Meyer Sound

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Overview

Meyer Sound Laboratories manufactures self-powered loudspeakers, multichannel audio show control systems, electroacoustic architecture, and audio analysis tools for professional sound reinforcement, fixed installations, and sound recording. The company pioneered self-powered loudspeaker systems and innovations such as dedicated loudspeaker processors, source-independent measurement, large-scale self-powered loudspeakers, and cardioid subwoofers. It serves markets including concert touring, festivals, houses of worship, cinema, education, corporate, and residential applications, with over 100 US and international patents.

History

Founded in 1979 by John and Helen Meyer in Berkeley, California, the company started with the ACD/John Meyer studio monitor and UM-1 UltraMonitor. It introduced the MSL-10 high-level loudspeaker array in 1981 and shifted to self-powered systems with the MSL-4 in 1994, converting its entire loudspeaker line thereafter. Meyer Sound acquired LCS Audio around 2004 to expand into digital audio show control systems.

Product Lines

Product Line	Positioning	Price Range
PANTHER line array	Large-format linear line array for touring	$10,000 - $50,000 per unit
MICA curvilinear array	Compact high-power array for installations	$5,000 - $15,000 per unit
MSL series	High-power self-powered loudspeakers for reinforcement	$8,000 - $20,000 per unit
HD series studio monitors	Self-powered monitors for studios	$2,000 - $10,000 per unit
Cardioid subwoofers	Directional subs for controlled low-frequency	$5,000 - $15,000 per unit
Active acoustic systems	Electroacoustic architecture for venues	$20,000 - $100,000+

Manufacturing

Products are designed and manufactured in Berkeley, California, with rigorous in-house quality control. The company maintains global operations but centers production at its headquarters facility. Recent products like PANTHER emphasize sustainable manufacturing practices.

Notable Products

MSL-10 - Pioneering high-level loudspeaker array released in 1981 for large-scale reinforcement.
UM-1 UltraMonitor - First product in 1979 using patented low-distortion horn design, used by Grateful Dead.
HD-1 - Fully integrated self-powered studio monitor introduced in 1989, TEC Award winner.
MSL-4 - Marked entry into self-powered systems for high-level sound reinforcement in 1994.
PANTHER - Large-format linear line array designed with sustainability focus.

Reputation

Meyer Sound is regarded by professionals as a premium brand for reliable, high-fidelity self-powered loudspeakers with consistent performance in demanding live sound and installation environments. Enthusiasts and engineers praise its innovations and measurement accuracy, though high pricing limits accessibility for smaller setups. The company holds strong industry respect through patents and awards, with few criticisms beyond cost.

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