Meet Heagan (pronounced [hāy-gen]) of Utonia Amplification, a conceptual guitar amplifier company. Heagan agreed to a short interview regarding his business and his acquisition of our Pro Series dust collector, featuring our patented SMART Boost technology.
What is it about your craft that inspires you every day?
Creating the details that support and enhance the larger vision. My design approach is similar to writing music. I begin with conceptual ideas for a specific project, almost like the lyrics to a song. I don't know what the product will look like at this point. As the form shapes, it becomes the melody and rhythm. When the project is completed, it is not just aesthetics, it's a composition that binds thoughtful marketing around a beautiful well crafted product. My entire company has been build around this design principle. All will be revealed this fall, as we finalize our first prototype.
How do you use your system in your shop?
I have the SMART Pro servicing every machine in my cabinet shop with dedicated ductwork. I have also created some custom DC attachments of my own. The SMART Pro is a phenomenal machine, I can use a 2.5” hose for cleanup or run three 5” gates simultaneously. The unit senses the resistance and adjusts the motor, creating more efficiency. The versatility is paramount. I converted a drum cymbal stand to hold the hose accessories. Now I can use the DC for localized table or drill press work. I am in the process of converting a Festool MFT workbench into a downdraft table. I have a blast dreaming up new ways to explore a dust free environment.
What are (2-5) things you can say about the Oneida system in your shop?
Years ago, I had to end my career in the rapid prototyping industry because of environmental issues. When I decided to get back into design, dust collection was my number one priority. I have had two major sinus surgeries, I plan on doing everything I can to not have a third. Utonia’s environment is very clean with minimal dust levels. Oneida has definitely helped me create a healthier work environment. I communicated back and forth with the Oneida designer when Utonia was in the machine layout/planning stage. I wanted my Smart Pro in the back room, isolated from the rest of the shop. However, the room was 12” higher than the shop area below. We were also running the ductwork though a wall, making it guesswork without proper planning. Oneida pulled through and made my life so much easier - their recommendations really helped me define my space. We worked together to create the ducting based around my planned layout. The absolute best part is that the back room is the most dust free area in the entire building. The Smart Pro sits within 6 feet of our shop stereo system. That speaks volumes on how efficient Oneida’s dust collection system is. Dust is relative to the method you use collecting it; Oneida has the power to maximize the air quality.
Is the fact that Oneida is Made in USA important to you? If so, why?
Absolutely! There are so many layers to this, from world economics to environmental issues. The short and sweet: Outsourcing has become the blister of craftsmanship and the absence of product support. I have experienced support from Oneida, directly reaching their engineering team with immediate resolution. The craftsmanship of the product speaks for itself. A company only has a soul if the faces of the employees reflect the products they create.
