An obtrusive widescreen TV is typically regarded as an eyesore in an otherwise well-designed interior, forcing designers to devise inventive ways of hiding the system when not in use.
Such is not the case with the BeoVision 14, a sophisticated offering from Danish electronics maker Bang & Olufsen. The handsome unit is the latest by the company known for their design-forward approach to audio and visual products (standouts include the sculptural BeoLab 90 speaker and BeoPlay A9, a saucer-like digital music streaming system).
The TV is dressed up with real oak wood lamellas that cover the three-way stereo speaker system. The removable facade is available as a fabric covering, rather than oak, in six other hues, allowing for customization that turns the display into a true centrepiece.
Powered on, the BeoVision 14 looks just as elegant. An Automatic Picture Control feature detects the light levels within the room and adjusts the picture settings accordingly, ensuring optimal quality no matter the time of day. Anti-reflection coating, applied to both sides of the display glass, prevents glare.
The set comes with all the performance bells and whistles, including Android software that provides access to Internet-based content, a strong sound system that can play music from Spotify and digital radio, Bluetooth capabilities, and even motorized mounting accessories to gently turn the screen towards the viewer at the push of a button.
The BeoVision 14 was released in Europe earlier this year and is slated to arrive in North America in December.