Klipsch buys Audio Products International, makers of Energy, Athena and Mirage speakers. It says they will remain independently operated entities, which is a good thing, but I wonder if they will have much influence over each other..

INDIANAPOLIS (August 15, 2006) -- Klipsch Group, Inc., parent company of Klipsch Audio Technologies, announced today the acquisition of Audio Products International Corp., (API), one of the largest speaker manufacturers in the world and the makers of the Mirage®, Energy® and Athena® Technologies brands.

"The acquisition of API will assist Klipsch in our commitment to greatly improve business operations on a global level," said Fred Klipsch, chairman, Klipsch Group. "This purchase is another step in our strategic plan of adding unique and successful loudspeaker companies to our portfolio of products."

Klipsch Group is the parent company of Klipsch Audio Technologies, Jamo International and API Brand, with companies remaining independently operated entities. The product design and engineering of the API brands will also remain separate to maintain their respective unique character and personality. Nonetheless, the Klipsch, Jamo and API brand teams will work in a cooperative fashion to develop global technology platforms and product strategies that leverage investments in R&D ensuring the Klipsch group of brands stay on the cutting-edge of product, technology and brand development.
Read the whole release..