{"id":2729,"date":"2009-12-21T10:59:02","date_gmt":"2009-12-21T08:59:02","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/tokao.com\/?p=2729"},"modified":"2009-12-21T10:59:02","modified_gmt":"2009-12-21T08:59:02","slug":"amazing-audio-40-sexy-speakers-sweet-system-designs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/tokao.com\/wordpress\/2009\/12\/21\/amazing-audio-40-sexy-speakers-sweet-system-designs\/","title":{"rendered":"Amazing Audio: 40 Sexy Speakers &amp; Sweet System Designs"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"speakers\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/speakers.jpg\" alt=\"speakers\" width=\"374\" height=\"202\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Home speakers were once ugly, boxy things that you hid away from sight because they did nothing for your d\u00e9cor. But smart designers have been working to make the home audio speaker an attractive part of whatever room it\u2019s in, and some of their designs are positively unbelievable.<\/p>\n<h4>The Grand Enigma<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"grand enigma million dollar speakers\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/grand-enigma-million-dollar-speakers.jpg\" alt=\"grand enigma million dollar speakers\" width=\"374\" height=\"258\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/dvice.com\/archives\/2007\/05\/million-dollar-speakers-start.php\">Dvice<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>The Grand Enigma from\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.kharma.com\/general_info\/general_info.php\">Kharma<\/a> may just look like a wall of speakers, but they\u2019re a little more than that. Like, a million dollars more than that. Yes, the above setup is the world\u2019s most expensive set of speakers, and there\u2019s only one of its kind. You\u2019d have to be a truly hard-core audiophile to drop a million bucks on a sound system.<\/p>\n<h4>Soundshelf<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"soundshelf bookcase speakers\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/soundshelf-bookcase-speakers.jpg\" alt=\"soundshelf bookcase speakers\" width=\"374\" height=\"510\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(images via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/technabob.com\/blog\/2009\/02\/19\/soundshelf-design-concept-not-for-libraries\/\">Technabob<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>When you have a\u00a0<a onmouseover=\"self.status='http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/smallspace';return true;\" onmouseout=\"self.status=''\" rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/smallspace\">small space<\/a> to work with, single-functionality items just won\u2019t do. Everything in a small space should do at least double duty to maximize the area. These speakers\/bookshelves do that in the most delightful way, by combining music, books and sweet design (three of our favorite things) while saving floor space. Created by Polish designers Witek Stefaniak and Anielka Zdanowicz,<a href=\"http:\/\/www.designboom.com\/contest\/view.php?contest_pk=24&amp;item_pk=24053&amp;p=1\">these awesome speakers<\/a> are sadly only a concept for now.<\/p>\n<h4>Bandai Diorama Speaker<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"bandai ginza replica speaker\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/bandai-ginza-replica-speaker.jpg\" alt=\"bandai ginza replica speaker\" width=\"374\" height=\"295\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.akihabaranews.com\/en\/news_details.php?id=17423\">Akihabara News<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>If your goal is to actually draw attention to your speakers rather than hide them, you couldn\u2019t find a more perfect product. This<a href=\"http:\/\/www.akihabaranews.com\/en\/news_details.php?id=17423\">limited-edition speaker<\/a> from Bandai (of Power Rangers fame) features a very noticeable plastic model of 1955 Ginza on top. For about $2230, this is obviously the best choice for classy ladies and gentlemen everywhere.<\/p>\n<h4>Equalizer Speaker<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"equalizer speakers\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/equalizer-speakers.jpg\" alt=\"equalizer speakers\" width=\"374\" height=\"266\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.inewidea.com\/2009\/07\/15\/8253.html\">I New Idea<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>Let us go on record as saying that if\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.inewidea.com\/2009\/07\/15\/8253.html\">these speakers<\/a> ever became commercially available, we would walk barefoot over hot coals to get one. The familiar equalizer design lets you adjust the individual audio levels to your personal preference, and in a fun tactile way. Each slider is a speaker, lending a fantastic aesthetic quality to an otherwise sort of mundane activity.<\/p>\n<h4>Zimku Floor Speakers by Parrot<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"parrot zimku speakers\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/parrot-zimku-speakers.jpg\" alt=\"parrot zimku speakers\" width=\"374\" height=\"275\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.wired.com\/gadgetlab\/2008\/12\/parrot-ipod-spe\/\">Wired<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>Parrot is already known for their wireless headphones, but recently they branched out and joined forces with designer Philippe Starck to come up with these sophisticated-looking\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.wired.com\/gadgetlab\/2008\/12\/parrot-ipod-spe\/\">tower speakers<\/a>. They are designed to be used in pairs and connect to each other wirelessly via Bluetooth. But even better is their wi-fi capability, making them able to stream music from your computer or cell phone. Or if you\u2019d prefer, pop that iPhone or iPod onto the integrated dock. Their $1500 price tag suggests that you might want to be pretty serious about your music before lusting after the Zimku speakers.<\/p>\n<h4>Bowers &amp; Wilkins Nautilus<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"nautilus\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/nautilus.jpg\" alt=\"nautilus\" width=\"374\" height=\"314\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.bowers-wilkins.com\/display.aspx?infid=1729&amp;terid=2003\">Bowers &amp; Wilkins<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>The Bowers and Wilkins\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.bowers-wilkins.com\/display.aspx?infid=1729\">Nautilus<\/a> has inspired countless designers all over the world to design a sleek, sexy speaker. But few even come close to the incredible stylishness and unbelievable sound quality of the Nautilus. It\u2019s a design classic, and one that continues to be on the wish list of every audiophile.<\/p>\n<h4>Serpent Wireless Speaker Design<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"serpent desk speakers\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/serpent-desk-speakers.jpg\" alt=\"serpent desk speakers\" width=\"374\" height=\"262\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(images via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.yankodesign.com\/2009\/03\/18\/someone-let-the-snake-speaker-out-of-the-bag\/\">Yanko Design<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>Sometimes the best design is the simplest one. That\u2019s certainly the case with Ben Wahrlich\u2019s\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.yankodesign.com\/2009\/03\/18\/someone-let-the-snake-speaker-out-of-the-bag\/\">Serpent Speakers<\/a> design. The wireless speakers wouldn\u2019t be big enough for a whole-room listening experience, but they would make perfect computer speakers. The flexible bodies can bend into any configuration and stay put when you twist them up. They\u2019re only a concept at this point, but it\u2019s easy to imagine this simple, common-sense design popping up in stores soon.<\/p>\n<h4>Eclipse TD712zMK2<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"eclipse jet engine speakers\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/eclipse-jet-engine-speakers.jpg\" alt=\"eclipse jet engine speakers\" width=\"374\" height=\"364\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.techdigest.tv\/2009\/02\/eclipse_shows_o.html#more\">Tech Digest<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>Despite the inscrutable and very forgettable name, the\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.techdigest.tv\/2009\/02\/eclipse_shows_o.html#more\">Eclipse TD7127MK2<\/a> speakers show off a memorable design. They look a bit like tiny jet engines stuck atop two metal poles. And they bear other similarities to jet engines: namely, their price and size. A pair of these will set you back about $10,000, and each speaker weighs in at around 55 pounds.<\/p>\n<h4>Imu Vibrating Speaker<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"imu vibrating speaker\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/imu-vibrating-speaker.jpg\" alt=\"imu vibrating speaker\" width=\"374\" height=\"312\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.gadgetshop.com\/TechnoGadgets\/ViewAll\/Imu%20Vibrating%20Speaker\/EPN359075\">Gadgetshop<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>While the design looks a little NSFW-ish, the\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.gadgetshop.com\/TechnoGadgets\/ViewAll\/Imu%20Vibrating%20Speaker\/EPN359075\">Imu\u2019s product page<\/a> gives a pretty enticing description. It claims that, due to a magical Navy substance called Terfenol-D, this little device can turn any hard, flat surface into a speaker.<\/p>\n<h4>Yorozu Sound Revolution Kit<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"yorozu sound kit\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/yorozu-sound-kit.jpg\" alt=\"yorozu sound kit\" width=\"374\" height=\"142\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(images via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.japantrendshop.com\/yorozu-audio-sound-revolution-kit-p-389.html\">Japan Trend Shop<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>The\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.japantrendshop.com\/yorozu-audio-sound-revolution-kit-p-389.html\">Yorozu Sound Revolution Audio Kit<\/a> works on a similar principle, and claims to be able to turn just about any flat surface into a speaker. It comes with a milk carton-shaped box to start you out. After that, it\u2019s up to you to start sticking the little conductor onto anything and everything in reach.<\/p>\n<h4>Body Speakers<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"body speakers by bob turek\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/body-speakers-by-bob-turek.jpg\" alt=\"body speakers by bob turek\" width=\"374\" height=\"504\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.likecool.com\/Body_Speakers_by_Bob_Turek--HIFI--Gear.html\">Like Cool<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>If the Imu wasn\u2019t quite suggestive enough for you, the\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.likecool.com\/Body_Speakers_by_Bob_Turek--HIFI--Gear.html\">Body Speakers<\/a>from Bob Turek just might be. The designer wanted to put music into a new context, and he succeeded admirably. Now if we could just stop blushing long enough to plug this cord in\u2026<\/p>\n<h4>JVC Sound Garden<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"jvc sound garden speakers\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/jvc-sound-garden-speakers.jpg\" alt=\"jvc sound garden speakers\" width=\"374\" height=\"281\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.engadget.com\/2008\/10\/31\/jvcs-sound-garden-concept-thrives-beneath-a-black-hole-sun\/\">Engadget<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>Music and gardening are both relaxing on their own, so why not combine them?\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.engadget.com\/2008\/10\/31\/jvcs-sound-garden-concept-thrives-beneath-a-black-hole-sun\/\">This speaker concept<\/a> was seen at the Designer\u2019s Week competition in Tokyo, and combines a multi-directional speaker with a small planter. The units can be joined up to form a speaker array\/garden that ultimately seems pretty dangerous, given the electricity + water equation.<\/p>\n<h4>Harman Kardon Soundstick II<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"soundsticks ii\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/soundsticks-ii.jpg\" alt=\"soundsticks ii\" width=\"374\" height=\"281\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.harmankardon.com\/EN-GB\/Products\/Pages\/ProductDetails.aspx?PID=SOUNDSTICKSII\">Harman Kardon<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>When it comes to speakers, excellent sound is one thing; when it\u2019s accompanied by superior design you get even more enjoyment from your music. The\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.harmankardon.com\/EN-GB\/Products\/Pages\/ProductDetails.aspx?PID=SOUNDSTICKSII\">Soundstick II<\/a> system sounds amazing, but the sleek and curvy design actually makes it look good on your tabletop or desk. The clear acrylic subwoofer and satellite speakers feature blue LEDs to give them an almost ethereal look, and the system features minimal wiring to keep your desk clutter under control.<\/p>\n<h4>Audi-Inspired Sonic Rings<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"audi logo sonic ring speakers\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/audi-logo-sonic-ring-speakers.jpg\" alt=\"audi logo sonic ring speakers\" width=\"374\" height=\"185\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.madebymakers.dk\/reframe\/content\/three-days-twenty-ideas\">MadeByMakers<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>Young Danish design firm\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.madebymakers.dk\/reframe\/content\/three-days-twenty-ideas\">Made By Makers<\/a> held an internal workshop to see what innovative new speaker ideas they could think up on three days. One of the designs was this doughnut-shaped surround-sound speaker that was inspired by the Audi logo. The idea is that you pick up a wireless ring and take it with you to enhance your surround sound experience wherever you are in the room.<\/p>\n<h4>Brionvega Radiofonografio<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"radiofonografio\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/radiofonografio.jpg\" alt=\"radiofonografio\" width=\"374\" height=\"301\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.thecoolhunter.net\/gadgets\/Brionvega\/\">The Cool Hunter<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>When the original Radiofonografio was invented in 1965 by the Castiglioni brothers, it was a marvel of modern music. A radio, record player and amplifier all in one sleek, attractive package revolutionized the way the world thinks about audio. Now,\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.brionvega.it\/\">Brionvega<\/a>has reinvented the landmark piece by updating its appearance somewhat and adding a CD\/DVD player. Luckily, they kept the \u201cfriendly robot\u201d look.<\/p>\n<h4>Altec Lansing OMNI<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"altec lansing omni speakers\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/altec-lansing-omni-speakers.jpg\" alt=\"altec lansing omni speakers\" width=\"374\" height=\"265\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.yankodesign.com\/2009\/06\/26\/woofer-speaker-tweeter-all-live-together\/\">Yanko Design<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>Although these\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.yankodesign.com\/2009\/06\/26\/woofer-speaker-tweeter-all-live-together\/\">gorgeous speakers<\/a> are just a concept, we can easily picture them in an ultra-modern home design. They look like tall decorative vases, but the tops of the objects actually have cone-shaped speakers in them, allowing them to distribute sound in all directions.<\/p>\n<h4>Neil Poulton\u2019s USB-Powered Speakers<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"neil poulton usb powered speakers\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/neil-poulton-usb-powered-speakers.jpg\" alt=\"neil poulton usb powered speakers\" width=\"374\" height=\"154\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/aplusrstore.com\/product.php?id=209\">A + R Store<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>Well-designed\u00a0<em>and<\/em> affordable computer speakers are very hard to come by, but\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/aplusrstore.com\/product.php?id=209\">this set<\/a> manages to do both pretty nicely. The design is simple and streamlined (they look like steam vents!), with no overly ornate bits to get in the way of killer sound. And at just $66, you won\u2019t be afraid to actually use them.<\/p>\n<h4>Davone Rithm<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"davone rithm speakers\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/davone-rithm-speakers.jpg\" alt=\"davone rithm speakers\" width=\"374\" height=\"258\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.gearcrave.com\/2008-08-07\/davone-rithm\/\">Gear Crave<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>The graceful curves of the\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.davoneaudio.com\/products.html\">Davone Rithm<\/a> speakers bring to mind fine instruments, and indeed they were crafted with the same painstaking care of a top-shelf violin. The many layers of pressed wood are carefully molded into the fluid shape of the cabinet which acts as an effective sound damper. Inside the cabinet, the tweeter is actually inside the woofer, giving a clean, uniform sound for both high and low frequencies.<\/p>\n<h4>JBL Control Now<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"jbl control now\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/jbl-control-now.jpg\" alt=\"jbl control now\" width=\"374\" height=\"374\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(images via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/product\/B001ABK19S?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=vubx-20&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=B001ABK19S\">Amazon<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>Any audiophile knows that flexibility is a huge plus when you\u2019re setting up your home sound system. Being able to move and combine components is the main idea behind the\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/product\/B001ABK19S?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=vubx-20&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=B001ABK19S\">JBL Control Now<\/a>line, which lets you mount speakers pretty much anywhere. The quarter-circle speakers work well alone, but you can also use them in custom arrays of up to four.<\/p>\n<h4>Sound Seed<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"sound seed speakers\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/sound-seed-speakers.jpg\" alt=\"sound seed speakers\" width=\"374\" height=\"321\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.designboom.com\/contest\/view.php?contest_pk=24&amp;item_pk=24002&amp;p=1\">DesignBoom<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>Sound Seed, designed by\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.designboom.com\/contest\/view.php?contest_pk=24&amp;item_pk=24002&amp;p=1\">Richard Hunt<\/a>, takes everyone\u2019s biggest speaker complaint and turns it into an asset. The design uses the power cord, usually an unsightly tail that combines with others to take up half of a room, to suspend the speakers gracefully. They float in mid-air and can be positioned at ear level to get just the right sound without taking up any precious floor space.<\/p>\n<h4>The Wailers<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"wailers by john caswell\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/wailers-by-john-caswell.jpg\" alt=\"wailers by john caswell\" width=\"374\" height=\"418\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.johncaswelldesign.co.uk\/wailers.html#\">John Caswell Design<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>If you tend to listen to woeful emo or screaming metal, why not have the speakers to match? These adorable\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.johncaswelldesign.co.uk\/wailers.html#\">ceramic speakers<\/a>, designed by John Caswell, look like they\u2019re singing (or wailing) your music to you.<\/p>\n<h4>Panasonic SC-ZT1<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"panasonic sc-zt1\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/panasonic-sc-zt1.jpg\" alt=\"panasonic sc-zt1\" width=\"374\" height=\"406\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/ces.cnet.com\/8301-19167_1-10137748-100.html\">CNet<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>Panasonic\u2019s new\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/ces.cnet.com\/8301-19167_1-10137748-100.html\">wireless speaker<\/a> design (unveiled at CES 2009) has interior decorating enthusiasts sitting on the edge of their seats. The surround-sound system features four elegant towers instead of the usual boxy speakers to deliver 4.0 surround sound in a much less cluttered fashion. Because of the system\u2019s lack of a separate subwoofer and the limitations of only four speakers, this can\u2019t be called a true audiophile\u2019s surround sound system. But for all of those households that have been holding out on surround sound because of the ugly wires and speakers involved, it may be just the thing to catapult them into a higher plane of listening pleasure.<\/p>\n<h4>Jabra Wireless Bluetooth Headset\/Speaker<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"jabra bluetooth speaker headphones\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/jabra-bluetooth-speaker-headphones.jpg\" alt=\"jabra bluetooth speaker headphones\" width=\"374\" height=\"219\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.engadget.com\/2007\/08\/19\/jabra-bt8030-bluetooth-headset-works-as-a-speaker-too\/\">Engadget<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>Ok, so maybe including\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.engadget.com\/2007\/08\/19\/jabra-bt8030-bluetooth-headset-works-as-a-speaker-too\/\">this design<\/a> in a list of home speakers is cheating just a little. After all, these are mostly for personal use. But this amazing contraption goes from personal headphones to desk speakers to bluetooth headset, making it a completely versatile gadget to have around. We can\u2019t imagine the sound quality in speaker mode would be the best you\u2019ve ever heard, but the convenience factor makes them attractive nonetheless.<\/p>\n<h4>Proclaim Audio DMT-100<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"proclaim pod speakers\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/proclaim-pod-speakers.jpg\" alt=\"proclaim pod speakers\" width=\"374\" height=\"281\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(images via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/proclaimaudioworks.com\/gallery.htm\">Proclaim Audioworks<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>These\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/proclaimaudioworks.com\/gallery.htm\">bizarre-looking sound pods<\/a> are actually carefully engineered to bring you the best sound experience. The spherical shape is intended to control the acoustics of the sound more than the room in which they sit, and their special stand lets you position the upper speakers in the best place for your particular needs. And you can always pretend they\u2019re alien eyes watching you go about your business.<\/p>\n<h4>Cabasse La Sphere<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"cabasse la sphere\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/cabasse-la-sphere.jpg\" alt=\"cabasse la sphere\" width=\"374\" height=\"240\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/stereophile.com\/standloudspeakers\/608cab\/\">Stereophile<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>For the best and creepiest alien eye speaker experience, though, you\u2019d be better off with the\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/stereophile.com\/standloudspeakers\/608cab\/\">Cabasse La Sphere<\/a>. The giant ball looks like a terrifying watchful eye that\u2019s just waiting for you to do something laser-worthy. It reportedly sounds pretty good, but for the whole system you\u2019ll end up dropping $165,000, which is just a touch more than most people care to spend just to be scared in their own home.<\/p>\n<h4>Symbio Designs Alpha Speaker<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"symbio alpha speakers\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/symbio-alpha-speakers.jpg\" alt=\"symbio alpha speakers\" width=\"374\" height=\"302\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.symbiodesign.cz\/web\/core\/_page.php?p=index_fset_root&amp;gl_lang=cz\">Symbio Designs<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>The original design of the\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.symbiodesign.cz\/web\/core\/_page.php?p=index_fset_root&amp;gl_lang=cz\">Symbio Alpha<\/a> heavily favored form over function, but after a positive reception by everyone who saw these strange objects, the team decided to go back to the drawing board for the speaker components. They came up with a technical profile that matches the beauty of the speakers\u2019 physical form, making the Alpha a truly desirable object for both music lovers and art lovers.<\/p>\n<h4>Xount<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"xount\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/xount.jpg\" alt=\"xount\" width=\"374\" height=\"290\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.engadget.com\/2007\/08\/21\/xounts-illuminated-wireless-speaker-system\/\">Engadget<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>Put\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.engadget.com\/2007\/08\/21\/xounts-illuminated-wireless-speaker-system\/\">this speaker<\/a> into a room and ask your friends if they can tell where your music is coming from. Chances are they\u2019ll never suspect the stylish lamp sitting over in the corner (unless they actually listen for the source, of course). The Xount uses flat speaker technology to deliver smooth, even sound throughout the room. If you aren\u2019t satisfied with sophisticated white, there are also several covers available to let you change the appearance of your lamp\/speaker.<\/p>\n<h4>Nendo Music Cage<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"nendo music cage\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/nendo-music-cage.jpg\" alt=\"nendo music cage\" width=\"374\" height=\"374\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/dvice.com\/archives\/2009\/08\/music-cage-blue.php\">Dvice<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>Insert appropriate \u201ctweeter\u201d, \u201cfor the birds,\u201d or \u201ccaged bird singing\u201d joke here. This\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.nendo.jp\/en\/works\/detail.php?y=2009&amp;t=137\">bird cage<\/a> is actually a speaker which can be set on a tabletop or hung from the ceiling. Either way, it\u2019s a lovely, retro way to disguise your speaker while keeping it right out in the open.<\/p>\n<h4>X-Mini iHome Capsule Speaker<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"x-mini home capsule\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/x-mini-home-capsule.jpg\" alt=\"x-mini home capsule\" width=\"374\" height=\"226\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.thinkgeek.com\/computing\/speakers\/9e68\/\">ThinkGeek<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>If you like to take your music with you around the house or to the office, a good portable speaker is essential but hard to find. The\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.thinkgeek.com\/computing\/speakers\/9e68\/\">X-Mini<\/a> is surprisingly robust for such a tiny speaker, and when you expand the body it gives a respectable amount of bass. It\u2019s rechargeable via USB and will go almost 8 hours on a single charge, meaning you can annoy everyone at work with obnoxious Christmas songs\u00a0<em>all day long<\/em>.<\/p>\n<h4>Artcoustic Canvas Speakers<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"artcoustic canvas speakers\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/artcoustic-canvas-speakers.jpg\" alt=\"artcoustic canvas speakers\" width=\"374\" height=\"240\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.artcoustic.com\/news\/iotm\/2009\/december.aspx\">Artcoustic<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>For the ultimate hidden speaker, you can\u2019t do better than these art-covered speakers from\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.artcoustic.com\/products\/superstar-stereo-music-centre.aspx\">Artcoustic<\/a>. The company offers high quality speakers disguised as artwork, so you can hang your speakers on the wall right next to your TV and not have to cringe every time you see them.<\/p>\n<h4>Ferguson Hill FH001<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"ferguson hill fh001 horn speakers\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/ferguson-hill-fh001-horn-speakers.jpg\" alt=\"ferguson hill fh001 horn speakers\" width=\"374\" height=\"431\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(images via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.fergusonhill.co.uk\/product_details.php?id=3\">Ferguson Hill<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>On the completely opposite end of the spectrum are some of the most conspicuous home speakers ever. These\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.fergusonhill.co.uk\/product_details.php?id=3\">giant acrylic horns<\/a> will likely take up most of your living space, but they will sound terrific while doing it. Their $16,000 price tag makes them even more conspicuous, though Ferguson Hill does have a slightly smaller set for a more reasonable $600 or so.<\/p>\n<h4>Woofer Speakers<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"woofer speakers\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/woofer-speakers.jpg\" alt=\"woofer speakers\" width=\"374\" height=\"137\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(images via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.gnr8.biz\/product_info.php?products_id=626\">Generate<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>If you like everything about dogs except for the part of them that makes noise, or if you want to send a rather horrific message to the dog lover in your life, you might enjoy the\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.gnr8.biz\/product_info.php?products_id=626\">Woofer speaker system<\/a>designed by Sander Mulder. The rest of us are a little creeped out by them. A set of two headless dogs will run you a little over $1400, so we hope you\u2019re really committed to whatever statement you\u2019re trying to make.<\/p>\n<h4>Sound Bulb<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"sound bulb speaker design\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/sound-bulb-speaker-design.jpg\" alt=\"sound bulb speaker design\" width=\"374\" height=\"404\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.yankodesign.com\/2009\/06\/15\/throw-some-light-on-your-speaker\/\">Yanko Design<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>Whether or not the\u00a0<a onmouseover=\"self.status='http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/technology';return true;\" onmouseout=\"self.status=''\" rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/technology\">technology<\/a> exists to actually make\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.yankodesign.com\/2009\/06\/15\/throw-some-light-on-your-speaker\/\">this design<\/a>possible is beside the point. It\u2019s an awesome idea for combining two common household items: the light bulb and the speaker. We can see this being a great design for a dorm room or other ultra-crowded space, or for torture rooms where the goal is to drive your captive mad with Spongebob music (we saw that on an episode of Law and Order).<\/p>\n<h4>Freewheeler Rolling Outdoor Speaker<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"freewheeler speaker\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/freewheeler-speaker.jpg\" alt=\"freewheeler speaker\" width=\"374\" height=\"356\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/technabob.com\/blog\/2008\/08\/08\/freewheeler-speaker-looks-like-a-tire-priced-like-a-car\/\">Technabob<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>Technabob says of this hefty speaker that it \u201clooks like a tire [and is] priced like a car.\u201d We couldn\u2019t have said it better. The\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/technabob.com\/blog\/2008\/08\/08\/freewheeler-speaker-looks-like-a-tire-priced-like-a-car\/\">Freewheeler<\/a>was designed by Rod Arad and Frances Pellisari to be a durable, rolling speaker that you can take outdoors with you, presumably so you don\u2019t miss a beat of Jimmy Buffett while roving between kitchen and patio, refilling your margarita glass. For $21,000, though, we\u2019d rather just buy a whole lot more margarita mix. Or a new patio.<\/p>\n<h4>360 Degree Speaker<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"360 speaker\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/360-speaker.jpg\" alt=\"360 speaker\" width=\"374\" height=\"233\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/pietermaes.com\/net\/objects.html\">Pieter Maes<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>There isn\u2019t a lot of information available about\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/pietermaes.com\/net\/objects.html\">this speaker concept<\/a>, designed by Pieter Maes, but its simple, intuitive design is irresistible. The designer says that the speaker cones are attached to a spider-like structure which is invisible from the outside. We can picture several of these hanging from the ceiling, providing a whimsical kind of decoration while filling your house with sound.<\/p>\n<h4>Dragon Speakers<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"axelsson design dragon speakers\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/axelsson-design-dragon-speakers.jpg\" alt=\"axelsson design dragon speakers\" width=\"374\" height=\"142\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.axelsson.co.uk\/Products.html\">Axelsson<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>These Dragon Speakers from\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.axelsson.co.uk\/Products.html\">Axelsson Design<\/a> don\u2019t hide the nature of the speakers, but they also don\u2019t skimp on style. We love the fabulous colorful resin shaped like a fierce dragon. The kitschy design is small enough to fit on a bookshelf, so you don\u2019t have to worry about it taking up too much space.<\/p>\n<h4>Aura by Paul Scarfe<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"aura\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/aura.jpg\" alt=\"aura\" width=\"374\" height=\"141\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(images via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.yankodesign.com\/2008\/03\/26\/the-shape-of-music\/\">Yanko Design<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>This innovative\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.yankodesign.com\/2008\/03\/26\/the-shape-of-music\/\">speaker concept<\/a> from designer Paul Scarfe takes the classic audio-enhancing cone and pairs it with the sound-magnifying ability of glass to create a unique new speaker. The treble output is through the top, and the bass erupts from the bottom. As lovely as this ornamental speaker is, if you owned it you would probably hear visitors constantly wondering aloud why your blender is in your living room.<\/p>\n<h4>Ice Cream Sundaes<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"ice cream sundae speakers\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/ice-cream-sundae-speakers.jpg\" alt=\"ice cream sundae speakers\" width=\"374\" height=\"205\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.sgcustomsound.com\/speakers\/Sundae1.htm\">SG Custom Sound<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>These are truly the most bizarre speakers we\u2019ve ever seen. Designed to look like\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.sgcustomsound.com\/speakers\/Sundae1.htm\">giant ice cream sundaes<\/a>, these speakers from SG Custom Sound will set you back a cool $1250 per pair. We can actually see these looking pretty sweet on the counter of a diner.<\/p>\n<h4>Pea Speaker System<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"pea speaker system\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/pea-speaker-system.jpg\" alt=\"pea speaker system\" width=\"374\" height=\"553\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.yankodesign.com\/2008\/09\/04\/like-peas-in-a-pod\/\">Yanko Design<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>For people who like to share their music, the\u00a0\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.yankodesign.com\/2008\/09\/04\/like-peas-in-a-pod\/\">Pea Speaker System<\/a>concept is a creative way to give several friends a song. Each of the little \u201cpeas\u201d is a separate Bluetooth speaker. They all have to stay within range of the home unit, of course, and they won\u2019t work as surround sound, but this concept looks like a fun way to fill a room with music without all of those nasty speaker cords.<\/p>\n<h4>Sound e-Motion<\/h4>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"sound e-motion\" src=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/12\/sound-e-motion.jpg\" alt=\"sound e-motion\" width=\"374\" height=\"234\" \/><\/p>\n<h6>(image via:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.sound-e-motion.com\/en\/index.shtml\">Sound e-Motion<\/a>)<\/h6>\n<p>We\u2019re suckers for beautiful rich-sounding wooden speakers, and that\u2019s exactly what\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.sound-e-motion.com\/en\/index.shtml\">Sound e-Motion<\/a> delivers. The gorgeous wooden cabinets give a deep concert hall sound that can\u2019t be matched by resin cabinets. The spherical shape is said to give better acoustics than any other speaker shape. We just think it makes them look nifty.<\/p>\n<p>(from <a href=\"http:\/\/weburbanist.com\/2009\/12\/17\/amazing-audio-40-sexy-speakers-sweet-system-designs\/\" target=\"_blank\">weburbanist<\/a>)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Home speakers were once ugly, boxy things that you hid away from sight because they did nothing for your d\u00e9cor. But smart designers have been working to make the home audio speaker an attractive part of whatever room it\u2019s in, and some of their designs are positively unbelievable. The Grand Enigma (image via:\u00a0Dvice) The Grand [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[24],"tags":[28],"class_list":["post-2729","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-photo","tag-weburbanist"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/tokao.com\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2729","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/tokao.com\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/tokao.com\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tokao.com\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tokao.com\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2729"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/tokao.com\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2729\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/tokao.com\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2729"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tokao.com\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2729"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tokao.com\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2729"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}