Our History
Designed for Performance. Built for Impact.
Desco Audio & Video was founded in 1969 by Dick Scott and Gene DeRousie—two friends with a shared passion for electronics and a commitment to quality service. Combining their last names to form “Desco,” they opened a small shop on Olympia’s west side, focused on delivering high-performance audio and video systems with a personal touch that big-box retailers simply couldn’t match.
Dick’s son, Jeffrey Scott, grew up in the business. He started out sweeping floors and making deliveries but quickly found his calling in audio-video design and customer relationships. Known for his charisma and deep passion for hi-fi, Jeffrey had a remarkable way of walking into a home as a salesperson and leaving as a friend. Under his leadership, Desco evolved with the times—expanding into home automation, commercial integration, and custom AV solutions—all while staying true to its roots: personal service, trusted expertise, and genuine care for the people we serve.
After Jeffrey’s passing in 2024, his daughter Marie Di Scala stepped into leadership, becoming the third generation of Scotts to run Desco AV. With a deep respect for the company’s legacy and a clear vision for its future, Marie continues to lead Desco with the same values that built it—craftsmanship, reliability, and relationships that last.
Today, more than 50 years since our founding, Desco remains proudly family-owned and rooted in the South Sound. Whether we’re designing a smart home, setting up a dedicated listening room, or outfitting a commercial space, we do it with intention, care, and a commitment to making every space sound—and feel—exceptional.
FAQ — Our History
Who founded Desco AV, and when?
Desco Audio & Video was founded in 1969 by Dick Scott and Gene DeRousie, two friends who shared a passion for electronics and a commitment to quality service. They opened a small shop on Olympia's west side, focused on delivering high-performance audio and video systems with a personal touch that big-box retailers couldn't match.
Where does the name "Desco" come from?
"Desco" comes from combining the founders' last names, Dick Scott and Gene DeRousie. It's a small detail that captures the spirit of the company from the start: two friends building something together.
Who leads Desco AV today?
Marie Di Scala leads Desco AV today. She's the daughter of Jeffrey Scott, Dick Scott's son, and stepped into leadership after Jeffrey's passing in 2024, making her the third generation of Scotts to run the company.
What services does Desco AV offer?
We design smart homes, build dedicated listening rooms, and outfit commercial spaces with custom AV solutions. The company's range grew significantly under Jeffrey Scott's leadership, expanding from audio and video into home automation and commercial integration, and that full range of services continues today.
What makes Desco different from big-box electronics retailers?
We lead with personal service and trusted expertise rather than volume sales. That approach goes back to Jeffrey Scott, who grew up in the business and was known for walking into a home as a salesperson and leaving as a friend, and it's the same relationship-driven care that guides the team today.
How long has Desco AV been in business, and where are you based?
Desco AV has been in business for more than 50 years, since our founding in 1969. We're proudly family-owned and rooted in Olympia and the greater South Sound region.