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.
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Paul the Sloth
2001-02-07 by Paul Schreiber
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