Are Infinity Speakers Still Made? A Comprehensive Guide

Infinity speakers have long been synonymous with high-quality audio, earning a loyal following among audiophiles and casual listeners alike. However, as technology evolves and brands shift focus, many fans wonder: “Are Infinity speakers still made?” Xigaj.xyz will delve into the history of Infinity speakers, their current status, and what the future holds for this iconic brand.

A Brief History of Infinity Speakers

The Early Years

Infinity Systems was founded in 1968 by Arnie Nudell, John Ulrick, and Cary Christie in Los Angeles, California. Known for their innovation and commitment to superior sound, Infinity quickly became a household name in the audio industry.

Innovative Designs

Infinity was a pioneer in audio technology, introducing groundbreaking products like:

• EMIT (Electromagnetic Induction Tweeters): Known for their crystal-clear highs.
• IRS (Infinity Reference Standard) Systems: These high-end speakers set new benchmarks for sound reproduction.

Acquisition by Harman International

In 1983, Infinity Systems was acquired by Harman International, a leader in consumer and professional audio products. Under Harman’s umbrella, Infinity continued to innovate, expanding into car audio, home theater, and portable speaker systems.

Are Infinity Speakers Still Being Made?

Yes, Infinity speakers are still made, but their product focus and market presence have evolved significantly.

Current Product Lines

Infinity, now part of Harman International (a subsidiary of Samsung), primarily focuses on:

• Car Audio Systems: Infinity is well-known for its premium car audio solutions, including component speakers, subwoofers, and amplifiers.
• Marine Audio: Designed for boats and watercraft, Infinity marine speakers are built to withstand harsh environments while delivering excellent sound.
• Portable Speakers: While not as prominent as their car audio products, Infinity offers some portable Bluetooth speakers.

Shift Away from Home Audio

Infinity’s presence in the home audio market has diminished. While they were once renowned for their high-end home speakers, the brand now emphasizes car and marine audio systems. This shift aligns with broader consumer trends favoring portable and in-vehicle audio solutions.

Why Did Infinity Shift Focus?

Several factors contributed to Infinity’s pivot:

Market Trends

• Rise of Compact and Portable Audio: Consumers now prioritize convenience and portability over traditional home audio systems.
• Increased Competition: Brands like Sonos, Bose, and JBL dominate the home speaker market, making it harder for Infinity to compete.

Corporate Strategy

As part of Harman International, Infinity aligns with Harman’s broader strategy, focusing on markets with strong growth potential, such as automotive and marine audio.

Consumer Demand

The automotive audio market has seen steady demand, with car manufacturers partnering with premium audio brands like Infinity to enhance their vehicles’ appeal.

Where Can You Buy Infinity Speakers Today?

Infinity speakers are widely available through various channels:

Authorized Retailers

Major electronics stores and car audio specialty shops often carry Infinity car and marine speakers.
Online retailers like Best Buy, Crutchfield, and Amazon offer a range of Infinity products.

Secondhand Market

For those seeking vintage Infinity home speakers, platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Audiogon are great options.

Direct from Harman

Harman’s official website often features the latest Infinity products, including detailed specifications and support resources.

Are Vintage Infinity Home Speakers Still Worth It?

If you’re a fan of classic home audio, vintage Infinity speakers can still deliver excellent performance. Models like the Infinity Reference Series (RS) and Infinity Kappa Series remain highly regarded for their sound quality and build.

Considerations When Buying Vintage Speakers:

• Condition: Check for wear and tear, especially on the speaker cones and surrounds.
• Replacement Parts: Some parts, like EMIT tweeters, may be hard to find but can often be sourced through specialized audio forums or third-party sellers.
• Amplification: Vintage Infinity speakers may require high-quality amplifiers to perform optimally.

Alternatives to Infinity Home Speakers

If you’re looking for modern home audio solutions, several brands offer comparable quality and innovation:

• JBL: Also owned by Harman, JBL offers a wide range of home and portable audio products.
• Klipsch: Known for their horn-loaded speakers, Klipsch delivers powerful and dynamic sound.
• Bowers & Wilkins: A premium option for audiophiles, B&W specializes in high-fidelity home audio systems.

The Future of Infinity Speakers

While Infinity’s focus has shifted, the brand continues to thrive in the automotive and marine audio markets. Harman’s backing ensures that Infinity remains a strong contender in these niches.

Potential Areas for Growth:

• Smart Audio: Integrating smart assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant into their products.
• Wireless Solutions: Expanding into wireless and multi-room audio systems to meet modern consumer demands.
• Sustainability: Developing eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient designs.

How Does Infinity Compare to Other Brands?

Strengths:

• Legacy of Innovation: Decades of experience in audio engineering.
• Quality and Durability: Trusted for their long-lasting, reliable products.
• Versatility: Strong presence in automotive and marine audio.

Weaknesses:

• Decline in Home Audio: Limited offerings for traditional home setups.
• Market Competition: Stiff competition from brands with broader product ranges.

Conclusion: Are Infinity Speakers Still Made?

Yes, Infinity speakers are still made, but their focus has shifted predominantly to automotive and marine audio markets. While their presence in home audio has waned, Infinity’s legacy continues to resonate with audiophiles and car enthusiasts alike.

For those seeking premium car audio systems or durable marine speakers, Infinity remains a top choice. And for fans of their classic home speakers, the secondhand market offers an opportunity to relive the brand’s golden era.

Whether you’re upgrading your car’s sound system or exploring vintage audio, Infinity speakers prove that quality sound never goes out of style.