The chips from UT spinoff Axign distinguish themselves by combining superior audio quality with very low energy consumption, two important features for modern, portable audio systems. CEO of Axign, Paul Sandberg: “We have been able to grow Axign into a global player in the audio industry. MPS and Axign have been working strategically together for a long time because the products fit well together. With the increasing integration of components, the acquisition is a logical next step.” In addition, MPS's sales organization and reputation will help expand the customer base in the consumer and automotive industries, Sandberg expects: “This is an important strategic step for us in our further development towards market leadership.”
“When I listened to music from an Axign amplifier, I instantly recognized the excellent sound quality — the rich texture, wide dynamics, and clear spatial resolution,” said Michael Hsing, the founder and CEO of MPS. “I realized that combined with MPS’s technologies, we can bring that audiophile quality to the mass market. Axign’s passion for delivering best-in-class performance products matches our culture — the pursuit of excellence.” MPS will retain the Dutch team and the office in Enschede will become their 'Center of Excellence' for audio applications, leveraging Axign’s established local presence with universities.
Axign was founded in 2014 and has supplied audio controller chips to leading brands such as Harman Kardon, JBL, Bluesound and Masimo. Initially, the company received backing primarily from business angels. As it progressed, notable investors such as Innovation Industries, KBC Focus Fund, Ten Cate Investeringsmaatschappij, Atlantic Bridge, FORWARD.one, and Innovatiefonds Overijssel came on board, strengthening its financial support.
Arjan Gobel, partner at FORWARD.one: “We are excited about this acquisition as it will allow Axign's technology to be implemented on a global scale. MPS has the resources and expertise to bring Axign to the next level.”
Monolithic Power Systems, Inc. (“MPS”) is a fabless global company that provides high performance, semiconductor-based power electronics solutions. MPS’s mission is to reduce energy and material consumption to improve all aspects of quality of life and create a sustainable future. Founded in 1997 by our CEO Michael Hsing, MPS has three core strengths: deep system level knowledge, strong semiconductor design expertise, and innovative proprietary technologies in the areas of semiconductor processes, system integration, and packaging. These combined advantages enable MPS to deliver reliable, compact, and monolithic solutions that are highly energy-efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible while providing a consistent return on investment to our stockholders. MPS can be contacted through its website at www.monolithicpower.com or its support offices around the world.
Axign’s mission is to create the ultimate audio experience for high volume products at lowest system cost enabled by Axign’s disruptive innovative & patented inventions. Axign is based in The Netherlands with offices in Enschede (headquarter) and Nijmegen.
FORWARD.one is a venture capital fund specializing in high-tech hardware startups and scale-ups. Managing over 200 million euros across various funds, FORWARD.one invests in sectors including robotics, semiconductors, photonics, sensors, virtual/augmented reality, biomanufacturing, and audio technology. With a seasoned team of financial professionals and tech entrepreneurs, FORWARD.one is committed to actively supporting its portfolio companies in reaching their fullest potential.
