Cool Tech

LIGHT AND SOUND SHOW

If you prefer your illumination with audio, the IKEA Symfonisk may be for you.

Let’s face it: sometimes the last thing you want to do when the workday concludes is shove earbuds into those cavities on the side of your head. But at the same time, the idea of catching up on a podcast or listening to your favourite music might certainly appeal.

Far better then, to have your tunes of choice trilling mellifluously from wi-fi-connected speakers throughout your abode. Enter the IKEA Symfonisk, which combines a cool-looking lamp base and connected speaker, providing 180-degree audio.

Sound blends into the home like an audio installation.

“Love that I could change the shades to match the decor, looking forward to seeing more shade designs,” wrote one online reviewer. “I’ve paired mine with a smart bulb, as this speaker isn’t ‘smart’ in that way; it’s definitely worth it. The sound quality is decent.” Not only can the speaker be controlled from your smartphone, but various speakers can play different music in different parts of the house. You can have Krautrock in the kitchen and lounge music in the, er, lounge room. Smooth jazz in the bedroom and hip-hop in the home office.

Choose between a white or black speaker, and complement with a glass or textile lamp shade.

A collaboration between IKEA and high-end audio manufacturer Sonos, the Symfonisk is a product whose time has come for those who care how things looks as well as sound, and don’t might a little light being shed on the subject while they’re at it. RRP is $279. ■

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