The spring NAB Show is approaching. Between now and then Radio World will conduct several short Q&As with manufacturers about their plans and offerings, to help you get the most out of the big annual trade show. Todor Ivanov is CEO of DEVA Broadcast.
Radio World: How has business been for the company since last year’s NAB Show?
Todor Ivanov: It has really been a fantastic year for DEVA. We have invested a lot of energy, enthusiasm and expertise into our work to ensure we deliver not only top-notch products but also impeccable service to our customers. As we have already set the bar so high, we have strived to maintain — and hopefully even raise — that level with the latest gear we have introduced to the market, as well as the new tools we have been working on. Broadcasting is a dynamic industry, constantly developing, and we are happy to say that DEVA is keeping pace.
For the past 12 months we have also had a busy schedule, participating in all major broadcast exhibitions worldwide. This has allowed us to demonstrate the merits of our products to large audiences worldwide, exchange ideas with fellow broadcasters and conduct some useful market research. Our well-established network of trusted distributors in various parts of the world have also provided representation for DEVA at a number of events.
So, yes, it has been a great year for DEVA, with some really important achievements. We hope we keep delivering to clients the kind of equipment that makes DEVA a paragon of excellence.
RW: What are you hearing from your customers about their business outlook this year? In what areas should we expect growth or the most interesting projects?
Ivanov: Our industry is fortunately developing fast and radio enjoys a solid presence in people’s lives despite the fact that other media has become so dominant. It all, of course, very much depends on the region and the specific market, but overall, there has been a lot of innovation, which has been really good for our business. At DEVA, we have a complex approach — we do not focus on one area in particular but put resources and effort into signal monitoring, processing, IP audio, etc. In short, we work on delivering solutions in all areas. That’s how we ensure customers have the best, no matter what specific aspect of broadcasting they are interested in.
RW: You’ve been active in the audio monitoring, encoding and processing markets for 20 years. What’s the biggest problem or challenge facing users in this segment right now?
Ivanov: Having so much experience does give you an edge in this industry, not least because of the in-depth knowledge amassed over the years. We know what customers are looking for, and meeting their requirement is a matter of combining routine, strict adherence to high standards of quality and fresh ideas for technological innovation. The industry is very competitive but that’s what drives it forward. The DEVA team welcomes challenges because they provide the motivation to improve. That is the reason we have been leaders on the market for so long.
RW: What new goodies will your company be showing? Why should attendees visit your booth at N5916?
Ivanov: It is always worth visiting our booth because our product displays never disappoint. We bring not only old favorites, but also our latest releases to every show. This year is no exception. Attendees will see our tried and tested devices but the highlight is sure to be the new DB45 model. This model will be joining our line of FM monitors and will provide unparalleled accuracy and versatility. So my advice to you is: Do not miss the chance to drop by our booth N5916 in the North Hall and catch your first glimpse of this tool. Our team will be there to provide demonstrations and answer your questions.
RW: What specific challenges and/or developments do you expect in your markets in 2018?
Ivanov: As usual, I expect strong competition and a growth in our market in general. We all have a similar goal — to improve and deliver quality equipment. For our part, I can say that our team remains as focused as ever on meeting the expectations of our customers, both in terms of sophistication of technology and of practicality of design.
RW: What do you anticipate will be the most significant technology trend in general at the 2018 NAB Show?
Ivanov: NAB is one of the most highly anticipated exhibitions in our industry for a reason. It is an event people in our business look forward to because it gives them an opportunity to put at the forefront their best and newest products. This year is sure to be no different and I believe that the prevalent spirit at the show will be one of innovation. For our company in particular, we will be bringing to the show our latest IP audio products — the DB9009 series, plus the DB45, which sets a new standard of quality in FM signal monitoring. We feel confident that they will receive due appreciation, as our equipment invariably does.
RW: You’re a show veteran, how has the show changed since your first visit?
Ivanov: It’s definitely grown in scale and significance. The organizers are doing a tremendous job to always ensure everything at the expo runs smoothly and everyone gets the best opportunity to showcase their products or get the information they are looking for. The program is rich and the show in general is an extremely useful experience for all involved, so I can only hope that the organizers keep up the good work.
RW: This year show organizers have done some serious rearranging of the venue, expanded thematic items like pavilions and put emphasis on events and activities such as Main Stage. Any thoughts on that?
Ivanov: The industry is evolving and so is the expo. The organizers are creating a dynamic environment and introducing fresh ideas to the event. I’m sure they will make it work to the best advantage of all in attendance.
