Next-gen portable PA system.
JBL tasked RKS to raise the bar on portable loudspeakers. The goal? Deliver uncompromised sonic excellence in a design optimized for setup speed, transport, and live performance needs—without adding bulk or complexity.
RKS immersed ourselves in professional audio workflows—attending live setups, speaking with DJs, musicians, and sound techs. We surfaced pain points around weight, setup fatigue, and ruggedness. Positioning the EON line within the empowered quadrant of our Psycho‑Aesthetics® framework guided us toward a design that inspires confidence and control.
Field study reports documenting real-world usage
Emotional user mapping: control, trust, empowerment
Prioritized ergonomic and modular requirements
How We Used Psycho-Aesthetics™ to Identify Unique Opportunities in the Project.
Using our proprietary Psycho-Aesthetics® 2.0 framework, we conducted in-depth interviews and ethnographic observation in diverse lab settings. We identified key emotional and usability pain points — such as intimidation with complex interfaces, workspace clutter, and trust in precision. These insights guided both the form and interface strategy, ensuring approachability and confidence in operation.
We reinvented the EON shape using smooth, molded curves and rounded corners to enhance durability and prevent snags. A new full metal perforated grill adds protection and a clean aesthetic. Over molded handles, top and sides, were strategically placed for balanced lifting and pole mounting.
Refined CAD models with continuous ergonomic curves
Prototypes for grip comfort and transport testing
Material selections for rugged, road ready durability
Our engineering team reduced the speaker’s weight while preserving JBL’s renowned sound quality. The EON 515 delivers 450W of power yet weighs just 33 lbs. We integrated robust internal bracing, optimized handle placement, and consistent audio performance across models.
Lightweight structural design with reinforced frame
Multi handle ergonomics for ease of use across formats
Acoustic validation reports and thermal performance data
The EON 500 series demonstrates RKS’s mastery in merging industrial design and emotional intelligence. We delivered a new flagship for JBL, one that empowers audio professionals through ergonomic innovation, functional elegance, and premium audio performance.
Status: Successfully launched; rapidly became JBL’s best-selling powered speaker series.
Market Recognition:
Called “sleek” and “top-quality” by SlashGear—“Designed by RKS… fit right in with the JBL look.”
Strategy
Welcome to a world of design and innovation
If this is not the case, then click the button below to start it
