A SIGN OF DESIGN Home Entertainment


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The rise of high design and conscious consumerism in CE


Buyers are more aware of design when buying consumer electronics than ever before. Steve May reports on the growing appeal of ethical design and impact of sustainability.


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onsumers are increasingly aware of design as part of the purchase process, experts in the field tell ERT. Not only is there a growing appreciation of finish and materials, but the politics of sustainability are also influencing those considering lifestyle products. Premium radio brand Revo Audio is leaning heavily into both trends for its newly launched SuperConnect digital radio (pictured far right). Roy Johnson, Director of Product Management, describes the brand’s design language as “a balanced blend of classic retro-modern with advanced technology”. Sustainability is key, he adds. “For example, all wooden parts used in a Revo SuperSeries radio are made out of FSC-certified woods,” he says.


A stereo iteration of the long-running SuperConnect


model, this new version combines DAB, DAB+ and FM with RDS tuners with internet radio services, and Spotify, Amazon Music and Deezer functionality – but it’s the appearance which is eye-catching. The hand-crafted, all-wood cabinet is built from


furniture-grade American walnut, and there’s an anodised aluminium fascia and speaker grille. An OLED graphic display and joystick control add a contemporary flourish.


Mr Johnson agrees with the notion that quality design is an easier upsell for retailers than advanced features. “High design is an easier upsell but advanced features still need to be there to match the level of the product,” he tells ERT. “Technical excellence has always been our highest priority as our audience is


extremely discerning when it comes to audio quality.” Today’s buyers are looking for all-in-one solutions


that work perfectly with their smartphone, he says. “Streaming is becoming significantly more important when choosing an audio device...” One brand that has arguably leveraged fine design within the TV sector more successfully than most is Samsung. Nathan Sheffield, Samsung Europe’s Head of TV and Audio, explains to ERT that the company’s lifestyle line-up has enjoyed steady progression since launch.


Flagship proposition The Frame, the uniquely customisable QLED TV that can be dressed with a variety of art-style frames to give the impression that the panel is actually a painting, has proved a huge commercial success for the brand.


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