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Meet the Man and the Brand Behind Assouline's New Limited Edition Headphones

In conversation with Master & Dynamic’s CEO, Jonathan Levine.
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Master and Dynamic for Assouline's limited edition headphones.

In today's digital age, how we consume audio matters. That’s why, in celebration of Assouline’s new Culture Lounge podcast, a series of conversations between visionaries, tastemakers and cultural icons, Assouline partnered on a pair of limited edition “Assouline Red” wireless headphones by Master & Dynamic, the premium headphone and earphone brand founded by Jonathan Levine in 2014. "Everything starts with design," says Levine, in thinking through how the brand began. “I raised my two sons in New York City. One has a deep passion for music and design, while the other is captivated by technology and videography. I witnessed their frustration, along with that of others, at not being able to find quality headphones that match the standard of other products they used daily."

01Jonathan Levine with his sons Justin Levine (left) and Robert Levine (right) Photo by Julie Skarratt.

We design our products to not only look exceptional but also to perform at the highest level, ensuring that every listening experience is unique and unmatched.

Jonathan Levine

Tell us about the history behind Master & Dynamic, how did it come to life?

I raised my two sons in New York City. One was deeply passionate about music and design, the other was captivated by technology and videography.   I witnessed their frustration, along with that of others, at not being able to find quality headphones that matched the quality of other products they used daily. It became clear to me that what they were experiencing was shared by a broader demographic.

What do you enjoy the most about collaborating with other brands?

I love the creative synergy when two like-minded companies join forces. The ideation and exploration are exhilarating.  Beyond this, collaborations also provide opportunities to learn and hone skills and approaches to business.  Partnering with some of the most successful brands globally has been a great learning experience for us.

Why do you think Assouline and Master & Dynamic work well together?

We are both New York-based companies who have collaboration as part of our DNA.  Leading brands trust us with their own brands and heritage to create projects and tell stories.  You cannot achieve this level of success and consistency without having great respect for partners. At the core, both of our brands are deeply committed to tactility and craftsmanship, thriving in an increasingly digital world.  The world needs more tactility. There is no substitute for a beautifully crafted coffee table book or an elegant pair of headphones.

Why are Master & Dynamic products setting the standard for quality and artistry?

We always design with timelessness in mind, despite living in an ever more digital/consumption-based world.  Our products are built to last, perform seamlessly and never appear dated.  More importantly we never compromise our products to meet lower price points. So many brands get trapped in this downward spiral.  When you consider the design, materials and components that go into a Master & Dynamic product and their longevity, we believe we offer exceptional value to our customers.


Shop The Collaboration

Library Accessories Assouline Red Wireless Headphones by Master & Dynamic
Regular price
$449

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