Top-notch listening experience

Proud of its legacy of design and innovation, Harman International Industries Inc. makes its way to change the way people experience entertainment and information in homes, cars, music studios and entertainment venues around the world.

Over the past two years, Harman, the award-winning maker of outstanding audio and entertainment solutions, has won 116 awards for 70 unique products from the Consumer Electronics Association, producer of the International Consumer Electronics Show, for its wireless sound systems that make use of Bluetooth and Near Field Communications technology.

Lauro Secreto, Harman International Singapore brand activation manager, said, “The company recognizes the importance of providing stylish products that deliver not only high-quality technology, but also a sense of connectedness. We are very proud to introduce these new products to the Philippine market.”

 The Harman Kardon Esquire Mini is big on looks and even bigger in sound quality. It is also Bluetooth-enabled for full stereo streaming and doubles as a conference phone system with dual-microphone and built-in echo and noise-cancellation for superb sound and crystal-clear conference calling.

Harman International Industries vice president for Asia Pacific Mohit Parasher said, “Harman is known for its runway-ready, head-turning good looks to the slimmest wireless speaker and conferencing system in the world. With its advanced features, big high-fidelity sound, unsurpassed portability and its ability to serve as a charging center for your other mobile devices, it will easily become your favorite travel companion.”

The Harman Kardon Omni system comprises three new products: Omni 10, Omni 20 wireless HD loudspeakers and the Adapt plug-in to upgrade one’s existing home stereo system, all powered by Blackfire Research wireless media technology. Using the Harman Kardon app or Bluetooth lets you access and stream any music from your gadgets, favorite streaming services or your favorite apps seamlessly.

Parasher added, “Unlike other wireless streaming systems, the Harman Kardon Omni 10 and Omni 20 support 24-bit/96kHz Studio Quality HD audio streaming. So, along with the convenience of wireless audio streaming, you’ll enjoy a superior audio experience, with higher resolution than from a CD.”

JBL Pulse is a wireless sound and vision treat for the eyes and ears that gives new ways to enjoy one’s favorite tunes. It streams music from any portable device via Bluetooth. Enhance the music with a choice of programmed or customizable light themes.

JBL Pulse can deliver wireless fun for up to 10 hours of music or five hours of music and light show. The Wireless Portable Speaker System has dual JBL drivers with a built-in bass port for full-range sound that makes it easy to carry. It also has a built-in speakerphone with SoundClear echo and noise cancellation technologies.

Parasher explained that JBL Pulse will change the way one enjoys music as listening experience can be more immersive with a light show perfectly synched in brightness and color with the music.

A toast to Two Roxas Triangle!

Amidst clinking champagne glasses, handpicked furniture and exotic home fixtures, the show flat for premium residential tower Two Roxas Triangle was formally launched in an intimate affair at the Glorietta 3 Park.

The 52-story Two Roxas Triangle will be the final development of the Roxas Triangle Towers along Cruzada Street and Paseo de Roxas in Makati. The property is developed by Roxas Land Corp., a joint venture of three business giants:  Ayala Land, Hongkong Land and the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI).   

On hand to welcome guests were Ayala Land chairman Fernando Zobel, Hongkong Land chief executive Y.K. Pang and executive director Robert Wong, BPI senior vice president and group head Ma. Theresa Javier and Ayala Land president Bobby Dy.

An array of fine Japanese cocktail concoctions was served by Kai restaurant. Harpist Holly Paraiso entertained the exclusive company with tranquil renditions of songs familiar and sweet, complementing the luxurious evening.

World without strangers

It was a total entertainment package — with a concert, fashion show and a circus-themed party — that Giordano prepared for its loyal customers and guests when it recently celebrated its 25th anniversary at the Eastwood Mall Open Park. 

Guests played classic circus games such as Basket Toss, Something Fishy, Tumble Me and Ring O’Bottle. The winners took home exclusive prizes from Giordano. Other activities included fortune-telling and mechanical bull riding, which are reminiscent of the circuses of old. They also enjoyed performances by classic circus characters such as clowns, mimes, stilt walkers, magicians, lion man and unicyclists.

Come nightfall, the famous retail brand showcased its 2014 Fall/Winter collection. Classic, perfect-for-the-chilly-weather pieces like Oxford shirts, Breton tops, long-sleeved tees, denim, khakis and polos were paraded on the runway and worn by top models Ria Bolivar, Jasmine Maierhofer and Justine Gabionza. Award-winning fashion show director Ogee Atos helmed the show. Charmaine Palermo and Lourd Ramos did the fashion styling and makeup, respectively.

The climax of the event was a concert, which featured Filipino music icons topbilled by Giordano ambassador Rico Blanco, Franco and Brownman Revival. Blanco capped off the night with a performance of the crowd pleaser theme song of the brand, World Without Strangers.

“We thank everyone who celebrated this milestone with us. Giordano has evolved so much over the past two decades, and Filipinos have been a huge part of the brand’s success. When it first opened here in the country, we never thought that we would sign on celebrities, much more a song composed by Rico Blanco,” said Larry Lim, Giordano Philippines CEO and president.

“We also like to acknowledge the event organizer who conceptualized and designed the entire show, led by Butch Pena and Elaine Lozano of Big Belly Productions. 

“We look forward to the next two decades and more, and our customers can expect more timeless and classic pieces from us in our future collections,” Lim said.

(Follow me on Instagram @pepperteehankee.)