Samsung subsidiary Harman has finalized its $350 million acquisition of Sound United, Masimo’s former audio business. The deal, first announced in May, adds a substantial collection of audio brands to Harman’s portfolio, which Samsung initially acquired for $8 billion in 2016.
The transaction places brands such as Bowers & Wilkins, Denon, Marantz, Definitive Technology, and Polk Audio under Harman’s ownership. The Sound United portfolio also includes HEOS, Classé, and Boston Acoustics. These will now share a corporate parent with existing Harman brands like JBL and Harman Kardon, which came under Samsung’s umbrella following its earlier purchase.
Sound United is set to operate as a standalone business within Harman’s lifestyle division, a strategy intended to preserve the identity of each brand and its respective customer base. Dave Rogers, Harman’s lifestyle lead, stated, “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.” He added that the transaction “unlocks meaningful growth opportunities” and “bolsters Harman’s strategy to build on its unparalleled success story.”
With the completion of the sale, seller Masimo can now focus its attention on legal matters. In August, the company filed a lawsuit against U.S. Customs and Border Protection related to the Apple Watch.
