Transparent, a company known for its sleek and modern designs, has taken a bold step in the opposite direction with its latest wireless speaker, the Brutalist. Inspired by the brutalist architecture of the 1950s, this $4,000 speaker is a far cry from the glass-enclosed see-through speakers that helped launch the brand. Instead, the Brutalist features a blocky, aluminum design that stands 23 inches tall and weighs a hefty 26.5 pounds.

The Brutalist speaker's design is not just about aesthetics; it's also functional. The speaker features a pair of three-inch tweeters positioned at 90-degree angles, which work alongside a 6.5-inch subwoofer positioned on the opposite side. This unique design allows the speaker to fill a room with sound when positioned in a corner, where the sound can bounce off walls. However, the speaker does not have a battery, so users will need to ensure it's placed near an outlet.

In terms of connectivity, the Brutalist speaker is equipped with Bluetooth 5.2, Wi-Fi, and supports Apple's AirPlay 2, Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, and Amazon Music. Additionally, the speaker has two 3.5mm inputs, allowing users to connect other audio sources via cable. While the speaker is compatible with Amazon's Alexa, it does not have its own microphone, limiting the usefulness of the smart assistant's integration.

The Brutalist speaker's design is not the only unique aspect of this product. Transparent spent three years developing the speaker, with a significant portion of that time dedicated to sourcing 70 percent post-consumer recycled aluminum for the cabinet. According to Per Brickstad, Transparent's creative director, sourcing the recycled aluminum was a major challenge. "Of course, we spent a lot of time in manufacturing to perfect all of the different modules coming together well and ensuring everything sounds great, but actually, the sourcing of the recycled aluminum for the cabinet hasn't been easy," Brickstad told Wired.

The use of recycled aluminum is a notable eco-friendly feature of the Brutalist speaker. As consumers become increasingly environmentally conscious, companies are being forced to rethink their manufacturing processes and materials. Transparent's commitment to sustainability is a welcome move in the tech industry, where eco-friendliness is often overlooked in favor of innovation and design.

The Brutalist speaker's $4,000 price tag may be out of reach for many consumers, but for those who value unique design, high-quality sound, and eco-friendliness, this speaker may be worth the investment. With its bold design and commitment to sustainability, the Brutalist speaker is sure to turn heads in the tech industry.

As the tech industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how companies like Transparent balance innovation with sustainability. The Brutalist speaker is a promising step in the right direction, and its impact will likely be felt beyond the audio industry.