How Output Transformed a Composer’s Tool into a Music Software Empire

Background

Gregg Lehrman started out as a composer and music producer whose tracks landed on Saturday Night Live, The Daily Show, and major film trailers. He loved flipping audio snippets in reverse to craft new textures – like piano notes played backwards under Justin Timberlake’s “Blue Ocean Floor” – but he could not find a tool that made the process musical and intuitive. So he built REV, a plug-in prototype to handle polished reverse-sound workflows.

After two years of private development and feedback sessions with fellow artists, Gregg pushed REV to market in 2013. Day-one sales surprised him. He hadn’t set up a formal company, but soon realized he needed one. Out went informal transactions. In came Output: a dedicated brand, team, and product lineup. They sells an engine that made reversing audio both beautiful and flexible; their early users wanted more.

Building a Suite of Creative Tools

Output’s next steps were laser-focused on creativity. They hired composer John Nye (now VP of Musical Strategies) and designer Neil Hallimen (VP of Design) to expand the team. REV was joined by SIGNAL, a pulse engine for rhythmic elements; EXHALE, a vocal engine that blends vocals and instruments; and PLATFORM, a purpose-built desktop for producers balancing hardware and software controllers.

Every product launched after rigorous testing and feedback loops. Gregg’s guiding question: “Will this product truly inspire and help people make music?” If yes, the project moved forward. That criterion kept releases relevant to both hobbyists and industry heavyweights.

E-Commerce Overhaul with WooCommerce

Output initially ran on Shopify, but hefty third-party fees cut into margins. They moved to WooCommerce for full control and cost savings. When site complexity grew, they called on SAU/CAL to build custom back-end processes, a secure customer hub, and automated workflows for downloads, payments, and licensing.

The new store integrates PayPal Powered by Braintree, smart coupons, product bundles, and EU VAT handling. Every day, operations run without constant oversight. The result: a dependable revenue driver that lets the team focus on product innovation rather than hosting headaches.

Endorsements and Reach

Output’s tools caught attention fast. Drake’s producer Noah “40” Shebib praised EXHALE as “up to the times and ready to use.” Diplo credited Output with sparking new ideas in his studio sessions. Their user base spans bedroom beat-makers to top-tier studios – proof that a well-tuned tool can hit every level.

Lessons Learned and Next Steps

Output’s rise shows how solving a personal workflow glitch can blossom into a full business. Rapid prototyping, artist feedback, and a scalable e-commerce foundation created fertile ground. With each release, Output sharpens its focus on unique sounds and creative freedom. Gregg hints at more surprises ahead, so expect more inventive software and hardware from this young company.