The Story of Audio Port Acoustics
A Legacy of Innovation in Sound
Audio Port Acoustics was born out of a lifelong passion for sound. Our journey began with founder Lawrence M. Port, whose extensive career in audio, video, and lighting spans over four decades. With 20 years of experience as a professional disc jockey and a deep understanding of acoustic engineering, Lawrence set out on a mission to redefine live sound performance. His goal was simple yet ambitious—to create a speaker system that was not only lightweight and efficient but also delivered pristine sound quality without compromise.
As Lawrence developed and fine-tuned his designs over the years, fate introduced him to Richard Dalbec, the mastermind behind Dalbec Audiolab and the designer of the legendary sound system at Studio 54—one of the most iconic nightclubs in history. Recognizing their shared vision and expertise, the two collaborated to develop a new line of speakers that would revolutionize the industry.
A New Era in Sound
Lawrence and Richard’s partnership led to the development of the Ethan 8, a groundbreaking speaker utilizing Dalbec’s patented LQt technology—a system designed for maximum efficiency, sonic purity, and portability. But the real test came when the speakers were taken out of the lab and into real-world environments.
From auditoriums and nightclubs to the boardwalk of Coney Island, the Ethan 8 exceeded every expectation. With just a single 20-amp outlet, it powered a full-scale sound system, producing crystal-clear detail, unmatched imaging, and transparency across the entire listening area. Despite its compact size, the Ethan 8 delivered concert-level performance. Even the GMC Safari mini-van carrying the entire system seemed like a fitting metaphor—powerful yet efficient, compact yet commanding.
The defining moment came when the Ethan 8 was tested in Richard Dalbec’s own backyard. As they set up the speakers and pushed them to their limits, something extraordinary happened—the sound carried miles away, drawing in local law enforcement who were stunned by the sheer output of just four 50 lb Ethan 8 speakers on stands with subs running on a single 15-amp outlet. They had never heard anything like it.
At that moment, Lawrence knew they had something special. He called Richard and said, “We really have something here. I’m coming up to you—you need to hear this.” The two engineers compared the Ethan 8 to legendary Studio 54 subwoofers and other larger, heavier speakers. And yet, the Ethan 8 stood its ground—delivering remarkable power, clarity, and efficiency.
What started as a personal project had become something much bigger. Lawrence and Richard knew they couldn’t keep this innovation to themselves—the world needed to hear it.
From Passion Project to Industry Disruptor
As demand grew, the Ethan 8 moved from concept to full-scale production. But Lawrence and Richard didn’t stop there. They went on to design a complementary stage subwoofer, known as the Miki Stage Sub, capable of matching the Ethan 8’s incredible performance. The results were nothing short of phenomenal, leading to further innovations in speaker technology.
One of their proudest achievements, the Acoustic Engine, is a revolutionary interface, processing, and power rack that simplifies setup and breakdown while maintaining the power of a full concert-level system for 2,500 people. Weighing about the same as a powered speaker, the Acoustic Engine has an ultra-compact footprint and delivers unmatched efficiency in live sound reinforcement.
In 2016, we proudly debuted our cutting-edge speakers and Acoustic Engine at the DJ Expo in Atlantic City, solidifying Audio Port Acoustics as an innovator in the professional audio industry.
Our Mission – Elevating Sound, Elevating Experiences
At Audio Port Acoustics, our philosophy is simple:
🎵 We believe music should move you, not just be heard.
Our systems are built to capture the essence of sound—allowing listeners to experience the depth, power, and emotion of live music in its purest form. Whether in an intimate venue or an expansive concert hall, our technology ensures that every note, every beat, and every moment is delivered with unparalleled clarity.
From our first prototype to today’s cutting-edge designs, we continue to push the boundaries of audio engineering. Our passion for innovation fuels our work, and we are committed to delivering systems that not only set new industry standards but also bring people closer to the music they love.
We invite you to experience the difference and join us on this journey of sound, innovation, and excellence.
Thank You,
Lawrence M. Port
Founder & President, Audio Port Acoustics