Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) just announced the acquisition of several assets of Groove Tubes LLC. Most notably, Fender purchased the Groove Tubes brand, and they're keeping Groove Tubes founder Aspen Pittman around as a consultant.

Groove Tubes has been around since 1979 outputting high quality amp tubes. Since then, Groove Tubes has expanded to develop and produce microphones, some guitar accessories and other electronic devices.

Pleased about the acquisition, Matt Janopal, President and COO of FMIC had this to say:

"An important part of Fender's history revolves around tube amplifiers. The '59 Bassman and the '65 Twin Reverb are great examples of our long history of amplifier innovation that dates back to 1946. More importantly, these amps have been instrumental in shaping modern music today. FMIC will be a great steward of Groove Tubes going forward as we combine our deep experience in amp design with the service and testing capabilities that Groove Tubes and Aspen Pittman are known for."

Aspen Pittman, the legendary founder of Groove Tubes talks about joining the Fender team:

"After 30 years building Groove Tube products for the best players in the world, I am thrilled to join Fender, the most respected player in our industry. I knew Leo personally and he inspired me as a great inventor and changed my life. I also knew and deeply respected Bill Schultz as the great leader who revitalized Fender. Now, I am both blessed and humbled by the invitation to join this incredible team where my life's work has been secured under the most favorable circumstances I could have ever imagined, like a dream come true."