From jason_stanfield@mac.com Wed Aug 25 08:40:03 2010
Subject:Re: Epoch

On the surface it's not a bad plan from a buyer's point of view, but I don't think it's necessary for the following reasons:

First, the quality-control and bets-testing process will be detailed and held to the highest standards. I have some trusted independent advisers to keep me honest and that I rely on to see things that I maybe won't; Steve Hayes among them. Many of you that know he doesn't put his reputation on the line easily; the rest of you don't know what it means for him to stick his neck out like this, but it's a big deal.

Second, I play a major part of the development process. Tokai wanted an all-in-one neo-vintage stage piano since before I met them, but their design was somewhat also-ran. They solicited my input, and we worked together for several months on the Epoch's concept; the resulting instrument will be significantly based on my input and suggestions on features, operation, and physical design.

(I'm not just taking stock Tokai products and selling them as something they're not. I got the TX-5 evaluated independently far before it was available for sale, and had the Brazilians make a number of modifications to it before getting the first sellable units manufactured.)

Third, I'm a firm believer in excellent customer service. Those of you who know me from my former gig managing the distribution of Nord know that I'll do whatever is in my power to see that a buyer is satisfied. This means personalized service; within reason, if someone buys a Ventura piece and just isn't satisfied, I'll take it back.

A combination of pro evaluation and testing, total confidence in the instrument's quality, and personalized post-sale service is what I'm all about. I want players to be not just satisfied, but excited about what we're making; after all, we're bridging what we want to make with the needs of musicians in the gigging trenches.

On a side note, I like to think people are too smart for style-over-substance, technology gimmicks, carnie salesmanship, the "credible" word of paid endorsers, or other shenanigans. Sure, trust will need to be built from scratch with a lot of players, but I think I already have a good foundation from my former gig rep'ing the Stockholmers' axes, plus I've got that ball-breaker Hayes keeping me honest!

Additionally, I'm far too selfish to invite trouble and complication into the inherent risk of an up-start business! Too many people know where I live! :D

Jason Stanfield
Ventura Keyboards