Bang & Olufsen Unveils $5,800 Beosound Premiere: A Soundbar Designed to Be Seen and Heard
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A new generation of soundbars prioritizes seamless integration into living spaces, but Bang & Olufsen is taking a different approach. The company’s newly announced Beosound Premiere isn’t meant to blend in; it’s a statement piece, boasting a striking aluminum design and a price tag to match – starting at $5,800.
The Beosound Premiere, slated for release next month, is packed with technology, featuring 10 speaker drivers and support for immersive Dolby Atmos audio. This isn’t just about powerful sound; it’s about a luxurious audio experience wrapped in a visually arresting package.
A Symphony of Drivers
Inside the aluminum chassis, Bang & Olufsen has engineered a complex acoustic system. The soundbar incorporates a quartet of 4 x 3-inch “racetrack”-style woofers to deliver deep bass, alongside a pair of two-inch front-firing speakers and two additional side-firing drivers for enhanced surround sound. An up-firing driver, positioned beneath 1,925 precisely milled perforations, completes the array. According to the company, these perforations are a deliberate nod to Bang & Olufsen’s 100-year legacy of design and innovation.
In total, the 10 drivers produce seven channels of audio, optimized for Dolby Atmos soundtracks. Bang & Olufsen’s “Wide Stage” technology utilizes “driver-specific acoustic data” to expand the perceived width and height of the soundstage, while an Advanced Bass management system promises to amplify the impact of the built-in woofers.
Connectivity and Streaming Options
The Beosound Premiere offers a single HDMI eARC connector for lossless audio transmission from compatible devices, such as Blu-ray players. It also includes a three-port gigabit ethernet switch – a premium feature rarely found in soundbars – and dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity. Users can stream music wirelessly via Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, and Deezer Connect.
Design and Customization
Bang & Olufsen CEO Kristian Teär describes the Beosound Premiere as a “sculptural masterpiece and bold expression of acoustic artistry.” The nearly 19-pound soundbar will be available in three finishes: Natural Aluminum, Gold Tone, and Black Anthracite. An included stand allows for flexible placement, whether on a tabletop or wall-mounted.
For those seeking further personalization, optional speaker covers are available. A fabric cover in grey mélange can be purchased for $325, while a pair of wooden covers – crafted from single pieces of oak or dark oak – are offered at a substantial $1,650 each.
The Haute Edition: Luxury Redefined
For the discerning audiophile, Bang & Olufsen is also releasing a “Haute Edition” of the Beosound Premiere. This exclusive version features precision-milled grooves, achieved through a 17-hour milling process. Only 25 individually numbered units of the $15,700 Haute Edition will be manufactured, each accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.
The Beosound Premiere represents a bold move in the soundbar market, prioritizing both acoustic performance and aesthetic design. It’s a product clearly aimed at a luxury consumer who demands the best of both worlds.
