Audioengine A5+ Powered Bookshelf Review audioengine a2+ – Oemiu
Audioengine A5+ Powered Bookshelf and A2+ Review: A Symphony of Sound in Every Space
In the crowded landscape of audio equipment, finding speakers that seamlessly blend exceptional sound quality with user-friendly design and aesthetic appeal can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. However, Audioengine has consistently proven itself as a manufacturer dedicated to delivering precisely that blend. This review delves into two of their most popular offerings: the Audioengine A5+ Powered Bookshelf Speakers and the more compact, but equally impressive, Audioengine A2+ speakers. We’ll explore their strengths, weaknesses, sonic signatures, and target audiences, helping you determine which of these powered speakers best suits your needs and listening preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or someone simply seeking a significant audio upgrade, this comprehensive exploration will provide you with the insights you need to make an informed decision. From the deep, room-filling sound of the A5+ to the surprisingly powerful and versatile A2+, we’ll dissect every aspect, from connectivity options to build quality, ensuring you understand the nuances of each model.
The Audioengine A5+ Powered Bookshelf Speakers: A Force to Be Reckoned With
The Audioengine A5+ is more than just a pair of speakers; it’s a complete audio solution. Designed as a plug-and-play system, the A5+ eliminates the need for a separate amplifier, thanks to its built-in Class AB amplifier. This integrated design simplifies setup and reduces clutter, making it an ideal choice for those who value both performance and convenience. But don’t let the simplicity fool you; the A5+ packs a serious punch in terms of audio quality. The combination of Kevlar woofers and silk dome tweeters delivers a balanced and detailed sound signature that’s suitable for a wide range of musical genres. From the intricate details of classical music to the thumping bass of electronic dance music, the A5+ handles it all with aplomb. Furthermore, the A5+ boasts a variety of connectivity options, including RCA inputs, a 3.5mm auxiliary input, and even RCA outputs for adding a subwoofer. This versatility allows you to connect a wide range of devices, from turntables and CD players to computers and smartphones. The inclusion of a USB power port is a nice touch, allowing you to charge your mobile devices directly from the speakers. The Audioengine A5+ shines as a versatile solution for audiophiles and casual listeners alike.
Beyond the sound quality and connectivity, the A5+ also impresses with its build quality. The hand-built cabinets are constructed from high-quality MDF, and the available finishes (including satin black, high-gloss white, and solid bamboo) offer a touch of elegance to any listening space. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the design, from the magnetic speaker grills to the gold-plated connectors. The A5+ aren’t just speakers; they’re a statement piece that reflects your appreciation for quality audio. This consideration is important, because while the sound is phenomenal, the speakers themselves must also blend with the aesthetics of the room where they will be used. This is often an overlooked aspect of speaker buying, but the Audioengine A5+ makes it easy with its elegant design and quality build. Finally, consider the sheer power that this sound system puts out. You will be hard pressed to find a bookshelf speaker system, especially in this price range, that can compete with the raw, unfiltered sound that the A5+ provides.
The A5+ speakers are perfect for use cases where high quality audio and ease of set up are paramount. These speakers can be connected to a turntable to provide a rich, full listening experience for vinyl records. Or, they can be connected to a computer to provide excellent sound for gaming, music production, or just listening to music or streaming video. The A5+ has enough power to provide excellent audio in small to medium sized rooms, making it a good solution for apartments and smaller homes. If you need a system that can be set up quickly and provide a high quality audio experience, the A5+ may be perfect for your use case.
| Feature | Audioengine A5+ |
|---|---|
| Type | Powered Bookshelf Speakers |
| Amplifier | Class AB |
| Woofer | 5″ Kevlar |
| Tweeter | 0.75″ Silk Dome |
| Inputs | RCA, 3.5mm aux |
| Outputs | RCA (variable) |
| Finishes | Satin Black, High-Gloss White, Solid Bamboo |
Audioengine A2+ Speakers: Big Sound, Small Package
While the A5+ delivers a commanding audio presence, the Audioengine A2+ speakers cater to a different audience: those who prioritize portability, versatility, and a smaller footprint without sacrificing sound quality. These compact powered speakers are designed to fit seamlessly into smaller spaces, such as desktops, bookshelves, or even travel setups. Despite their diminutive size, the A2+ delivers a surprisingly rich and detailed sound, thanks to its custom-designed components and meticulously engineered cabinet. The A2+ uses a similar design approach to the A5+, using a built-in amplifier to power the speakers. This is the key to the A2+’s versatility, as it does not require an external amplifier to power the speakers. The A2+ is perfect for use with a computer, as it connects via USB, providing both power and audio signal. In addition, the A2+ has RCA and 3.5mm aux inputs, allowing it to connect to a wide variety of audio devices. The A2+ even has RCA outputs, allowing it to connect to a subwoofer. The Audioengine A2+ offers impressive sound quality and versatility in a compact form factor.
The A2+ speakers are not just about size; they also boast a sophisticated sound signature. The Aramid fiber woofers and silk dome tweeters work in harmony to deliver a balanced and clear sound, with surprising depth and detail for their size. While they may not have the same bass response as the A5+, the A2+ still provides a satisfying listening experience for a wide range of musical genres. The A2+ also excels in nearfield listening situations, making them ideal for use as desktop speakers. The clarity and detail of the sound make them perfect for critical listening, such as audio editing or music production. Moreover, the A2+ are incredibly easy to set up and use. Simply connect them to your computer or other audio source, and you’re ready to go. The built-in amplifier eliminates the need for any additional equipment, and the compact size makes them easy to transport. The Audioengine A2+ truly embodies the concept of “big sound, small package.” This makes them perfect for anyone who needs speakers on the go, or simply doesn’t have the space for a larger system. Consider using them as monitors in a small recording studio. Or, use them as a portable sound system to enjoy your music at parties or when traveling.
The smaller size of the A2+ also makes them more suitable for placement in smaller rooms and desktop environments. They are a great option for students in dorm rooms who don’t have much space but want a high quality audio experience. They can also be used as a portable solution to bring audio from your laptop or other portable device to different locations. If you want to create a simple home studio, the Audioengine A2+ powered speakers are a great solution. Connect these speakers to your computer and you can monitor recorded audio with very little setup. The easy portability and smaller size makes the Audioengine A2+ speakers a flexible audio solution that can fit into many different usage scenarios.
The **audioengine a2+ powered speakers** come in a few different colors including a sleek black finish and a classic white finish. The speakers have a built-in DAC for digital audio processing. This is an important feature if you intend to connect the speakers to a computer via USB. The DAC takes the digital audio signal from the computer and converts it into an analog audio signal that the speakers can play. Without a DAC, the speakers would not be able to play audio from a computer. This is just one of the many features that make the **audioengine a2 plus** a good choice for computer audio.
| Feature | Audioengine A2+ |
|---|---|
| Type | Powered Desktop Speakers |
| Amplifier | Class AB |
| Woofer | 2.75″ Aramid Fiber |
| Tweeter | 0.75″ Silk Dome |
| Inputs | USB, RCA, 3.5mm aux |
| Outputs | RCA (variable) |
| Finishes | Satin Black, High-Gloss White, Red |
Comparing the Audioengine A5+ and A2+: Choosing the Right Fit
Deciding between the Audioengine A5+ and A2+ requires a careful assessment of your listening needs, space constraints, and budget. While both speakers offer exceptional sound quality for their respective categories, they cater to different user profiles. The A5+ excels as a primary sound system for larger rooms, providing a more immersive and powerful listening experience. Its larger drivers and more robust amplifier deliver deeper bass, wider soundstage, and higher volume levels. If you’re looking for speakers to fill a living room, home theater, or larger office space, the A5+ is the clear choice. On the other hand, the A2+ shines as a desktop speaker or a portable audio solution. Its compact size makes it ideal for smaller spaces, such as dorm rooms, offices, or bedrooms. While it may not have the same bass response as the A5+, the A2+ still provides a detailed and balanced sound that’s perfect for nearfield listening. If you prioritize portability, versatility, and a smaller footprint, the A2+ is the better option. Furthermore, consider the connectivity options offered by each speaker. The A5+ offers a wider range of inputs, including RCA, 3.5mm aux, and RCA outputs for adding a subwoofer. The A2+ also offers RCA and 3.5mm aux inputs, as well as a USB input for connecting to a computer. Choose the speaker that best suits your connectivity needs. Finally, consider the price. The A5+ is generally more expensive than the A2+, reflecting its larger size and more powerful components. If you’re on a tight budget, the A2+ offers excellent value for the money. The **Audioengine A2 plus powered speakers** offer excellent performance in a small package, for an affordable price. If you are considering purchasing an A2+, check for deals that might bring the price down even further. Both speakers are a good value, it just depends on your use case.
Ultimately, the best speaker for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you need a powerful and versatile sound system for a larger room, the A5+ is the clear choice. If you need a compact and portable speaker for a smaller space, the A2+ is the better option. Consider the size of your room, your listening habits, and your budget when making your decision. Another consideration is the need for a subwoofer. The A5+ has a better bass response than the A2+, and might not require a subwoofer. However, the A2+ can be paired with a subwoofer to provide a fuller sound. If you like to feel the bass in your music, you might consider adding a subwoofer to either speaker system. The Audioengine website sells subwoofers that are designed to work with their speakers, but there are many other subwoofers that will work as well. Also, consider the aesthetics of your room. Both the A5+ and A2+ come in different colors and finishes, so you can choose the one that best matches your decor. Whether you choose the A5+ or the A2+, you can be sure that you’re getting a high-quality speaker that will provide years of listening pleasure. The **Audioengine A2+ powered desktop speakers** are a great option for anyone who wants to upgrade their computer audio or bring a speaker with them on the go.
Think about your primary use case when deciding between these speakers. If you are primarily using the speakers for listening to music while you work, the A2+ may be sufficient. The speakers can sit on your desk and provide excellent audio quality without taking up too much space. The A5+ may also work, but if you are in a small office, it might be overkill. On the other hand, if you are planning to use the speakers for a home theater system, the A5+ will provide a much better experience. The larger drivers and more powerful amplifier will fill the room with sound, creating a more immersive experience. In either case, both speaker systems will provide excellent audio quality and are a good investment. To better understand how each speaker system might fit into your life, it is best to first understand the strengths of each system.
Delving Deeper: Sound Quality and Technical Specifications
Beyond the general descriptions, understanding the technical specifications and sonic characteristics of both the Audioengine A5+ and A2+ can further refine your decision-making process. The A5+, with its larger 5″ Kevlar woofers and 0.75″ silk dome tweeters, offers a broader frequency response, reaching deeper into the bass frequencies. This translates to a more impactful and immersive low-end, making it ideal for genres like electronic music, hip-hop, and rock. The silk dome tweeters, known for their smooth and detailed high-frequency reproduction, ensure that vocals and instruments sound natural and clear. The Class AB amplifier in the A5+ provides ample power to drive the speakers without distortion, even at higher volumes. This makes the A5+ suitable for larger rooms where higher sound pressure levels are required. The total power output of the A5+ is 150W peak power total (50W RMS / 75W peak per channel). That is an impressive amount of power for a bookshelf speaker. The A5+ powered speakers are designed to be powerful and versatile. The A5+ also has a signal-to-noise ratio of >95dB (A-weighted), which means that the speakers produce very little noise, even at high volumes. This ensures that you hear only the music, not the noise of the speakers. Finally, the A5+ has a frequency response of 50Hz-22kHz ±1.5dB, which means that the speakers can reproduce a wide range of frequencies, from the deep bass of a subwoofer to the high-pitched notes of a flute.
The Audioengine A2+, while smaller, boasts impressive technical specifications for its size. Its 2.75″ Aramid fiber woofers and 0.75″ silk dome tweeters deliver a balanced and detailed sound, with surprising depth for their compact dimensions. Aramid fiber, known for its stiffness and lightweight properties, allows the woofers to reproduce accurate and controlled bass frequencies. The silk dome tweeters ensure smooth and clear high-frequency reproduction, similar to the A5+. The Class AB amplifier in the A2+ provides sufficient power for nearfield listening situations, delivering a clear and detailed sound without distortion. The total power output of the A2+ is 60W peak power total (15W RMS / 30W peak per channel). The smaller power output of the A2+ is suitable for desktop usage and other smaller spaces. Additionally, the A2+ has a signal-to-noise ratio of >95dB (A-weighted), which is comparable to the A5+. This ensures that the speakers produce very little noise, even at high volumes. The A2+ has a frequency response of 65Hz-22kHz ±2.0dB, which is slightly narrower than the A5+. This means that the A2+ may not reproduce the deepest bass frequencies as accurately as the A5+. The **Audioengine A2+ speakers powered** by a class AB amplifier deliver smooth sound in a compact package.
Consider also the impact of speaker placement on the overall sound quality. Bookshelf speakers, like the A5+ and A2+, generally perform best when placed on stands or shelves, away from walls and corners. This helps to minimize unwanted reflections and resonances that can muddy the sound. Experimenting with different speaker placements can significantly improve the sound quality. The smaller size of the A2+ makes them more flexible in terms of placement, as they can be easily positioned on a desktop or bookshelf without taking up too much space. The larger size of the A5+ may require more careful consideration of placement, as they need to be positioned in a way that allows them to project sound effectively without being obstructed. In either case, taking the time to experiment with speaker placement can significantly improve the listening experience. Don’t be afraid to move the speakers around and try different positions until you find the sweet spot where the sound is clear, balanced, and immersive. With these considerations in mind, you can choose the speaker that best suits your listening needs and space constraints.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between powered and passive speakers?
Powered speakers, like the Audioengine A5+ and A2+, have a built-in amplifier, eliminating the need for an external amplifier. This makes them more convenient and easier to set up, as you only need to connect them to an audio source. Passive speakers, on the other hand, require an external amplifier to power them. The amplifier provides the electrical current needed to drive the speaker drivers and produce sound. Passive speakers offer more flexibility in terms of amplifier selection, allowing you to choose an amplifier that matches your specific needs and preferences. However, they also require more setup and configuration, as you need to connect the speakers to the amplifier using speaker cables. Powered speakers are generally more suitable for casual listeners who want a simple and convenient setup, while passive speakers are more suitable for audiophiles who want more control over their audio system. The decision between powered and passive speakers ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Can I connect a turntable to the Audioengine A2+?
Yes, you can connect a turntable to the Audioengine A2+, but you’ll likely need a phono preamp. Turntables output a very low-level signal that needs to be amplified before it can be played through speakers. A phono preamp boosts this signal to a level that’s compatible with the A2+’s inputs. Many modern turntables have a built-in phono preamp, in which case you can connect the turntable directly to the A2+’s RCA inputs. However, if your turntable doesn’t have a built-in preamp, you’ll need to purchase an external one. There are many phono preamps available on the market, ranging in price from budget-friendly to high-end. Choose a preamp that matches the quality of your turntable and speakers for the best sound quality. Once you have a phono preamp, simply connect the turntable to the preamp, and then connect the preamp to the A2+’s RCA inputs.
What kind of phono preamp should I get?
The type of phono preamp you should get depends on your budget and the type of cartridge your turntable uses. Moving Magnet (MM) cartridges are the most common type, and require a standard MM phono preamp. Moving Coil (MC) cartridges output a lower signal than MM cartridges, and require a more sensitive MC phono preamp. There are also phono preamps that support both MM and MC cartridges. If you are unsure which type of cartridge your turntable uses, consult the turntable’s manual. For a budget-friendly option, consider a preamp from brands such as Art DJ Pre II or Behringer Microphono PP400. For a mid-range option, consider a preamp from brands such as Pro-Ject Phono Box MM or Cambridge Audio Alva Duo. For a high-end option, consider a preamp from brands such as Sutherland Engineering or Lehmann Audio.
Are the Audioengine A5+ and A2+ good for gaming?
Both the Audioengine A5+ and A2+ can be good choices for gaming, depending on your specific needs and preferences. The A5+ offers a more immersive and powerful gaming experience, thanks to its larger drivers and more robust amplifier. The deeper bass and wider soundstage can enhance the realism of game sound effects, making you feel more like you’re in the game. The A2+ is a good choice for desktop gaming, as its compact size makes it easy to position on a desk without taking up too much space. The clear and detailed sound of the A2+ can help you hear subtle sound cues, such as footsteps or enemy movements, giving you a competitive advantage. For the best gaming experience, consider pairing either speaker system with a dedicated gaming headset for voice chat and more precise sound positioning. A good gaming headset can provide a more immersive and competitive gaming experience.
Do I need a separate DAC with these speakers?
It depends on how you plan to use the speakers and the quality of your audio source. Both the Audioengine A5+ and A2+ have built-in DACs (Digital-to-Analog Converters), which means they can convert digital audio signals into analog signals that the speakers can play. If you’re connecting the speakers to a computer via USB, the built-in DAC will handle the conversion. However, if you’re using a lower-quality audio source, such as a smartphone or a basic sound card, a separate DAC can improve the sound quality. A dedicated DAC can provide a cleaner and more accurate conversion of the digital audio signal, resulting in a more detailed and dynamic sound. If you’re a serious audiophile or you’re using a high-end audio source, a separate DAC can be a worthwhile investment. However, for most users, the built-in DACs in the A5+ and A2+ will be sufficient. This is one area where the **audioengine a2+ speakers** really shine. The built in DAC is generally sufficient for most users.
What kind of cables do I need to connect these speakers?
The cables you need will depend on the audio source you’re connecting to the speakers. For both the Audioengine A5+ and A2+, you’ll need a power cable to plug the speakers into an electrical outlet. If you’re connecting to a computer via USB, you’ll need a USB cable. If you’re connecting to a device with RCA outputs, such as a CD player or turntable (with a phono preamp), you’ll need RCA cables. If you’re connecting to a device with a 3.5mm headphone jack, such as a smartphone or tablet, you’ll need a 3.5mm to RCA cable or a 3.5mm to 3.5mm cable. Audioengine typically includes basic cables with their speakers, but you may want to upgrade to higher-quality cables for better sound. High-quality cables can provide better signal transfer and reduce noise, resulting in a cleaner and more detailed sound. However, for most users, the included cables will be sufficient. It is more important to focus on speaker placement and room acoustics to optimize the sound quality of your speakers.
Are these speakers Bluetooth enabled?
No, neither the standard Audioengine A5+ nor the standard Audioengine A2+ come with built-in Bluetooth connectivity. If you want to stream audio wirelessly from your smartphone, tablet, or computer, you’ll need to add a separate Bluetooth receiver. Audioengine sells a Bluetooth receiver called the B1, which can be connected to the RCA inputs of the A5+ or A2+. There are also many other Bluetooth receivers available on the market from other manufacturers. Simply connect the Bluetooth receiver to the speakers, pair it with your device, and you’re ready to stream audio wirelessly. While the lack of built-in Bluetooth may be a drawback for some users, it allows Audioengine to focus on delivering the best possible sound quality through wired connections. Wired connections generally provide a more stable and higher-quality audio signal than wireless Bluetooth connections. However, if wireless convenience is a priority for you, adding a Bluetooth receiver is a simple and affordable solution.
Can I use these speakers with a TV?
Yes, you can use both the Audioengine A5+ and A2+ with a TV, but you’ll need to consider the TV’s audio outputs and the speaker’s inputs. Most TVs have RCA outputs, a 3.5mm headphone jack, or an optical digital output. If your TV has RCA outputs, you can connect the speakers directly to the TV using RCA cables. If your TV has a 3.5mm headphone jack, you can connect the speakers using a 3.5mm to RCA cable. If your TV has an optical digital output, you’ll need a DAC with an optical input to convert the digital signal to an analog signal that the speakers can play. Some TVs also have HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel), which allows you to send audio from the TV to the speakers via the HDMI cable. However, you’ll need to make sure your speakers and TV both support HDMI ARC. When using speakers with a TV, consider the speaker placement. For the best sound quality, position the speakers on either side of the TV, at ear level when you’re sitting down. This will create a more immersive and balanced sound experience. The Audioengine A5+ and A2+ speakers are a great way to upgrade the audio quality of your TV.
Price: $399.00
(as of Sep 06, 2025 04:24:51 UTC – Details)
