Back in May 2018 JBL took the stage at Google I/O to present the Link Bar, a soundbar featuring Android TV capabilities. Now, over a year later, the company announces the device is finally ready to ship to retailers.

While not a new device, the Link Bar remains an interesting proposition. After all, it is an Android TV-powered soundbar with built-in Google Assistant, allowing for voice control and compatibility wiht a range of smart home devices. A built-in Chromecast provides an array of media sources, while a Privacy Switch allows users to mute the microphone in case they do not want or need the virtual assistant.

James Loudspeaker announces the addition of a microperf grille for the Small Aperture architectural loudspeaker range-- grilles with smaller perforations for a less obtrusive, almost invisible presentation.

According to the company the microperf grilles nearly vanish into any décor while providing nearly identical frequency response and dispersion to the original grilles.

Braun returns to audio after 28 years away from the industry with the announcement of plans to bring back the classic LE speaker range, set to make a first appearance at the upcoming IFA 2019 in Berlin, Germany.

As the company puts it, the launch will make a "perfect reintroduction to the heritage of Braun Audio," with a focus on the "purity of design, purity of performance and, above all else, the purity of sound." Further details on the speakers are scant, but Braun does promise "state-of-the-art technology and connectivity," within elegant and minimalist design. That said, actually making the speakers is British speaker maker Pure, with a license for the Braun name from owner Procter and Gamble.

Pro Audio Technology (PRO) announces a pair of loudspeaker series consisting of 3 models-- the S-12m, SR-12ai and SR-212ai, all designed to recreate the commercial cinema experience within the home theatre.

The loudspeakers replace 3 existing PRO models, namely the SCRS-12s, SCRS-12ai and the SCRS-212ai. Both S and SR series employ a 1.7-inch Ultra-Purity high-frequency compression driver mounted on an elliptical wide coverage horn. Designed for placement behind an acoustically-transparent screen, the S-12sm and SR-12ai feature a 12-inch 1400W long-throw woofer with a 4-inch voice coil.