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HISTORY
OF MTX
In the early 1970s, Loyd Ivey's passion for creating an exceptional listening experience had outgrown his Chicago garage. With the goal of revolutionizing the listening experience for everyone, Loyd recognized that it was not just about what you heard but how it made you feel and where it could take you. This epiphany led to the birth of MTX Audio, a company that has been at the forefront of audio technology for the last 50 years.
1960s
THE CHICAGO GARAGE
In the 1960s Loyd Ivey began building speakers in his Chicago garage. The idea was to create better products to enhance the listening experience. Loyd knew there were a lot of places sound could take you without ever really moving. And he set out to build a better method of transport.
1971
IVEY ELECTRONICS LAUNCHES
In 1971 Ivey Electronics was born. Starting from a passion for music and enhancement, sound reproduction became a reality.
1974-1979
EXPANSION AND GROWTH
Loyd found commercial success and growth. In 1974, Ivey Electronics merged with American Case Company, giving rise to American Acoustic Labs (AAL). Later, in 1979 the company expanded again, acquiring Matrecs and facilitating the growth of mobile audio manufacturing.
1983-1984
THE BIRTH OF MTX AUDIO
In 1983, Matrecs evolved into MTX Audio, marking a significant milestone in the company's journey. Shortly after that, in 1984 introduced the first mobile-loaded subwoofer enclosure, cementing our place in a rapidly growing mobile audio industry.
1985
MiTek IS FORMED
MiTek Corporation is formed to house our growing suite of companies. Loyd Ivey was elected Director of IASCA, demonstrating the company’s dedication to mobile audio as a flourishing category.
1990-1997
INNOVATION AFTER INNOVATION
From 1990 - 1997 there was a flurry of acquisitions and innovations. First, in 1990, MiTek acquired Oaktron and is now a leading OEM audio manufacturer for military aircraft, ships, and submarines. From there, the following achievements were accomplished:
- 1990 MTX Launches Blue Thunder Amplifiers, a global phenomenon that shattered sales records.
- 1991 MiTek ranked number 57 among Inc. Magazine's 500 Fastest-Growing Companies
- 1994 MTX receives the highly coveted ISO 9001 certification
- 1996 MiTek acquires the Xtant brand of high-end audio products
- 1997 MTX launches the Thunder225HO Amplifier, One of the first ever two-channel car amplifiers capable of 1Ω stability and remarkably low distortion.
1999
EXPANSION KICKS INTO OVERDRIVE
In 1999, MiTek acquired three notable companies: Coustic Audio Company, known for its high-performance car audio; DCM Loudspeakers, specializing in high-end home theater speakers; and ATLAS SOUNDOLIER, a leader in commercial audio solutions. These acquisitions expanded MiTek's reach across various sectors, from everyday drivers to audiophiles and professionals, solidifying its position in the audio market.
2001
THE START OF THUNDER
MTX Audio's reputation soared to new heights with the launch of the MTX RFL (Real F***ing Loud) Subwoofer in 2001, leading to countless wins at SPL events within the USA and around the world. MTX is named #24 on Phoenix Business Journal's list of the top 100 privately held companies in Arizona.
2004
PIMP MY RIDE
MTX Audio gained widespread popularity by making many appearances on the popular show "Pimp My Ride." MTX subwoofers were often the main point of attraction in the award-winning show cars produced by MTX and their dealers.
2004 -2007
THUNDER REIGNS
In 2004, MTX launches the epic Thunder9500 Subwoofers at CES. A bass juggernaut weighing in at over 50 pounds each and still punching well above their weight class.
In 2005, MTX introduces the JackHammer, the world’s largest production car subwoofer, weighing in at over 350 pounds the legend of this beast of a Superwoofer lives on.
2007 MiTek receives a patent for square speaker design with the Thunder Square subwoofers. The age of thunder rolls on.
2009
MiTek EXPANDS GLOBALLY
In 2009, MiTek opens an Asian Pacific location while also acquiring Innovative Electrical Designs (IED). Loyd Ivey is also honored with the Per Haugen Lifetime Achievement Award as a result of his decades of audio accomplishments and industry contributions.
2011-2015
PROGRESS KEEPS ON ROLLING
In 2011, MiTek acquires ETA Systems and, a year later, adds A-Line Acoustics to its portfolio of brands. Later in 2014, Loyd Ivey is inducted into the distinguished Consumer Electronics Hall of Fame. The following year, MTX Audio becomes the first factory-installed audio system in a Polaris RZR side-by-side.
2018
PASSING THE TORCH
After nearly five decades of shaping the audio industry, Loyd Ivey retires. His son, John Ivey, becomes President and CEO of MiTek, safeguarding his father’s legacy and accelerating the company’s growth and commitment to the industry-leading technology.
2020-2023
EVOLVING INTO THE NOW
In 2020, MiTek invents the world's first factory-installed audio system for Personal Watercraft, providing an entirely new way to enjoy the waves. In 2023, MiTek announced a strategic collaborative partnership with high-end Scottish audio manufacturer ‘FYNE Audio’.
LEADING THE AUDIO INDUSTRY
With over 1.5 million square feet of dedicated US manufacturing and distribution facilities, MTX Audio is a leader in sound. After decades spent “Feeling the Thunder” and strengthening our hold on basshead culture, there is still more to do. Follow along as we imagine, improve, innovate, and connect people through the power of sound.
