AKG

AKG, an acronym for Akustische und Kino-Geräte (Acoustic and Cinema Equipment), is a brand that has long been synonymous with professional-grade audio equipment. Founded in Vienna, Austria in 1947 by physicists Dr. Rudolf Görike and Ernst Pless, the company began its journey with the aim of producing high-quality audio equipment. Their first product was a dynamic loudspeaker, the AKG DYN Series, which was a considerable success and paved the way for the brand’s future innovations.

The post-war era was a period of burgeoning demand for audio technology, and AKG was quick to make its mark. The company soon moved into the world of microphones, headphones, and other audio equipment, gaining a reputation for quality and innovation. In the 1950s, they launched the D12 microphone, which went on to become the world’s first dynamic cardioid microphone and a standard in the broadcasting and recording industry.

The 1960s saw the introduction of AKG’s first set of headphones, the K50. These were supra-aural, or on-ear headphones, that boasted a lightweight design and high-quality audio reproduction – a testament to AKG’s commitment to user comfort and audio excellence. The K50 laid the groundwork for the many successful headphone models that would follow in the ensuing decades.

AKG’s headphones and microphones were soon being used in recording studios, concert halls, and broadcasting stations around the world. They became known for their durability, sound quality, and technological innovation. AKG’s products were not just tools for audio professionals; they were instruments that shaped the sound of countless recordings and performances.

In 1994, AKG was acquired by Harman International Industries, a major American audio equipment manufacturer that also owns other high-profile brands like JBL, Harman Kardon, and Infinity. In turn, Harman became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics in 2017.

Despite these changes in ownership, AKG’s mission to deliver high-quality audio has remained unchanged. The company’s headphones today, whether they are professional-grade studio monitors or consumer-oriented wireless earbuds, carry forward AKG’s legacy of superior sound quality and innovative design. AKG headphones are known for their detailed and balanced sound reproduction, making them a favorite among audiophiles and audio professionals alike.

From its inception in post-war Vienna to its status today as a global audio powerhouse, AKG’s journey is a testament to its dedication to audio excellence. The AKG name on a pair of headphones is more than just a brand; it’s a seal of quality, a promise of an exceptional audio experience.