USA - Eastern Acoustic Works (EAW) has announced the retirement of Kenton Forsythe, EVP of strategic engineering. Forsythe, one of the original founders of EAW, has spent his career advancing loudspeaker technology and design. In 2011 he received a Parnelli Award for audio innovation as further testament to his contributions to the professional audio industry.
"I have had the profound honour of working closely with Kenton for over 21 years," states EAW president Jeff Rocha. "It is remarkable that Kenton had already revolutionized the industry and established himself as an icon before my EAW career began all those years ago. The fundamental principles that drove Kenton to create EAW remain the core values that drive our company to this very day."
Forsythe first entered the pro audio industry in 1975 with the introduction of the Forsythe Audio SR215 dual 15-inch bass horn, which was the first of its kind and could fit through a 30-inch door. From there he developed two-way compact loudspeaker systems and a vented subwoofer that featured an interchangeable tube venting system that allowed the enclosure to be reconfigured for different drivers.
His SR109 loudspeaker and BH212 subwoofer were the first products introduced under the EAW name in 1978. By the late 1980s, Forsythe's KF850 had quickly became the number one touring loudspeaker in the world. He followed this up in the 1990s with the development of multiple loudspeaker solutions for the stadium market - many of which are still in play today.
"My career with EAW has been extremely rewarding. I've made so many friends along the way," Forsythe says. "I've also been provided with opportunities to develop new and better techniques for professional loudspeakers which, given my excitement for sound, was very rewarding. I am proudly passing the torch to Jeff Rocha. I am very confident that EAW is in good hands and that the projects in the works will be well received by the industry. For now, the time has come to slow down my involvement and take the time to enjoy life and family."
EAW has setup an online guestbook page for industry professionals that want to send a note or provide commentary for Forsythe. Login and post your comments at http://eaw.com/about/a-legend-retires/.
(Jim Evans)
