Harman International’s latest entry in the portable smart-speaker stakes is the new three-model Link series from JBL.
Harman, a wholly owned subsidiary of Samsung, said the Link line is the first voice-activated speaker series to offer JBL’s rich, full-range signature sound with Google’s virtual assistant.
Like all Google Assistant-embedded smart speakers, users can stream music, ask questions, control smart-home devices and manage everyday tasks through the Links via voice command.
“We are thrilled to pair JBL’s incredible legacy of award-winning sound with our growing line-up of voice-controlled speakers,” said Michael Mauser, president of Harman’s Lifestyle Audio division. “JBL Link is a first-class wireless smart speaker that allows consumers to entertain and enjoy world-class sound in a sleek package.”
The three-step series begins with the 2x8W Link 10, which offers 5 hours of battery life and carries a suggested retail of $149. The $199 Link 20 outputs 2x10W, while the $249 Link 300 delivers 50W-worth of sound.
The Link 10 and 20 feature an IPX7 waterproof design, while all three models stream HD audio at 24-bit/96K and come with Google Assistant, Chromecast, Bluetooth and multiroom music playback capability on board.
The Link line was introduced at IFA 2017 and began shipping to dealers this fall.
