In a significant move to strengthen its position in the global audio market, Harman, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics, has finalized its $350 million acquisition of Sound United, the former audio division of Masimo Corporation. The deal, first announced in May 2025, integrates a powerhouse lineup of audio brands—including Bowers & Wilkins, Denon, Marantz, Definitive Technology, Polk Audio, HEOS, Classé, and Boston Acoustics—into Harman’s already robust portfolio, which includes industry stalwarts like JBL and Harman Kardon. This acquisition marks a pivotal step in Samsung’s ongoing strategy to dominate the premium audio sector, building on its $8 billion purchase of Harman in 2016.
The acquisition brings together some of the most respected names in audio under one corporate umbrella, creating a synergy that Harman executives believe will drive innovation and market growth.
“HARMAN’s vision is to create experiences that enrich people’s lives through exceptional audio experiences,” said Dave Rogers, President, Lifestyle Division, HARMAN. “Sound United’s impressive roster of brands is rooted in a deep passion for sound, innovation, and commitment to quality that aligns with HARMAN’s own values. This transaction unlocks meaningful growth opportunities for everyone. It bolsters HARMAN’s strategy to build on its unparalleled success story and scale to unprecedented heights as an audio leader.”
Sound United will operate as a standalone business within Harman’s lifestyle division, a structure designed to preserve the distinct identities and loyal customer bases of each brand. This approach ensures that audiophiles and casual listeners alike will continue to experience the unique sound signatures and design philosophies of brands like Bowers & Wilkins, known for its high-fidelity speakers, and Denon, a favorite among home theater enthusiasts. Meanwhile, Harman’s existing brands, such as JBL’s portable audio solutions and Harman Kardon’s premium home systems, will benefit from shared resources and technological advancements across the expanded portfolio.
Industry analysts see the acquisition as a strategic move to counter growing competition in the audio market, where companies like Sony, Bose, and Sonos continue to innovate. By uniting Sound United’s premium and mid-range offerings with Harman’s established market presence, Samsung is positioning itself to capture a larger share of the global audio market, projected to reach $50 billion by 2027. The deal also enhances Harman’s ability to cater to diverse consumer segments, from high-end audiophiles to mainstream music lovers.
The acquisition comes at a time when demand for high-quality audio solutions is surging, driven by trends in home entertainment, wireless audio, and smart home integration. Sound United’s HEOS platform, for instance, complements Harman’s existing connected audio technologies, potentially paving the way for new innovations in multi-room audio systems. Additionally, brands like Marantz and Classé, renowned for their high-end amplifiers and audio components, strengthen Harman’s foothold in the luxury audio segment.
Harman has not disclosed specific plans for product integration or new releases. The company is expected to leverage its expanded portfolio to enhance its presence in both consumer and professional audio markets, including automotive audio systems, where Harman has long been a leader.
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