HARMAN is participating at IFA in Berlin and today unveiled the a new series of headphones as well as the JBL Pebbles, a compact USB powered stereo speaker system for the desktop.
AKG K845BT and AKG K545 Headphones
The AKG K845BT takes the best features of the AKG 550s and applies them to
its lightweight wireless design. It starts with AKG's largest 50 mm drivers,
and AKG's decades of audio design savvy. Together they are responsible for
the 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response and full-bodied bass. Bluetooth
wireless streaming gets the music from your player to the AKG K845BTs, with
an assist from Near Field Communication (NFC) that makes Bluetooth pairing
as easy as pressing a button. The headphones feature soft protein leather
ear cushions, which are not only easy on the ears, but host a microphone for
phone calls. Control buttons allow for taking and ending calls and
commanding music playback without having to remove the headphones.
The AKG K545 features the same 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response and rich
bass, using the same AKG 50 mm drivers as its wireless cousin, in a wired
headphone design. Smartphone users will appreciate the two detachable inline
control microphone cables, one for iOS users, and one for Android that let
you control the music and take calls without missing a beat. Users will also
appreciate the soft touch of the protein-leather ear cushions.
The AKG K845BT (MSRP $299) wireless headphones are available in two color
combinations, and the AKG K545 (MSRP $249) wired phones come in four colors.
Both models feature a fold-flat swiveling mechanism, and come with a
carrying case.
HARMAN SOHO Headphones
The Harman Kardon SOHO stereo headphones (MSRP $199) are featuring a new
look, combining style in black, white or camel.
The headphones feature a leather and stainless steel design and a
rectangular shape. These headphones don't just fold; they fold flat down to
less than 1.25 inches (about 30 mm) to fit inside their own travel pouch.
30 mm drivers and neodymium transducers deliver precision Harman Kardon
sound quality across all frequencies. The generous shape of the cups is
comfortable and kind to the ears during extended listening. For convenience
in taking phone calls, Harman Kardon SOHO is available in a choice of remote
control straight microphone cables: a universal remote/mic for Android
users, or an Apple iOS-compatible remote/mic for users of iPhone.
HARMAN AKG K323 XS Ear Headphones
Harman has also on display at IFA the new AKG K323 XS in-ear headphones.
The AKG K323 XS comes in 4 colors, as well as black and white, and boasts
the sound quality and comfort of an in-ear headphone more than twice its
size, HARMAN claims.
The tip is shaped to maximize the fit between the headphone and your ear,
creating sound isolation. Comfort that comes with your choice of four sizes
(XS, S, M, and L) of ear sleeves.
The AKG K323 XS comes with a lightweight straight cable. But because you'll
need to do other things while you're wearing them, the AKG K323 XS
headphones give you options. Choose a one-button in-line control microphone,
for Android users, or a 3-button control mic cable compatible with Apple iOS
devices. You'll be able to take calls and control the music without removing
your headphones.
The AKG K323 XS in-ear headphones and carrying pouch are priced at (MSRP
$39.00 - $59.00).
JBL Pebbles Desktop Stereo Speakers
HARMAN is also bringing to the market the JBL Pebbles, a compact USB powered
stereo speaker system for the desktop, with digital signal processing and
SlipStream Technology.
JBL Pebbles (MSRP $59.00) plug-and-play stereo speakers are designed to
connect to your computer through your computer's USB port. Built-in cable
management and the fact that USB provides digital audio and power through
one cable keeps away cable clutter. The rotating volume control syncs up
with your computer. Also, because your computer is not the only place you
store your music, JBL Pebbles features an AUX-in port for your smartphone or
MP3 player.
The system also features an AUX-in audio port for smartphones and MP3
players and dual 50 mm drivers, 80 Hz to 20 kHz