Unraveling the Mystery: Is Altec Lansing Part of JBL?

The world of audio equipment is filled with numerous brands, each with its unique history, products, and innovations. Two such brands that have been making waves in the industry are Altec Lansing and JBL. While both brands have their own distinct identities, there has been a long-standing question among audiophiles and music enthusiasts: Is Altec Lansing part of JBL? In this article, we will delve into the history of both brands, explore their connections, and provide a definitive answer to this question.

A Brief History of Altec Lansing

Altec Lansing is a brand that has been around for nearly a century. Founded in 1927 by Jim Lansing, the company started as a manufacturer of loudspeakers for the motion picture industry. Over the years, Altec Lansing expanded its product line to include home audio equipment, professional audio gear, and even automotive speakers. The brand became synonymous with high-quality sound and innovative designs.

In the 1990s, Altec Lansing began to face financial difficulties, which led to a series of ownership changes. In 1997, the company was acquired by Gulton Industries, which later sold it to Plantronics in 2005. Under Plantronics, Altec Lansing continued to produce a range of audio products, including speakers, headphones, and docking stations.

A Brief History of JBL

JBL, on the other hand, has a history that dates back to the 1940s. Founded by James Bullough Lansing, the company started as a manufacturer of loudspeakers for the motion picture industry, much like Altec Lansing. JBL quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality speakers that were used in many iconic movie theaters.

In the 1960s, JBL began to expand its product line to include home audio equipment, professional audio gear, and even automotive speakers. The brand became known for its innovative designs, including the iconic Paragon horn speaker system.

In 1969, JBL was acquired by Harman International Industries, which later became Harman International. Under Harman, JBL continued to produce a range of audio products, including speakers, headphones, and professional audio equipment.

The Connection Between Altec Lansing and JBL

So, is Altec Lansing part of JBL? The answer lies in the history of both brands. While Altec Lansing and JBL are two separate brands with their own distinct identities, they do share a common connection.

In 2014, Plantronics, the owner of Altec Lansing, sold the brand to inMusic Brands, a company that owns several other audio brands, including Numark and Akai Professional. However, inMusic Brands did not acquire the rights to the Altec Lansing brand in its entirety.

The rights to the Altec Lansing brand in the professional audio market were acquired by Altec Lansing Technologies, a company that was formed by a group of investors who were former employees of Altec Lansing. Altec Lansing Technologies continued to produce professional audio equipment under the Altec Lansing brand.

However, the rights to the Altec Lansing brand in the consumer audio market were acquired by Voxx International, a company that owns several other audio brands, including Klipsch and Jamo. Voxx International continued to produce consumer audio products under the Altec Lansing brand.

Here’s where JBL comes in. In 2017, Harman International, the owner of JBL, was acquired by Samsung Electronics. As a result, JBL became a subsidiary of Samsung.

However, in 2020, Samsung Electronics sold Harman International’s consumer audio division, which includes JBL, to an affiliate of the private equity firm, Apollo Global Management. The deal did not include Harman International’s professional audio division, which includes brands such as AKG and Crown.

Now, here’s the interesting part. In 2020, Voxx International, the owner of the Altec Lansing brand in the consumer audio market, announced a partnership with Harman International’s consumer audio division, which includes JBL. The partnership allowed Voxx International to produce Altec Lansing-branded products using Harman International’s technology and manufacturing capabilities.

What Does This Mean for Altec Lansing and JBL?

So, what does this mean for Altec Lansing and JBL? While Altec Lansing is not directly owned by JBL, the two brands do have a connection through their partnership with Harman International’s consumer audio division.

The partnership between Voxx International and Harman International’s consumer audio division allows Altec Lansing to produce high-quality audio products using JBL’s technology and manufacturing capabilities. This means that Altec Lansing products may share some similarities with JBL products in terms of design, features, and performance.

However, it’s worth noting that Altec Lansing and JBL are still two separate brands with their own distinct identities. Altec Lansing products are designed and marketed separately from JBL products, and the two brands have their own unique features and innovations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Altec Lansing is not directly owned by JBL, the two brands do have a connection through their partnership with Harman International’s consumer audio division. The partnership allows Altec Lansing to produce high-quality audio products using JBL’s technology and manufacturing capabilities.

For audiophiles and music enthusiasts, this means that Altec Lansing products may offer similar performance and features to JBL products, but with their own unique twist. Whether you’re a fan of Altec Lansing or JBL, one thing is certain: both brands have a rich history and a commitment to producing high-quality audio products.

As the audio industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Altec Lansing and JBL continue to innovate and produce high-quality audio products. One thing is certain: both brands have a rich history and a commitment to delivering exceptional sound quality.

Is Altec Lansing part of JBL?

Altec Lansing is not part of JBL. Although both companies are well-known for producing high-quality audio equipment, they are two separate entities with distinct histories and product lines. Altec Lansing has been a prominent brand in the audio industry for over 90 years, while JBL is a subsidiary of Harman International Industries.

Despite not being part of JBL, Altec Lansing has undergone significant changes in ownership and operations over the years. The company has been acquired by several different entities, which has led to some confusion about its relationship with other audio brands. However, Altec Lansing remains a distinct brand with its own unique products and identity.

What is the history of Altec Lansing?

Altec Lansing was founded in 1927 by Jim Lansing, a renowned audio engineer and entrepreneur. The company quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality loudspeakers and other audio equipment. Over the years, Altec Lansing has been involved in numerous significant audio innovations, including the development of the first coaxial loudspeaker and the first high-fidelity loudspeaker system.

Throughout its history, Altec Lansing has been associated with several notable audio milestones, including the development of sound systems for iconic venues such as the Hollywood Bowl and the Academy Awards. The company has also worked with numerous famous musicians and audio engineers, further solidifying its reputation as a leader in the audio industry.

Is Altec Lansing still in business?

Yes, Altec Lansing is still in business. Although the company has undergone significant changes in ownership and operations over the years, it continues to produce high-quality audio equipment. Altec Lansing’s product line includes a range of speakers, headphones, and other audio accessories, all of which are designed to deliver exceptional sound quality and durability.

In recent years, Altec Lansing has expanded its product line to include a range of portable and wireless audio products, such as Bluetooth speakers and earbuds. These products have been well-received by consumers and critics alike, and have helped to further establish Altec Lansing as a leader in the audio industry.

What is the relationship between Altec Lansing and Harman International?

Altec Lansing was previously owned by Harman International Industries, a leading manufacturer of audio equipment. However, in 2009, Altec Lansing was acquired by a new ownership group, which has since operated the company as a separate entity.

Although Altec Lansing is no longer owned by Harman International, the two companies have a shared history and have collaborated on numerous audio projects over the years. Harman International is also the parent company of JBL, which has led to some confusion about the relationship between Altec Lansing and JBL.

Are Altec Lansing products still widely available?

Yes, Altec Lansing products are still widely available. The company’s products can be found at a range of retailers, both online and in-store. Altec Lansing also sells its products directly through its website, which offers a range of benefits, including competitive pricing and excellent customer service.

In addition to its own website, Altec Lansing products can be found at numerous other online retailers, such as Amazon and Best Buy. The company’s products are also available at a range of brick-and-mortar retailers, including electronics stores and specialty audio retailers.

What is the quality of Altec Lansing products?

Altec Lansing products are known for their high quality and exceptional sound reproduction. The company has a long history of producing innovative and reliable audio equipment, and its products are widely respected by audio professionals and consumers alike.

Altec Lansing’s products are designed to deliver exceptional sound quality, durability, and value. The company uses only the highest-quality components and materials in its products, and each product is carefully tested and inspected to ensure that it meets the company’s high standards.

Is Altec Lansing a good brand for audio enthusiasts?

Yes, Altec Lansing is a good brand for audio enthusiasts. The company has a long history of producing high-quality audio equipment, and its products are widely respected by audio professionals and consumers alike. Altec Lansing’s products offer exceptional sound quality, durability, and value, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their audio setup.

In addition to its high-quality products, Altec Lansing is also known for its innovative approach to audio design. The company has been involved in numerous significant audio innovations over the years, and its products often feature unique and innovative technologies that set them apart from other audio brands.