In the past, Western European capitalism thrived, yet we had no chance to visit. Now, with China’s remarkable development, we can travel on a whim, mostly at our own expense. What are small-scale workshops like in developed countries?

First stop: A handmade factory of the renowned German audio brand KS.

Brief Introduction:

Founded in 1979, KS is a high-end imported audio brand with pure German heritage. Driven by an engineer-oriented culture and technological innovation, it has continuously upgraded industry technical standards and built profound expertise over the years: Launched its first DSP processor in 1995, filter processor in 1996, digital power amplifier in 2001, active sound reinforcement system in 2004, high-fidelity audio system in 2008, line array automatic angle adjustment device with EQ in 2011, the world’s smallest audio processor in 2012, and a fully digital 32-channel power amplifier in 2014......

KS has participated in the top-tier Frankfurt Exhibition for 30 consecutive years, establishing itself as a world-famous brand. Despite its limited recognition in the Chinese market for now, it requires vigorous promotion by local agents.

It houses Germany’s largest listening room, with neatly arranged and well-organized equipment installation.

Backs & Mullër, one of the world’s top ten Hi-Fi brands under German KS Group

For more detailed coverage, please refer to articles released by official platforms including CA001, WORLDSHOW and Guangdong Entertainment Industry Chamber of Commerce.

Second handmade audio factory: Czech KV2 Audio

Brief Introduction:

KV2 Audio is a world-leading professional audio manufacturer based in the Czech Republic, an industrial powerhouse. It owns a host of industry-leading patented technologies, such as reverse coil transducers, nitrate particle deposited high-frequency diaphragms, 20MHz digital processors with 7 times higher sampling rate than international standards, time-calibrated analog circuit crossovers, and active impedance control technology. As an outstanding benchmark for high-fidelity, energy-saving and high-efficiency professional audio solutions, KV2 upholds the core philosophy: Less is More, Smaller is Better.

The founder, Mr. George, is a legendary icon in the global professional audio industry. We were guided on the tour by George Jr., who gave us an in-depth and detailed introduction to the entire production process without reservation, bringing us tremendous insights.

Doesn’t it look like a classic CRT TV?

Power amplifiers are all self-produced in-house, with transformer coils hand-wound on site.

Meticulous and refined management in every detail

They also produce DI boxes, recognized as premium industry products.

Please pay attention to this spot!

Europe’s largest anechoic chamber, measuring 10 meters in length, width and depth!

Simple and understated staircase

R&D and Technology Center

The private electroacoustic studio of Master George. Brother Song and our technical colleague Wang Tao experienced the professional facilities in person, absorbing the master’s professional insights.

Next came the audio demonstration session, with listening conducted from 80 meters away. The demo equipment was unique and part of the owner’s private collection.

This is the legendary Master George. It was a great honor to meet him up close.

Reflections:

Though these two small workshops lack spectacular industrial equipment and large-scale facilities, sincere admiration arises spontaneously. They pursue technological perfection and rely on high-quality products to win recognition, truly worthy of the reputation of established Western European industrial nations.

In contrast, small-scale manufacturers of the same size in China would never be shortlisted for official tenders and might be overlooked by clients entirely. Their managers would even feel reluctant to engage in industry social events, limited to small projects and export businesses to make a modest living.

Nevertheless, future industrial innovation is mostly driven by small-scale enterprises. We must abandon vanity and empty expansion, pursue steady and practical development, keep a low profile in operation and excel in sales.

“Less is More, Smaller is Better” — KV2’s core philosophy also aligns with our lifelong pursuit.