Founder story

Founder

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

Crew

Various freelance technicians

Partners and suppliers

Output Professional, Highlite, Moonbears, Chauvet Benelux, RCF, Brooklyn Audio, Architects in Music, AIMM Entertainment, Base Events, Biezema AV, Luxonos, Brandon AV, Deep Radio, Ronald Pronk Photography and others

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. Sometimes you hear what's still possible.

Alongside that, I've worked for some 25 years as a corporate communications specialist for large organisations. So I also know what’s important for a brand activation, product launch or staff event.

HEAR started out of that combination. 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.

Social media are changing music and the DJ profession. Events are getting bigger, and sometimes the show seems to matter more than the artist. Sometimes a DJ even has to adapt their set and timing to lights and fireworks, which reduces them to a stage prop: a DJ for show, not for the music. At HEAR, light and sound don't stand in front of the artist, they serve the artist, with colourful, creative light shows that strengthen the music and the atmosphere.

I work with a network of experienced freelance professionals. Together we realize sound and light for small to medium-sized events: from 150 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 intermediate between the client and the right suppliers or facilitate a direct relationship.

The name HEAR has two meanings. First of all, it stands for High End Audio Rental. I work with brands whose makers have a passion for their craft. And 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. For an AV business a rider-friendly product range matters greatly, commercially speaking. You cannot rent out gear without demand in the market. However, taste also matters. So whatever goes into the HEAR flight case has to suit both. Products made with craftsmanship, respect for the culture and innovation.