When it comes to new products, Bang & Olufsen never disappoints. Everything the company designs is just so darn cool; it's hard to look away. (There's evidence of that here and here.) The three latest additions to B&O's product line are certainly no different.
First up is a pair of new speakers, the BeoSound 1 and BeoSound 2. Each speaker can deliver 360 degrees of sound and all sorts of streaming options, all from a very spacey, cone-style package.
Both of the new BeoSound speakers feature a design that keeps the aluminum portion of the body off the floor, "letting the thumps of the bass units out beneath." Each one is also slightly open at the top in order to generate better acoustics, which is also aided by an acoustic driver at the top and B&O's Acoustic Lens Technology.
The control portion of each one is a real standout, mainly because these speakers use proximity sensors. As the sensor detects someone's presence, it gets ready for commands through the interface. Then, just turn the wheel to adjust volume or swipe and tap the top for other functions. Some of those perks include the ability to tap into Google Cast, AirPlay, DNLA, and Bluetooth, as well as get direct access to TuneIn Internet radio stations, Spotify, and Deezer.
The big difference between the two models is that the BeoSound 1 taps into battery power for portable use, while the BeoSound 2 does need a permanent power source. Both speakers are part of Bang & Olufsen's BeoLink Multiroom portfolio, which means you can connect up to eight BeoSound 1 and BeoSound 2 speakers in one multi-room setup.
"We live in a time of cord cutting where everyone wants more freedom. No one wants to be hindered by technological restriction, says Marie Kristine Schmidt, VP of B&O's brand, design and marketing. "BeoSound 1 and 2 is designed to cater for a flexible lifestyle where music blends naturally into the home. The design is unobtrusive yet powerful, underscoring the purpose of the speakers."
B&O also announced the new BeoVision Horizon Ultra HD TV today. Available in 40- and 48-inch screen sizes, this model is designed to squeeze a 4K image into almost any space. The company calls it "less formal" -- although probably just by B&O standards. It's still a really stylish set, with a black aluminum frame, a 360-degree rotating floor stand, and all sorts of streaming options through the built-in Android TV platform. It also has automatic image optimization and a sensor that can adjust the screen based on in-room lighting conditions. Other features include Google Cast technology for even more on-screen entertainment and Immaculate Wireless Sound to add extra speakers to the setup without extra cables.
Bang & Olufsen is selling the BeoSound 1 now, with an MSRP of $1,495. The BeoSound 2 will be coming by the end of October, priced at $1,895. The BeoVision Horizon will ship out with the BeoRemote One Bluetooth starting this December. The 40-inch model has a price tag of $3,995, with the 48-incher listed for $5,495.
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