Medical Tech Giant Masimo to Acquire Premium Audio Pioneer Sound United

In a major cross-industry move, medical technology company Masimo Corporation (Nasdaq: MASI) has announced plans to acquire Sound United, bringing together two leaders with distinctly different expertise. Sound United, headquartered in the U.S., operates one of the world’s most impressive portfolios of audio brands, including Bowers & Wilkins, Denon, Polk Audio, Marantz, Definitive Technology, Classé, and Boston Acoustics.

The deal represents Masimo’s strategic expansion into the consumer electronics space, while Sound United gains access to Masimo’s healthcare resources and infrastructure. According to the announcement, the transaction is projected to finalize around mid-2022, pending regulatory clearance and standard closing procedures.

What Sound United Brings to the Table

Since its founding in 2012, Sound United has established itself as a powerhouse in premium audio innovation. The company’s strength lies in several key areas: a robust global distribution network spanning online retail, physical stores, and professional installation channels; a connected cloud-based ecosystem for smart home integration; and a world-class R&D team dedicated to audio engineering excellence.

Operating across more than 130 countries, Sound United’s portfolio brands collectively represent centuries of audio expertise. Each brand maintains its own distinct identity while adhering to rigorous production standards and a shared commitment to delivering uncompromising sound quality.

Strategic Vision for the Combined Entity

Joe Kiani, founder and CEO of Masimo Corporation, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition: “I have long been a fan of Sound United’s iconic brands and am honored to steward them through the next generation of technological evolution. Masimo shares Sound United’s commitment to providing innovative, best-in-class products with a relentless focus on improving the consumer experience.”

Kevin Duffy, CEO of Sound United, added that the merger positions the company to leverage Masimo’s strengths in healthcare monitoring alongside Sound United’s consumer electronics expertise. The combined organization aims to create a seamless experience delivering high-quality products to consumers while potentially expanding Masimo’s growing consumer-focused product line through Sound United’s established distribution channels.

Transaction Structure and Leadership

Following the close, Kevin Duffy will remain as CEO of Sound United, reporting directly to Masimo’s leadership. The deal was advised by multiple financial and legal advisors: Citigroup and Paul Hastings LLP worked with Masimo, while Evercore, Stifel, Solomon Partners, and Goodwin Procter supported Sound United throughout negotiations.

This acquisition signals a notable trend toward convergence between healthcare technology and consumer electronics, as companies seek to build comprehensive ecosystems that span both professional and consumer markets.