Designing an All in One Soundbar from Prototype to Mass Production

Design by Barnaby Ward

Completed
April 2026
Category
Design
Location
Auckland
Role
Industrial Designer - 3D/Product Visualisation Expert

About this project

All in one soundbar.

Orbitsound needed an all in one soundbar to support its newly developed WiFi multiroom app. The challenge was to create a compact audio product with a minimal aesthetic that could blend into different environments, while still delivering strong acoustic performance.

The project began by building a specific audio platform suited to the application. Working with Orbitsound’s Tonmeister, we used early CNC MDF prototypes to test driver positioning, internal volume, and acoustic tuning before moving into final product development.

Wood was used as the primary material for its acoustic properties and to reduce the amount of plastic in the product. Once the product moved towards production, I helped develop the SOP, assembly process, and custom jigs needed to protect the product during assembly and maintain consistent gap and step tolerances.

The final product balanced audio performance, simple operation, multiroom connectivity, flexible placement, and production readiness, creating a versatile soundbar suited to both home and professional spaces.

Barnaby Ward

Industrial Designer - 3D/Product Visualisation Expert

Location
Auckland