After three consecutive years of contraction, the U.S. musical instrument industry is entering a new chapter—defined not by collapse, but by recalibration. Tariff headwinds, shifting generational behaviors, and channel disruption are reshaping what it means to compete and win in MI.

Fortune will favor those who act decisively: focusing product strategy on true customer needs, rethinking their innovation approach, and finding new ways to go to market with agility and discipline. The industry’s next wave won’t be defined by nostalgia or incumbency—it will belong to the brands that embrace change with clarity and purpose.

In today’s competitive audio product market, traditional marketing funnels are becoming less effective. By adopting a flywheel strategy, brands can deliver high-quality customer experiences that create a self-reinforcing growth engine, turning satisfied customers into organic promoters. Learn how this approach can drive long-term growth and loyalty.

Sound has been the thread weaving through the fabric of my life for over four decades. In this essay, I explore why sound—our most fundamental sense—has captivated me for so long. From singing show tunes as a toddler to obsessing over drum gear, my passion for sound has only deepened. But sound is more than a personal journey; it’s a universal experience. We all hear differently, and our individual needs shape how we engage with the world of sound. Could personalizing shared experiences be the key to deeper connections with each other?

As QSC pursues its ambitious platform vision for Pro Audio, the company can draw important lessons from the challenges faced by Sonos. While Sonos struggled with balancing progress and user loyalty, QSC must navigate the delicate balance between pushing the Pro Audio industry forward and respecting the deep needs of its users. Pro Audio professionals demand precision, control, and flexibility—even when it introduces complexity.

In an evolving music industry, strategic consolidation could be key to fostering more innovation, ensuring sustainability, and delivering comprehensive solutions to creators and professionals alike. Explore how RCF, Native Instruments, and Zildjian could lead the charge with thoughtful acquisitions that would enhance their offerings and support the long-term health of the entire music ecosystem. These moves are more than business strategy—they’re a commitment to the future of music makers.

I spent countless afternoons as a teenager obsessing over drum magazines and catalogs, dreaming of one day working in the industry I loved. Little did I know that decades later, a recent professional disappointment would reignite that childhood passion in a profound way.

Imagine a world where drum kits are more than just instruments—they’re dynamic expressions of creativity and innovation. As a lifelong drummer with deep experience in music and technology, I’ve observed how the drum and percussion industry has stagnated despite its vast potential. The issues are clear: innovation is rare, brands lack distinction, and there’s a gap between drummer needs and product offerings. What if we could transform this industry by integrating cutting-edge tech, deeply understanding drummer needs, and rethinking our approach to marketing and sales? This article outlines a strategy to turn these challenges into opportunities and set a new rhythm for success. Let’s explore how we can reinvigorate the drum and percussion market together.

Private Equity might sound like some far-off, esoteric concept that could never make its way into a tiny, sleepy corner of the world like MI and Pro Audio. Don’t be so sure. Ever heard of Guitar Genter, Sweetwater, Fender, Avid (Pro Tools), Mackie, EAW, Ampeg, Martin, Blue Microphones, Native Instruments, iZotope, or Bose Professional? All currently or recently owned by PE firms.

For music and audio company founders seeking an exit, this article is an overview of your likely option paths and considerations you should start thinking about and working on to maximize your reward for all the hard work and sacrifice.

Nothing makes sense, the old playbooks don’t work like they used to, the competition is competing harder, and you feel that old Heraclitus chestnut, “change is the only constant,” big time. Leading through VUCA requires a shift from traditional management practices to a more adaptable, human-centric approach.

There are a shocking number of very talented, hardworking folks who are out of work. Both recently and longer term. Having been there myself, and with genuine empathy, I want to say that if you’re looking, activating your network is the key to getting up off the mat.

As I speak with industry colleagues and contacts, the concept of overwhelm and the unrelenting quantity of tasks to be done is the most common theme I’m hearing. This article can help you understand why everybody feels so overwhelmed all the time, and give you specific, actionable things you can do to feel a little better at work within the next 30 days.

Let's take a look at 10 innovative products that use AI to unlock what would otherwise not be possible for musicians, producers, and content creators. Inspiration for your PMs, Designers, and Engineers; competitors to be aware of, or perhaps M&A targets!

Embrace the future with a clear understanding of AI’s potential and limitations, and unlock new opportunities for growth in music, audio, and creator products.