In 1994-1995, in-ear monitor technology was in its infancy and not in widespread use in touring as it is today. As Van Halen’s monitor engineer, Jerry was presented with a challenge to find technology that would work for drummer Alex Van Halen. He began to investigate and then to innovate. After trying (and quickly discarding) the available in-ear options, Jerry funneled his experience tuning large arena sound systems and engineered the first 2-way, custom-fit earpiece just for Alex.
Van Halen couldn’t have been happier with the result, and word spread to other artists and engineers on the tour and further to others on the road. Before long, Harvey founded his own company, Ultimate Ears, designing and manufacturing in-ear monitors for touring musicians, crew, and soon audiophiles. Through focusing on innovation, cutting-edge design, and exceptional audio quality his IEMs quickly became the industry standard. In 2005 Logitech acquired Ultimate Ears. Jerry continued to work as one of the top Monitor Engineers in the touring industry.
As an avid private pilot since 2003, Jerry set his sights on the skies and that’s where his new company, Jerry Harvey Audio, got its start in 2007. Jerry designed and manufactured three models of groundbreaking communication in-ear headsets for private pilots. His designs were custom fit, as an IEM is, and offered effective, comfortable ear protection, clearer in-flight communication, and unparalleled sound. The aviation line was discontinued in 2010 to refocus on music.
Back to the Music
By 2009, the Professional Touring industry was looking for fresh IEM designs and Jerry obliged with the Jerry Harvey Audio Pro Series. The JH13 and JH16 Custom IEMS blew away the Pro and Audiophile markets and in the next 3 years Jerry Harvey again became the dominant force in pro IEM audio. The development of the Siren Series Roxanne, the first 12 Driver IEM, with its unheard of dynamic range, phase accuracy, and independent adjustable bass turned the Industry on its ears once again!
Universal Fit
Jerry Harvey and team have targeted the ever-growing one-size-fits-all Consumer IEM Market with the release of the much-heralded Roxanne™ IEM in a universal fit option. Universal fit IEMs, in general, do not have the performance of customs and fit can be a problem. Jerry knew he could improve size and shape after years of creating CIEM’s. He looked at the best attributes of CIEM fit and completely redesigned the universal shell with a 40% smaller size and custom-like fit and seal. This improvement not only took their performance to a new level, but also increased their wearability immeasurably. The Performance Series Universal Fit IEM Series includes the 13v2, 16v2, and Roxanne.
Art
Drawing inspiration from the world’s foremost watchmakers, tattoo artists, knife craftsmen, among others, Jerry has pushed to make his IEMs “look as cool as they sound.” With this in mind, JH Audio offers IEMs handcrafted from exotic materials such as Carbon Fiber, Titanium, and polished Stainless Steel, with more to come!
Now and the Future
Jerry Harvey Audio now offers eight Custom Fit IEM models and three Universal fit models. Jerry’s quest for perfection through innovation continues.
We hope you join the Jerry Harvey Audio family and come along for the ride!
