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Buy It Now: Why Harman Has Acquired Masimo Consumer
Harman Acquired Masimo Consumer in what can only be described as one of the most monumental shifts in the hi-fi audio landscape. This unanticipated move sees Harman — an industry stalwart with deep roots in consumer and professional audio — integrating a powerhouse collection of high-end audio brands formerly under Masimo Consumer (formerly Sound United). While speculation previously circled around tech giants like Apple, it was Harman that stepped up. Given its rich legacy and Samsung-backed resources, Harman is uniquely positioned to leverage the prestigious brand lineup, which now includes Denon, Marantz, Bowers & Wilkins, Polk Audio, Classé, HEOS, and more.
The strategic impact of this acquisition is significant, filling clear gaps in Harman’s existing portfolio. Denon and Marantz bring market-leading AV receivers, while Bowers & Wilkins enhances their standing in luxury loudspeakers. HEOS, already a mature whole-home audio streaming platform, could seamlessly integrate with Samsung’s SmartThings ecosystem, offering a unified, vertically integrated user experience across smart TVs, appliances, and connected audio gear. Combined with the recent Roon Labs acquisition, Harman is positioning itself to own every corner of the hi-fi spectrum — from entry-level gear to audiophile-caliber equipment — while driving innovation across software, connectivity, and user interface design.
Aside from the brand synergy, the business numbers are equally compelling. When Harman Acquired Masimo Consumer, it bought the portfolio for just US$350 million — a steep discount considering Masimo’s 2021 deal was valued over US$1 billion. A future-focused move, especially when the global premium audio market is projected to reach US$70 billion by 2029. As the global audio market continues to evolve, expect reactionary moves from competitors wanting their own slice of a rapidly growing pie. With this bold play, Harman and Samsung aren’t just reacting to the future of connected audio — they are defining it.
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