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BEOSOUND SHAPE : THE BEOWORLD REVIEW

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This post has 199 Replies | 3 Followers

Duels
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Duels replied on Mon, Apr 3 2017 9:19 PM
Interesting new concept and I have to say it would look pretty amazing on the back wall of our boardroom linked to our big screen. I can see this as a high end commercial product.

Top end hotel rooms too.

I'm struggling to see it as a big domestic seller. I do however hang this on the wall....,

As ever it would be good to see it and hear it in the flesh.
seethroughyou
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Novel and rather pretty. Ten out of ten for form but am puzzled why they brought out yet another mono speaker with so many in the Beoplay range. Mono, another mono, another mono...?!

.

 

 

Present: BL90, Core, BL6000, CD7000, Beogram 7000, Essence Remote.

Past: BL1, BL2, BL8000, BS9000, BL5, BC2, BS5, BV5, BV4-50, Beosystem 3, BL3, DVD1, Beoremote 4, Moment.

.

Steve at Sounds Heavenly
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9 LEE:

 It almost felt like it needed a Subwoofer

Hi Lee,

Thanks for a very interesting and well considered review.  I will await my first look (and listen) of this superb concept with great interest.  Looking at the connectivity options quoted by B&O, adding a subwoofer shouldn't be an issue at all if this is needed for some environments.

This idea is exactly the sort of fresh thinking that B&O need right now to take them forward as a brand that can amaze and excite.  I just think it is a shame that Samsung hired Yves Behar to design "The Frame" TV for them instead of sending him to B&O, as his project would be a perfect match to Beosound Shape......

Kind regards, Steve

Steve.

www.soundsheavenly.com

Founder of Sounds Heavenly Cables and Brand Ambassador for Bang & Olufsen

Sounds Heavenly are proud to sponsor BeoWorld!

Please check out my YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/soundsheavenlycables

L1NO
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L1NO replied on Mon, Apr 3 2017 9:38 PM

Ceiling mounted would be quite something too.

vikinger
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Duels:
lausvi:

Thanks for the review. I must say this looks pretty fascinating.

Any ideas if the blank ‘acoustic dampers' will be sold separately? I'd love to have some for just as acoustic panels!

Ah. A wall of no sound.

Pocket-lint are impressed. But unless those blank units are expensive or only sold in complete speaker sets, expect lots of wall sculpture with the sound source coming from elsewhere.

Graham

BeoGreg
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BeoGreg replied on Mon, Apr 3 2017 9:46 PM
Sandyb:

in a good or bad way? or just unsure way?

Bad way unfortunately. Really don't know what to think but it's not what I'm waiting for (a Beosound 9000 or 3000 or 9300/9500 successor).
November35
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Is possible to use like REAR speacker in DD setup?
For exemple:

If I have beovision Tv with integrated center channel and pair of Beolab Sp. and beolab 2 subwoofer can I use like Rear channel?

Dante
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Dante replied on Mon, Apr 3 2017 10:07 PM

Atmos / DTS-X / Auro systems could benefit from those, but it looks like there is no stereo output.

 

PK
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PK replied on Mon, Apr 3 2017 10:12 PM

Great review :) Very informative!

Wonder if they will release a starter kit with absorbers only cause it would probably make a lot of people's current systems a lot better. Nice-looking absorbers are hard to find!

StKong
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StKong replied on Mon, Apr 3 2017 10:29 PM
November35:

Is possible to use like REAR speacker in DD setup? For exemple:

If I have beovision Tv with integrated center channel and pair of Beolab Sp. and beolab 2 subwoofer can I use like Rear channel?

The Engineering team in full swing answer that and other questions here:

https://vimeo.com/211272895

Your question is answered at 14:00 onwards.
elephant
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elephant replied on Mon, Apr 3 2017 10:40 PM
hadr:

First of all thanks Lee for another excellent review!

Sandyb echoes my thoughts exactly

D'accord with both of you. And double thanks to Lee and the moderates holding firm. The quality of Lee's review was worth waiting for.

As for me I can only see one wall where we could place it.

But I do like it and I think with the right installer network they could sell truck loads to corporate and hotel reception areas, perhaps restaurants, and modern apartment blocks.

BeoNut since '75

Kromer
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Kromer replied on Mon, Apr 3 2017 10:42 PM

Thanks for the review!

It's definintely an interesting concept. The idea sort of reminds me of Ib Fabiansen's modular systems from the late 50's, and I like that. I'm looking forward to seeing it in real life but it seems to me that, for the price tag, the exterior might be lacking some dimension of cratfsmanship. I mean fabric covered plastic boxes?

OldJack
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OldJack replied on Mon, Apr 3 2017 11:19 PM

Six pack Starter kit would be perfect for my bedroom,ceiling mounted.No subwoofer.

L1NO:

Ceiling mounted would be quite something too.

 

Beogram 6500 MMC2,Beosound Ouverture,2xBeolab 8000,2xBelolab 4000,Beolab 2,Beolab 7.2,Beo4 navi, 2xBeocom2,Serene,Beosystem 3 mk3,H6 2nd gen,Earphones E8,A8,A9 keyring,Beoplay A1,Bottle opener,Beoplay A2 active(thanks Botty)Wine Set(thanks Botty),4Ktv Samsung 55'',Beolab 7.1 with 42''Panasonic plasma,,Oppo udp-203, LinTronic.

BillC
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BillC replied on Mon, Apr 3 2017 11:31 PM
Thanks Lee for the great review. Very informative and I'm certainty very curious about it.

As a few others have said before I think it could have a place in a Dolby Atmos system. I'm currently trying to think of ways to get ceiling speakers in without cutting big holes in my media room ceiling and this could be a solution. Visually we could arrange the modules like clouds hovering above. Another room I see this working is in our formal lounge- it's rather formal and something like this could work for us. Only thing is the price though if the starter kit sounds like the Beolab 3 then it's acceptable. Definitely would add a sub to it. I like how they used the USB C for power.

I'll need to check about the stereo thing when I get home!
KMA
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KMA replied on Mon, Apr 3 2017 11:38 PM
StKong:

The Engineering team in full swing answer that and other questions here:

https://vimeo.com/211272895

Your question is answered at 14:00 onwards.

At 3:40, when he is telling the number of Shape speakers needed to have a sound comparable to other BeoLabs, does he say that to match the power of the sound of BeoLab 50, you need 70 BeoLab Shape speakers?

Since there was another product introduced at the event, does this inadvertently reveal that it will be BeoLab 50, to be revealed in the autumn?

That makes sense: BeoLab 50 could be the successor to BeoLab 5, incorporating technology from the BeoLab 90.

KMA

B&O product history since 1991: Ridiculously long to list in a signature.

KMA
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KMA replied on Tue, Apr 4 2017 12:16 AM
After my initial reaction of Confused this product is growing on me.

I like the concept: that the Core can be upgraded also as a physical component in the future, and that the TrueImage algorithm is used in optimising the sound for any BeoSound Shape configuration.

The modularity certainly presents many future possibilities: as they say in the Vimeo demonstration, the concept is a starting point and will evolve.

I wonder how some nicely perforated aluminiun covers would look with these? Also, the Core and Amplifier modules could have a solid cover, in different materials – such as wooden covers, to be combined with either fabric or perforated aluminium covers for the speaker elements...

There are possibilties for many design variations, material-wise. In the future, the Core element could also have discreet display; volume, clock, etc. behind a perforated aluminiun cover (think about the old BeoSound 1, for example).

Much to explore for B&O. I hope B&O embraces this concept to its full extent!

KMA

B&O product history since 1991: Ridiculously long to list in a signature.

Millemissen
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L1NO:

Ceiling mounted would be quite something too.

Only place  in my home for the Shape would be the ceiling - would be a nice option, I think!

Otherweise I am with elephant, who wrote:

 

 

'But I do like it and I think with the right installer network they could sell truck loads to corporate and hotel reception areas, 

perhaps restaurants, and modern apartment blocks.'

And thanks to LEE for the review and for keeping a tight rein on this - the Shapes is surely something that deserves the surprice effect.

P.S. I'd also like to know more about the Core!

MM

There is a tv - and there is a BV

davidr
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davidr replied on Tue, Apr 4 2017 1:05 AM

After watching those videos, actually what is more intriguing is the "BeoSound core" more than anything. Looks to be a S8 connection hub that can pair with Essence remote, does DLNA and Airplay. Plus has optical out?? and Digital powerlink??

Stones
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Stones replied on Tue, Apr 4 2017 5:39 AM
I recognise the feeling I had when I first saw the Avant 20 years ago. Finally I bought one an still love it.
expoman
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expoman replied on Tue, Apr 4 2017 6:03 AM

As you say Lee an interesting concept.  As we're the P-45's - P-30's in the '70's, and the Beolab 5000's - Beolab 3000's in the '80's, to the Beolab 4000's in the '90's to the recent Beolab 12's.  The last two versions sold best when they could be on a table or a floor stand.  I can't wait to see the floor stand for this.

One Achilles heel for wall mounted speakers has always been the wires to them.  For this concept it is only the a power cord unless you want to connect powerlink.  But a plug in transformer?  I guess we'll soon see an updated cable cover design.  

AnalogPlanet
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I like the concept and can imagine it in my apartment easily.

Just wondering why both Deezer and TuneIn are missing from the list of streaming options? Hope they get added by the launch date.

L1NO
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L1NO replied on Tue, Apr 4 2017 8:05 AM

If the Beosound Core would have some kind of remote + volume control it would be a great addition to a Beamer or such with a nice stereo hookup.

Puncher
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Puncher replied on Tue, Apr 4 2017 8:24 AM

L1NO:

If the Beosound Core would have some kind of remote + volume control it would be a great addition to a Beamer or such with a nice stereo hookup.

The could probably sell more boxed up Cores than they will full installations!

Ban boring signatures!

Michael
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Michael replied on Tue, Apr 4 2017 9:37 AM
Too bad it's so expensive. In an era where everyone is going Sonos and all. Sure it is beautiful in its own way but it's still a speaker system. I think it will be cool in stores but I really do think interior designers prefer Sonos that they can hide everywhere easily.

The shape will probably find it's way to many homes but wall mounted install and the semi tech design makes it hard to find a way to make it blend or change easily. It's also quite heavy and needs amplifier units. It's like a flat beolab penta. Cool but not good enough maybe..

It makes me think about the nanoleaf lamp system that I also find quite cool: https://nanoleaf.me/

Beolab 50, Beolab 8000 x 2, Beolab 4000 x 2, 
BeoSound Core, BeoSound 9000, BeoSound Century, 
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Aussie Michael
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Wow, i like it.  So original.

I think it would be amazing in a dining room, but the main money is in commercial environments where you dont want to have ceiling mounted speakers.  

9 LEE
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9 LEE replied on Tue, Apr 4 2017 9:50 AM

AnalogPlanet:

Just wondering why both Deezer and TuneIn are missing from the list of streaming options? Hope they get added by the launch date.

I did have an interesting conversation about this....

The 'TuneIn' and 'Deezer' type companies all clamour to get your attention and offer you the earth to build their apps and interfaces into your products when they launch. They help you, they do whatever you want, they'll jump through hoops and love you.

Then, when they get big, the fact that you were there from the beginning and helped them emerge and become a major payer seems to get forgotten. Then the demands start with things comparable to "If you have anyone else's apps or interfaces in your products, forget it - we're done with you, we don't need you any more..." or "we want a chunk of cash from you if you're going to be privileged enough to have our interface now.."

I'm afraid loyalty and gratitude come a long way behind cash in the modern business world, which I find a real shame.

Lee

StKong
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StKong replied on Tue, Apr 4 2017 10:08 AM
KMA:

At 3:40, when he is telling the number of Shape speakers needed to have a sound comparable to other BeoLabs, does he say that to match the power of the sound of BeoLab 50, you need 70 BeoLab Shape speakers?

Since there was another product introduced at the event, does this inadvertently reveal that it will be BeoLab 50, to be revealed in the autumn?

That makes sense: BeoLab 50 could be the successor to BeoLab 5, incorporating technology from the BeoLab 90.

That makes good sense. And now the video has been taken down, which could mean you are right.

A case most mysterious ;-)

💭

Update: the video is back up — with a noticeable edit and no longer any mentioning of 70 shape speakers.

We have a confession!

I look forward to seeing the Beolab 50.
9 LEE
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One other thing, which may make dealers feel VERY awkward, which I hope doesn't happen - but.......

Customer walks in and says "I've seen this new BeoSound Shape - and the pictures look lovely!  From the pictures I've seen, I can see one in my room actually, and at £3,400/€4,000 it looks quite impressive!!"

So, dealer sits down to take the money whilst the customer clutches the picture below, admiring the splendour of all 24 tiles in a pretty pattern.... then the time comes for the dealer to say "Umm... that only buys you 6 hexagons Sir/Madam...." followed by (through gritted teeth) "so, what you see in the picture will cost you around £11,000/€13,000...."

At what point that becomes an awkward conversation will be down to the dealer and customer Erm..

Lee

Duels
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Duels replied on Tue, Apr 4 2017 10:22 AM
I guess that will depend on how many speaker hexagons and how many blanks you would actually need on a wall like that. And how much the blank /acoustic tiles cost.
Puncher
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Puncher replied on Tue, Apr 4 2017 10:26 AM

I'd also like to see a description of how to effectively set up the Sound Absorber tiles to correct real, room related, issues. The odd one or two supplied are not going to do anything worthwhile and without a "listening position" it doesn't seem to make sense anyway.

 

Ban boring signatures!

vikinger
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vikinger replied on Tue, Apr 4 2017 10:28 AM

Floor version.

Steve at Sounds Heavenly
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Hi vikinger,

Maybe its just me, but I feel a bit seasick looking at the patterns on that floor (and yes, I AM sober at the moment!) Big Smile

Kind regards, Steve.

Steve.

www.soundsheavenly.com

Founder of Sounds Heavenly Cables and Brand Ambassador for Bang & Olufsen

Sounds Heavenly are proud to sponsor BeoWorld!

Please check out my YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/soundsheavenlycables

badgersurf
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A great review, thanks for that Lee.

I do like the concept, but as you say how will it fit into most peoples rooms, I can not see it fit into any of my room.

I am surprised that it does not come with WISA, surly that would have made sense to cut down on the wires needed to be channelled into the wall.

9 LEE
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9 LEE replied on Tue, Apr 4 2017 10:48 AM

StKong:

We have a confession!

I look forward to seeing the Beolab 50.

You lot should work for the CIA 

Laughing

Obviously I cannot say wether this statement is true or not as I'm under an NDA for quite a while to come, but if it came from a B&O Employee you can draw your own conclusions I suppose.

Could be a red herring though... Stick out tongue

Lee

Chris
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Chris replied on Tue, Apr 4 2017 10:49 AM

Thanks Lee, for the very good review. Finally it looks B&O is on the right track...

9 LEE:

The 'TuneIn' and 'Deezer' type companies all clamour to get your attention and offer you the earth to build their apps and interfaces into your products when they launch. They help you, they do whatever you want, they'll jump through hoops and love you.

Then, when they get big, the fact that you were there from the beginning and helped them emerge and become a major payer seems to get forgotten. Then the demands start with things comparable to "If you have anyone else's apps or interfaces in your products, forget it - we're done with you, we don't need you any more..." or "we want a chunk of cash from you if you're going to be privileged enough to have our interface now.."

I'm afraid loyalty and gratitude come a long way behind cash in the modern business world, which I find a real shame.

This is indeed the thing that scares me for the future. Hopefully B&O is having the compatible hardware in its Beosounds to upgrade, if necessary to some other web based music and radio providers.
A couple of months ago, their was a hard dispute between our national radio network and TunIn who wanted to mix its own advertising messages into our national transmissions. Our national radio was removed for a couple of weeks from TuneIn, but finally TuneIn capitulate and our national radio was giving back its agreement for transmitting on the network without advertising.
But it could be leading up to an even greater future dispute 

 

 

"Believe nothing you read and only half of what you see, let your ears tell you the truth."

KMA
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KMA replied on Tue, Apr 4 2017 11:13 AM
9 LEE:

You lot should work for the CIA

Obviously I cannot say wether this statement is true or not as I'm under an NDA for quite a while to come, but if it came from a B&O Employee you can draw your own conclusions I suppose.

Could be a red herring though...

Lee

We work for the BIA – Beo Intelligence Agency Big Smile

KMA

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andy_js
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andy_js replied on Tue, Apr 4 2017 11:16 AM

If something like the Shape had been out when I bought my BeoSound 2 I'd have been seriously tempted to go for that instead.  I'm sure a wall mounted Beolab 11 would make up for any bass deficiencies.

Mr 10Percent
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OK, now we have the Artex tiles out of the way and in the wild....

What do these shapes now mean?

 

9 LEE
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9 LEE replied on Tue, Apr 4 2017 12:10 PM

Mr 10Percent:

OK, now we have the Artex tiles out of the way and in the wild....

What do these shapes now mean?

The one on the left is the Shape I'd say...

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