Our History

Early Beginnings and the Birth of Marquette Audio Labs

Marquette Audio Labs was founded by David Marquette in 1994, born from his passion for music and a desire to help others create it. With a background in construction and studio remodeling, David transitioned from building spaces to crafting custom racking solutions for vintage audio equipment. His early work quickly gained a reputation for quality, combining durable, rock-solid build with a classic aesthetic that evoked the 1960s custom shop vibe. The gray hammer-tone chassis and clear, grained aluminum front panels with custom engraved name plates became hallmarks of Marquette Audio Labs' designs.

Expanding into New and Vintage Equipment

Recognizing the demand for high-quality audio equipment, David expanded Marquette Audio Labs' offerings beyond custom racking to include both new and vintage professional audio gear. The company was one of the first in the U.S. to deal Brauner Microphones and Soundelux (Bock) Microphones, among others. This expansion allowed Marquette Audio Labs to cater to a broader range of clients, from home studio enthusiasts to professional recording studios, providing them with the tools they needed to create exceptional music.

The Launch of Mercury Recording Equipment

In 1999, David took his vision further by launching Mercury Recording Equipment Company, dedicated to creating new versions of vintage recording classics that were no longer available. The Mercury 66 (Fairchild 660), Mercury EQH1 and EQP1 (Pultec Style EQs), and the Mercury M72s and M76m (recreations of the Telefunken/Siemens modules) became industry benchmarks, blending vintage tone with modern reliability. These products quickly garnered acclaim and solidified Marquette Audio Labs' reputation as a leader in high-quality audio equipment.

Commitment to Quality and Innovation

Throughout its history, Marquette Audio Labs has remained committed to quality and innovation. The company's custom racking solutions have evolved to include modern features like phantom power, phase control, and direct inputs, making them more versatile and useful for contemporary studios. Each rack is meticulously crafted to maintain the look of the vintage modules while enhancing their functionality, ensuring they remain a vital part of today's recording environments.

Celebrating 30 Years of Excellence

As of 2024, Marquette Audio Labs celebrates 30 years of dedication to helping musicians and audio engineers create music. David Marquette's love for writing, playing, recording, and listening to music has driven the company's growth and success. From its humble beginnings to becoming a trusted name in the audio industry, Marquette Audio Labs continues to innovate and provide exceptional products and services. As David says, "If you do what you love for a living, you will never work a day in your life." After three decades, Marquette Audio Labs embodies this philosophy, looking forward to many more years of contributing to the world of music.