Audioengine A2+

£239 FROM Audioengine, audioengineusa.com

The A2+ system uses one powered speaker that feeds a second, passive cabinet. Remarkably compact, they fire 60W of peak power (15W RMS) through 2.75-inch woofers and 0.75-inch silk dome tweeters. The input/ output (I/O) options are on the back of the powered speaker and feature a 3.5mm jack input as well as stereo RCA (phono) input and output. You get micro-USB to computer too, though this is limited to 16-bit, 48kHz.

At the back a Pair button connects Bluetooth devices and this is Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX, AAC, and SBC codecs.

Also on the back is a volume/ power dial. Its location is slightly inconvenient, although it makes the front look neater. They produce a solid, punchy sound thanks in part to the small front port. There is a little boxiness at higher volumes but staying at normal levels provides a well-balanced soundstage. Their compact size also makes them suitable for a smaller desk space.

VERDICT

Punchy sound Decent I/O Very compact Boxy at full volume