Archive of the former Yahoo!Groups mailing list: MOTM

I will be the first to admit the year 2000 sucked in therms of me getting
new modules out.
So, I am resolving to do MUCH BETTER, soon.

Since a mixer is soon to arrive, I need assurances that those with ahem
(cough cough) ∗alternative solutions∗
currently in their setup will still buy the MOTM version.

OR, should I do the Dual VCA/Panner/Fader first?

The reason is that unlike you buying a pcb here and a Stooge panel there,
∗I∗ have a large (averages about $3900)
burden ∗per kit∗. That means there is a min amount I have to sell just to
get this $3900 back.

Now, I'm not bitching/complaining/whining (well, a little), but the last 2
releases (820 & 910) are BOTH
less than break even. Ahem! COUGH COUGH.

Now, one could take the "big-assed business model" and say, "Win here, lose
there. As long as you are ahead
in the long run." Well, I'd rather NOT. The gross margin (defined as 1 -
[cost/selling price] ) is not as high
as you'd think. Which means there is concern on my part, is all. Of course,
some 'raw' parts are "transferrable"
from kit-to-kit (knobs). But some $$$ items are not (panels, pcbs, MOTM-800
custom log pots).

Certainly, I have no one to blame by myself for the schedule/lack of new
stuff. But, on the other hand, I think
that I have done remarkably well to ship over 1600 modules, including 76 in
the last 3 weeks!

Now, IF (and only IF) the margin on MOTM was, say like Maxim's (70%) them I
could afford to hire 2 more
folks and have a frenzy. BUT...not the case (well, I ∗could∗, and wind up
with $5,000 for a whole year of shipments).

So, please don't be too cross with me :) Like I've said in the past: picture
your life/job/family life as it is. Then,
put my MOTM burden on TOP of that. It's a big load, one that I'm happy to
carry. Just sometimes I can't run
a 4.3 40-yard dash. Kind of like the dream where the monster is chasing you
and you are running in molassas.

Lastly, I will be in Sunnyvale, CA Wed AM to Sun PM. Hope to see some of you
in person at Andy Miller's house
Sat!

Paul S.