Harman International: A Global Leader in Audio Electronics and Automotive Technology
Harman International Industries, Inc., widely known as Harman, is a premier American audio electronics company that has shaped the landscape of high-fidelity sound for decades. From professional studio gear to integrated automotive infotainment, Harman has built a massive ecosystem of brands that define how the world experiences audio.
Since 2017, the company has operated as an independent subsidiary of Samsung Electronics, leveraging global resources to expand its reach across the Americas, Europe, and Asia. Today, it stands as a powerhouse of innovation, blending traditional acoustic excellence with cutting-edge software and automotive safety systems.
Key Facts
- Parent Company: Samsung Electronics (acquired in 2017 for $8 billion).
- Headquarters: Stamford, Connecticut, U.S.
- 2025 Revenue: $11 billion.
- Workforce: 39,000 employees (2025).
- Core Expertise: Audio electronics, automotive infotainment, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).
The Evolution of Harman
Founding and Early Years
The roots of the company trace back to 1953, when engineers Sidney Harman and Bernard Kardon founded Harman Kardon. Both founders had previously worked at the Bogen Company, specializing in public address systems. Together, they pivoted toward the development of high-fidelity (hi-fi) audio products. By 1956, Sidney Harman bought out Kardon to expand the business independently.
Growth and Public Offering
The 1960s and 70s were marked by strategic expansion, including the acquisition of JBL. In a notable turn of events, Sidney Harman sold the company to Beatrice Foods in the 1970s to avoid conflicts of interest while serving as the U.S. Deputy Secretary of Commerce under the Carter administration.
Upon leaving government service in 1978, Harman created Harman International Industries and reacquired several of his original businesses. The company went public on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: HAR) in 1986, using the capital to acquire a vast array of professional and consumer audio brands, including AKG, Lexicon, and Soundcraft.
Strategic Diversification and Samsung Acquisition
Expanding Beyond Audio
In the 21st century, Harman shifted its focus toward the automotive and software sectors. Key milestones included:
- Lighting: The 2013 acquisition of Martin Professional brought stage and architectural lighting into the portfolio.
- Automotive Audio: The 2015 purchase of Bang & Olufsen's automotive division for €145 million.
- Software and Connectivity: Acquisitions of Symphony Teleca and Redbend enhanced capabilities in cloud services and over-the-air (OTA) firmware updates.
- Cybersecurity: The 2016 acquisition of TowerSec signaled a move into automotive cybersecurity.
The Samsung Era
On March 10, 2017, Samsung Electronics completed its acquisition of Harman for $8 billion in cash. This move integrated Harman's audio expertise with Samsung's technological scale. More recently, Harman has continued to grow, acquiring the consumer audio business of Masimo in May 2025—adding brands like Bowers & Wilkins and Denon—and agreeing to purchase the Advanced Driver-Assistance System (ADAS) business from ZF Group in December 2025 for €1.5 billion.
Brand Portfolio and Market Reach
Harman manages an extensive list of brands catering to different market segments, from audiophile home systems to professional touring rigs.
| Category | Key Brands |
|---|---|
| Consumer & Home Audio | JBL, Harman Kardon, AKG, Revel, Mark Levinson, Bowers & Wilkins, Denon, Marantz |
| Professional Audio | Crown, dbx, BSS Audio, Soundcraft, JBL Professional |
| Automotive | Bang & Olufsen Automotive, Becker, Infinity, Revel |
| Specialized Tech | AMX (Control), Martin Professional (Lighting), Roon (Streaming) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns Harman International?
Harman International is an independent subsidiary of Samsung Electronics, which acquired the company in 2017.
What are some of the most famous brands under the Harman umbrella?
Some of the most recognized brands include JBL, Harman Kardon, AKG, and Mark Levinson, as well as recently added brands like Bowers & Wilkins and Denon.
Does Harman only make speakers and headphones?
No. While audio is its core, Harman also produces professional lighting (Martin Professional), video switching and control devices (AMX), and advanced automotive safety and driver-assistance systems (ADAS).
What is ADAS and why did Harman acquire it?
ADAS stands for Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems. By acquiring ZF Group's ADAS business, Harman is expanding its role in the automotive industry beyond entertainment into vehicle safety, compute platforms, and radar technologies.
When was the company founded?
The predecessor to the current company, Harman Kardon, was founded in 1953 by Sidney Harman and Bernard Kardon.