In an era where wireless speakers often conform to conventional design aesthetics, Stockholm-based audio brand Transparent has taken a dramatic turn with their latest creation. Moving away from their signature glass enclosures, the company has embraced the stark, geometric principles of 1950s Brutalist architecture to create a speaker that's as much a statement piece as it is an audio device.
A Brutalist Vision in Audio
The aptly named Brutalist Speaker stands as a testament to architectural inspiration in audio design. Rising 23 inches tall, this imposing aluminum structure bears the hallmarks of post-war British architectural style, with its bold geometric lines and unadorned surfaces. The speaker's construction utilizes 70% post-consumer recycled aluminum, marking a significant shift from Transparent's traditional glass designs while maintaining their commitment to sustainable manufacturing.
Technical Innovation Meets Architectural Design
The speaker's unique configuration features dual 3-inch tweeters positioned at striking 90-degree angles, complemented by a 6.5-inch side-mounted woofer. This unconventional arrangement isn't merely aesthetic - it's engineered to optimize sound distribution, particularly when the speaker is positioned in corner placements. The substantial 26.5-pound unit delivers high-resolution audio capabilities up to 24-bit/192kHz, ensuring audiophile-grade performance.
Technical Specifications:
- Height: 23 inches
- Weight: 26.5 lbs
- Audio Resolution: Up to 24-bit/192kHz
- Drivers: 2x 3-inch tweeters, 1x 6.5-inch woofer
- Material: 70% post-consumer recycled aluminum
Connectivity Options:
- Bluetooth 5.2
- AirPlay 2
- Tidal Connect
- Spotify Connect
- Amazon Music compatibility
- 2x 3.5mm inputs
- Alexa compatible (no built-in mic)
Connectivity and Smart Features
Despite its brutalist exterior, the speaker incorporates modern connectivity options including Bluetooth 5.2, AirPlay 2, Tidal Connect, and Spotify Connect. Two 3.5mm inputs provide traditional connectivity options, while Amazon Alexa compatibility adds smart features, though without built-in microphones.
Development Challenges and Sustainability
The three-year development process faced significant hurdles, particularly in sourcing and certifying recycled aluminum materials. Creative Director Per Brickstad emphasizes that this challenge was worth overcoming to transform everyday waste materials into a premium audio product, reflecting the company's commitment to sustainability without compromising on quality.
Market Position and Future Implications
With a premium price point of $4,000/£3,200, the Brutalist Speaker positions itself in the high-end audio market. This bold design direction might signal a new era for Transparent, with hints from Brickstad suggesting potential future developments using similar materials and design principles.