Audioengine finally did it. And we’re already excited to listen to a review pair to see if they improved one of our favorite pairs of desktop loudspeakers that remain extremely affordable. First introduced in 2007, the A2 have now evolved into the Audioengine A2+ Next Gen Home Music System with the addition of Bluetooth 5.3, 24-bit audio, and USB-C connectivity.
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The Back Story
When Audioengine first introduced the A2 Powered Speaker System, it was designed to be a compact desktop audio solution, measuring slightly taller than a modern iPhone, yet delivering powerful sound that belied its compact size.
In 2007, there were very few, if any dedicated desktop speaker systems. Typically, compact speakers needed to be connected to a larger audio system that took up more space.
The goal of Audioengine was to design a desktop audio speaker solution that would provide more than what was expected. As a result of their efforts, the A2 and A2+ have enjoyed the success that inspired Audioengine to provide additional high-performance compact speaker systems such as the A5+, HD3, HD4, HD5, HD6, A1-MR, and more.
With 18 years under its belt, the A2 (now known as the A2+) is a proven product. With over 300,000 having been sold and 10,000 reviews, the A2+ is not going away anytime soon, but Audioengine did determine that for 2025, an update was needed.
What’s New
The next generation A2+ Home Music System now includes 24-bit audio and Bluetooth 5.3 with aptX HD, providing a definite audio quality boost. Also, the addition of USB-C connectivity makes it easier to connect to modern devices, providing more use flexibility.
From Nate Rodriguez, CEO of Audioengine: “Our goal is to continuously push the boundaries of audio quality and convenience for our customers. The next generation A2+ Home Music System with 24-bit audio and USB-C connectivity is a testament to our commitment to delivering superior sound and modern functionality.”
Core Features
System Configuration: The A2+ consists of a speaker pair. The primary speaker (left speaker) incorporates the wireless and wired source connectivity, as well as the amplifiers needed for both speakers. The secondary speaker (right speaker) is passive, connecting to the primary speaker via standard speaker connections.
Enhanced Audio Quality: With 24-bit audio, audio is captured with more precision resulting in a more natural listening experience after it goes through the A2+’s built-in DAC.
Connectivity: The A2+ Home Music System features both digital (including USB-C) and analog inputs. To connect a turntable, you may need to place an external phono preamp between the turntable and analog audio input of the A2+.
Built-in USB DAC: The built-in digital-to-analog converter enhances your digital music, while the analog amplifiers ensure you get the most out of your analog formats, like vinyl records.
Bluetooth with aptX HD: This elevates Bluetooth access to be able to stream hi-resolution audio (when available) from up to 100 feet away without sacrificing audio quality.
Compact but Powerful: Despite its small size, the A2+ delivers more powerful sound than one would expect from its compact size. This makes it suitable not only for use as a desktop audio system but also as a great audio system for any room in the house.
Handcrafted Design: The A2+ incorporates real wood, and hand-painted cabinets which are painted using the same 13-step process as a baby grand piano.
Specifications
| Price | $279 |
| Product Type | Powered Wireless Speaker System |
| System Configuration | 1 x Primary Speaker, 1 x Secondary Speaker |
| Amplifier Type | Dual Class A/B |
| Power Output | 60W peak power total (15W RMS / 30W peak per channel) |
| Woofer (each speaker) tweeters | 1 x 2.75″ aramid fiber |
| Tweeter (each speaker) | 1 x 0.75″ silk dome |
| Bass Reflex | 1 x front-mounted slot vent |
| Bluetooth | Ver 5.3 with aptX HD |
| Inputs | 3.5mm stereo mini-jack, RCA L/R, USB-C |
| Built-in USB DAC | 24-bit/96 kHz |
| Outputs | RCA variable line-out |
| Input Voltages | 115/240 V, 50/60 Hz |
| SNR | >95 dB |
| THD+N | <0.05% |
| Crosstalk | <50 dB |
| Frequency Response | 65 Hz-22 kHz ±2.0 dB |
| Enclosure Material | Hand-crafted and hand-painted cabinets using a 13-step process |
| Finishes | Satin Black / Matte Blue / Hi-Gloss White / Hi-Gloss Red / Color of the Year: 2024 Limited Edition Matte Blue 2025 Color of The Year: To Be Announced |
| Dimensions (HWD) | 6 x 4 x 5.25 inches |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Included Accessories | Pre-Stripped Speaker wire USB-C cable Power supply 3.5mm mini-jack audio cable Quick start guide Protective microfiber bags for speakers and cables |
The Bottom Line
From its modest beginnings, the wireless-powered speaker category has become an increasingly popular option for a variety of audio setups, including computer workstations, gaming, as a soundbar replacement, or as a compact music system that doesn’t overwhelm a room.
Audioengine has become a go-to brand in this category by offering consistent products that perform beyond expectations, and upgrades provided in the A2+ continue that trend at an extremely affordable price point below $300.
There are some notable omissions from the A2+ that would make it the category leader below $300 — the inclusion of HDMI-ARC and a dedicated phono preamplifier. The upgrade to Bluetooth 5.3 and support for aptX HD is a big step forward and the inclusion of USB Type-C means that listeners can connect their iPhones or Android smartphones directly.
Price & Availability
Audioengine A2+ Next Gen Home Music System is available for $279 or less directly from Audioengine or Amazon.
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