Hasta La Ideas

Customizable audio artwork hides hi-fi speakers in a conventional picture frame

Hiding a high-fidelity speaker system within a traditional wooden picture frame, the aFrame appeals both visually and acoustically. The Brooklyn-based innovator of home audio installation, aWall, custom designs and produces each individual aFrame with a digital amp, Bluetooth reciever, two 6.5″ speakers and two silk tweeters. We recently got a chance to check out this “audio artwork” in person and can vouch for its superior sound quality and craftsmanship.

With dimensions starting at 16″ x 20,” the frames and their internal speakers can be built up to several feet in width, depending on the size of the artwork (customers can customize their own paintings or photographs to fill the frame). The company prefers to work with dense hardwoods like maple, but the aFrame can be outfitted with any type of timber—even reclaimed barn wood.

The customizable options, from the artwork to frame stain and finish, allow the customer to work with a blank canvas of sorts. Besides the subtle aesthetics, the aFrame has Bluetooth capabilities and can network with existing home stereos, making it a practical piece for the living room, the office or any place where a typical stereo system may seem out of place.

A standard aFrame—overall size 18″ x 22″—goes for $695, with an image of your choice (you can print your own or choose from their selection) and a 1″ solid maple frame. Visit aWall online to learn more about this unconventional concept in home audio, designed and produced by hand.

Triple Aught Design’s messenger bag for the office mercenary

Blending modern technology with functional design, Triple Aught Design makes high-performance gear durable enough for the mountains and sophisticated enough for the city. Their latest addition, the Multicam Dispatch Bag is suited for everyday carry in either environment. Built with 1000 Denier Invista Cordura nylon—which is nearly impossible to rip or tear—and Military-Spec ITW Nexus fasteners and YKK nylon coil zippers, you can guarantee the dispatch can make it through hell and back.

Whether you’re heading to the office or traveling farther from home, it’s essential to have your valuables close at hand. With the Dispatches’ thirteen pockets and plentiful accessory slots your phone, keys, pen/pad or passport are all kept just under the main closer flap and just a few clasps away. Inside the 800 cubic inches of storage you’ll find also find a separate, detachable laptop compartment that’ll fit most 15″ laptops. The flap is tailored to cover the corners of the bag keeping dirt, rain and sticky fingers out. There are also a couple hidden pockets for super safekeeping.

At 17″ wide x 12″ high x 4″ deep, the bag is slightly on the larger size, definitely hefty enough to lug some extra gear, but small enough to not feel empty with just a computer and spare jacket. I’ve been testing the bag for the last week and have been really impressed with its versatility. Available in a limited run dropping today, look to Triple Aught Design online where the Multicam Dispatch sells for $250.