Established in Providence, RI, in 1953, AVID Products has reached a significant milestone this year—70 years as a company. As we bid farewell to this remarkable anniversary, let’s take a stroll down memory lane and revisit some of the notable moments that shaped our journey.
Celebrating 70 years of AVID
Throughout the past year, we’ve shared highlights of our legacy on our social channels, offering a glimpse into the rich moments of our history. Now, as we close the door on 2023, we’ve compiled these moments for you to explore at your leisure. From pioneering solutions to memorable milestones, this collection reflects the essence of AVID’s commitment to excellence.
1953
Founded in Providence, RI, by Albert C. Allen, AVID is named for the acronym Audio Visual Instructional Device and begins developing audio products for home and commercial use with a focus on the airline industry.
1950s
AVID’s airline division was an early manufacturer of airline passenger control units, which also produced premium consumer speakers, educational listening devices, and translation devices for the United Nations.
1961
Being recognized for innovation in both the audio and airline industries, AVID collaborates with TWA to develop the first of its kind, in-flight pneumatic headphone.
Pneumatic headphone
Inspired by a medical stethoscope, this type of listening device was developed by AVID for in-flight entertainment during air travel. Stereophonic sound is transmitted through hollow, plastic tubes from a small speaker plugged into the armrest of the airline seat.
1960s
As more and more airlines equip their planes with the newest technology, AVID is soon producing in-flight entertainment headphones for 97% of the world’s airlines.
1970s
AVID gains recognition for dependability and value by continuously developing innovative audio products and accessories. Most notably, two-way audiophile speakers and H/88 headphones.
H/88 classroom headphones
Developed for the learning environment, the widely popular AVID H/88 headset came equipped with an overhead headphone cord that was woven through the headband to help protect the equipment and the listener.
1974
AVID becomes involved in the hi-fi loudspeaker business developing high-fidelity speaker systems and minimum diffraction loudspeakers. These quickly become a favorite among listeners and critics alike.
Minimum diffraction loudspeakers
By engineering the drivers, cabinet enclosure, and grille assembly to create a totally integrated acoustic system, AVID craftsmen eliminated cabinet diffraction or the “boxy” sound quality inherent in typical cabinet loudspeakers delivering what we liked to call unboxed sound.
1980s
In the early eighties, AVID’s focus returns primarily to inflight entertainment headphones, as well as becoming a leading supplier of amenity kits for airlines all over the world including Central & South America, the Pacific Rim, Africa, and Europe.
American West stereo headset
AVID developed the featherlight AE-28AT stereo electrodynamic headset in the late 1980s to support American West’s passenger loyalty program. This allowed the airline passengers to keep the stylish headphones after they had paid for onboard entertainment. The eye-catching red was chosen to match the aircrafts interior.
1990s
As audio technology becomes part of daily practice in personal and professional environments, AVID flourishes rapidly in the healthcare and fitness markets, while continuing their presence in the travel and education industries.
1998
With the growing increase in internet and computer access, AVID designs specialized AV-Series PC headsets for multimedia applications, voice recognition and internet communication and is recognized with the Internet Telephony Product of the Year.
The Hangover
Another memorable product developed by AVID in the late nineties is the aptly named Hangover. Designed to cradle your headset and clean up your workspace the Hangover featured a non-skid base and wire storage area on back. Undoubtedly, this cure for desk clutter was quite the conversation piece.
2000s
AVID relocates HQ from Providence to beachside community Middletown, Rhode Island. During this time, the company continues to diversify, adding the hospitality and recreation markets to fitness, education, travel and healthcare.
2005
Named after former AVID President, Frank Vollaro (inset), AVID develops the FV-060 as a durable and cost-effective headphone for the classroom with great success.
FV-060 headphone
Only recently retired from the AVID portfolio, this ultra-durable headphone was designed for both individual use and in lab settings. The padded ear cups helped aid in comfort as well as block out surrounding ambient noises to support students’ concentration. They came in a variety of colors to add fun to the classroom and make group learning easy.
2010s
This period at AVID brought forth profound change, including the beginning of an Employee Stock Ownership Plan, as well as recognition in product design and development.
2013
Ownership of AVID shifts to its vested employees through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan or ESOP, infusing the company with a revitalized sense of purpose, passion, and integrity.
2017
In a significant year for AVID, two milestones are notably highlighted. First, marking a pivotal moment in our history, AVID becomes 100% employee-owned. Second, our design prowess is recognized with an award for a pin breakage solution. These achievements define our commitment to innovation and our collective success.
The Original Fishbone
With many an imitation, there is only one Original Fishbone. Inspired by the swimming motion of a fish, this handy adapter bends and flexes to prevent audio pins from breaking off inside device inputs. This simple, yet highly effective adapter won Best of Show at ISTE in 2017, cementing its innovative design in the education technology space.
2020
As the global landscape shifts due to the COVID-19 pandemic, AVID embraces a digital transformation, transitioning into a predominantly remote company. Operating under this new paradigm, AVID successfully expands its team nationwide, extending beyond the borders of Rhode Island.
2022
AVID experiences a surge of renewed inspiration, unveiling a refreshed brand identity, mission, and refined purpose. Aligned with this invigorated vision, AVID forges meaningful partnerships with nonprofits to amplify their collective impact.
2023
Embarking on a new chapter in our legacy, AVID relocates headquarters from Middletown, RI, back to Providence, where our journey began 70 years ago in 1953. AVID remains dedicated to the Rhode Island community, excited to nurture the company’s growth in our hometown in the historic Foundry building.
The rest has yet to unfold
Our 70th anniversary celebration is not just a reflection on the past, it’s a testament to our enduring dedication to innovation and growth. As we raise a toast to the memories we’ve created, here’s to many more years of shaping the future together.
Thank you for joining us in celebrating 70 years of AVID and be sure to follow our social channels to be a part of the exciting chapters yet to unfold!
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