AKG Audio's Control: Does Sony Own It? A Question of Audio Dominance
In the world of audio, two names stand out as pioneers - AKG and Sony. Both companies have made significant contributions to the industry, each with its unique history and product offerings.
AKG, founded in 1947 in Vienna, Austria by Dr. Rudolf Goerike and Ernst Pless, started as a small manufacturer of microphones, headphones, and loudspeakers. Over the years, the company has grown to become a premium brand, known for its high-fidelity sound quality and durable products.
AKG's product line includes the C414 microphone, K141 headphones, and various studio equipment. The brand has been part of the Harman portfolio since 1994, when Harman International Industries, a leading manufacturer of audio and infotainment systems, acquired AKG. In 2016, Harman International Industries was itself acquired by Samsung Electronics for $8 billion, making AKG a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics.
Sony, founded in 1946 by Masaru Ibuka and Akio Morita in Japan, started as a small radio repair shop. However, it soon shifted focus to developing innovative electronic products. In the 1960s and 1970s, Sony introduced the world's first portable transistor TV, the first home video recorder, and the iconic Walkman. Today, Sony has an extensive portfolio of audio brands and products, including its own Sony Audio division, Sony Electronics, and Sony Music Entertainment.
Although Sony does not own AKG, the two companies have a connection through technology. For instance, the LDAC audio codec used in some AKG headphones is a technology developed by Sony.
AKG products are compatible with a wide range of devices and systems, including those from Sony. This compatibility, combined with their high-quality sound and durability, makes AKG products a worthwhile investment for those who value superior audio.
Both AKG and Sony are icons in the audio industry, and their commitment to innovation and quality will continue to shape the soundscapes of the future. As we move forward, we can expect both companies to continue pushing the boundaries of audio technology, ensuring that music and sound remain as vibrant and immersive as ever.
Sports enthusiasts who prioritize sound quality while exercising can invest in AKG headphones, which offer high-fidelity sound and durability, ensuring that the music cannot be muted even during intense workouts. Meanwhile, managing the finances of these audio equipment giants, AKG (acquired by Samsung Electronics in 2016) and Sony, requires careful planning as both have substantial portfolios in technology and music, with Sony's LDAC audio codec often found in AKG products.
