Who makes the Lexus sound system?
The flagship Lexus sound system is built by Mark Levinson, the premium audio brand from Harman International, which is part of Samsung. In other words, the top Lexus audio systems areMark Levinson-branded rather than built entirely in-house by Lexus.
The Brand Behind the Sound: Mark Levinson
Mark Levinson is synonymous with high-fidelity automotive audio. The brand originated as an independent company and, through a series of corporate moves, became part of Harman International. Since Harman’s acquisition by Samsung, Mark Levinson systems in cars are developed and integrated by Harman’s automotive audio division to deliver premium sound tailored for vehicle cabins.
Origins and Corporate Home
Mark Levinson was founded in the 1970s by engineer Mark Levinson and earned a reputation for precision, clarity, and high-end sound. Today, the brand sits within Harman Luxury Audio, the division responsible for many automaker partnerships, including Lexus.
Harman, Harman Luxury Audio, and Samsung
Harman International, including the Mark Levinson line, designs and engineers the car audio solutions used by Lexus. In 2017, Samsung Electronics acquired Harman, cementing Mark Levinson’s position within a larger ecosystem of audio technology and automotive integration.
How Lexus Integrates the System
Lexus positions Mark Levinson as its premier surround-sound option on many higher-end models and trims. The Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound system is marketed for its expanded speaker count, advanced digital processing, and higher performance to complement the luxury cabin experience. While the flagship system is Mark Levinson, Lexus also offers other audio configurations on various models and markets, but the Mark Levinson badge remains the iconic premium choice.
Key aspects of the system’s branding and deployment:
- Brand: Mark Levinson, a high-end audio label within Harman International.
- Ownership and support: Harman Luxury Audio, under Samsung, designs and supports the automotive implementation.
- Positioning: Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound is Lexus’s flagship audio option on many top trims.
- Market Variability: Some models or regions may offer alternative systems, but Mark Levinson remains the signature experience in available configurations.
These points illustrate how the Lexus sound experience is shaped by a collaboration between Lexus and the Mark Levinson/Harman ecosystem to deliver premium acoustics inside the car.
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