When I played a streaming song I often listen to on my smartphone and pressed the mic button, the original singer's voice vanished in an instant. It is a scene created by the On-device AI technology embedded in the microphone by global audio brand JBL, in step with the explosive growth of the one-person creator and short-form content markets on YouTube and TikTok.
JBL, the premium audio brand of Samsung Electronics subsidiary Harman, held a new product launch and hands-on event at Tilt Table in Seongsu-dong, Seoul, on the 18th and unveiled a next-generation microphone lineup that puts AI technology front and center. The new products experienced on-site went beyond simple audio gear, showcasing the evolution of home entertainment that creates a personal stage anytime, anywhere.
The star of the event was clearly the high-quality "JBL EasySing Mics" series, equipped with On-device AI vocal removal technology. Unlike conventional karaoke microphones that required a dedicated app or separate accompaniment tracks, this product's built-in AI separates vocals in real time. Just play any music and a karaoke environment is instantly created on the spot. The list price is 299,000 won.
The pocket-sized "JBL EasySing Mic Mini," aimed at people who enjoy outdoor activities or content creation, also drew attention. It fits neatly in one hand. In addition to vocal separation, it features a "Voice Boost" function that renders high notes smoother and cleaner, delivering performance on par with professional equipment. The list price is 199,000 won for a single unit, and 299,000 won for a duo package with two microphones.
Harman International Korea announced a new global brand slogan, "Made to Be Heard," alongside this new microphone lineup, targeting Generation Z and people with a strong sense of individuality. The aim is to convey one's voice honestly and broaden empathy through unprocessed, highly immersive sound.
Meanwhile, the event also featured a listening session for the premium bookshelf loudspeaker "JBL L100 Classic 80," limited to exactly 800 units worldwide to mark the brand's 80th anniversary. Bearing the signature of the principal systems engineer and a unique serial number, the speaker captivated attendees with overwhelming resolution befitting its 9.8 million won price tag.
To mark the launch of the new products, JBL will open a two-day pop-up store for the general public at Tilt Table in Seongsu-dong from the 19th to the 20th. Open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., the space will offer hands-on experiences with JBL's latest sound lineup, including the newly unveiled On-device AI microphones.