Overview
Electro-Voice, Inc. (EV) is a U.S.-based manufacturer of professional audio equipment, founded in 1930. The company became widely known for microphones, loudspeakers, and sound reinforcement systems, and played a significant role in both consumer and professional audio markets. Electro-Voice was also involved in communications electronics through its postwar merger with Radio Manufacturing Engineers (RME).
Technical Specifications
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1930 |
| Founders | Lou Burroughs, Albert R. Kahn |
| Industry | Audio electronics |
| Primary Products | Microphones, loudspeakers, audio systems |
| Country | United States |
| Key Location | Buchanan, Michigan |
| Later Ownership | Gulton Industries; Telex Communications; Bosch Communications Systems |
Description
Electro-Voice began as a manufacturer of microphones and quickly expanded into loudspeakers and complete audio systems. The company gained a strong reputation for engineering innovation and product reliability, supplying equipment for broadcasting, public address systems, and professional sound applications.
Following World War II, Electro-Voice expanded its capabilities by merging with Radio Manufacturing Engineers (RME), adding communications receiver technology to its portfolio. RME continued to operate as a division within Electro-Voice, producing shortwave and amateur radio receivers.
Electro-Voice products were widely used in commercial, industrial, and entertainment settings. The company’s microphones and speakers became industry standards in many applications, including live sound reinforcement and recording.
History
Electro-Voice was founded in 1930 and initially focused on servicing and manufacturing microphones. During World War II, the company contributed to military electronics production, which accelerated its growth and technical expertise.
After the war, Electro-Voice expanded through acquisition and merger, including the integration of Radio Manufacturing Engineers. This allowed the company to diversify into communications receivers alongside its core audio business.
In 1962, the RME division was absorbed into GC Electronics, a division of Textron Electronics, marking a shift away from communications receivers for Electro-Voice. The company continued to focus on audio equipment, strengthening its position in professional sound markets.
In later decades, Electro-Voice underwent several ownership changes. It became part of Gulton Industries, then Telex Communications, and eventually Bosch Communications Systems. Under Bosch, the Electro-Voice brand continues to operate, producing professional audio equipment.
Timeline
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1930 | Electro-Voice founded by Lou Burroughs and Albert R. Kahn |
| 1940s | Expands during World War II through military electronics production |
| Post-WWII | Merges with Radio Manufacturing Engineers (RME) |
| Late 1940s–1950s | RME operates as a division of Electro-Voice, producing receivers |
| 1962 | RME division transferred to GC Electronics (Textron) |
| 1960s–1970s | Electro-Voice focuses on microphones and loudspeakers |
| 1970s | Acquired by Gulton Industries |
| 1980s | Becomes part of Telex Communications |
| 2006 | Telex (including Electro-Voice) acquired by Bosch Communications Systems |
| Present | Continues as a Bosch brand producing professional audio equipment |