Why Hear This
GARY LEEDS
Managing Partner
gary@HearThis.us
+1 (949) 467-9808
HEAR THIS, based in Newport Beach, CA, was founded by Gary to introduce and develop innovative high-end audio brands throughout the US and Canada. Learning the art and science of sound reproduction and pursuing the best in high-end audio has been a lifelong endeavor that has included work in retail, marketing, and ownership of several well-respected audio manufacturing firms.
However, the most impactful time in my career was working in my 20s under Mike Kay, owner of the renowned audio salon, Lyric Hi-Fi in New York City. Mike is widely regarded as the father of modern high-end retailing and had a gift for uncovering the most pioneering and innovative audio designers of his day. His accomplishments included helping launch and promote audio brands such as; Mark Levinson, Audio Research, Magnaplaner, Infinity, Sequerra, Nakamichi, Fidelity Research, and many others. Mike taught me a disciplined, straightforward method for evaluating the sound of audio components that hopefully would one day become classics. He also instilled in me his passion for music and seeking out emerging designers capable of advancing the art and science of sound reproduction in the home. Honoring that knowledge and carrying on his work helping a new generation of talented audio designers is the privilege of my professional career.
JOHN HEINS
Director of Brand Marketing
As a young green-eared kid growing up in the Catskills of Upstate NY, John loved discovering music anywhere he could find it. Whether it was a new vinyl record, 8-track, cassette tape or listening to the local airwaves from WDST radio in downtown Woodstock, John has had a lifelong passion for listening to an eclectic mix of music and a keen interest in the faithful reproduction of sound.
Design has always been John’s other passion in life. After attending the Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC, he started a 30+ year design career developing consumer brands including: JVC, PS Audio, Twisted Tea, Milagro Tequila, Kraft Foods & Saucony. John’s expertise in high-end audio began in 2002 when he was VP of Marketing & Design for Innersound, where he helped create the brand's award-winning industrial product designs for loudspeakers & electronics. John's designs have been featured in the Robb Report, Stereophile, and multiple consumer publications. John is also the founder & lead designer of Heinsenfolg Bespoke Audio lifestyle speakers and Folgenhaüs bespoke audio furniture.