The Focusrite Group

About

The Focusrite story began in 1985 when the legendary console designer Rupert Neve received a special request from Sir George Martin, the famed Beatles producer. Martin asked Neve to create a no-compromise microphone preamplifier and equalizer for the console at AIR Studios Montserrat. The resulting modules, known as the ISA (Input Signal Amplifier) series, featured a transformer-coupled mic preamplifier, a sophisticated EQ, and a musical compressor design. These modules, initially part of the Forte console and later the Studio console, quickly became synonymous with audio clarity. Due to their exceptional sound quality, they were eventually sold as standalone outboard units, gaining renown among audio professionals. In April 1989, Phil Dudderidge, an audio industry entrepreneur and co-founder of Soundcraft Electronics Ltd, acquired the assets of Focusrite Ltd., establishing Focusrite Audio Engineering Ltd. Dudderidge and his team reissued the original modules and introduced new designs, including the Focusrite Studio Console in 1990. While only a limited number of these highly sought-after consoles were ever produced, most remain in use today, a testament to their enduring quality. The company continued to innovate, launching the distinctive Red Range in 1993, which gained worldwide acclaim for its unique warmth and character. The Blue Range, also borrowing from the ISA circuit topology, followed and remains in demand on the second-hand market. A significant expansion came in August 2004 when Focusrite acquired the electronic instrument manufacturer Novation, which became a subsidiary. This move broadened Focusrite's product range and customer base, particularly in the electronic dance music market. On December 12, 2014, Focusrite plc was floated on the AIM market. The company's growth continued with strategic acquisitions, including monitor speaker manufacturer ADAM Audio in July 2019, loudspeaker systems manufacturer Martin Audio in December 2019, and analogue synthesizer designer Sequential in April 2021. Further acquisitions included Linea Research Holdings in March 2022 and Sonnox in 2023. Today, the Focusrite Group encompasses thirteen brands and serves a global customer base across approximately 240 territories, consistently striving to remove barriers to creativity for musicians and audio professionals at all levels.