In the world of audio equipment, JBL and Harman Kardon are two names that often come up. Both brands are renowned for their high-quality sound products, but many consumers wonder about the relationship between the two companies. Specifically, is JBL owned by Harman Kardon? This blog will explore the history and ownership of these brands, providing clarity on their connection and what it means for consumers.
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https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harman_Kardon
Introduction
JBL is a well-established name in the audio industry, known for its wide range of products, including portable speakers, home audio systems, and professional sound equipment. Similarly, Harman Kardon has built a reputation for producing premium audio systems that emphasize design and superior sound quality. Both brands cater to different segments of the market, with JBL often focusing on portable and consumer-friendly products, while Harman Kardon targets the high-end audio market.
Understanding the ownership structure of these brands is essential for consumers who want to make informed purchasing decisions. This blog will delve into whether Harman Kardon owns JBL, the implications of this ownership, and how it affects the products that bear their names.
Does Harman Kardon Own JBL?
The simple answer to the question is that JBL is indeed owned by Harman Kardon, but it’s a bit more complex than that. Here’s a breakdown of the ownership structure and history:
https://digimigia.com/product-category/speakers/harman-kardon/
- Harman International Industries
Both JBL and Harman Kardon are part of Harman International Industries, a company that specializes in connected products for automakers, consumers, and enterprises. Harman International was founded in 1980 and quickly became a leader in the audio industry through its innovative technologies and quality products.
In 2017, Harman International was acquired by Samsung Electronics, further expanding its reach and resources. This acquisition allowed Harman to leverage Samsung’s extensive technology portfolio and global presence, enhancing its capabilities in producing consumer electronics.
- The JBL Brand History
JBL was founded in 1946 by James Bullough Lansing, an engineer and loudspeaker designer. The brand quickly became known for its high-quality loudspeakers and professional audio equipment. Over the years, JBL has expanded its product line to include consumer speakers, home theater systems, and portable Bluetooth speakers.
In 1969, JBL was acquired by the JBL Corporation and later became part of Harman International in 1988. Since then, JBL has continued to thrive under the Harman umbrella, maintaining its reputation for quality sound and innovative designs.
- The Harman Kardon Brand History
Harman Kardon was founded in 1953 by Sidney Harman and Bernard Kardon. The brand is recognized for its commitment to high-fidelity sound and elegant design, producing premium audio systems for home and automotive use. Harman Kardon has also received numerous awards for its innovative designs and sound quality.
As part of Harman International, Harman Kardon benefits from the same technological advancements and resources that support JBL. This relationship allows both brands to share knowledge and expertise, ultimately leading to better products for consumers.
- Product Overlap and Synergy
While JBL and Harman Kardon operate under the same parent company, they serve different markets and consumer needs. JBL is known for its rugged, portable speakers which has light like jbl speaker with light and professional audio equipment, making it a favorite among casual listeners and audio professionals alike. In contrast, Harman Kardon focuses on high-end audio products, often emphasizing aesthetics and integrated home systems.
Despite their differences, both brands benefit from shared technology and research. For instance, advancements in audio processing or Bluetooth technology developed by one brand can be utilized by the other, leading to improved sound quality and user experience across the board.
- Consumer Perception
Understanding the ownership of JBL and Harman Kardon can influence consumer perceptions. Many people view JBL as a more accessible brand, offering products that cater to a broad audience. In contrast, Harman Kardon is often associated with luxury and premium pricing. This distinction can help consumers align their purchasing decisions with their preferences and budgets.
Additionally, the relationship between the two brands underscores the importance of brand loyalty. Consumers who trust JBL for its reliability and performance may be more inclined to explore Harman Kardon products, knowing they are part of the same family. Similarly, Harman Kardon users might consider JBL products for their portability and versatility.
- The Future of JBL and Harman Kardon
With the backing of Samsung, both JBL and Harman Kardon are well-positioned for future growth. The integration of advanced technologies, such as smart home capabilities and enhanced connectivity features, is likely to shape the next generation of audio products from both brands. Consumers can expect more innovative solutions that combine sound quality with integrated technology.
Samsung’s investment in Harman International also opens the door for collaborations with other Samsung products, creating a more seamless audio experience across devices. This synergy can lead to exciting developments in both the JBL and Harman Kardon product lines.
Conclusion
To summarize, JBL is indeed owned by Harman Kardon, which is part of Harman International Industries, a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics. This relationship allows both brands to leverage shared technologies and resources while maintaining their unique identities and target markets.
For consumers, this means a broader range of high-quality audio products to choose from, whether you’re looking for rugged portable speakers from JBL or premium home audio systems from Harman Kardon. Understanding the connection between these brands can help you make informed decisions based on your specific audio needs and preferences.
As both brands continue to innovate and expand under the guidance of Harman International and Samsung, consumers can expect more cutting-edge products that deliver exceptional sound quality and enhanced features. Whether you’re a longtime fan of JBL or considering a Harman Kardon system for the first time, you can trust that both brands are committed to providing top-tier audio experiences.
