> Audioengine A2+

$269 From audioengineusa.com

The A2+ system, available in black, red or white, uses one powered speaker that feeds a second, passive cabinet. Remarkably compact, they fire their 60W of peak power (15W RMS) through 2.75 inch woofers and 0.75 inch silk dome tweeters. The I/O is found on the back of the powered speaker and features a 3.5mm jack input as well as stereo RCA in and out. You get micro–USB to computer as well, though this is limited to 16–bit, 48kHz.

A Pair button on the back connects Bluetooth devices and this is Buetooth 5.0 with aptX, AAC, and SBC codecs.

Also on the back is a volume/ power dial. Its location is slightly inconvenient, though this design 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 even a smaller desk space.

Punchy sound

Decent I/O

Very compact

Boxy at full volume