Takeaways:
- Integrated audio furniture concept: La-Z-Boy and Klipsch combine seating and sound with AudioLuxe, embedding speakers and subwoofers directly into recliners and sofas.
- Immersive audio with simplified setup: Supports surround sound, including Dolby Atmos configurations when paired with external systems, while reducing reliance on traditional speaker placement.
- Potential shift for CI projects: Positions itself as a streamlined alternative for home theaters, living rooms and multipurpose spaces, potentially lowering system complexity and installation costs.
A new product from La-Z-Boy and Klipsch is threatening to disrupt both the home theater audio and seating market by essentially combining the two categories with the introduction of Audio Luxe, a new furniture line that features audio embedded directly into reclines and motion seating.
Debuting at high-end home furnishing event High Point Market next week and set to be available later this year, the company says AudioLuxe is designed to merge its core seating products with a built-in audio experience, targeting living room and home theater environments. The line incorporates speakers and subwoofers directly into the furniture, essentially taking over for traditional speakers.
The audio platform is developed in partnership with Klipsch, which brings its speaker and home theater expertise to the integrated system. The companies say the collaboration is intended to optimize speaker placement within the furniture for immersive performance while maintaining the form factor of standard recliners and sofas.
What are the key features of the AudioLuxe line?
Key features of the AudioLuxe line include embedded Klipsch speakers and subwoofers, as well as support for surround sound formats when paired with external systems. When used alongside the Klipsch Flexus Sound System, the furniture can support a 5.1.2 surround configuration with Dolby Atmos.
The system also incorporates Auracast Bluetooth audio sharing, allowing users to broadcast audio from a mobile device to multiple AudioLuxe seats or compatible speakers throughout the home. Each seating position includes integrated armrest controls, enabling individual users to manage volume levels or synchronize playback across multiple seats.
In addition to its audio capabilities, the line maintains La-Z-Boy’s core furniture features, including adjustable recline, lumbar support, headrests, and customizable upholstery options. The company says the design emphasizes modern styling intended to fit within contemporary living spaces.
La-Z-Boy says the AudioLuxe launch aligns with its broader strategy to expand into new product categories while leveraging its domestic manufacturing footprint. The company plans to showcase the line to dealers and partners by appointment at its High Point Market showroom beginning April 23.
Why does this matter for the CI industry?
The introduction of AudioLuxe reflects a growing interest in integrating audio directly into furniture, a category that has seen periodic innovation but remains relatively niche within the custom integration channel.
The product is pitched as a home theater product, but at first glance, it seems it might be more of a play for a multipurpose room or living room. If it does catch on in the home theater market and is well-received, it could likely present substantial cost savings for clients and make home theater products much simpler for integrators.
By pairing a legacy seating brand with an established audio manufacturer, the companies are positioning the product as a simplified alternative to traditional surround sound installations, particularly in multipurpose living spaces.
