Jovian Wee, CEO of Affluence Infinity reflects on significant shifts in the audio and entertainment industry

The world of audio entertainment has been shifting at a blistering pace. We’ve gone from Walkmans and clunky hi-fi systems to noise-cancelling wireless earbuds and smart speaker set-ups that echo — as one — throughout the home. But Jovian Wee, CEO of automation and audio company Affluence Infinity, believes that there has been a resurgence in demand for sound that is as convenient as it is authentic.

That’s the desire the 30-year veteran of the audio entertainment industry is hoping to satisfy with the high-end audio systems they’re bringing in, particularly those from the prestigious Bowers & Wilkins (B&W).

Affluence Infinity, together with fellow audio distributor TC Acoustic, owns exclusive distribution rights to the famed British loudspeaker brand in Singapore and Malaysia.

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Clearly, he trusts that the audiophile community and the well-heeled have a lot in common, seeing as how B&W’s 801 D4 floorstanding loudspeaker and its smaller 805 cousin were recently given substantial enough audio and cosmetic upgrades to earn them a hallowed Signature tag — an honour previously awarded to only seven other models in the brand’s 57-year history.

What are some trends that you have observed in the audio and entertainment industry during your 30-year stint?

Over the decades, there has been a significant shift from physical media to digital formats, with streaming becoming the dominant mode of content consumption. Manufacturers are adding features to allow streaming music from mobile phones. 

There has also been a continuous push for higher and higher quality — though interestingly, vinyl has seen a resurgence with both millennials and zoomers. Records offer a nostalgic vibe — a soul — that resonates with younger listeners who are curious about the analog past. 

Collecting vinyls and their unique album covers, building a tangible library, and the ritual of cleaning and placing a record on a turntable — these all offer unique charm that you can't find in digital formats.

Plus, enthusiasts believe that the music is warmer, more authentic, and simply more “real” compared to compressed digital audio.

What were some of the biggest watermark moments in the industry? 

Apart from streaming, which has led to a decrease in physical media sales, the rise of high-quality wireless speakers has changed the way you set up a home system. They can be connected to your home network, offering better range and high-quality audio streaming. Some brands offer features like synchronising speakers across multiple rooms for a truly immersive experience.

The growth in smart home technology has also been noteworthy. In the past, smart homes were expensive to implement and required an integration company to install and program the system. Now, it’s so easy that you can do it yourself.

How does that translate to demands for luxury home entertainment?

In the luxury segment, audiophiles seek uncompromising audio quality, pushing for the absolute best. Money is no issue, with systems costing millions of dollars. To meet this demand, manufacturers are trying out new materials to push the boundaries. 

For example, Bowers & Wilkins uses a diaphragm made from synthetic diamond material to produce high-frequency sound beyond the audible range, which creates a more detailed and lifelike audio experience.

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There's a growing emphasis on integrating speakers seamlessly into your home’s interior design, making them visually appealing without sacrificing performance.

Audio entertainment appliances that align with the demands of the modern luxury audiophile market and have an aesthetically pleasing design are key.

Where is the next frontier? 

With the rapid advancements in technology, luxury home entertainment is likely to see further integration of AI-curated content, voice control, and immersive experiences through augmented reality. 

Expect seamless integration of smart devices with home automation systems, making it easier and more convenient to enjoy pristine audio than ever.

The 801 D4 Series Signature is available at $70,000, while the 805 D4 Series Signature costs $16,800.