Beyerdynamic Sold to Chinese OEM Specialist Cosonic

Beyerdynamic sold to Cosonic in a landmark move that ends over a century of German family ownership. The renowned audio brand, based in Heilbronn and known for its iconic DT series headphones, has been acquired for €122 million by Cosonic Intelligent Technologies. Operating through its Singapore entity and backed by Chinese parent Jiahe Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd., Cosonic now controls Beyerdynamic’s global operations, including subsidiaries in the United States, China, and India. While the deal awaits regulatory clearance in China, no antitrust or national security filings are required in Germany or the U.S., paving the way for a swift closure. Founded in 1924, Beyerdynamic made history with innovations like the DT 48— the world’s first dynamic headphones—underscoring a legacy of engineering excellence that Cosonic aims to preserve and enhance.

This strategic acquisition reflects a growing trend of Asian companies transitioning from OEM suppliers to global brand owners. Cosonic, a major audio component manufacturer serving top-tier clients such as Philips, JBL, and Beats, derived approximately 77% of its 2024 revenue—or roughly US$343 million—from headphone manufacturing. Now, with Beyerdynamic sold to Cosonic, the focus shifts to leveraging the German brand’s premium innovations—like Tesla magnetic drivers and Hi-Fi wireless systems—and strengthening Cosonic’s penetration into established sales channels across Europe, North America, and Asia. The move is also expected to expand Cosonic’s footprint in the premium audio market, a promising step up from their manufacturing roots.

Beyerdynamic CEO Andreas Rapp stated that the shareholders acknowledged future investments couldn’t be sustained under the existing structure. As such, Cosonic was selected as a long-term partner capable of driving innovation and global growth. Importantly, Beyerdynamic’s 385 employees and its Heilbronn manufacturing site—essential to the company’s “Handmade in Heilbronn” hallmark—will remain intact. Curious about how Beyerdynamic’s legacy holds up in the modern market? Explore our definitive guide to Beyerdynamic headphones and see what sets these audio titans apart. Audiophiles and industry insiders alike will be watching closely to see whether this new chapter continues the brand’s iconic reputation for German-engineered precision and sonic performance.