Yamaha ISX -80

Looking more like a picture frame than a speaker, the ISX-80 is an interior designer’s dream. Heads will turn whether it’s mounted on a wall or shelf, but the vertical clock display is an acquired taste. There’s substance behind the style, with a comprehensive array of streaming features (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Spotify, AirPlay) and a terrific smartphone app that talks to sources with minimal fuss. Performance-wise, the ISX-80 sounds a little boxed-in – unsurprising, given the narrow speaker layout – but it goes nice and loud for its size, and attacks drums and basslines with gusto.