Steinway Lyngdorf is renowned for creating high-end audio solutions that combine technological innovation with exceptional sound quality. With the launch of the CUE-100 speaker, Lyngdorf aims to take a bold step into a new era of sound quality and product design. The challenge was to create a speaker that could deliver crystal-clear sound, fit into modern Scandinavian homes, and meet the desires and needs of both audiophiles and their partners.
The vision was clear from the start: to develop a producible speaker that would offer extraordinary sound quality, be a feast for the eyes with its unique and exclusive design, and fit into Lyngdorf’s existing DNA.
The main objective was to break away from the conventional square speaker without compromising sound quality. The expression “Happy Wife, Happy Life”, as described in a SoundNews article, captures the essence of the speaker perfectly. To find a solution at the intersection of high sound quality and an appealing design that could be appreciated by all members of the household.
Artlinco’s task was to steer the process from the initial conceptual stages, including concept development, designing the iconic triangular cabinet shape, and selecting materials and finishes.
Client
Steinway Lyngdorf Audio
Services
Insight, Analysis, Concept Development, Design, Construction
Task
The task with the CUE-100 was to create a speaker that combined high sound quality and unique design. The initial phase of the development process involved understanding the speaker’s application area. This was crucial to ensure that the speaker would fit into modern Scandinavian homes and meet the requirements for a hi-tech and modern design while maintaining the Lyngdorf DNA. The basic understanding of the usage situation formed the basis for the mood and aesthetics that the speaker should be inspired by.
Throughout the development process, the focus has been on finding the perfect balance between sound quality and design. This was expressed through the concept of “Partner Acceptance Factor” (PAF), where the goal was to create products that appealed to both audio enthusiasts and those who wanted an aesthetically pleasing speaker in their home. The goal was to open up a new segment of audio enthusiasts and establish a new market for Steinway Lyngdorf.
Indsigt
We wanted to create something unique, something that would set the CUE-100 apart from the crowd of traditional speakers on the market. A square design, although practical and functional, lacked the visual artistic elegance that we were striving to achieve. Therefore, the idea of a triangular design with rounded edges began to take shape.
This design choice was also influenced by our desire to avoid the speaker being used as a random storage place for other objects. By creating a triangular design with a unique shape and aesthetics, we wanted to make it clear that this speaker was a work of art in itself, deserving to be highlighted and admired without being covered by other objects. The speaker’s slanted top is a good example of avoiding this, by removing the possibility of placing other objects on the speaker, such as decorations, jars, and plants. In this way, we also ensure a more undisturbed listening experience.
The fabric on the speaker is an important design element that can transform the speaker depending on whether you want an expression that blends more seamlessly with the surroundings, or if you want the more raw and nerdy version, where the speaker units are visible. The fabric is available in several colors so you can customize the CUE-100 to your own home and give it a personal touch.
A significant technical advantage of the triangular design with rounded edges is the reduction of resonances in the speaker cabinet. While square cabinets with parallel sides can often create unwanted resonances that distort sound quality, the triangular design helps to minimize resonances in the cabinet, contributing to an improved listening experience. This combination of aesthetics, functionality, and sound quality made it clear that this was the right direction to go, resulting in the unique and eye-catching design that the CUE-100 represents today.
25% smaller visual volume compare to conventional speakers
When viewed from the front, the observed visual volume is the same as with a conventional square speaker. The interesting thing happens when you move around the CUE-100. We have created an illustration that roughly shows how the product is perceived in relation to a speaker of the same size. Here you can see the effect the triangle has on the visual expression. The circumscribed square has a volume that is 25% larger! In this way, we achieve a result that blends seamlessly with the surroundings, becoming more lightweight and elegant.
“CUE-100 blend so well they become part of the design, being indispensable pieces of the room, completing the space perfectly.”
SOUND NEWS
Solution
The Lyngdorf CUE-100 is a compact high-end speaker with a unique triangular cabinet design, wooden legs, and the option to add exclusive fabric covers in several colors. It combines Danish design aesthetics with advanced Purifi technology, which reduces distortion and delivers extraordinary sound quality. The CUE-100 is a speaker that not only impresses with its sound but is also a visual work of art that complements any room.
On the sound front, the CUE-100 delivers an exceptional listening experience. Thanks to the innovative design that reduces resonances in the cabinet, the speaker delivers a clear and precise sound that impresses even the most demanding audio enthusiasts.
The use of quality materials ensures that the Cue-100 is not only a visual pleasure but also a durable investment that will deliver outstanding sound for many years.
The project has managed to find the perfect balance between high sound quality and aesthetic design. The concept of “Partner Acceptance Factor” (PAF) has been realized, as the speaker appeals to both audio nerds and those who want a beautiful and harmonious interior design.
With the CUE-100, Steinway Lyngdorf has created a new market for audio enthusiasts who want both outstanding performance and aesthetic appeal in their homes. This project opens the door for a whole new segment of audio lovers.
The result of the CUE-100 project is a speaker that not only meets but exceeds customer expectations. It represents the best in modern design and audio technology and will surely impress and delight users around the world.
