FrontRow, Calypso To Merge

  • By Mike Hohenbrink
  • 10/24/11

FrontRow and Calypso Systems will merge into a single entity with the name FrontRow and a focus on communication and device control technologies.

Specializing in classroom audio technology, FrontRow is based in Petaluma, California, and is one of 45 companies within the William Demant Group. Calypso Systems, based in Woodbury, Minnesota, produces a line of AV and command-and-control products along with streaming audio offerings used in approximately 30,000 classrooms.

The move will result in bundling of existing product lines as well as improved interoperability of products. Unified technical support for the product lines as well as distribution and installation help will be available on a national basis.

Discussions about a shared vision have been in place since 2010, the companies announced in a prepared statement about the merger. Customer service calls will begin to be handled out of the California office immediately. That office can be reached at (800) 227-0735. The complete process of the merger is expected to last until 2012.

The new company will offer a combined line of products including:

  • Classroom audio;
  • Media capture;
  • Network paging; and
  • Device command and control.

"Our two companies complement each other extremely well in terms of resources, intellectual property, and culture," said FrontRow President Jens Holstebro. "By leveraging FrontRow's footprint in the classroom amplification space with advanced network products from Calypso, we have secured the position as the leading school communications provider in the industry. Nobody else can deliver better ways to build, manage, and use engaging, media-rich learning spaces--or do it faster."

"Our solutions will make it easier to share ideas and information within the classroom, the school, the district, and the community, all while driving operational and financial efficiency," said Calypso president David Parish.

For more information about Calypso Systems and FrontRow visit calypsosystems.com and gofrontrow.com.

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