Denmark’s DPA Microphones buys Austrian audio

DPA

This morning sees some exciting news in the world of audio with the announcement that DPA Microphones has taken a majority stake in Vienna-based Austrian Audio brand. Founded in 2017 by former AKG employees, Austrian Audio has managed to build a heritage brand that produces excellent, high-quality audio products such as microphones and headphones. In fact, when I reviewed the Austrian Audio Hi-X20 budget headphones, they quickly became my favorite.

Both brands have more than 350 years of combined engineering experience. Austrian Audio’s mission statement is to “Make Passion Heard” and that’s what the team has been doing since the company was founded in 2017 after the closure of AKG’s offices in Vienna. The company started with a core team of former AKG personnel and has since developed and manufactured microphones, headphones and audio tools.

Austrian Audio caught the attention of Denmark’s DPA Microphones due to the brand’s accelerated growth, skilled engineers and product portfolio that matches DPA’s own line. DPA is a leading manufacturer within several categories of miniature microphones, while Austrian Audio has a strong offering of large-diaphragm microphones. Both companies serve the high end of the market, with DPA positioned at the top and Austrian Audio offering a wider range of prices.

Together, the two brands can offer a wider range of products for sound engineers in industries such as broadcast, music, theatre, live events and recording studios. Joining forces, the companies will design and develop sophisticated and professional audio solutions to meet the demands within the acoustic and digital fields.

“Austrian Audio is a rising star for high-end audio solutions and I’m excited to join forces with such a strong team of audio professionals,” said DPA Microphones CEO Kalle Hvidt Nielsen. “I know that together we can offer ever more innovative products and further improve our customer service, which will take both brands to new heights.” It is impressive to see what Austria Audio has already achieved in its short lifespan and we are thrilled to welcome such a competent partner into the family.”

For Martin A. Seidl, CEO and shareholder of Austrian Audio, the acquisition is an important step towards his dream of introducing the brand’s high-quality solutions to even more sound engineers around the world.

“Kalle first approached me at an industry event where both of our brands were participating, and I was thrilled,” Seidl said. “To be recognized as a strong and influential brand after only four years on the market was a great honor for Austrian Audio, and for me personally. It is fantastic to have been selected to join forces with such an experienced and world-renowned partner. I look forward to what lies ahead for both brands, which are now in a great position to serve the professional audio industry with passionate innovation.”

Austrian Audio has made itself a strong and respected brand in the audio industry. Working in partnership with DPA Microphones, the company will continue to develop and produce high-quality audio products under its own name, still based in Vienna.

“The ultimate key to a company’s success is people and culture,” added Nielsen. “With Austrian Audio, we get a significant addition of exceptional individuals and a culture of customer-focused innovation. We are excited about the future and the opportunities this acquisition brings.”

Representatives from both companies will be available during the 2025 NAMM show to discuss this new partnership. DPA microphones are located at Booth 18206 and Austrian Audio at Booth 16102.