JVC

Origins of JVC

JVC, originally known as the Victor Company of Japan (later shortened to JVC), was founded in 1927 as the Japanese subsidiary of the U.S. firm, the Victor Talking Machine Company. Initially, JVC manufactured phonographs and pressed the first record in Japan, showcasing an early capability in both hardware and software production. The company’s first products included radio components and electron beam tubes, managed by the American manager Ben Gardner.

Four years after its establishment, JVC became a leader in the production of turntables. By 1930, JVC had built production facilities in Yokohama and began producing high-quality turntables and records under the “His Master’s Voice” label. This label, featuring a dog listening to a gramophone, became synonymous with high-quality products among music enthusiasts. JVC’s success in the audio equipment market was driven by a blend of American innovation and Japanese work ethic, leading to rapid expansion and diversification into other audio and video technologies.