Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on February 2011

Courtesy of Idea International

It’s got the glossy finish of a grand piano, and the sound isn’t too bad either. Swiss audio wizards Geneva Lab describe themselves as “the inventors of high fidelity for iPod,” and their sleek hi-fi packs an impressive punch—not to mention a whimper-inducing price tag. Available in four sizes, and color schemes including a delicious lipstick red, the Geneva Sound System incorporates an iPod dock and alarm radio, plus a CD player in the larger models. After drawing positive reviews from the likes of CNet and Wired, it debuts in Japan in March, just in time for rich audio buffs looking to kit out their new apartments.

Geneva Sound System, ¥39,900-¥294,000. Available at branches of The Conran Shop and Idea Digital Studio: 3F Galleria, Tokyo Midtown, 9-7-3 Akasaka, Minato-ku. Tel: 03-6438-9871. Open daily 11am-9pm.