Integration of Products
The historical perspective
The integration of traditional hi-fi products has mainly addressed the physical size and visual identity of the cabinets while the number of features, confronting the user with more or less redundant choices, has increased significantly. Bang & Olufsen's philosophy is entirely different as, with more and more tasks being automated because of their mundane and repetitive nature, operation of products has actually become easier!
The use of audio and video sources has changed dramatically during the last decade or so. Satellite distribution of TV programmes and digital media have succeeded and the desire for optimum sound and picture quality has become even more apparent. So has the desire for 'products with personality'.
The Bang & Olufsen perspective
We think of hi-fi and video integration being a relatively new idea... integration of existing technologies has been around for a very long time. Still, if true integration implies all facets of hi-fi consumer electronics, to date no concept has yet reached the level of integration performed so highly as by two televisions: Beocenter AV5 and Beovision Avant.
Beocenter AV5 set the scene in 1997 representing the latest stage in the evolution of integrated Bang & Olufsen concepts.
Some Bang & Olufsen products which utilise the integration philosophy:
Bang & Olufsen integration began in gusto in 1944 with the introduction of the Grand Prix 44RG. It combined a radio and a gramophone and had room for records. Although it may seem rather old fashioned now, it was designed to match the trends of interior design at the time. With the 'technical interface' hidden behind the roll-up front, it is in fact visually similar to a writing bureau.
The integration concept continued in 1956 with the Beocord Unitape 511 and 512 being reel-to-reel tape recorders with a record deck built into them.
In 1965 came true combination of craftsmanship and advanced technology: the Beovision 2000. Besides holding a monochrome television set, it also contained a gramophone. The optional tape recorder was available in two versions - Mono and Stereo.
Beovision 2000 was designed by Ib Fabiansen
BeoSound 9000 combines modern audio sources with unique design and technology. The visible playback of compact discs emphasise the human aspect of the product - it is very easy to understand and operate. Furthermore, it contains visually intriguing elements, such as the movement of the carriage.
Beocenter AV5 was adaptive in terms of function, use and design, and was made for the user who had an eye on the future.
Although modern audio and video sources were integrated in Beocenter AV5 in an unprecedented way, the decisive issue which completed the concept was fully integrated in outstanding quality.
Only by implementing all the core competencies of Bang & Olufsen, was it possible to combine craftsmanship, excellence of sound and picture and the ease-of-use aspect.
Created: 9th January 2007
Modified: 2nd April 2007
