Brutalist Architecture Inspires Unique Wireless Speaker Design

Transparent's Latest Wireless Speaker: A Blend of Brutalism and Modern Tech

Transparent, a brand renowned for its innovative audio products, has released its latest wireless speaker, the $4,000 Brutalist speaker. This unique design marks a significant departure from the brand's iconic glass-enclosed speakers, embodying a more minimalist and structured aesthetic reminiscent of Britain's post-war architectural style.

Stunning Design and Impressive Build

Standing 23 inches tall and crafted from aluminum, the Brutalist speaker is strikingly robust, weighing in at 26.5 lbs. Its form could easily be mistaken for a contemporary office tower, showcasing how audio equipment can transcend mere functionality to become a statement piece.

Advanced Sound Features

Equipped with a pair of three-inch tweeters positioned at 90-degree angles and a single 6.5-inch subwoofer on the opposite side, the speaker is engineered to fill spaces with rich, immersive sound. Transparent suggests that placing the speaker in a corner allows sound to reflect off walls for optimal auditory experience. However, it's essential to keep a nearby outlet in mind, as the speaker does not come with a battery.

Connectivity Options Galore

The Brutalist speaker supports a variety of streaming options, including Bluetooth 5.2, Wi-Fi, Apple AirPlay 2, Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, and Amazon Music. Additionally, it accommodates traditional audio sources with a pair of 3.5mm inputs, offering versatility for music lovers. Despite being compatible with Amazon's Alexa, the absence of a built-in microphone means that functionality with smart assistants is somewhat limited.

Commitment to Sustainability

Reflecting a strong commitment to sustainability, Transparent made a substantial effort over three years to develop the Brutalist speaker, particularly in sourcing materials. The company emphasized its use of 70 percent post-consumer recycled aluminum, which presented notable challenges in manufacturing. Per Brickstad, Transparent's creative director, remarked to Wired that "the sourcing of the recycled aluminum for the cabinet hasn’t been easy," underscoring the complexities involved in creating an environmentally-friendly product.

Conclusion

The release of Transparent’s Brutalist speaker not only showcases a bold design shift but also blends high-fidelity audio technology with significant sustainable practices. This wireless speaker is poised to appeal to audiophiles and design enthusiasts alike, making it a noteworthy addition to Transparent's esteemed line of audio products.