Designed at LDA, LLC in Irvine, California.
A STRONG DESIGN LANGUAGE
For more than 15 years Myk Lum and the design team at LDA have worked closely with JBL's mobile audio division to develop their various lines of speakers, amplifiers and subwoofers. This collaboration with LDA has led to a recognizable and aggressive design language which has helped JBL maintain a strong foothold in the competitive mobile audio market.
SUCCESS OF THE GTO AMPLIFIER
Previous GTO amplifiers had earned JBL a special place among critics and consumers alike who recognized the GTO amp as a market leader in quality and aesthetics. After years of enjoying this success it began to slowly lose its foothold when simpler and more affordable offerings came to market. The Alpine V-Series was one such mobile amplifier that began to chip away at the success of the GTO amp so JBL took action to reclaim their place at the top.
A SIMPLIFIED APPROACH
In discussing the best approach to the redesign of the GTO amplifier we decided a simple approach was best. However, because of the success and distinct aesthetic of previous GTO amps we couldn't completely abandon the old design language without alienating the existing consumer. The new design would retain the chiseled surfacing and aggressive details of the previous generation but would leverage a reduced part count, consistent materials and finishes and a more unified geometry to reduce cost and compete with the Alpine V Series.
RETURNING TO GREATNESS
The redesigned GTO mobile amplifier helped JBL fight to reclaim their spot at the top of the market. Its simple and aggressive detailing communicates sophistication and strength while connecting back to the success of previous GTO amplifiers.
KEY CONTRIBUTORS: Joseph Morin, Ken Sugimoto, Kasin Chan.
