Amplified Lifestyles’ principal, Timothy Johnson has 50 years of electronics experience, which he utilizes incorporating high-end A/V systems into the aesthetics of private estates. As an award-winning chief engineer, he mentors the next generation of home electronics specialists with his vast knowledge of audio, video, controls, integration, networking, communications, life safety, security, surveillance, lighting, and climate control. Due to his extensive experience, Timothy is a practical audiophile, he enjoys revisiting Genesis’ eccentric classic Selling England By The Pound when not delivering the highest quality service to Amplified’s clientele.
AL: Where did you grow up?
TJ: I was born and raised in Fresno, where I stayed until I was 20, moving to Sacramento and eventually the Bay Area.
AL: What drew you into the world of home technology design?
TJ: When I was a Junior in high school, I fixed stereo gear at a local stereo shop. In the late ’70s & early ’80s, I worked for Sacramento-based ESS Speakers, where I met Oskar Heil, the German-born scientist and electrical engineer who invented the Air Motion Transformer. Moving to Northern California, I worked with contractors on professional and commercial sound, signal, and control installations, learning skills I applied to the new field of residential integration projects.
AL: How did your involvement with Amplified Lifestyles happen?
TJ: I worked for a pioneering integrator for almost 17 years as Chief Engineer and Senior System Designer. Kevin Cook was the Director of Client Services, and Casey Webster was the Service Manager. We formed Amplified Lifestyles in 2015 with two other partners. We and our team share a dedication to the client experience, giving them what they want, ensuring it works, and leaving them smiling.
AL: What was one of your favorite projects to work on?
TJ: A 550-acre Sonoma vineyard lake estate for a wonderful family whom Amplified has worked with on multiple residential and commercial projects. We collaborated with interior designer Ken Fulk, Ken Linsteadt Architects, and Van Acker Construction. Because a Victorian hotel inspired the architectural style, we hid all the Great Room’s technology. The antiqued mirror behind the bar slides away to reveal a TV. When there are dance parties, four Claypacky moving headlights lower from the ceiling, and the hidden line-array speakers and subwoofers take the music up to discotheque levels. Outside the home, we designed a long-throw audio system for the lake that magically projects a concert across the water.
AL: What was one of your least projects to work on?
TJ: I have been fortunate in my career that 98% of my clients have been excellent to work for, and I forget the 2% who weren’t.
AL: How do you collaborate on a project with a GC, architect, and interior designer?
TJ: I prefer to get in early and be included in the construction drawings so that the electronics blend seamlessly into the home’s interior or landscape design.
AL: What is your most treasured memory?
TJ: Designing Loudspeakers at ESS in the late 70’s & early 80’s.
AL: What would it be if you could learn one skill instantly?
TJ: Sing and play piano & guitar.
AL: What album can you listen to repeatedly without getting sick of it?
TJ: Genesis – Selling England by the Pound.
AL: Do you have a favorite affirmation or quote?
TJ: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
