AudioEngine A5+ Speakers Review

Summary

• Product Name: A5+ Powered Speakers
• Manufacturer: Audioengine
• Review Date: January 02, 2012
• MSRP: $399
• First Impression: Pretty Cool
• Type: 2.0 powered (active) bookshelf-style speaker system
• Power Output: 150W peak total (50W RMS / 75W peak per channel), AES
• Inputs: 3.5mm (1/8-inch) stereo mini-jack, RCA L/R
• Outputs: RCA L/R audio (full-range, adjustable), USB Type A (power/charging)
• Voltages: 115/240V, 50/60Hz (manually switchable)
• Amplifier Type: Dual Class AB monolithic
• Drivers: 5-inch Kevlar woofers, 20mm silk dome neodymium tweeters
• Signal-to-noise: >95dB (typical A-weighted)
• THD: <0.05% at all power settings
• Crosstalk: <50dB
• Frequency response: 50Hz-22kHz +/-1.5dB
• Input impedance: 10K ohms unbalanced
• Protection: Output current limiting, thermal over-temperature, power on/off transient protection, replaceable external main fuse
• Dimensions (each speaker HWD): 10.75 inches (27cm) x 7 inches (18cm) x 7.75 inches (20cm)
• Weight (Left speaker): 15.4 lbs (7 kg)
• Weight (Right speaker): 9.6 lbs (4.4 kg)
• Finish options: Satin Black, Hi-Gloss White, Solid Carbonized Bamboo
• Power consumption: 10W (idle), 6W (mute), 4W (sleep)
• Cabinet construction: 25mm thick MDF
• Power supply: Toroidal transformer
• Included accessories: Remote control, 12ft 16AWG speaker wire, detachable power cord, 2m 3.5mm mini-jack audio cable, 2m RCA to RCA audio cable

[Image: A pair of AudioEngine A5+ powered bookshelf speakers are shown, highlighting their compact and stylish design.]

Detailed Review

The AudioEngine A5 speaker was first reviewed in 2006, receiving praise for its superb build quality, finish, and high-end sound quality. This sentiment remains true for the updated A5+ model.

The A5+ speakers offer several improvements. While retaining the core appeal of the original A5, they are priced $50 lower than their predecessors. The A5+ is positioned for multimedia and active monitor use. A key change is the relocation of the USB charger from the top to the rear panel. The auxiliary power outlet, useful for devices like the Apple Airport adapter, has been removed. In its place, the A5+ now features RCA inputs, and the RCA outputs are variable, allowing for subwoofer connection and extending low-end response below 50Hz. This enhanced low-end capability is particularly beneficial for multimedia applications, and further improved by pairing with an AudioEngine S8 subwoofer or similar model.

Build quality is exceptional, featuring approximately 1/2-inch MDF for the enclosure and additional material on the front baffles. The speaker drivers include a 5-inch Kevlar woofer and a silk-dome tweeter. The passive crossover is noted as being more advanced than typically found in speakers at this price point, contributing to the detailed sound. The 50W per channel amplifier is integrated into a plate amp on the left speaker, powered by a substantial toroidal transformer. AudioEngine states the cabinets are hand-finished and are available in Satin Black, Hi-Gloss White, or a Premium Bamboo finish, which incurs a $70 upcharge.

A remote control is included for volume adjustment and muting. The Mute and Sleep buttons function to reduce audio volume to zero. The Sleep button also places the unit into standby mode. Pressing any button or adjusting the volume will wake the speakers from Mute or Sleep modes.

[Image: The rear panel of an AudioEngine A5+ speaker is depicted, showing various connection ports including RCA inputs and outputs, and a USB Type A port.]

Listening tests were conducted at high volumes. Music genres tested included Queensryche's 'Empire - 20th Anniversary Edition', and various tracks from artists like Switchfoot, R.E.M., Yes, Boston, and Pink Floyd, streamed via Spotify Premium and Apple iTunes. The speakers demonstrated solid stereo imaging and handled high volumes without bottoming out, though some minor midrange compression was noted at extreme levels.

The AudioEngine A5+ speakers performed exceptionally well across diverse music genres, outperforming most multimedia speakers reviewed in recent years. The dynamics and spatial imaging were particularly impressive, exemplified by Yes's song "Leave It." The speakers provided an engaging listening experience for extended periods.

Priced at $399 per pair, the A5+ speakers are an investment. However, for those prioritizing sound quality, they compete strongly with similarly priced powered monitors. The primary area where competitors might offer more is in artificial bass enhancement; AudioEngine's approach is more natural, suggesting that users seeking deeper bass should consider adding a subwoofer. This approach is seen as a benefit, as it avoids compromising the cabinet design for unnaturally low frequencies.

Conclusion

The AudioEngine A5+ speakers are easy to set up and use, offering an enjoyable listening experience. While the price point may be a consideration for some, their sound quality makes them a compelling option for workstations or desks. Users are likely to be impressed with the audio performance.