Our Team

Behind every MIDI Pro and handcrafted detail is a team of passionate builders, tinkerers, and musicians. We're a small crew with a big love for quality, creativity, and continuous improvement. Here’s a little about who we are:

                                                                                                             

 

 

Rob O'Reilly

CEO | Design Engineer

Rob built his first guitar at 15 and has been inventing ever since. He studied Electronic Engineering at the University of Limerick and was drawn early on to tinkering with electronics. Frustrated that the best synth sounds were only accessible to keyboard players, he set out to change that—leading to the creation of the MIDI Pro system and the founding of ROR Guitars. As head software engineer, Rob is passionate about innovation, lean manufacturing, and creating instruments that expand what guitars can do. He focuses daily on lean improvements and delivering an exceptional synthesizer experience for guitarists.

                                                                                                             

Aure Prochazka

Developer of the MIDI Pro Editor

Aure Prochazka is a software developer and the creator of the MIDI Pro editor for macOS and iPad, playing a central role in supporting and extending the capabilities of the MIDI Pro instrument. A dedicated guitarist, Aure often enters creative phases of daily playing with his MIDI Pro and works closely with Rob O'Reilly to develop and refine the platform. He is also the lead developer of AudioKit Synth One—the world’s most downloaded open-source iOS synthesizer—and the founder of AudioKit, a popular audio framework for mobile and desktop platforms. Outside of music and software, Aure is an avid mountain biker who enjoys hitting the trails whenever he can.

                                                                                                             

Rob M

Guitar Luthier | Quality Control Manager

Rob M is a true all-rounder. With a background in helicopter mechanics and a love for guitars, he brings unmatched skill to instrument setup—many customers say it’s the best in the world. He specializes in fixing and building anything we can dream up, and he's also our drone-flying, motorbike-riding Swiss army knife. Rob handles the final inspections on all instruments, overseeing quality control to ensure every guitar is perfect before it ships. His sharp eye and hands-on approach guarantee that every detail of our guitars meets the highest standards—exactly what you'd expect from a world-class instrument.

                                                                                                             

 

Rudi Salm

Production Engineer – CNC & Finishing Specialist

Originally from Germany, Rudi moved to Ireland to enjoy the rugged beauty of the coast—and never looked back. He began his career with an apprenticeship in steel fabrication before moving into computer IT, giving him a rare combination of hands-on craftsmanship and technical precision. Rudi brings a methodical mindset to our workshop, specializing in CNC machining and fine woodwork finishing. His work ensures that every detail of our guitar body and neck manufacture meets the highest standards. When he's not in the workshop, Rudi is applying the same level of craftsmanship to restoring his home—under close supervision from his two cats, who take their role as project managers very seriously.

                                                                                                             

Katie C 
Creative & Operations Support
Katie brings a unique creative flair and grounded perspective to the team. Whether she’s behind the scenes helping with operational systems, customer communications, or simply offering great advice, her presence makes the team stronger.

                                                                                                             

Phil Samways

Co-Inventor | Founding Engineer

Phil’s influence on the MIDI Pro system is undeniable. With over 40 years of experience in digital and analog design, he was involved from the very beginning - contributing to the core development of the MIDI Pro system from 2012 to 2020 and being named as inventor on the original patent filings. Phil lectured in digital systems at the University of Limerick for over 30 years and developed early technologies in speech and image processing. While no longer involved in day-to-day development, his foundational work and deep insight continue to shape how the system performs today. Outside of engineering, he’s a national award-winning ballroom dancer, a passionate student of astrophysics and the universe—and a lifelong animal lover who always has a loyal dog by his side.

                                                                                                             

 

Shea T

Customer Service & Logistics Coordinator

Shea is the friendly and efficient bridge between our workshop and the outside world. She handles customer service, invoicing, shipping, and email communications—making sure every order runs smoothly from start to finish. With a calm and organised approach, Shea keeps everything on track and helps deliver a great experience to every customer. Her behind-the-scenes work is a vital part of keeping the whole operation running seamlessly.