Digital Home Thoughts: The Sweet Sound of Audioengine A5 Speakers

Product Category: Speakers
Manufacturer: Audioengine
Where to Buy: Audioengine
Price: $349 USD
System Requirements: Will accept audio via any 3.5mm input source, will charge compatible devices via USB port (and almost any device is compatible).
Specifications: 2.0 bookshelf-style, powered speaker system. 45W RMS/ 70W peak per channel (AES). 2 X 1/8" (3.5mm) stereo mini-jack inputs, USB Type A (power charging only). Each speaker is 10.0”(H) x 7.0” (W) x 7.75” (D). 6.4Kg/14lbs (left), 4Kg/9lbs (right) in weight. Amplifier type is Dual Class AB monolithic. Signal-to-noise >95dB (typical A-weighted). Frequency response: 50Hz-22kHz +/-1.5dB. 1" thick MDF cabinet, 5" Kevlar woofers with advanced voice coils, Torroidal power transformers.

Pros

• Crisp, clear, powerful sound;
  
• Decent bass response despite a lack of subwoofer;
  
• Dual audio inputs and USB device charging.

Cons

• The lack of a sub-woofer will be missed if you're a bass head;
• Weight and size pushes the limit of what would be considered a "bookshelf" speaker.

Summary
Audioengine might not be a company you've heard of, but they're one of the best-kept secrets in audio: the A5 is their first, and flagship, product and it sets the quality bar for the company. These speakers, while expensive compared to mainstream computer speakers, are truly exceptional in audio quality.

Read on for the full review!