Questions and Answers Recap: Ten Years of Expansion
Chat with Jeff Murray, the Brain behind AVPro
Fearless Interview
Q: Hey Jeff, what sparked the creation of AVPro way back in 2014?
A: You see, I was this applications engineer at Sencore where I enjoyed a 14-year ride. But the Army was calling and I responded. After returning, I joined forces with my son, Matt, to embark on a family business venture. Our big break arrived in 2012, when we provided Best Buy with a truckload of 4K video generators for their team across the nation. This marked the beginning of our brand Murideo, and we never looked back. The rest, as they say, is history. We launched AVPro Global in 2014, with our first base set up in Sioux Falls, SD.
Q: How are you celebrating AVPro's 10-year anniversary?
A: Well, we're taking a moment to bask in our ten years of innovation, our phenomenal team, and the exponential growth we've experienced. We're sharing our anniversary on social media and at industry events, and we've got the icing on the cake - we acquired an almost 50-year-old iconic audio brand called AudioControl in 2023, making our celebration even sweeter!
[Executive Q&A: Keep Your Eyes on HDR]
Q: What brands have found their home under the AVPro umbrella?
A: Our family consists of AVPro Edge, a powerhouse in audio and video signal distribution products; AudioControl Pro, masters of audio amplification and immersive audio playback components; Bullet Train, our high-performance HDMI and USB cables; Murideo, our calibration, test, and performance verification device gurus; and ThenAudio, our legacy HDMI interface experts.
[The Insider's Guide to Matrix Switchers]
Q: So Jeff, what's the secret sauce to making a kick-ass matrix switcher?
A: A multitude of factors contribute to a top-notch matrix switcher. Think ultra-high-quality manufacturing, exceptional support services that empower integrators, and a forward-thinking approach that positions us as early adopters in technology, like being one of the first to offer an 8K-compatible matrix switcher. We listen to our integrator partners, understand their needs, and build solutions that meet their expectations.
Q: AVPro started as a video-centric company, so what made you dive into the cable scene with Bullet Train?
A: Opportunities are like rivers. You've got to follow them until they dry up. We saw potential in handmade active optical cables (AOCs) and grabbed that chance with both hands. People love fiber connections for their flexibility and durability, and HDMI cables for their consistent high-performance across all our target markets. Bullet Train makes our customers happy in both departments.
[USB-C vs HDMI: The Great Debate]
Q: It seems like USB-C is taking the Pro AV world by storm. But what about HDMI? Is it headed for extinction, or do you see it sticking around?
A: The world of AV is a dynamic one, and it's constantly evolving. HDMI has been cornerstone technology for decades, but USB-C is making waves. We're not predicting the demise of HDMI just yet - there are still many legacy devices out there, and eARC remains a crucial part of the residential AV ecosystem. However, USB-C excellence comes with more features, like simultaneous video and USB transport and charging, and we're committed to maximizing compatibility across our product range.
[The Return of AudioClassic: AudioControl's Time Capsule]
Q: AudioControl came on board in 2023. Why extend the audio footprint?
A: Demand for exceptional audio is skyrocketing, and it made perfect sense to pair AudioControl's legacy and expertise with our AVPro Edge solutions. The acquisition not only strengthened our overall portfolio but also opened up a gateway to an established customer base.
Q: Dante hasn't lost its charm in the audio world, right? How pivotal is it to your audio business?
A: Dante is not merely a temporary fad; it's a reliable audio distribution ecosystem that's growing in importance across all vertical markets. Its compatibility with AVPro Edge's MXnet AV-over-IP product portfolio is ideal, making large-scale AV installations a breeze.
Q: There seems to be a split in the market between 1G and 10G solutions from AVPro Edge. Which one's more popular?
A: At the end of the day, our 1G solutions are what most of our customers are looking for. They provide exceptional performance and reliability, while keeping the cost reasonable. However, we don't neglect our 10G platform; it delivers higher bandwidth at a higher cost, but it's perfect for installations with more demanding needs.
[The Pros and Cons of AV-over-IP]
Q: AV-over-IP is rapidly gaining traction. What are the common challenges that customers need you to help solve in this space?
A: Projects with AV-over-IP systems can be complex, especially 10G systems, due to the multiple switches and various locations involved. But we don't stop at being a supplier; we offer first-rate support for our solutions too. To ensure our customers receive the best care, we've established the MXnet Systems Group, a dedicated business unit that focuses on expanding and supporting our AV-over-IP product portfolio.
[Next Stop: The Future of AVPro]
Q: What can we expect from AVPro in 2025 and beyond?
A: We've always been focused on pushing the boundaries of innovation, and 2025 is no exception. Our lineup for the coming years includes new MXnet ecosystem solutions, affordable 1G offerings that adeptly manage distribution and control, and fresh products based on the success we've had with our USB3 extenders.
- Jeff Murray, the brain behind AVPro, expanded the business in 2017 when they entered the cable scene with Bullet Train, focusing on handmade active optical cables (AOCs).
- With the acquisition of AudioControl in 2023, AVPro enhanced their business portfolio and ventured into the audio industry, including one of their newly-acquired brands, AudioControl Pro, masters of audio amplification and immersive audio playback components.
- AVPro's matrix switchers boast innovative features, such as exceptional support services that empower integrators, and a forward-thinking approach that positions the company as early adopters in technology, like being one of the first to offer an 8K-compatible matrix switcher.
- Despite the rise of USB-C in the Pro AV world, HDMI remains an important part of AVPro's finance, with many legacy devices and eARC still playing a crucial role in residential AV ecosystems.
