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Attaining The Right Balance
Between Science And Art

Ken Berger and Kenton Forsythe opened EAW for business in 1978 with the understanding that audio is science, but it is also art. To attain just the right balance of the two, they knew the fundamentals of loudspeaker design had to be comprehensively reexamined.

No real standards existed at the time. The process of finding a better way could start with a clean sheet of paper. The vision was creation of intelligently integrated loudspeaker systems as opposed to the amateur “homebrew” concoctions with compromised sonic and operational quality that limited the ability of users to attain their desired results.

This path led to a breathtaking collection of new loudspeaker design practices: all-horn configurations for high efficiency and dependable pattern control; three-way designs with midrange elements to maximize vocal clarity; dedicated crossovers for smooth response with high power handling; and then combining these techniques in pre-packaged systems with robust enclosures built to meet true professional standards.

As a result, EAW soon earned a reputation for high-performance manufactured loudspeaker systems that could be unfailingly counted upon to deliver absolutely consistent sound “right out of the box.” Users, particularly those working in concert and performance audio, quickly understood that these systems set benchmarks for quality and consistency, enhancing their craft both technically and creatively.

Some of the world’s foremost loudspeaker design engineers took note and were eager to apply their talents in the quest for creative excellence. A true world-class organization quickly evolved from what had started as a humble operation built upon visionary thinking.