Gadget corner
Class ceiling
Bose's Virtually Invisible 791 speakers promise evenly distributed stereo sound over a wide area. For straightforward installation, four clamps are used to secure each speaker to the ceiling. A simple twist of the grille snaps them into place. Each speaker combines a seven-inch woofer and two tweeters to eliminate so-called 'hot spots', harsh high frequencies. The 791 speakers sell for HK$5,200 a pair at Bose retail stores and authorised dealers.
Attention to detail
Similar in design to the M-series professional range, Leica's new X1 is a 12.2-megapixel compact digital camera with fixed lens for the average, albeit quality-conscious, snapper. The light, 286-gram camera has the all-metal construction and high-quality leather trim found in Leica's high-performance products. It offers numerous automatic functions, ranging from precise autofocus to automatic exposure, so the user can give their full attention to the creative aspects of composition and framing. It also has a 2.7-inch display, which reveals the finest details - even in bright surroundings - and a built-in retractable flash. It has 50 megabytes of internal memory and supports external memory cards. The X1 is priced at HK$16,000.
Sound barrier
Sennheiser claims its PXC 310 travel headphones cut background noise - including the drone of an aircraft's engines - by up to 90 per cent. In fact the technology, called NoiseGard, was originally developed for pilots. The TalkThrough function button makes it possible to hold a conversation without removing the headphones. Soft padding on the ear cups and headband guarantee a comfortable fit. The foldable PXC 310 travel headphones cost HK$2,660.
