India, Oct. 12 -- For decades, names like Bose, Marshall, Bang & Olufsen and KEF have shaped how the world listens to music. Their dominance was built on one simple premise: better sound came from bigger hardware, larger cabinets, larger drivers and speakers designed to be seen and admired.

But that premise is increasingly getting at odds with how modern spaces are being designed today. Architects and homeowners are favouring clean walls, minimal interiors and technology that fits seamlessly into the room instead of dominating it.

The shift has put one of consumer electronics' oldest categories in a difficult spot: speakers. Good quality speakers need physical space to deliver the depth, power and clarity that listeners expect. Manufact...