ROB LINGFIELD 1952-2011

Highly respected in the pro audio industry, Rob’s name became synonymous with loudspeaker manufacturer Martin Audio. He served as a director until taking on a consultancy role, which saw him actively involved in the development and launch of the award-winning Multi-cellular Loudspeaker Array (MLA) system.

Training as a drama teacher Rob Lingfield initially worked as a DJ, promoter, lighting designer and roadie. He then joined ERC (Electronic Research & Construction) before forming Hill Audio (who built the PA system for the Live Aid concert in 1985, and was later sold to Millbank). Moving to Renkus Heinz, he spent three years building their international business before arriving at Martin Audio in 1998.

Martin Audio applications engineer, Peter Child, was a long-term colleague, remaining with Rob Lingfield during each of those career phases.

“I first worked for Rob in around 1992, in the Hill Audio division of Millbank, then again at Renkus-Heinz where the pair of us worked together in his home office, and finally at Martin Audio. His work ethic and determination to get the job done was an example to all. He had the ability to make people see what they could achieve and encourage them to exceed their personal expectations. He would certainly let you know if you screwed up on something, but then later he would buy you a pint — real ale of course!

“Over the years he became much more a friend than a boss, a man with a generous personality. I shall always remember my last meeting with him, a pub lunch of course, when despite his circumstances he maintained his usual sense of humour. To me he will always be the Guv’nor, he was a great bloke, and I have lost a good friend.”