JBL Lets You Feed Your Head; JBL Reference Series Headphones Blend Quality and Comfort Into a Sound Solution for Every Need

DENVER--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 13, 2006--JBL, the leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of a wide range of high-fidelity loudspeakers for home and car, and of multimedia speaker systems for MP3 players and computers, today announced the introduction of JBL Reference Series, the ultimate lineup of comfortable, high-performance headphones. JBL's debut entry into the headphone market provides clean, powerful sound while connected to any generation of iPod(R) or to a portable music player, gaming device, music phone or other audio source.

The headphone line is designed to meet a wide variety of needs, whether consumers are looking for peace and quiet provided by noise-canceling models or for the freedom allowed by the wireless Bluetooth(R) headphones. The JBL Reference Series features four unique series of headphone models, all created to offer a high-quality listening experience, whether at home or on the go.

The JBL Reference 200 Series provides an alternative to standard headphones. Featuring lightweight, portable earphones, the JBL Reference 200 Series provides full-spectrum sound from earphones that can easily fit into a shirt pocket. The JBL Reference 210 features a lightweight, in-ear design, comfortable foam ear pads and a tangle-free wire-management system. The uniquely styled JBL Reference 220 features high-quality miniature transducers that outperform those found in competing earphone models. Consumers can wear their earphones in comfort, choosing from foam ear pads, a selection of three silicon in-ear inserts, detachable ear cuffs or a foldable under-chin strap. JBL Reference 220's are available in black or white.

The JBL Reference 400 Series is designed for music lovers who want their music front row, center. The JBL Reference 410 features a lightweight, compact on-ear design, and folds for easy storage and travel. In true JBL fashion, the 410's 40mm transducers deliver impressive sound with thundering bass. JBL Reference 420 over-ear headphones are fitted with a genuine leather headband and ear cups for the maximum in style and comfort. Featuring advanced transducers, the JBL Reference 420 provides crystal-clear frequency response with distortion-free bass. JBL Reference 420's are available in black or white.

The JBL Reference 500 Series allows consumers to truly escape by eliminating unwanted surrounding noise and commotion. The JBL Reference 510 features a compact on-ear design with an in-line controller that, when activated, eliminates up to 70 percent of ambient noise. The JBL Reference 510 is great for noisy airplanes or trains, and folds for convenient travel and storage. The JBL Reference 520 features a mid-size over-ear design, and offers the comfort of a genuine leather headband and ear cups. With control settings right on the earpiece, the JBL Reference 520 is equipped with four noise-canceling settings, including total isolation. It features a voice-pass button for all settings that allows users to communicate without having to remove the headphones. Environmentally friendly, the JBL Reference 520 comes with rechargeable batteries and a universal battery charger.

The JBL Reference 600 Series combines the most advanced audio technology with the incredible portability of Bluetooth technology. The JBL Reference 610 allows consumers to enjoy their favorite iPod music or podcasts without the hassle of wires. The JBL Reference 610 features integrated controls on the earpiece that adjust volume, select tracks, and play or pause songs. When you need to be connected, the JBL Reference 610 comes equipped with a 1.75m cable. As is the JBL Reference 520, the JBL Reference 610 is equipped with rechargeable batteries and a universal battery charger.

Pricing and Availability

The JBL Reference Series comes with all the accessories listeners might need, wherever they find themselves: airline adapter, stereo phono adapter, carry or storage case, and universal battery charger (varies by model). JBL Reference Series headphones are compatible with iPod and MP3 players, desktops, laptops and most portable audio devices. With a suggested retail price ranging from $79.95 to $299.95, JBL Reference Series headphones will be available at major retailers starting in October. The JBL Reference 610 will be available starting in November.

About JBL

JBL is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of a wide range of high-fidelity loudspeakers for home and car, and of multimedia systems for home and computer. JBL is part of the Harman Consumer Group (HCG), a division of Harman International Industries, Incorporated. HCG's brands also include Infinity, Harman Kardon, Mark Levinson, Revel, Audioaccess and Lexicon.

Harman International (www.harman.com) is a leading manufacturer of high-quality, high-fidelity audio products and electronic systems for the automotive, consumer and professional markets. The company's stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "HAR."

JBL and Harman International are registered trademarks of Harman International Industries, Incorporated.

iPod is a registered trademark of Apple Computer, Inc.

Bluetooth is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG.