Hi-Fi Finally Embracing The Times
Before I begin this thread, I'll add this disclaimer: This is not a response to existing threads about Vintage Gear (If you love Vintage then continue to do so).
I saw two new products from B&W that got me excited (not because I plan to buy them, but because of the trend they represent). The P5 Headphones (the first ever headphones from B&W)
http://www.bowers-wilkins.com/display.aspx?infid=4534
and more significantly the MM-1 Computer Speakers.
http://www.bowers-wilkins.com/display.aspx?infid=4503
Both products are aimed at younger music lovers, who may not have started down the road to audiophilia yet... The P5 have 2 cables, a hifi one and one specially designed for ipods (making them a potential upgrade for users of mp3 players who want better sound than the stock headphones). The MM-1 is a powered computer speaker with USB DAC and the ability to control Windows Media Player and iTunes via the supplied remote (very convenient).
I've long felt that instead of dissing the modern generation and trying to revive Audio decades long gone, the Hi-Fi brands need to embrace modern users and create products that will spark new interest in Hi-Fi. IMO, Headphones and High Quality Active Speakers are a great way to do this.
Yes, many high end brands have added USB inputs to their amps and DACS, created media severs and ipod docks. But few of those products were really aimed at non-audiophiles or would be converts. Seriously, who is the $1.5K Krell KID iPod Dock supposed to appeal to or the $8.3K Naim HDX Music Server??? Clearly not non-audiophiles. It's nice to add modern features to expensive kit, but there's still loads of room for more Audioengine A2 Powered Speakers ($200). So I hope B&W will be just one of many brands to start truly embracing the times.