Objects of Affection: Vita Audio

Seeking something small, perfectly formed and surprisingly powerful for your city pad? We've spotted the perfect item on the horizon...

When it was launched two years ago, the Vita Audio R4 redefined the all-in-one iPod dock sound system. And how. With its no compromise approach to deep, full bass and crisp midrange, its CD/iPod/DAB combination was the first serious ‘sayonara separates’ launch - at least for those who cared about stuff like, well, how music sounded.

But it was also sayonara £549 quid.

Still, once seen (and heard) this walnut-wrapped beauty was hard to dismiss. So we were more than happy when the R2i (£251 -pic left) came out last year - as were What HiFI, awarding it their ultimate accolade: a gilt edged 5 star review. A compact hi-fi system and cleverly designed iPod dock (with a nifty ‘roto-dial’ controller), the R2i’s 3D sound processing mode magically created a broader soundstage than you’d expect for a micro system. There are other iPod docks - some screaming for your attention with their over-designed outlines but, trust us, if you’re after a smooth, rich and compact player (and who isn’t) Vita Audio are the ones to beat.

And this month it’s set to release its R1 Mk2, (£159.99) a portable DAB, DAB+ (if and when that arrives) and FM radio, again with a wooden case (for rich, warm fidelity) and swanky leather carry case. Picnics never sounded better. They’re set to hit stores in early August.

John Lewis
Liverpool ONE