The perfect night in can always use a little music to set the mood. While chunky stereo systems may suffice, their look won't do. This year is awash with new sound system offerings.
From ceiling-mounted speakers and iPad docks to wirelessly streaming music, Lifestyleasia.com takes a closer look at the new toys on the market for your aural pleasure.
Bang & Olufsen BeoSound 8
One of the most sought-after names in home audio, BeoSound 8 is Bang & Olufsen's first speaker docking station for iPod, iPad and iPhone. The beauty here is all about versatility: hang it on a wall or place it on your bar counter, and you'll still get the sound quality you've come to expect from the company.
The conical shape of the speakers on the BeoSound 8 is more than just a pretty design, it was made to disappear into the background wherever you place it, letting you put it just about anywhere. Added bonus: the shapes eliminate standing waves by avoiding parallel surfaces.
The BeoSound8 comes in either black or white with aluminium details and matching power cord, and costs approximately US$1,400.
Philips Fidelio SoundSphere with Airplay
Traditional speakers are so 2007. Philips has teamed up with Airplay to bring you Fidelio SoundSphere - an elegant pair of speakers that let you stream music directly from iPod touch, iPhone, iPad and also iTunes, wirelessly.
With a tweeter over each speaker box, sound is projected clearly in all directions, creating a more natural and wider sound impression than normal speakers. That's how SoundSphere creates a life-like audio feel.
AirPlay lives up to its side of the partnership allowing you to stream your entire iTunes music collection to your Fidelio docking stations (as long as your music is connected to a Wi-Fi network).
Yours for US$800, the Fidelio SoundSphere with Airplay is available in late 2011.
Oh by Tutondo
The idea behind Oh by Tutondo is simple: to create a unique centralized system where sound can be transmitted across the entire room. Not only awesome to listen to, these Oh by Tutondo speakers are pieces of art as well; their spherical aluminium shape can take on any number of interchangeable fabric covers.
With multi-position support, attaching these speakers to any wall, ceiling or smooth surface is now possible, but of course they come at a price. Each of these aural masterpieces costs US$569, and considering one is not enough, expect to pay up to US$3000 for the whole sound system, including their active subwoofer.
