Yamaha Sound Machines
2022
A prototype designed by Yamaha and ECAL (University of Art and Design) in Lausanne, Switzerland under the theme of reinventing music-playing equipment.
Project Overview
The way that we listen to and enjoy music has evolved over time, with more diversity now than ever before. The COVID-19 pandemic has also drastically altered our values and lifestyles, and the rate at which things change is expected to accelerate even further. With this in mind, the Yamaha Design Laboratory conducted a workshop in collaboration with Ecole Cantonale d'Art de Lausanne (ECAL) Master Product Design students to consider how music listening might evolve in coming generations. Under the guidance of Yamaha designers and ECAL Professor Camille Blin, students at the university tackled the issue and finalized a total of six product prototypes.
Most people today listen to music on their smartphones, controlling every aspect of the experience using the screen of the device. This project was a clear departure from such an approach, implementing designs that focus on physical and emotive qualities of objects. Considering new technologies and trends such as AI, live-streamed performances, and ASMR, the students produced six new music player and accessory devices that are not only physically attractive, but also propose a novel music listening experience.
Works
Bandmait
designed by Charlotta Åman
Bandmait is a music player that offers a new way for musicians to practise their instruments with the help of artificial intelligence.
ASMR Instruments
designed by Ka Yin Cheung
Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) offers listeners a moment of relaxation by streaming the sounds of everyday life gestures and objects. ASMR Instruments brings a similar feeling of composure to the listener without requiring any digital device.
Sound Frame
designed by Jisan Chung
Sound Frame is a speaker that allows you to listen to your favourite music using beloved objects as a trigger.
Vertical Player
designed by Jonas Villiger
In 2019, the sale of vinyl records surpassed that of mp3s and CDs. Vertical Player offers an unexpected experience to listeners by displaying the spinning of a vinyl record vertically on a pedestal.
Spezi
designed by Silvio Rebholz
Spezi is a home speaker that allows for a smoother transition between the different music players commonly used at home.
Stagespeaker
designed by Till Ronacher
Stagespeaker addresses the growing demand for home live stream concerts using a combination of sound and light to mimic a real concert environment.