AVTech Media Americas Finds New Owner as Pray Media Acquires Iconic Brands

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(May 30, 2026) One of the longest-running names in enthusiast audio and home entertainment publishing has found a new owner.

Pray Media Holdings has announced the acquisition of AVTech Media Americas, bringing names like Stereophile, Sound & Vision, Analog Planet, and Shutterbug under new ownership. The deal also includes affiliated media brands and related digital assets, with Pray Media Holdings positioning itself as a company focused on preserving established enthusiast publications while expanding their digital reach and business opportunities.

For home theater enthusiasts, the biggest question mark may surround Sound & Vision.

The publication's print edition quietly came to an end in late 2024, closing the book on a magazine that had been a familiar presence on newsstands for decades. Digital publishing continued for a time, though new content largely stopped appearing toward the end of 2025. Interestingly, the site did publish a fresh news story on May 26, 2026, just days before this acquisition was announced, suggesting that at least some activity remains underway.

Whether the new ownership intends to revive regular publishing efforts or pursue a different direction altogether remains unclear.

What is clear is that these brands still carry considerable weight among enthusiasts. Stereophile remains one of the most recognizable names in two-channel audio journalism. Sound & Vision helped generations of readers navigate massive shifts in AV technology. Analog Planet has built a strong following among vinyl enthusiasts, while Shutterbug continues to serve photography hobbyists and professionals.

According to Keith Pray, founder and president of Pray Media Holdings, the acquisition is rooted in a long-standing relationship with the brands.

"My relationship with these brands began in 1999, and they have been an important part of my professional life ever since," Pray said. "For more than 25 years, I have seen firsthand the passion of the readers, creators, advertisers, and communities that surround them. To now guide their next chapter is both humbling and exciting."

The announcement also drew comments from Paul Miller, Editorial Director of AVTech Media and incoming Technical Editor of Stereophile, who emphasized continuity and editorial stability, particularly for Stereophile and its readership.

So, what happens next? Stay tuned...

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I hate to see that there are no print media sources left for low-end and mid-fi gear. I subscribe to Stereophile, but for the majority, it's high-end. I can't remember the last time I read a review on a $500-1000 receiver, amplifier, or speaker. If they are there... they are few and far between the high-end. I understand Stereophile has built its own reputation in the high-end market, so they have to maintain that trend, and regardless of their claims to the contrary, they will attract bigger advertisers by continuing it. Then again, maybe no one cares about reading reviews on the inexpensive gear, and they just rely on Amazon and forum reviews.
 
Sonnie, your observation is a sign of where the market’s at. And you’re 1000% right - we need more affordable gear reviews!
 
As a longtime subscriber to Home Theater and then to Sound and Vision I was not happy when they told me they were shutting down and could not continue my subscription.
I am very glad to be a member of AV NIRVANA which is a great source for tech support and keeping me current in the audio video arena.
 
Really glad you’re here, MusicMan!

Losing print editions of traditional media has definitely been disappointing - and it’s great to see something like SV get another shot.
 
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