Creating a visual and auditory impact on the home HiFi experience.
After extensive research into how I could improve my own HiFi setup, I found myself reimagining what a 5:1 sound system could look like. I set out to create a striking form that utilised high-end materials, components and manufacturing processes. The goal was to challenge the likes of Bang & Olufsen within their top tier product line and provide a fresh perspective on the HiFi industry.
Understanding Internals & Form Development
Combining primary evaluation in the form of dismantling various speakers at home, with online research into 5:1 system structures and technologies, a better understanding was gained of what the exterior form would need to house. This background knowledge provided a good basis to begin sketching and foam modelling, which then led to more detailed sketch and CAD ideation.
Final Outcome
The main goal throughout the ideation phase was to bring a powerful presence to the home HiFi setup. The Fonic HF50’s provide a full range auditory experience, enclosed within an organic form that naturally aids the movement of air out of the speaker port. A solid aluminium base and connection point ground the main body and lowers the centre of gravity to a stable position. Whilst the Zerone Cloth grill and glass-filled nylon frame sit inside the base cavity, the connection mechanism ensures no pressure is exerted on the components.
Features
To give an accurate estimation of HF50’s output, research was conducted into components of competitor sound systems currently on the market. This gave assurances that the speaker’s components were of certain quality and dimension to produce the specification below. Opting for a passive system was simply personal preference. Whilst I love active studio monitors for work at my desk, being able to alternate music and home cinema in a passive setup interests me far more.
Design for Manufacture
Below highlights the main componentry in the HF50, also detailing materials, manufacturing processes, dimensions and assembly where appropriate.
Branding
Whilst the main Fonic logo draws inspiration from the organic form of the HF50’s, the bolder designs help envisage how the speaker could be presented within an advertising campaign. Fonic’s branding needed to represent the desire to disrupt the premium speaker market, whilst still delivering on high-quality form and function.
