Yamaha Restio IXS-800 Review

Yamaha's new Restio IXS-800 music system is the perfect marriage of style and substance.

A slot-loading CD player, DAB/FM radio and iPod/iPhone dock are contained within a super-sleek square, which also houses an impressive two-way, four-speaker system.

At only 9cm deep, the unit is surprisingly slim, meaning it can be be wall hung (using an optional bracket) or displayed on the included aluminium stand, whose half-crescent base allows positioning right up to the wall.

The Restio also features USB and Aux-in slots for playing music direct from USB sticks and other sound sources, as well as a three-band equaliser to ensure the sound always fits perfectly with its surroundings.

The IXS-800 comes in black, purple, green and white, and at the centre of the distinctive metal grill is a colour-coordinated digital clock that offers a standard display as well as an arty variation.

The display utilises an auto dimmer function to match the brightness of the room, while the 'IntelliAlarm' feature wakes you up gently by playing music of your choice with the high frequencies filtered out at first, before gradually bringing in the full audio spectrum.

The Restio comes with a remote control however, so you can still turn the alarm off without having to leave your bed - always a risky option if you're prone to falling back to sleep!

Despite its sleek looks the Restio packs a sonic punch, with a precise - and thankfully not over-bright - treble, clear and detailed midrange and a sturdy bass response which is particularly impressive considering how slender the woofers have to be to fit into the minimal design.

The only drawback is the absence of any networking capability - so no Wi-Fi, Ethernet, AirPlay or Bluetooth connectivity, although of course if you are using an iPhone as your music source you can stream Spotify etc through it.

That minor gripe aside, the Restio is an incredibly well-designed slice of functional art, which manages to sound as good as it looks.

The Yamaha Restio IXS-800 is onsale now with a RRP of £499.95, details at Yamaha.com