We’re actually a little surprised it took this long, but the icon of contemporary design in CE is finally launching an iPod etc. product.  The BeoSound 8, which claims a frequency range of 38Hz to 24,000Hz, takes a minimalist approach with a digital amplifier and two conical speakers. The system can sit on a tabletop or be wall mounted. A room adaption switch allows the user to manually select audio processing depending on the devices’ placement (wall, tabletop or corner).

Users can dock their iPod, iPhone or iPad on top of the BeoSound 8 or plug it in via the AUX input. To connect to a Wi-Fi network, B&O suggests users connect the device to an Airport Express via a line input. 

In December the company will launch a free BeoPlayer app that will offer access to Net Radio and an alarm clock functionality under one Bang & Olufsen interface. An upgraded application will also be made available for a $19.99 charge and will include 10,000 internet radio stations, a music library browser, and an enhanced alarm clock feature.

The BeoSound 8 is available with 6 different speaker grill colors for $999.

Grant Clauser - Technology and Web Editor, Electronic House

Grant Clauser has been covering home electronics for more than 10 years with editorial roles in several consumer and trade magazines. He's done ISF-level damage to hundreds of reviewed products and has had audio training from Home Acoustics Alliance and Sencore. He's also the author of the book The Trouble with Rivers. Follow him on Twitter @geclauser.