Jim Cooper, founder of JLCooper Electronics, passed away on January 5, 2026, at the age of 80. His work spans early synthesizer development, the creation of MIDI standards, and the expansion of control technologies used across professional audio, broadcast, and post-production environments.
Cooper founded JLCooper Electronics in 1979, initially focused on accessories for the growing synthesizer market. Over time, the company expanded into a wide range of control and interface solutions used in audio production, video editing, broadcast, aerospace, and education.
Before launching his company, Cooper studied physics and engineering at UCLA, where he worked in the university’s electronic music studio maintaining equipment and teaching. He later joined Oberheim Electronics, eventually becoming Chief Engineer and contributing to the development of early polyphonic synthesizers, including the SEM and OB-X systems used in professional music production.
Cooper was also involved in the early development of MIDI, the communication protocol that allows electronic instruments and production systems to interact. He contributed to its formation and served as an early president of the MIDI Manufacturers Association, supporting industry-wide collaboration and standardization.
Through JLCooper Electronics, he focused on creating practical control solutions, including MIDI controllers, synchronizers, and automation systems. These tools became part of workflows in recording studios, broadcast facilities, and post-production environments, supporting synchronization and system integration across different technologies.
Cooper’s career reflects the evolution of modern production systems, from early analog synthesizers to digital workflows that rely on standardized communication and control. His contributions remain part of many current audio and video production processes.