If you’re wondering about the Bang & Olufsen Beosound 2 Gradient Collection, know this: it’s not just another speaker. it’s a statement piece, a blend of art and high-fidelity sound wrapped in an exclusive, limited-edition package. When I first heard about this collection, I was immediately curious, because B&O always manages to turn heads with their designs. This time, they’ve taken their popular Beosound 2 speaker and given it a stunning visual upgrade that honestly makes it feel like a whole new experience. Think of it as a piece of sonic sculpture for your home, something that catches your eye just as much as it delights your ears.
The Beosound 2 Gradient Collection is a testament to Bang & Olufsen’s commitment to both innovation and artistry. It’s part of their new Atelier program, which is all about giving customers the chance to customize their speakers to truly reflect their personality and style. With only 100 units available worldwide, spread across ten distinct gradient designs—each with only ten numbered pieces—owning one of these is like being part of an exclusive club. They really push the boundaries of what a speaker can be, turning it into a visual masterpiece that celebrates the interplay between sound and color.
Unboxing the Experience: First Impressions of the Beosound 2 Gradient
Getting your hands on a Bang & Olufsen Beosound 2 Gradient Collection speaker feels incredibly special, even before you turn it on. The packaging itself hints at the premium product inside. Once you lift it out, you’re immediately struck by the speaker’s conical shape and the flawless gradient finish. Each unit is crafted from high-grade aluminum, giving it a premium, solid feel that immediately speaks to its durability and quality. You can literally feel the precision craftsmanship.
I’ve always appreciated how B&O designs their products to be more than just gadgets. they’re meant to be integrated into your living space, to elevate it. The Gradient Collection takes this to another level. The way the colors seamlessly transition from one hue to another across the speaker’s surface is truly mesmerizing. It’s a visual representation of how sound itself can flow and change, evoking different emotions. Some of the names for these colorways, like “Baritone,” “Jam,” and “Riff,” even reflect podcastal moods. It really makes you appreciate the thought that went into combining artistic expression with top-tier audio engineering.
If you’re into unique home decor that also performs at an elite level, something like this speaker or a high-end audio system could be a perfect fit for your home.
Design Philosophy: Where Art Meets Acoustics
Bang & Olufsen’s design philosophy has always been about making technology both innovative and elegant, and the Beosound 2 Gradient Collection is a prime example of this. The conical design isn’t just for looks. it’s actually crucial to the speaker’s acoustic performance. This shape, combined with their signature Acoustic Lens Technology, helps to disperse sound in a full 360-degree pattern. What that means for you is that no matter where you are in the room, you’re going to get a consistent and immersive audio experience. It’s like the podcast is truly filling the space around you, rather than just coming from a single direction. Onyx Boox Palma 2 Review: The Pocket E-Reader That Thinks It’s a Smartphone?
The aluminum finish isn’t just about strength. it also helps minimize vibrations, which is a big deal for sound quality. The gradients themselves are created using world-class anodization techniques at B&O’s Factory 5 in Struer, Denmark. This isn’t some cheap paint job. it’s a meticulously applied finish that results in breathtaking, fluid color changes. And as a nod to their century of innovation, each speaker in this collection is engraved with the new B&O Est. 1925 logo, celebrating their rich legacy. This attention to detail is why B&O products often feel like timeless pieces of art that also happen to produce incredible sound.
For those interested in the craft, researching aluminum anodization processes or even the history of Bang & Olufsen design can offer a deeper appreciation for how these products are made.
Sound Quality: The Heart of the Beosound 2
Now, let’s talk about the sound, because that’s ultimately why you’d invest in a speaker like the Beosound 2 Gradient Collection. The good news is, despite the visual flair, the Gradient Collection speakers boast the same powerful audio processing and components as the standard Beosound 2 3rd generation. And that’s a really solid foundation.
The Beosound 2 is known for its balanced audio profile, delivering clear highs, rich mids, and a surprisingly deep bass for its size. It truly excels at providing an immersive soundstage thanks to that 360-degree sound dispersion and Acoustic Lens Technology. You know how sometimes with a speaker, you have to be in just the “sweet spot” to really enjoy the podcast? Not so much with this one. It fills the room in a way that makes every listening position feel like the sweet spot. Muse s athena eeg powered meditation and sleep headband review
It also comes with active room compensation technology, which is a pretty clever feature. Basically, the speaker uses internal microphones to analyze the acoustics of your room and then adjusts its output to deliver the most balanced and precise sound possible. This means the sound adapts to your unique space, whether you place it on a bookshelf, a side table, or even on the floor. While some audiophiles might find the high frequencies slightly less sharp compared to some other high-end models, the overall listening experience is consistently excellent, especially for everyday enjoyment and creating a rich sonic atmosphere.
To get the most out of your audio, you might also consider investing in high-resolution audio streaming services or exploring premium podcast players.
Connectivity and Smart Features: Seamless Integration
connected homes, a premium speaker needs to offer more than just great sound. it needs to integrate seamlessly with your digital life. The Bang & Olufsen Beosound 2 Gradient Collection doesn’t disappoint here. It offers robust connectivity options, ensuring you can play your podcast however you like.
You’ve got both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, meaning you can easily stream your favorite playlists from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. It supports popular streaming technologies like Apple AirPlay 2, Google Cast, and Spotify Connect. This makes it super easy to get your podcast going from almost any device or service. Plus, if you’re already in the B&O ecosystem, it integrates with their Beolink multi-room system, allowing you to create a connected sound experience throughout your home with other Bang & Olufsen multiroom products.
Setting up the Beosound 2 is a breeze, especially with the intuitive Bang & Olufsen app, available for both iOS and Android. The app guides you through the process and gives you complete control over your listening experience, letting you customize settings, adjust sound profiles with the Beosonic equalizer, and even set alarms. The connection is generally stable, offering seamless streaming even with high-quality audio files. While there might be occasional minor hiccups when switching between devices or apps, the overall user experience is smooth and enjoyable.
If you’re building a smart home, looking into smart home hubs that support AirPlay 2 or Google Cast can enhance your overall experience.
Price and Value: Is the Investment Worth It?
Let’s address the elephant in the room: the price. The Bang & Olufsen Beosound 2 Gradient Collection comes with a significant price tag, retailing at $5,700 USD per speaker. This is a substantial investment, especially when you consider that the standard Beosound 2 3rd generation is typically priced around $3,500 USD. So, what are you getting for that extra cash?
The primary differentiator for the Gradient Collection is its exclusivity and unique aesthetic. You’re paying for a piece of art as much as you are for a high-performance speaker. With only 100 units available worldwide, each with its own unique gradient finish and engraving, you’re acquiring something truly rare and prestigious. It’s a collector’s item, designed to make a bold statement in any living space. Audio-Technica AT-LP60X Turntable Review: Your Ultimate Guide to Vinyl Bliss
In terms of pure audio performance, the Gradient Collection offers the same stellar sound quality as the regular Beosound 2. So, if your sole focus is on sound and you’re not particularly swayed by the limited edition design, the standard Beosound 2 might offer better “value for money” in that regard. However, for those who appreciate the blend of cutting-edge sound with unparalleled design, and who want something truly unique that few others will own, the Gradient Collection offers a compelling proposition. It’s for someone who sees their audio equipment as an extension of their personal style and a statement of luxury.
When considering such an investment, it’s always good to weigh the pros and cons of luxury audio equipment and perhaps compare it with other high-end wireless speakers to ensure it aligns with your priorities.
Comparing the Gradient Collection to the Standard Beosound 2
You might be asking yourself, “What’s the real difference between the Beosound 2 Gradient Collection and the regular Beosound 2?” It’s a fair question, especially with the price difference.
At its core, the Gradient Collection is the Beosound 2. This means you’re getting the same incredible 360-degree sound, the same Acoustic Lens Technology, active room compensation, robust Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, and the intuitive touch controls. All those fantastic audio features that make the Beosound 2 a standout performer are present in both versions. Unboxing the Beast: First Impressions
The key difference, and what accounts for the higher price and “limited edition” status, is purely aesthetic. The Gradient Collection speakers feature those exquisite, hand-crafted gradient finishes, with each of the ten designs being limited to just ten individually numbered pieces globally. The standard Beosound 2 comes in more traditional colors like Black Anthracite, Gold Tone, and Natural.
So, if you prioritize owning a unique, visually striking piece of design that doubles as an exceptional speaker, the Gradient Collection is your choice. It’s for the buyer who wants a conversation starter, an art piece that also sings. If, however, your budget is tighter and you primarily care about the fantastic audio performance and smart features, the standard Bang & Olufsen Beosound 2 3rd Generation Multiroom Wi-Fi Speaker, Natural Aluminum will deliver an almost identical listening experience at a lower cost. Both are excellent speakers, but one offers an added layer of artistic exclusivity.
User Experience: Living with the Beosound 2 Gradient
Living with the Bang & Olufsen Beosound 2 Gradient Collection is, for many, a daily dose of luxury and high-quality audio. Setting it up is surprisingly straightforward, which is always a plus with premium tech. The Bang & Olufsen app guides you through the initial connection, and from there, managing your podcast and speaker settings becomes incredibly easy.
The intuitive touch interface on the top of the speaker is a really nice touch. It’s clean, minimalist, and responds well to gestures, letting you adjust volume, skip tracks, or change inputs with just a simple touch. This kind of thoughtful design makes the speaker a joy to interact with, even without pulling out your phone.
The 360-degree sound is a must for casual listening in a living space. You don’t have to worry about optimal speaker placement as much as you would with traditional stereo setups. The sound fills the room evenly, which is perfect for background podcast during a gathering or just enjoying your favorite tunes while moving around your home. Uniq Design Lyden DS AirPods 4th Gen Case Review: Is It the Perfect Pick for Your New Buds?
While some online discussions and Bang & Olufsen Beosound 2 Gradient Collection reviews reddit threads occasionally mention wanting a bit more punch from the bass for the price, the overall consensus is that the sound is rich, clear, and provides a delightful listening experience. The build quality is consistently praised, with many users appreciating the solid aluminum construction and the feeling of owning a truly well-made product.
For enhancing your home audio experience, consider accessories like premium speaker stands or cable management solutions to keep your setup looking as sleek as the speaker itself.
The Atelier Program: Customization Beyond the Gradient Collection
The Beosound 2 Gradient Collection isn’t just a beautiful limited edition. it’s also a fantastic showcase for Bang & Olufsen’s new Atelier program. This program is a really exciting development for anyone who loves B&O products but wants something even more personal and unique. It’s designed to give customers an unprecedented level of customization, going beyond the ready-made Gradient Collection.
The Atelier program essentially has three tiers: Wiim vibelink amp review
- Atelier Bespoke: This is the ultimate customization experience. You can collaborate directly with a B&O artisan to create a truly one-off product, incorporating specific materials or colors that you envision. Imagine a speaker that perfectly matches a unique piece of furniture or a specific artistic theme in your home.
- Atelier Catalogue: If you want a bit more guidance but still desire a personalized touch, the Atelier Catalogue is for you. It offers over 500,000 possible combinations of fabric, wood, and aluminum finishes. You can explore these options through a new digital composer tool, letting you design your own one-of-a-kind Bang & Olufsen product without starting from scratch.
- Atelier Editions: This is where the Gradient Collection fits in. These are limited editions of iconic B&O products, crafted to showcase the brand’s finest craftsmanship and creative possibilities, often released for special occasions or to highlight new techniques.
The launch of this program highlights a significant increase in demand for bespoke and customized audio products. As B&O’s CEO Kristian Teär put it, “A customer who commissions custom or bespoke Bang & Olufsen product creates not just a set of speakers, but an extension of their personality and style.” It’s about creating an experience and a product that truly resonates with you.
If you’re intrigued by the idea of personalized luxury, exploring the Bang & Olufsen Atelier website could open up a whole new world of possibilities for your home audio.
Conclusion
So, after all this, what’s the verdict on the Bang & Olufsen Beosound 2 Gradient Collection? It’s a genuinely stunning piece of audio engineering and art. If you appreciate the fusion of exquisite design, exceptional sound quality, and the exclusivity of a limited-edition item, then this speaker is absolutely worth considering. It delivers the signature 360-degree immersive sound that the Beosound 2 is known for, along with smart connectivity and a user-friendly experience. While the premium price point of $5,700 USD means it’s a significant investment, you’re not just buying a speaker. you’re acquiring a meticulously crafted, individually numbered work of art that also happens to fill your space with beautiful sound.
For those who prioritize aesthetic uniqueness and collectibility alongside top-tier audio performance, the Gradient Collection offers a distinct appeal that sets it apart from the standard Beosound 2. It embodies Bang & Olufsen’s legacy of pushing design boundaries and creating products that are as inspiring to look at as they are to listen to. Ultimately, it’s a statement about your taste and your desire to bring art into every aspect of your life, including how you experience podcast. Drop The Lord of the Rings Black Speech CSTM65 Keyboard Review: Is It Worth The Journey To Mordor?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Bang & Olufsen Beosound 2 Gradient Collection?
The Bang & Olufsen Beosound 2 Gradient Collection is a limited-edition series of the Beosound 2 wireless speaker, featuring unique gradient color finishes. It’s part of B&O’s new Atelier customization program, showcasing their world-class anodization expertise and blending artistic design with high-performance audio.
How many Beosound 2 Gradient Collection speakers were made?
There are only 100 units of the Beosound 2 Gradient Collection available worldwide. This consists of ten exclusive designs, with only ten individually numbered pieces for each design.
What is the price of the Beosound 2 Gradient Collection?
Each speaker in the Bang & Olufsen Beosound 2 Gradient Collection is priced at $5,700 USD. This is a higher price point than the standard Beosound 2, reflecting its limited-edition status and unique design.
What are the key features of the Beosound 2 Gradient Collection’s audio performance?
The Beosound 2 Gradient Collection features the same core audio technology as the standard Beosound 2 3rd generation. This includes 360-degree sound dispersion with Acoustic Lens Technology, active room compensation, high-resolution audio support, and a balanced audio profile with good bass response.
Where can I buy the Beosound 2 Gradient Collection?
The Beosound 2 Gradient Collection was initially available through the Bang & Olufsen website and exclusively at select Bang & Olufsen stores in cities like Copenhagen, London, NYC, and Seoul, as well as online via the Atelier digital platform. Given its limited nature, availability might be restricted, so checking the official Bang & Olufsen website or contacting a local dealer would be the best approach.
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Does the Gradient Collection have different sound quality than the regular Beosound 2?
No, the Gradient Collection speakers feature the same powerful audio processing tools and components as the standard Beosound 2. The main difference lies in the exclusive, hand-crafted gradient color finishes and its limited-edition status, rather than a change in acoustic performance.
What streaming options does the Beosound 2 Gradient Collection support?
The Beosound 2 Gradient Collection offers robust wireless connectivity, supporting Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. It integrates seamlessly with popular streaming technologies like Apple AirPlay 2, Google Cast, and Spotify Connect, and also features Bang & Olufsen’s Beolink for multi-room setups.
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