CATALYST Beosound A9 5th Gen – Haydenshapes

LIGHT AND SOUND THROUGH MATERIAL

Resin, like the ocean interacting with the sun, absorbs and refracts light to create ever changing hues throughout the day. This reaction is sensitive to volume and shape, much like the motion and intensity of sound waves moving through a speaker. The term ‘Catalyst’ references the key additive in the chemical process of casting resin which generates heat causing the material to harden and take shape.

RADIAL BLUE FADE

This radial blue fade informs the speaker cover art, drawing directly from this unique connection between the resin material and light. A shared vision for shape, material and performance was the ultimate ‘catalyst’ in uniting Haydenshapes and Bang & Olufsen to reimagine an iconic design.

MATERIAL AS MEDIUM

Innovation Through Material

The vibrant blue resin featured in BEOSOUND A9 ‘CATALYST’ is the result of an extensive process of material experimentation—layering pigment, adjusting catalysts, and refining transparency to achieve a unique interplay with light. This hands-on, trial-and-error approach is emblematic of the Haydenshapes ethos, where craft, innovation, and a deep understanding of material science intersect.

From the Designer

“The Beosound A9 for me is a true representation of functional art — it’s such an iconic design. Having the opportunity to create a unique and limited edition release applying a technical material like resin really honours the storytelling around innovation and performance, which is how I have always approached my surfboards. For me, material has always played the most critical role in the things I create.”

HAYDEN COX