Rebranding can be cool. Especially when it’s done right. Subtle changes to a logo, a new color scheme or even a complete identity restructure can have a positive impact on a company’s future. We don’t see rebranding as often with manufacturers in the film and television industry, but when it does happen, it’s hard to miss. K-Tek has been one of those companies. For the last few years they’ve been expanding their audio line and creating products for video: gear like the Norbert frame for DSLRs, Tadpoles for GoPro-style action cameras, and the ProShot are completely new concepts for the company. Talking to owner Brenda Klemme Parker at NAB 2015, she said, “It’s an exciting time for us. We’ve brought in some new faces to look at and expand our product line in a different way – it’s important for us to grow by trying new things. If we don’t, we’re not challenging ourselves as a company.”
While K-Tek has managed to successfully tap into the video world, they haven’t forgotten about their core clientele – audio. In 2014, they introduced the Stingray audio bag line, which includes versions to fit Zaxcom’s Maxx or the Sound Devices 633, and this summer, a new audio harness will accompany the line. We managed to get our hands on a prototype at the Location Sound booth during Cine Gear Expo, and we were happy with the fit – the back support was quite exceptional. Check back later for a full review when it’s released.
But let’s talk rebranding. K-Tek not only has switched their website from ktekbooms.com to ktekpro.com, but they’re changing their audio bag color scheme from blue to orange, or as they put it, “Orange Is the New Blue.” Clever, yes. Our guess is that the change in color scheme is intended to distance K-Tek from Orca, another popular bag line, but with orange, will they be able to distinguish themselves from Petrol Bags, who also use orange? In any case, both the new color scheme and Stingray logo are cool, but for most of us, it’s all about functionality.
One piece of equipment that’s all about functionality is the new K-Tek KGB Gizmo bag. Measuring 9″x11″x3″, the lightweight, nylon-infused bag is a solid accessory for sound mixers who need to store gear conveniently. It’s a quick-zip bag for wireless gear, lavs, batteries, and other accessories. It features a clear underbelly so you can see what’s inside without opening it, and a four-zipper compartment topside to keep everything organized. K-Tek has also included velcro dividers that can be assembled to separate the bottom of the bag into four compartments. Its exterior is lined with loops and features a double zipper system, a carrying handle, and a carabiner to hang off your mixing bag. Also on the clear side are two mole-style straps to attach the bag to the side of your cart or maybe your harness. The bag could be used to store lens filters and other supplies – possibly an add-on for the make-up department?
The few drawbacks we saw are that the bag isn’t crush- or waterproof. The KGB Gizmo is a soft bag, so we wouldn’t suggest tossing it anywhere if fragile items are inside, and while the material is able to wick away water, we wouldn’t let it get too wet, especially if radios are inside. For $39, it’s worth considering if you want to keep a small, mobile footprint.