Altec Lansing Launches New BackBeat Stereo Headphone Family

Corded Headphones and Headsets Deliver Exceptional Audio with Personalized Fit

SAN FRANCISCO (MACWORLD 2009). – Altec Lansing, a division of Plantronics, Inc., today unveiled its new BackBeat line of stereo headphones and headsets, developed specifically for digital media, music and communication use. The new line features high-quality acoustic design in combination with a personalized fit to reduce background noise and deliver a vibrant, balanced audio experience.

Developed to deliver premium audio and communication experiences to price-conscious consumers, the new BackBeat corded portfolio includes three new headphone products and two microphoned models – each featuring a 3.5mm, gold plated adapter plug compatible with most MP3 players and smartphones (including iPod, iPhone, Motorola Razr V31 and Blackberry Storm).

Developed as an upgrade to in-box, bundled headphones, the new BackBeat models leverage Altec Lansing’s legendary speaker technology in combination with a distinctly snug, sound-isolating in-ear fit. Each model is distinguished by its own calibrated, studio-grade components along with interchangeable eartips designed to ensure a custom, secure in-ear fit essential for delivering the portfolio’s signature sound clarity and range.

“Altec Lansing has applied over 70 years of audio ingenuity into the development of the new BackBeat line, creating products that distinctly outperform typical bundled headphones and headsets,” said Bernice Cramer, vice president of marketing and product management for Altec Lansing. “The remarkable clarity and range of our sound – plus the ability to seamlessly switch between your music and conversations – make these a must-have accessory for any iPhone, smartphone or iPod consumer.”

Headphone Model Features and Pricing
The new BackBeat portfolio is headlined by the BackBeat Titanium UHP 326 inEar SnugFit™ Earphones (MSRP $79.99). Compatible with iPod®, iPhone™ and MP3 music players as well as PCs and laptops, the UHP 326 features 10mm Titanium-enhanced speakers for full-spectrum, richly detailed acoustics. The BackBeat Titanium headphones include an eight-piece custom fit kit with multiple ear tips to seal-in music and keep background noise out, plus a neoprene carry case for convenient storage. The BackBeat Plus UHP 206 Earphones (MSRP $59.99) include 10mm Neodymium speakers for well-balanced highs, mids and lows with extended bass, plus an eight-piece fit kit. The BackBeat Classic UHP 106 Earphones (MSRP: $39.99) feature the same comfortable in-ear wearing style as the UHP 326 and UHP 206 and deliver a quality listening experience at an affordable price, with a six-piece fit kit.

Headphones w/ Microphone Model Features and Pricing
The BackBeat headset portfolio includes two models: the BackBeat Plus UHS 206 and BackBeat Classic UHS 106. The BackBeat Plus inEar SnugFit™ Earphones feature 10mm Neodymium speakers for exceptional audio balance and enhanced bass while supporting an in-line microphone for mobile phone conversations (MSRP $29.99). The BackBeat Classic UHS 106 inEar SnugFit™ Earphones also support music and calls in a comfortable, lightweight design (MSRP $49.99)

Availability
the new BackBeat portfolio is currently available at select CE retailers and www.alteclansing.com. For more information visit: www.alteclansing.com.

The new BackBeat series leads Altec Lansing’s comprehensive new 2009 collection of headphones and headsets. For more information about Altec Lansing’s complete BackBeat portfolio visit: http://www.alteclansing.com/winter2009/.