Audioengine A2-HD Review

Summary / TL;DR

The Audioengine A2-HD speakers are a strong contender in the compact HiFi speaker market, offering rich, clear sound in a small footprint. Their sleek design and solid build quality, featuring MDF wood cabinets and multiple color options, make them a stylish addition to any space. However, the non-removable speaker grills and rear-located control knobs could be minor inconveniences.

These speakers are versatile with various input options, including a 3.5mm stereo mini-jack and RCA inputs, and feature a built-in digital-to-analog converter (DAC) for enhanced audio quality. Bluetooth connectivity is reliable, though the absence of a subwoofer output and remote control might be drawbacks for some users. The built-in amplifier and power-saving mode are practical touches.

Setting up the A2-HD speakers is straightforward, with clear instructions and sufficient cables for most setups. Their compact size makes placement easy, though achieving optimal stereo imaging might require some adjustments. The speakers excel in clarity and detail, offering an expansive soundstage despite their size. Bass response is tight but may not satisfy bass enthusiasts.

The user experience is generally positive, with intuitive controls and minimal setup fuss, though the lack of a remote control and some portability issues could be drawbacks. The package includes everything needed for immediate use, though additional cable management might be necessary.

Overall, the Audioengine A2-HD speakers offer excellent value for their price, delivering high-quality sound and a durable build. They are a solid choice for those seeking compact, versatile speakers, though bass enthusiasts might need additional equipment for deeper lows.

---

If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Audioengine A5+ or Audioengine A2+.

Introduction

Looking for compact speakers that pack a punch? Let me introduce you to a serious contender in the Hifi speaker scene. These speakers are small enough to fit on your desk but strong enough to fill your room with rich, clear sound. They're perfect for those who want quality audio without a huge footprint.

These speakers have gained quite a bit of buzz, and it’s easy to see why. They offer a blend of great sound quality, sleek design, and useful features. But, as with anything, they're not without their quirks. Let’s dig in and find out if these speakers are right for you.

Best offers of the Audioengine A2-HD at Amazon.com Check price

Design and Build Quality

The first thing you'll notice about these speakers is their compact and sleek design. They’re small enough to fit on a crowded desk but stylish enough to enhance the overall look of your space. The build quality is solid, with a combination of MDF wood cabinets that provide durability and a premium feel.

The finish on these speakers is quite impressive. You can choose between several colors, like black, white, and a cool bamboo option, which means they can fit in with various types of decor. In terms of weight, they feel substantial without being overly heavy, giving you confidence that they’re not flimsy.

One minor downside is that the speaker grills are not removable. This can be a bit of a bummer if you prefer a more exposed speaker design or if you need to clean them thoroughly. However, the non-removable grills do add an extra layer of protection.

The overall design is minimalistic but functional. All the control knobs and connection ports are located at the back, maintaining the clean look at the front. This is great for aesthetics, but sometimes it can be a bit inconvenient to reach around to adjust settings.

In summary, the design and build quality of these speakers tick most of the right boxes. They’re durable, look good, and give a sense of quality craftsmanship—just a few small quirks to keep in mind.

Features and Connectivity

Let's talk about the features and connectivity of these speakers. First off, these babies are quite versatile. They come with a standard 3.5mm stereo mini-jack input, which means you can easily hook them up to your phone, tablet, or any device with a headphone jack. There's also RCA inputs for more traditional setups. So, pretty much covered on the input front, right?

What's really cool is the built-in digital-to-analog converter (DAC). This feature ensures that your digital music files sound pristine, even if they're compressed. It makes a noticeable difference to the audio quality and is a definite plus for any audiophile.

Now, let’s chat about the Bluetooth connectivity. It’s super convenient for wire-free listening, and pairing your devices is a breeze. The Bluetooth range is pretty solid too, so you don’t have to worry about dropouts if you move around your space.

One thing to note is that these speakers don't have a subwoofer output. So if you're a bass junkie, you might miss that extra thump. However, they do pretty well on their own, which we’ll get into later. Another minor drawback is the lack of a remote control. You'll need to get up and adjust the volume manually, which could be a slight inconvenience for some folks.

So, what do you get in terms of power and convenience? The speakers are powered, meaning they have a built-in amplifier. No need for a separate amp, which simplifies things a lot. They also come with a power-saving mode that kicks in when they’re not in use, which is a nice touch for the eco-conscious among us.

Overall, the connectivity options are robust, making it easy to integrate these speakers into most setups. Just be mindful of the few limitations, like the missing subwoofer output and remote control.

Setup and Installation

Setting up the Audioengine A2-HD is a breeze, even if you’re not a tech wizard. They come with clear, step-by-step instructions that guide you through the process. First things first, all you need to do is plug in the power adapter into the main speaker. You’ll then connect the left and right speakers using the included speaker wire. The connectors are color-coded, so it’s pretty hard to mess this up. If you’re wondering about the length of the wire, it's sufficient for most desks but might come up short if you're planning a more spread-out setup.

Connecting to your source is equally straightforward. These speakers have multiple input options, including RCA inputs and a 3.5mm auxiliary input. So, whether you’re hooking them up to your computer, turntable, or smartphone, it's as easy as plugging in a cable. There's no Bluetooth connectivity here, which might be a letdown if you prefer wireless flexibility. Now, let’s talk about placing the speakers. The compact size makes it easy to find a good spot on your desk or shelf. However, their small footprint means you might need to get creative if your workspace is already cluttered. If you’re using the speakers with a desktop computer, you might need to fiddle around a bit to get the perfect stereo imaging. Ideally, place them at ear level and ensure they form an equilateral triangle with your listening position. This isn’t a big deal, but it’s worth mentioning for those who want to get the best sound quality.

In terms of installation, there’s no software or drivers to worry about. Just plug them in, and you’re good to go. If you ever get stuck, the manual is pretty helpful, and there are plenty of resources online to guide you through any hiccups. All in all, the setup and installation process is designed to be user-friendly and hassle-free, making it easy for anyone to get these speakers up and running quickly.

Audio Performance

The Audioengine A2-HD speakers deliver an impressive audio experience that punches well above their size. You'd think speakers this compact wouldn't pack much of a punch, but these little guys can seriously fill a room with sound.

Clarity and detail are where these speakers truly shine. The mids and highs are crisp, making vocals and instruments sound like they're right in the room with you. Listening to acoustic tracks, you can almost feel the strum of the guitar strings.

Soundstage is quite expansive for such a small set of speakers. You get a sense of spatial separation, which means you can easily pick out where each instrument is coming from. This is especially noticeable when listening to live recordings or well-produced tracks that use stereo imaging creatively. But it's not all sunshine and rainbows. If you're a bass head, you might find the low-end response a bit lacking. The bass is tight and accurate, but it doesn't have the same oomph that you'd get from a larger system or a setup with a dedicated subwoofer. It's there, but it won't rattle your windows or shake your floor.

For most listeners, especially those using the A2-HD for desktop setups or small rooms, the audio balance is more than adequate. If you crank the volume, there's little distortion, even at higher levels. This makes them great for everything from casual listening to critical audio work. Overall, the sound quality of the Audioengine A2-HD speakers is excellent for their size, offering a rich and detailed listening experience that most competitors in this price range struggle to match.

Bass and Treble Response

Let's talk about the Bass and Treble Response. Simply put, these speakers pack a punch! The bass is tight and controlled, giving you a solid thump without any muddiness. You’ll feel the low end in a way that’s satisfying without being overwhelming. That’s a win if you enjoy genres like hip-hop or electronic music.

Now, for the treble. It's crisp and clear, bringing out the finer details in your tracks. Think of it as the sparkle on top of your favorite song. High notes are articulated well, without crossing the line into harsh territory. This is great for genres where vocals and guitars shine, like rock or pop.

But hey, nothing is perfect, right? The speakers might not deliver the super-deep bass you’d get from a dedicated subwoofer. If you're all about that bass, you might feel it's a bit lacking. On the flip side, you don’t get any piercing or shrill highs, which can be a common issue with smaller speakers.

Overall, the balance between bass and treble is impressive for their size. They offer a sound profile that’s versatile enough to handle various types of music. Whether you’re listening to smooth jazz or blasting your workout playlist, you’ll get a well-rounded audio experience.

User Experience

User Experience Using the Audioengine A2-HD speakers is, quite simply, a blast. These compact yet powerful speakers fit easily on your desk or shelf, making them ideal for small spaces. One immediate perk is how intuitive everything feels. From the straightforward volume knob on the front to the easily accessible connections on the back, everything is where you'd expect it to be.

Interacting with these speakers day-to-day is quite a treat. The sound quality doesn’t degrade, even after hours of continuous use. You can binge-watch your favorite series, dive into a marathon gaming session, or just kick back with some tunes without worrying about drop in quality. However, not everything is perfect. The lack of a remote control can be a bit of a downside, especially if you're someone who likes to adjust volume and settings from across the room. You have to get up and make adjustments manually, which can be a slight inconvenience.

Portability is another mixed bag. While the speakers are compact, they do have some weight to them. If you're constantly on the move and hoping to bring these along, it could be a bit of a hassle. But if they’re mainly going to stay put, this isn’t a big issue. The overall experience is seamless and enjoyable. These speakers offer a user-friendly interface with minimal setup fuss, making them a solid choice for anyone from casual listeners to serious audiophiles.

What's in the Box

Opening the box of the Audioengine A2-HD is like unwrapping a gift from your favorite tech wizard. Right off the bat, you’re greeted with a pair of well-packaged Hifi speakers. The speakers themselves are snugly fitted into foam inserts, ensuring they get to you in pristine condition.

The package includes:

• Two powered speakers (left and right)
• A power supply with detachable AC cord
• A 3.5mm mini-jack audio cable to connect your devices
• A speaker wire to link the two speakers
• A mini-jack to RCA adapter for additional connectivity
• Microfiber cloth speaker bags for protection
• Setup guide and product brochure

It’s nice to see that Audioengine thought of the little things, like including a microfiber cloth for keeping the speakers dust-free. The setup guide is clear and straightforward, making the installation process a breeze. However, if you’re not particularly tech-savvy, the extensive cables might feel a bit overwhelming.

While the included speaker wire is pretty standard, you might want to invest in a higher quality one if you're chasing that perfect sound. The 3.5mm mini-jack cable and the RCA adapter are nice touches, making these speakers compatible with a variety of devices right out of the box.

Overall, the “what’s in the box” experience is satisfying but could benefit from a bit more cable management. If you’re someone who likes a clean, clutter-free setup, you might find yourself wanting to buy some cable organizers.

Video by: TechBroll

Value for Money

When you're shelling out cash for a speaker, you want to make sure you're getting some serious bang for your buck, right? That's exactly where the Audioengine A2-HD shines. Priced in the mid-range segment, these speakers offer a lot of value that you’d usually find in higher-end systems.

First off, the sound quality is stellar. You get a rich, detailed audio experience that's hard to match at this price point. The clarity and precision of these speakers can really elevate your listening moments, making them sound more lifelike. Considering the compact size, the performance is truly impressive.

But let’s not overlook the build. These speakers are built like a tank. The combination of wood cabinets and the sleek design gives them a premium feel. Even the inclusion of high-fidelity components like Kevlar woofers and silk dome tweeters speaks volumes about their long-term durability.

However, they’re not perfect. If you’re an absolute bass-head, you might find the low-end a bit lacking. They do a great job for most music genres, but they won't shake your walls if that’s what you’re after. Also, no remote control might be a slight bummer for those who prefer convenience.

Then there's the connectivity options. The A2-HD comes with a variety of inputs, making it versatile for different setups. You can easily hook it up to your computer, TV, or even your turntable. This flexibility adds to the overall value, allowing you to use the speakers in multiple ways.

What's more, the package includes everything you need to get started right away. From cables to adapters, it’s all there, making the initial investment even more worthwhile. No need to spend extra on accessories.

Overall, the Audioengine A2-HD hits a sweet spot between price and performance. For folks who want top-notch audio without breaking the bank, these speakers are a solid choice. They might not satisfy extreme bass enthusiasts, but for the average listener, the value is hard to beat.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Audioengine A2-HD has a lot going for it. These small yet mighty speakers stand out for their exceptional audio quality and solid build. If you're looking for speakers that deliver clear, crisp sound without taking up much space, they won't disappoint.

Design-wise, they are sleek and modern. They fit well in any setting, whether it's your office desk or living room. The build quality feels premium, ensuring they last for a long time. On the features and connectivity front, they cover all the bases. With Bluetooth and wired options, you have the flexibility to connect them to various devices with ease. The setup is straightforward, making them almost plug-and-play. When it comes to audio performance, these speakers shine. The sound is well-balanced, providing a rich listening experience. However, they aren't perfect. If you're a bass enthusiast, you might find the lower end a bit lacking. They don't offer the deep thump that some larger systems provide.

Setup and installation are a breeze, even for those who aren't tech-savvy. The user experience is smooth, thanks to intuitive controls and easy pairing options. So, are they worth your money? If you’re after compact, high-quality speakers with great sound, then yes. For their price point, they offer excellent value.

However, if you crave intensive bass, you might need to look elsewhere or consider adding a subwoofer. In the end, these speakers are a solid choice for anyone seeking a balance between size, sound quality, and price. They deliver more than expected from such a compact package, making them a worthy addition to your audio setup.

---

Pros & cons

---

Technical specifications