Cowell's `X Factor' sets US auditions

LOS ANGELES, CA Fox TV announced Thursday that the audition at the Los Angeles Sports Arena will be held March 27. Next up is Miami on April 7, followed by Newark, N.J., on April 14, Seattle on April 20 and Chicago on April 27. Tryouts will also be held in Dallas but the date wasn't announced.

"The X Factor," based on Cowell's British-born hit series and debuting on Fox this fall, is open to both solo singers and vocal groups. It allows a broader age range for contestants than "American Idol," Cowell's previous home. Singers who are 12 years old as of March 1 are eligible and there is no upper age limit.

At stake is a $5 million recording contract.