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Although analogue picture frames that have speakers built in them are nothing new, Samsung has now come out with its own version. How does it compare to the one available from Swedish furniture giant Ikea?
The Samsung Music Frame hides six speakers: two small ones for high and medium tones on the sides, and two bass speakers on the back.
The sound is clear and there are no annoying distortions. Despite its compact size, the device delivers a relatively full sound without the bass booming or speech audio sounding too intense. However, it is not enough to replace an entire stereo system with floor-standing speakers.
It can also play songs with Dolby Atmos 3D sound from Amazon Music HD and streaming service Tidal.


The soundscape can, depending on the title and mix, extend beyond the frame but it does not reach the size and three-dimensionality of the Apple HomePod or the Sonos Era 300. Those models offer finer resolution and deeper bass, but, perhaps, do not look as good as the Music Frame.
In contrast, the Ikea Symfonisk has only one speaker – but, despite this limitation, it delivers astonishingly good sound with clear highs and pronounced bass.
The Ikea speaker is noticeably quieter than the Samsung device, but it can be wirelessly paired with a second Symfonisk to form a stereo pair.












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The Symfonisk relies on speaker software and an app from speaker pioneer Sonos. It works using Wi-fi, as a Bluetooth connection is not possible. The speaker is compatible with AirPlay 2 so you can stream music directly from Apple devices.
You can transfer songs from Spotify directly to the speaker using Spotify Connect. The Ikea device can also be combined with other Sonos speakers and sound bars.
The Samsung speaker offers a little more flexibility in terms of connectivity and music sources, and it can be supplied with music using Bluetooth or Wi-fi.
In addition to AirPlay 2, the Frame also supports Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect and Amazon Music HD. It can also play sound from Samsung televisions.


The Frame is controlled using the Samsung SmartThings app, which can be used to adjust sound settings. Amazon Alexa can also be used to select music using voice control.
The Samsung Music Frame is square, and measures 35cm x 35cm (13.7 inches x 13.7 inches). The frame is 5.5cm thick and weighs 4.6kg (10 pounds). If it is hanging on the wall, the only thing that gives it away as an electronic device is the power cable.
The cable can be hidden if you place the frame on a shelf or sideboard using the stand provided. This also applies to the Ikea speaker, which is a bit larger and rectangular in shape (41cm x 57cm x 6cm).
With the Samsung Music Frame, you can add any picture you like, as long as you cut it to the right size.

In contrast, the Ikea Symfonisk offers a limited selection of interchangeable front panels with predefined images. They include world-famous paintings by the likes of Gustav Klimt, Vincent van Gogh and Leonardo da Vinci.
In conclusion, the Samsung Music Frame offers more features, better sound quality and a more flexible design – but it is also significantly more expensive than the Ikea model at HK$3,680 in Hong Kong and €449 (US$400) elsewhere.
The Ikea Symfonisk is a good choice for price-conscious buyers who are looking for a stylish Wi-fi speaker with decent sound. It costs HK$1,699 or €250. Extra picture panels must be bought separately.


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Music

Which is better, the Samsung Music Frame or Ikea Symfonisk frame? Their pros and cons

Is that a picture frame or a speaker? It is both. We compare the Samsung Music Frame (left) and Ikea Symfonisk frame. Photo: Samsung/Ikea

The Samsung Music Frame is controlled using the Samsung SmartThings app. Photo: AFP

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Lifestyle

Gadgets

Is that a picture frame or a speaker? It is both. We break down options from Ikea and Samsung with big differences in shape and price


Is that a picture frame or a speaker? It is both. We break down options from Ikea and Samsung with big differences in shape and price.


Samsung Electronics

Hong Kong interior design