A Loss Beyond Walls: The Impact of the Fires on the AV Community

For many, the wildfires that swept through California’s Palisades and Eaton Canyon were a devastating reminder of nature’s unpredictable fury. The damage was not limited to just homes and material possessions—it extended to something deeply personal for many AV professionals: their studios, their equipment, and in many cases, their entire livelihoods.

The heart of the AV world lies in creative expression, whether through film, music, live events, or content production. Many of Pacrad’s clients—independent musicians, post-production specialists, and recording engineers—lost not only the walls that housed their workspaces but also the finely tuned environments they had meticulously built over years. The loss of a home is heartbreaking, but for those whose homes doubled as their studios, the loss is even more profound. Replacing hardware and rebuilding infrastructure is just one part of the journey; restoring the creative energy and passion within those walls is another challenge entirely.

At PacRad, we’ve spent decades serving the AV community in Burbank, Los Angeles, and beyond. We understand that every piece of gear tells a story, every setup is a carefully crafted ecosystem, and every lost studio represents years of dedication and craftsmanship. As we step into a period of rebuilding, we want to support our community not just with products but with knowledge, resources, and a shared commitment to restoring the art of sound and vision.

PacRad’s Role as a Local AV Partner in Burbank, California

Pacific Radio Electronics (PacRad) has been a cornerstone of the AV industry since 1932. We’re more than just a store—we’re a trusted resource for AV professionals who need expert advice, reliable products, and a supportive community. As a local supplier, we recognize the unique needs of our customers, from seasoned broadcast engineers to indie filmmakers and sound designers.

While many are now faced with the daunting task of rebuilding their studios from scratch, PacRad is here to provide guidance on selecting the right products, designing efficient workflows, and ensuring that quality is never compromised. Our curated selection of AV solutions is designed to cater to both high-end and budget-conscious professionals looking to re-establish their creative spaces.

Here are ten key product lines that can help professionals rebuild and upgrade:

1. Neutrik

Industry-standard connectors and adapters ensure seamless signal flow in audio and video applications, crucial for any professional setup.

Neutrik’s new XX series powerCON and speakON connectors offer enhanced functionality, easier assembly, and improved power handling. Designed with a two-compound molded housing for better ergonomics and grip, these connectors feature color coding for clarity and an improved assembly method with a strain relief that locks mechanically.

The speakON XX series connectors are certified to IEC 61984, UL 1977, and CSA C22.2 No.182.3 with a current rating of 37 A RMS. New brown and green coloring indicates 2- and 4-pole options, respectively.

The powerCON XX series connectors meet modern safety standards, including IEC EN 60320-1, UL 60320-1, and CSA C22.2 No. 60320-1, and are unique in offering circuit-breaking capacity when mated to powerCON XX series receptacles. Available in both -S and -L variants, these connectors cater to different cable sizes, supporting safe and reliable installations.

2. Canare

A trusted name for professional AV cabling, Canare’s solutions ensure signal integrity and quality in studio installations.

Canare’s 12G-SDI A/V products deliver world-class performance and reliability, making them ideal for building or rebuilding 4K UHD infrastructures. With over 40 years of experience, Canare offers a complete range of 12G-SDI cables, connectors, adapters, and tool sets, all rated for SMPTE standards to ensure robust performance.

These products are trusted by broadcasters worldwide and are designed to meet the critical needs of next-generation 4K/UHD ecosystems, helping AV pros build systems that won’t fail and are ready for the future.

3. 4K UHD, 12G-SDI, and HDBaseT

As AV professionals work to rebuild, having access to reliable, high-performance equipment is essential. The demand for 4K UHD, 12G-SDI, and HDBaseT solutions continues to grow, and industry leaders like Belden, Canare, Calrad, Media Solutions, and Vanco offer a wide range of top-quality cables, connectors, adapters, and broadcast equipment.

For decades, professionals have trusted PacRad as a local resource in Burbank, California. With a strong selection of in-stock products at competitive prices, we’re here to help you restore and enhance your AV setup. Whether you’re replacing gear or upgrading for the future, visit us in-store or shop online to find the right solutions for your needs.

4. Netgear

For AV pros, seamless network integration is more important than ever. The Netgear AV Line M4250 series is designed specifically for 1Gb audio and video over IP, making it a reliable choice for those transitioning from direct cabling or HDBaseT to IP-based workflows.

With IGMP Plus™ for flawless AV over IP performance, these switches ensure smooth operation in even the most demanding setups.

The M4250 series simplifies installation with user-friendly controls, pre-configured profiles for popular AV platforms, and built-in support for Dante and AVB. Its sleek rack-mounted design keeps power and network cabling neatly organized, helping professionals get their studios up and running with efficiency and ease.

5. Wavenet

Wavenet, a global leader in cable design and manufacturing, offers a range of state-of-the-art solutions, including Category 5e and 6 communication cables, security cables, audio cables, coaxial cables, and fiber optics.

Built for reliability and efficiency, Wavenet cables ensure strong signal integrity across AV and networked systems. Whether restoring existing setups or upgrading to meet modern demands, AV professionals can count on Wavenet’s cutting-edge technology to support a smooth and resilient rebuild.

6. DataCom

To learn more about our Project Pricing volume discounts and receive a customized quote, please fill out the form here. A Pacific Radio representative will review your details and determine the best way to assist your company with volume purchases.

Rebuilding, Together

While the road to recovery may seem long, the AV industry is no stranger to resilience. The creative community thrives on collaboration, ingenuity, and an undying passion for sound and visuals. PacRad is committed to standing by our clients, providing not only the tools they need but also the support and expertise to help them rebuild stronger, smarter, and with even more creative freedom than before.

To those affected by the fires, know that you are not alone. Your work, your art, and your passion matter. The loss is deep, but the spirit of creation is deeper. Let’s come together to rebuild, innovate, and continue shaping the future of audio and video production.

If you’re looking for guidance on restoring your studio or selecting the right gear, visit us in Burbank or explore our selection online at PacRad. We’re here to help you turn the page and start a new chapter in your creative journey.