Audioengine A5+ Powered Bookshelf Speakers review Premium Sound for Music, Gaming, and Home Theater

Description

Unpacking the Experience with Audioengine A5+ Powered Bookshelf Speakers

The Audioengine A5+ Powered Bookshelf Speakers have been a game-changer in my home audio setup. After hearing a lot of buzz about these premium 150W stereo speakers, I decided to put them to the test. These speakers claim to deliver crystal clear audio while boasting a sleek design, and I was curious to see how well they lived up to the hype. Spoiler alert: they’re impressive, but not without their quirks.

Design and Build Quality: Aesthetic Meets Durability

The design of these speakers immediately stands out. With a high-gloss finish in a 13-step paint process or the option for a natural bamboo exterior, they exude a premium feel. The wooden cabinets are sturdy and well-built, giving me confidence they’ll last for years. They aren’t just pretty; the build quality feels like it’s meant to withstand regular use without compromising audio fidelity.

Another detail that caught my attention was the inclusion of microfiber bags for both the speakers and the cables. It’s a small touch, but it’s one of those things that makes the product feel thoughtfully crafted. The 5-inch woofers paired with 0.75-inch silk tweeters are seamlessly integrated, and the speakers’ overall dimensions are perfect for a bookshelf, desk, or even as part of a home theater system. However, at 15.4 pounds each, these aren’t exactly lightweight, so portability isn’t their strong suit.

Performance: Audio That Packs a Punch

I hooked these speakers up in my living room, and the first thing I noticed was the room-filling sound. With 150 watts of pure, clean audio, these speakers are no joke. Whether I was streaming music, watching a movie, or playing video games, the clarity and depth were remarkable. The class AB amp delivers a rich soundscape, and the custom-tuned audioengine signature sound lives up to its promise. Bass response is punchy without being overwhelming, mids are warm, and the highs are crisp.

What I appreciated most was how versatile they are. Whether I was connecting them to my TV, turntable, or laptop, they performed consistently. The plug-and-play nature with RCA and 3.5mm AUX inputs kept things simple, so I didn’t have to deal with complicated setups or software.

Positives

Here are some key benefits I noticed while using the speakers:

• Impressive sound quality with balanced audio across all frequencies.
• Multiple connectivity options (RCA and AUX inputs) to suit different devices.
• High-quality construction with a premium finish that complements any room décor.
• Room-filling sound that’s perfect for music, gaming, or movies.
• Thoughtful extras like microfiber bags and a remote control for convenience.

Customization Features and Remote Control

One of the underrated features is the inclusion of a remote control. It’s simple yet functional, letting me adjust volume and switch inputs without leaving my seat. While the remote lacks some advanced controls, it does the job for basic adjustments. Additionally, the speaker wire, AC power cord, and RCA cables included in the package are of decent quality, so I didn’t feel the need to upgrade them immediately.

That said, I did take the time to play around with the placement of the speakers. Their performance is highly sensitive to positioning, so spending some time experimenting with angles and distances can significantly enhance the soundstage. The hand-built cabinets also do a great job of minimizing vibrations, which is crucial for maintaining audio clarity.

Negatives

While the speakers excel in many areas, there are a few areas for improvement:

• Lack of wireless connectivity (no Bluetooth or Wi-Fi), which feels limiting in today’s wireless world.
• The weight and size might not be ideal for smaller setups or those looking for portability.
• The remote control, while handy, feels a bit cheap compared to the rest of the product.

Market Rivals

When comparing the Audioengine A5+ to competing brands, a few things stand out. For instance, the KEF LSX wireless speakers offer a similar premium sound experience but include Bluetooth and Wi-Fi functionality for seamless streaming. On the other hand, the Edifier R2000DB powered speakers are a more affordable alternative, with slightly less audio clarity but the added benefit of Bluetooth.

What sets the Audioengine A5+ apart is its focus on high-fidelity sound and the craftsmanship behind the design. While competitors might offer more features, such as wireless connectivity, they often compromise on build quality or audio performance. If you prioritize sound accuracy and a premium aesthetic, these speakers are tough to beat.

Bang for the Buck

The price-to-quality ratio of these speakers is solid. While they aren’t the cheapest option out there, the audio performance and build quality justify the investment. If you’re someone who values clean, room-filling sound and doesn’t mind sticking to wired connections, I’d say these are worth every penny. They feel like a long-term investment, especially given the durability of the materials used.

Final Thoughts on Who It’s For

These speakers are ideal for audiophiles, gamers, and anyone who loves immersive audio experiences. They’re versatile enough to work in a variety of setups, whether you need them for a home office or a living room entertainment center. While they aren’t perfect and lack some modern features like Bluetooth, their audio quality and build make them a standout choice for those who prioritize sound over convenience.