Your browser is out-of-date!

Update your browser to view this website correctly. Update my browser now

×

ISE insights: Austin Freewater, DiGiCo

Managing director for British manufacturer of digital mixing consoles and other audio technologies discusses ISE 2026 in our exclusive interview

How many times have you attended ISE, and in what capacity?
We attended the very first ISE in Geneva and have been there every year since.

What are you most looking forward to seeing, or experiencing at ISE?
We’re all looking forward to meeting up with friends and associates from all over the world. ISE offers a fantastic opportunity to catch up on business, explore future opportunities and discover new technology.

Which tech trends do you think will dominate the show floor and why?
In pro audio, immersive is still where the interest lies. From DiGiCo it will be our first flyable mixer, the Quantum 112 and maybe some other portable options from KLANG and Fourier, but you will have to wait for details on that.

How has the AV industry evolved since the last ISE, and how will it be reflected at the show?
The last 12 months have seen more stadium tours than ever before, we have seen the demand for premium AV equipment in stadiums increase dramatically as venues look to invest in their own equipment and touring continues to grow in popularity. Venues that were once strictly single market are diversifying into music and events to fulfil demand as artist seek out more venues for longer touring schedules.

Do you have an opinion on the ongoing convergence between AV and broadcast, something ISE is reflecting in both the diversity of its exhibitors and also its events programming?
Due to DiGiCo’s modular DMI approach and its flexibility, we have always experienced a wide variety of verticals visiting us at the ISE show. I think that ISE’s growth over the years has made it the go-to show in Europe. The show floor offers the opportunity for visitors to explore so many market verticals and a wide range of technology across the halls, it makes it almost a one stop shop.

What role does ISE play in your business planning and decision-making for the year ahead?
It’s our only large European show now, so it’s a critical part of our business to maximise each year.

Are there any particular product categories or solutions you’re prioritising this year, and why?
Portability, immersive and workflow flexibility – this is what our customer are looking for right now

What will you be launching or showcasing at ISE 2026, and what problem does it solve for your customers?
We are excited to launch a range of new additions to the DiGiCo ecosystem, more details will be released closer to the show and visitors to ISE will be the first to see everything on stand 7D300

How do you plan to make your booth experience stand out on the busy show floor?
For the first time this year we have a DiGiCo Business Class lounge!

What conversations are you hoping to have with visitors to your stand?
Ones that end with purchase orders