Professor Matthew Manhire is a musician, maker, and entrepreneur with a passion for analog and hands-on, do-it-yourself processes. A graduate of Lebanon Valley College’s Music Recording Technology program (now Music Production), Matt discovered his love for electronics and circuit-bending during his time in music school—driven by the desire to repair, modify, and create his own gear.
After working alongside industry veterans like Jess Oliver (inventor of the Ampeg B15), Andy Fuchs (Fuchs Audio/Plush Pedals), and at several New York City recording studios, Matt relocated to Philadelphia and launched Rootbeer Audio in 2009. What began as a post in the “Musicians” section on Craigslist, has grown into a trusted name in the audio world. Today, Rootbeer Audio serves boutique manufacturers, recording studios, venues, universities, non-profits, and acclaimed artists including Blind Melon, Japanese Breakfast, The War on Drugs, and Kurt Vile.
When he’s not restoring audio gear, Matt designs bespoke tube amplifiers and pedals from his Philadelphia workshop—pieces celebrated for their unique character and craftsmanship. His work has been featured in The Philadelphia Inquirer and on WHYY, and in 2016 he received a Corzo Incubator Grant for his innovative “Philly 20 Watt” amplifier design.
In addition to his technical expertise, Matt brings over 20 years of experience as a musician in the independent and DIY music scenes. He has performed as a bassist and guitarist, recorded extensively, and DJ’s a monthly show—spinning all-vinyl and “found sound” sets on G-Town Radio 92.9FM. An avid field recorder, Matt’s multifaceted background informs his teaching and creative work, blending technical concepts with artistic sensibility. Before joining the faculty at Lebanon Valley College, Matt served as an Assistant Professor at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, where he developed & taught courses in digital audio, business, and audio electronics for the Music Business, Entrepreneurship, and Technology program.
Notable Products/Designs: A vacuum-tube based “Harmoni Tremelo” preamplifier design (private commission), The “Philadelphia Pedal” (10 units were made and subsequently sold out) spring 2025 run that was based on a pedal we made for Yo La Tengo, The “Philly 20 Watt” amplifier design that earned a Corzo Incubator grant, & the “Tenor” amplifier design (in progress).
- MPR 123—Acoustics
- IXD 153—Electronics for Designers
- MPR 214—Intro to Music and Entertainment Industries
- MPR 315—Vale Music Group
- MPR 325—Music Entrepreneurship
- MPR 400—Internship
- MPR 411—Audio Capstone Project