Roland acquires V-MODA
A proper announcement on 808 day
High-end headphone manufacturer V-MODA have come together with Roland, creator of the classic 808 machine for a merger that appropriately arrives on 808 day (August 8).
According to Val Kolton, founder of V-MODA, the amalgamation of the two music technology brands came about after representatives of Roland tested variations of headphones for their new drum machine TR-8 and settled upon V-MODA's Crossfade M-100's as the highest of quality and best to be paired with Roland's outstanding equipment.
The merger sees Roland purchasing 70 per cent stake in V-MODA with the headphone company retaining 30 per cent following V-MODA's 12 years as an independent, family-owned business.
"Partnering with Roland’s sterling reputation for leading innovation in the audio industry, V-MODA will now have deeper resources to accelerate product development, push the boundaries of audio innovation and reach a larger global audience of music aficionados," Kolton said of the partnership. "There is no doubt that V-MODA and Roland synergy is going to inspire and disrupt the future of music. We aim to make not only game-changer products, but genre-changing products."
Notably, the two companies will remain separate and continue to operate under their separate brands with Kolton remaining the CEO of V-MODA. He'll also adopt a new role as the Consultant to Roland in the electronic, dance and DJ product division.
Already beloved by many in the DJ and producer community, V-MODA continues to maintain its esteemed stature in the music technology department, only now powered forward with a strategic investment from the revered Roland brand.
As for what's in store for the near future following the exciting announcement?
"One thing V-MODA is excited about will be a Bluetooth speaker to be launched in Q4," Kolton shared. "For now, you can mark on your calendars 909 Day (September 9). In a month from today, something special will happen that all music lovers worldwide should stay tuned for."
Valerie Lee is Mixmag's US Digital Editor. Follow her on Twitter here
Mixmag will use the information you provide to send you the Mixmag newsletter using Mailchimp as our marketing platform. You can change your mind at any time by clicking the unsubscribe link in the footer of any email you receive from us. By clicking sign me up you agree that we may process your information in accordance with our privacy policy. Learn more about Mailchimp's privacy practices here.
