with Lyle Smith, president of the Sound United Strategic Business Unit at HARMAN

In this episode of Audio Talks, host Oisin Lunny welcomes Lyle Smith, president of the Sound United Strategic Business Unit at HARMAN, for an in-depth conversation about HARMAN’s recent acquisition of Sound United and its ripple effects across the audio industry.

Lyle shares his personal journey into audio, from formative childhood experiences and a defining first concert at Red Rocks, to his passion for building relationships and elevating iconic brands.

The episode also examines the promise of future product innovations and commitment to the audiophile community. Lyle Smith highlights the emotional connection people have with music, the challenge of balancing technical specifications with emotional appeal, and the responsibility to preserve brand authenticity. The conversation is rich with anecdotes about legendary brands—Bowers & Wilkins, Denon, Marantz, Polk Audio, and more—and the importance of keeping their DNA intact within the HARMAN ecosystem.

---

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wK8c21VoYV8

Learn more about the Art of Listening here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CA63hS9H9ns

Our Audio Talks Playlist: https://listen.tidal.com/playlist/6d14f4ad-f1c7-404d-ba82-fe8d0a320b93

Make sure to follow us on Social Media and visit our Art of Listening website to get a full view on how HARMAN helps people get the most out of each moment they spend listening:

Instagram @audiotalkspodcast
Instagram @HARMANintl
Twitter @HARMANintl
Facebook @HARMANint
LinkedIn @HARMAN International
https://artoflistening.harman.com/