Founder story

Founder

Maarten Versteeg, DJ and corporate communications specialist
maarten@hear.nl

Suppliers

Output Professional, Highlite, Moonbears, Chauvet Benelux, RCF, Brooklyn Audio

Music and media

Architects in Music, IAMM Entertainment, Deep Radio, Ronald Pronk Photography

Partners

Base Events, Biezema AV, Luxonos, Brandon AV and various freelancers

I'm Maarten. Since 1993 I've been DJing in bars, clubs, rooftop bars and beach clubs, and at corporate events from fashion shows to product launches. Sometimes abroad. Along the way I've come to know a lot of different rooms and a lot of light and sound systems. Sometimes it sounds great, and sometimes good music doesn't get the sound it deserves. For me, that was a trigger to build my own range of DJ gear and audio, and later lighting.

Alongside that, I've worked for some 25 years as a corporate communications specialist for large organisations. So I also know what matters to a client when it comes to a brand activation, product launch or staff event.

That combination is how HEAR came about.

I start from what a client, agency or artist has in mind, and find the sound and light to match. As a DJ, I hear what a room needs. As a consultant, I understand what the client wants to achieve.

Events are getting bigger, and the show sometimes seems to matter more than the artist. At HEAR, light and sound serve the artist, with colourful light shows that strengthen the music and the atmosphere.

I work with a network of experienced freelance professionals. Together we deliver sound and light for small and mid-sized events for 50 to 1,500 people, in venues up to 35 metres deep.

I also help venue owners turn their space into a dancefloor for a one-off event. Or I advise them on buying their own light and sound: what does the space require, what's feasible in budget and technology, and how do you make sure it works well and requires little maintenance? I then act as a go-between with the right suppliers, or put them in touch directly.

The name HEAR has two meanings. First of all, it stands for High End Audio Rental. I work with brands whose makers are passionate about their craft, with an understated quality. Like a good Italian tailored suit: it doesn't need to draw attention, but the connoisseur sees the cut, the materials and the finish.

I'm always trying out new brands and products. I love building relationships with European light and sound manufacturers and working with professionals in the field. I learn a lot from it. It keeps you humble, too: the more you learn from true specialists, the more you notice what you don't know.

HEAR also stands for choosing by ear. Commercially, a rider-friendly range is essential for an AV business: you can only rent out gear people ask for. But taste matters too. So whatever goes into a HEAR flight case has to meet both. Products made with craftsmanship, respect for the culture and innovation.

Read also: Values and principles →