to major changes both in the industry at large and at Audio-Technica. “When I started, most of our focus at A-T U.S. was on consumer audio, so that was the world I operated in. But right around this time, the AT4033 studio microphone came on the scene and was finding a lot of success and traction, and that’s primarily a pro product. There was an opportunity for A-T to have a more significant place at the table in the pro world, and I was one of the people that helped a shift to that market. As someone with experience in the consumer and more professional/technical aspects of the product line, M.I. dealers looked to me to provide support in the form of marketing/promotional materials and training – sort of bridging the worlds of M.I. and pro. At the same time, I was able to provide product ideas and voice-of-customer feedback back to A-T, which resulted in new products, updated features and other market-driven developments. And there have been occasional stints in artist relations for me as well. The marketing department kept growing, and I was eventually named Marketing Director, a position that oversees both the professional and consumer portions of our business. Just like when I was in high school, my audio education has continued to come at me from every direction!”

In his current position, Gary works closely with the Director of Marketing Communications to help plan both the strategic marketing direction of the company and tactical marketing implementation. This includes product messaging, pricing, promotional activities, advertising, sales support, market research, voice of customer and analysis. “As we are involved in many different vertical market segments, the job can often be challenging, but never boring,” he notes. “We actively work with consumer, broadcast, studio, live sound, commercial, gaming and content creation market sectors, among others.”

Staying current is always on Gary’s mind, and he keeps his ear to the ground in a number of practical ways: “For commercial audio, broadcast, live sound and studio, I find print publications and eNewsletters to be the easiest to monitor. For consumer markets, content creation and gaming, message boards, Reddit, YouTube and social media tend to be the most valuable. And I find tremendous value in the trade shows we attend in different markets. These allow me to interface one-on-one in person with the actual users of these products. And I don’t do anything on an island either – our sales teams, customer support and applications engineers are a great resource for trend-spotting and customer feedback, and I’m fortunate that we’re on the same squad.”

Gary is a relatively new board member of PAMA, and it has been a positive experience for him so far. “My early experience with PAMA was not incredibly interactive – I mostly relied on the organization for the resources it offered as an informal market data aggregator. But now as a member of the board, I have seen firsthand the good the group does for the audio industry, which is well outside the focus on us manufacturers. PAMA touches lives through scholarships and mentorship for new audio professionals looking to break into the audio industry. This outreach is vital in order to keep the industry alive and growing with fresh ideas and fresh faces.”

Aside from the obvious experience his early passions and career path brought him, he has additional advice for aspiring audio pros: “I would tell those coming up to be humble, generous and curious. As large as the industry seems on the outside, it is pretty small and close-knit. Many times, as an employee you must wear many hats. Rather than shy away from tasks that may not fit your idea of a perfect role, lean into them and learn all you can. You never know when the knowledge you learn will be able to be applied later in your career.”

Posted April 2023

Dawn Birr | Sennheiser, Customer & Market Insights Manager

Dawn Birr has been with the Sennheiser organization for basically her entire professional life, having joined the team out of college. In her 20-plus years with the company, she has had ten roles, ranging from product and channel management to sales and marketing to her current role as Customer & Market Insights Manager.

“Sennheiser was my first real job out of college, and through this I became very familiar with the audio industry,” recalls Birr.” I learned the markets and customers and found that I absolutely loved it. I’ve been fortunate enough to spend time in the live sound, studio and integrated systems markets and to work in a variety of roles that are customer- and product-facing.”

The broad number of roles that she has served at Sennheiser has uniquely prepared her for her current position, Customer & Market Insights Manager, which serves as a nexus point for consumer data, wider market developments, and so on. “The Insights team looks inward and outward to identify trends in the marketplace and supply data that can be used to drive our business forward,” she notes. “Since I have experience in so many departments at Sennheiser, I have been able to analyze the market from several different perspectives, and that has served me well in this current role.”

Any audio professional knows the constant struggle to stay current, up-to-date and engaged. Birr takes a methodical, analytic approach: “I watch and listen to as much live music as possible, and I follow many of my audio heroes on social media for input and advice. Almost every day I read the Mix SmartBrief digital newsletter, and I keep an eye out for what’s happening at SoundGirls. And fortunately for everyone on our team, Sennheiser hosts training to keep us current on products and applications, and I take advantage of those every chance I get.” Birr advises any audio professional, especially those just starting out, to take advantage of the multitude of resources available now, especially online, that were not around 10 or even five years ago. “And network as much as you can, but do it in a genuine way. Be genuinely interested in meeting new people and paying attention to them. This can yield dividends.”

Birr is an active advocate for women in audio and the broader goals of diversity and inclusion in the technology sector; she serves as an Advisory Board Member for The WiMN (Women's International Music Network) and is a member of SoundGirls. Thanks to shifting professional trends, as well as the pioneering advocacy of people like Birr, women in pro audio aren’t as much of a rarity as they used to be. Still, there is work to be done, and she has advice to offer: “I often think back on one thing that happened to me a few years back. On a bus ride from the Javits Center at an AES convention, a man asked me to answer his Neumann question, which I did. He didn’t agree with what I said and told me I was just a girl with a marketing degree, so what did I know? But I stood up for myself, and he apologized. The situation ended up serving as a reminder: if we are women or another minority in this industry or others, sometimes we have to be our own strongest advocate. Try to always be on top of your game, and be prepared to stand up for yourself. It’s not necessarily your responsibility to change people’s minds or attitudes, but these instances can equal incremental change, and that adds up. And don’t let anyone make you feel like you don’t belong in this industry.”

Birr is a relatively new addition to the PAMA network, but she has made a strong mark in terms of advocacy. “Sennheiser is a longtime PAMA member, and I got involved a few years ago as part of an initiative to address outdated language and terminology issues increasingly identified as discouraging a spirit of inclusivity within the professional audio community. The rest of the committee and I spent some time agreeing on an updating of certain problematic words used in the industry. We generated the document ‘PAMA Recommendations for Neutral Nomenclature in Pro Audio,’ which gives suggestions for the pro audio community to follow in addressing these concerns.”

PAMA represents different things to different audio pros, and for Birr it’s a model for how the whole industry might evolve moving forward. “PAMA means a chance for inclusion in the audio community in the best way, among a group of dynamic and forward-thinking companies who want to make the industry we work in a better place to be. I think Sennheiser has benefited by being a leader in advocacy work, and it’s really giving us the chance to have a voice among a group of dynamic, progressive companies.”

Posted March 2023