Ernie Ball to Acquire Source Audio
Brian Ball, CEO of Ernie Ball
Ernie Ball Inc., the world’s leading manufacturer of premium guitar strings, bass strings and musical instrument accessories, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Source Audio, the Massachusetts-based company behind some of the most innovative and acclaimed effects pedals in modern music.
The move marks a defining moment for both companies. It carries Ernie Ball’s six-decade legacy of shaping how musicians sound – a journey that began at the string and now extends into the effects that color a player’s tone – while giving Source Audio the global reach and resources of a family-owned industry leader, without compromising the musician-first spirit that built its reputation.
The acquisition gives Ernie Ball an immediate and credible presence in the premium effects category – one of the most dynamic segments in the instrument market – while opening Ernie Ball’s global distribution network, artist relationships, marketing strength and manufacturing discipline to Source Audio. The shared goal is to bring Source Audio’s innovation to far more musicians around the world while protecting what makes the brand special.
“Source Audio has built one of the most creative and respected effects platforms in our industry,” said Brian Ball, CEO of Ernie Ball. “What excites me isn’t just the technology; it’s the way their pedals inspire musicians to find sounds they didn’t know they were looking for. Ernie Ball has always existed to help artists create, and Source Audio gives us a powerful new way to do exactly that.”
“Source Audio has always been driven by innovation and the desire to give musicians new ways to create,” said Roger Smith, CEO and Co-Founder of Source Audio. “From the beginning, our goal has been to combine world-class sound design with powerful technology in a way that inspires players. Ernie Ball understands musicians, artists, and the culture of guitar in a way very few companies do, and that alignment is what makes this such an exciting next chapter.”
Roger Smith, CEO and Co-Founder of Source Audio
Looking ahead, Ernie Ball sees significant opportunity to raise Source Audio’s profile, deepen dealer support, broaden international distribution and explore new artist collaborations and product development. The companies will begin by supporting the existing Source Audio catalog while building a foundation for long-term growth in premium effects and music-creation tools.
Website - www.ernieball.com
Website - www.sourceaudio.net