Boden took over from his long-time colleague - Colin Duncan - at the helm, when the latter departed recently to pursue his interest in flat-panel technology. "We had worked together for seven years, joining Dimension at the same time," Boden reflected. Of the new development, he rationalizes: "We are a highly-specialized audio company but being back in the bosom of the Avesco, alongside Creative Technology, will enable us to raise our profile. The CT office environment is great, with good back-office support and transport - in fact all the facilities we didn't have we now have access to."
This includes expanded warehousing, enabling Boden to significantly upgrade the company's inventory. Heading his shopping list is three new 32-channel (8-stereo) Midas Verona 8-bus mixing consoles. Qualifies Boden: "Midas is a good, reputable company and the Verona's build quality, EQ and preamps are of a high quality. The colour scheme immediately puts you in mind of the old Midas desks - but its ultra-compact size means its footprint is probably only two thirds of the size of a conventional desk. Also it has an internal power supply - but via the multipin we have been able to add an external linear supply as a safety precaution."
Dimension Audio see itself using these boards on the type of awards shows in which they specialize, "and any event with a show-type element," says Boden. "The Verona can also be used as a monitor desk by swapping the group faders to auxiliary mode." Boden believes that the future now looks "100% positive" for Dimension Audio, which will retain its brand independence. "The head count in Crawley is now around 70, and everyone who has moved down with us - including senior project managers Dave Rondeau and Staf Rowley - is full of confidence."
(Sarah Rushton-Read)
