New Vision, Same Sonic DNA: A respected boutique brand long revered for its handcrafted ribbon microphones, Burbank, CA-based Royer Labs is entering a dynamic new chapter following its recent acquisition by Sounds Great Holdings, an investment group focused on acquiring pro audio brands with great intellectual property. Dave Hetrick, a recording engineer, drummer, and serial entrepreneur with a track record of scaling pro audio companies into global forces, Hetrick brings both technical credibility and strategic vision to the role of President and Chief Revenue Officer. Having previously led transformative growth at Event Electronics, KRK Systems, and ADAM Audio, he now turns his focus to Royer—an innovative, technical GRAMMY-winning brand where he had consulted with for over two years. His mission is clear: preserve Royer’s uncompromising sonic identity while expanding its reach. “I’ve always believed Royer’s growth potential was limitless,” he says, emphasizing that the company’s originality, along with its refusal to chase trends or clones, makes it uniquely positioned to grow. Under the new umbrella, which also includes Undertone Audio, Royer gains access to broader marketing, global distribution, and operational infrastructure, allowing it to scale without sacrificing its core ethos.
Expanding the Conversation: While Royer’s flagship R-121 mic helped redefine ribbon microphones and remains a go-to for electric guitar cabinets, Hetrick is focused on widening the narrative around the brand’s full product line. Central to that effort is the newly introduced R-12 active ribbon microphone, which he describes as “the single best mic I’ve ever heard on acoustic guitar.” He notes its ability to combine the classic warmth of ribbon design with enhanced top-end articulation. That balance comes from its active circuitry, which increases output and preserves detail, making it equally effective capturing delicate acoustic instruments as well as high-SPL sources like drums. Built around the same 2.5-micron ribbon element as the R-121, the R-12 delivers exceptional headroom, sonic accuracy and versatility, positioning it as a new cornerstone product. Hetrick sees the model as a symbol of Royer’s broader potential. Supporting that expanded vision is a multi-year product roadmap, including future designs that aim to further redefine expectations of ribbon microphones in modern recording environments.
Legacy Meets Innovation: Royer’s foundation remains rooted in the pioneering work of founder David Royer, whose original R-121 helped reintroduce ribbon technology to a new generation of engineers. That spirit of innovation continues in products like the SF-12 stereo ribbon microphone, a studio staple known for its exceptional stereo imaging and natural, “you-are-there” realism. Utilizing a classic Blumlein configuration, the SF-12 captures both source and space with remarkable clarity, making it a favorite for drum overheads, orchestral recording and ambient capture. Hetrick’s broader strategy is to ensure that tools like these are not only preserved, but more widely understood and utilized. With new investment, expanded resources, and a renewed commitment to storytelling, Royer Labs is poised to evolve into a globally recognized leader. Continuing to build every microphone by hand in Burbank, the company maintains the craftsmanship and musical integrity that has defined it for nearly three decades.
Contact Royer Labs, 818-847-0121
