Ernie Ball has made a major play in the effects pedal market by announcing the acquisition of Source Audio.
It’s a significant move from the string maker, which is set to take control of one of the most innovative effects specialists of the past few years.
The acquisition also marks the first time Ernie Ball has branched into the world of premium effects, expanding its scope well beyond its own in-house roster of volume pedals.
Founded in 2006, Source Audio has become a key player in the premium effects market, releasing a broad array of innovative drive, delay, reverb and modulation effects.
Highlights include the Artifakt Lo-Fi Elements, Encounter, ZIO Analog Front End + Boost, and Collider Delay+Reverb.
Source Audio has also earned multiple product and innovation awards over the past two decades, and as per Source Audio's website its pedals can be heard on recordings from the likes of U2, David Gilmour, John Mayer, Aerosmith and more.
“Source Audio has built one of the most creative and respected effects platforms in our industry,” says 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.”
Ernie Ball’s acquisition could have a knock-on effect for the rest of the market. Source Audio’s credentials have never been in doubt. But if Ernie Ball’s connections can help put its pedals into the hands of more players, then competing premium effects firms such as Strymon, Eventide and Keeley could be faced with a rejuvenated competitor.
Going forward, it will largely be business as usual for Source Audio. It will continue operating under its own brand, but with the backing of Ernie Ball, which will look to scale the company’s profile and appeal.
Existing Source Audio pedals are expected to remain available, with an eye on developing future products and pedals mooted. Don’t expect any Ernie Ball pedals, either. This move will be about increasing Source Audio’s exposure and putting them in the hands of more players.
Roger Smith, CEO and Co-Founder of Source Audio, comments, “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.
“Ernie Ball gives Source Audio the scale, support, and reach to keep growing while preserving the spirit of what we built. I am confident this is the right home for the brand, the products, the technology, and the community of musicians who have supported us from the start.”
Visit Ernie Ball and Source Audio for more.
