The latest trend in home entertainment is the ultraslim and free-mounting speakers capable of delivering genuine high-quality sound.
KEF is one of several brands moving in this direction. 'Simplicity and ultraslim are the latest trends, especially among those in their early 30s,' says KEF store manager Chung Wai-leung.
KEF's new T Series speakers are among the slimmest available. The six-piece system includes two pairs of satellite speakers at the front and on the sides, a centre channel and a subwoofer. All of these flat-panel speakers are incorporated with authentic 5.1 surround sound. To provide exceptionally good sound, it is necessary to minimise the height of the magnets in these flat panel speakers.
Minimalism has brought forward new designs of mini systems. The Bose Wave system is one of the most popular mini hi-fis in the market. At just 3.9kg, the one-piece CD player/radio system offers an unconventional design and sound quality.
How could such a small audio compartment generate a full-bass sound? Wave's proprietary waveguide speaker technology, which embodies folded tubes to strengthen low frequencies, gives the bass sound a more natural presence.
The internet has changed the way people enjoy music at home, as intelligent hi-fi systems have gained popularity. 'JBL has just launched its On Air Wireless system this summer,' says Cole Leung, a senior marketing executive at the Thinking Group which markets JBL. 'It is the first set of wireless speakers to support AirPlay, which comes in handy when people can play music directly with their iPhones, or other smartphones that are installed with iTunes.'