Eminence Speaker, a manufacturer of professional audio and musical instrument loudspeakers, high frequency devices and components, is celebrating 50 years.
In 1966, Bob Gault founded what was to become the world’s largest loudspeaker manufacturing company after working as an engineer for Magnavox and CTS (Chicago Telephone Supply). Gault started Eminence building only three 18” speakers per day, based on a commitment from Ampeg’s Everett Hull. Under the leadership of Gault and most recently his son, Rob, the company’s capacity grew to over 10,000 speakers per day, employing nearly 200 people.
“The Eminence Speaker factory is like my brother. We’ve grown up together side-by-side.” said Rob Gault, chairman. “I’m grateful to my family for the opportunity and to God for bringing together such a great group of people who make up the Eminence family.”
Originally a supplier to OEM manufacturers only, Eminence began distributing its own line of branded products in 2000, and currently distributes to over 90 countries. In 2006, Eminence expanded its worldwide operations with the addition of Eminence Dongguan Enterprise Ltd. The 96,000 sq. ft. facility was part of the international Eminence effort to provide loudspeaker manufacturing capability in areas strategically located near manufacturers of musical instrument and professional audio products. In 2009, Eminence further expanded its Asia operations with the addition of the Eminence Cabinet Shop, providing turn-key solutions for professional audio enclosures, finished systems and components, and guitar and bass amplifiers.
“NAMM is proud to recognize Eminence Speaker LLC for their 50 years of service to their community, staff and to the music and sound products industry,” said Joe Lamond, NAMM president and CEO. “Their hard work and willingness to adapt, as well as their commitment to making this world a more musical place, have helped them stand the test of time and will be the driver of their future success.”
