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Comment by phlipski

4 days ago

I'm building modular home audio speakers. Wireless, self-powered, upgradeable, repairable. Think Sonos meets the Framework laptop. Check out my prelaunch page here:

https://prelaunch.com/projects/audioblocs-audioblocs

2 comments

phlipski

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gizmo  4 days ago

This seems cool, but I think many people have been burned by smart speakers of various types. If your system does Spotify and Pandora and such then it's going to have a phone app and then if the phone app enshittifies the entire investment in the 'ecosystem' goes to waste. Nobody wants to throw out their speakers because of software updates.

I think a better smart amplifier could be a good product -- and then people can bring their own speakers. Or you can make great wireless speakers and then people can bring their own amplifier. But the moment the speakers and amp become an 'integrated solution' I hear the e-waste bells toll in the distance.

People have been burned by sonos and don't expect their framework laptop to last more than a couple of years. Meanwhile my 25 year old dumb speakers are still going strong.

  • phlipski  4 days ago

    I would respectfully disagree with your assertion regarding Framework laptops. Their entire business model is predicated on building computers that DO last more than a few years....

    There are plenty of streaming audio amp solutions currently on the market - Wiim builds a nice one. But some of us don't want to run speaker wires through the walls for a home theater.

    I've given a lot of thought to building a system that will work without a dedicated internet connection and this system won't require a central server to check-in to. I too have 25+ year old speakers that work just fine (Paradigm Titan's from 1998) and that's partly my inspiration. I wanted more sound from them but there's no way to upgrade traditional passive speakers. I don't want these speakers to be bricked if my company fails. They also don't need an app to work. The TV can control it through the eARC connection.

    I appreciate your thoughts!