Bang & Olufsen Beosound 9000 (1996) | A Timeless Design Icon

 

Originally launched in 1996, at the peak of the CD era, the Bang & Olufsen Beosound 9000 revolutionized home audio with its striking vertical display of compact discs. Breaking away from traditional “black box” audio systems, its sculptural form quickly secured its status as a time-transcending design icon. The visual identity of the CD itself played a pivotal role in shaping the Beosound 9000’s design. Renowned industrial designer David Lewis is said to have found his inspiration while passing a London record shop displaying six CDs in a perfectly aligned row. That simple yet powerful image evolved into the Beosound 9000’s signature linear arrangement of six discs—an aesthetic and functional innovation that defined the system. Paired with active loudspeakers such as the Beolab 8000, the Beosound 9000 delivered both exceptional sound and unmatched visual appeal. The system’s engineering was as impressive as its appearance. Featuring a motorized glass lid, touch-sensitive controls, and advanced mechanics that allowed lightning-fast switching between discs, the Beosound 9000 offered a seamless and highly engaging listening experience. Hidden behind a discreet flip-up panel, Bang & Olufsen also included a dedicated remote control, completing the premium feel of the system.

A Pop-Culture Icon

Beyond audio performance, the Beosound 9000 became a staple of pop culture and a symbol of sophistication. It appeared in numerous films and TV shows, reinforcing its image as a coveted object of modern luxury. From Miranda’s stylish apartment in Sex and The City, to Matthew McConaughey’s bachelor pad in How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, to Pete’s apartment in Friends, the Beosound 9000 continuously captivated viewers and audiophiles alike. In 1997, it received the esteemed iF Design Award, further cementing its cultural and design legacy.

Recreated. Replayed. Reborn.

In 2024, Bang & Olufsen announced the revival of the Beosound 9000 through a limited run of factory-refurbished and updated models. As part of the brand’s Recreated Classics Programme, original units are being repurchased and meticulously restored at Factory 3 in Struer, Denmark. Using the same tools, workstations, and craftsmanship techniques developed decades ago, B&O’s master technicians bring these iconic systems back to life—preserving the heritage of the original while preparing them for many more years of enjoyment.

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