Who designs casework for audio components?


Are there industrial design firms that specialize in designing audio component casework? How many manufacturers design their own products in-house? The design of the casework is an important part of brand recognition/appeal and unless cost is an extremely important factor it deserves serious attention. Lots of factors to think about: dimensions, shape, color, materials used, layout, user interface, etc. Who does the design work?
budrew
Hey Pbb, I sure wish someone would design some components with the huge tailfins of the early 60's Chryslers and DeSotos. Yeh baby!
I agree the Edge stuff is unbearable. They probably wanted to make a statement, but in my view it's the wrong statement. Expensive to make too.

One thing that I definately prefer is a volume knob instead of buttons. A knob is quick and easy to use. Buttons are generally fixed in how fast they change the volume. Give me a big cherry-wood Blue Circle knob anyday!
As someone who loves and makes a living in the art+design field I totally agree. I wish more manufacturers that charge high dollar for their gear would put a little more effort into the industrial design of their products.

Obviously, Gilbert Yeung of Blue Circle puts a premium on design [and concept], but I think he should add a set of brassiere headphones to go along with his purse preamp and high heel pump monoblock amps.
Actually, I heard Gilbert mention on his web site forum working on a top secret headphone system project. But it's probably shaped like a big, blue hat (with built-in earspeakers?)!

I like Gilbert's understated, somewhat funky styling.
Try Josh' stuff - art in both form and function. Electronluv Definitely some out of the ordinary stuff! As close to Tail Fins as I have seen....

-Ed