Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (2nd Gen)
What’s the story?
B&O can boast a world first with the new A1: this was the first Bluetooth-only speaker to get Alexa voice control built in, hitchhiking on your phone to link to Amazon’s servers.
Redesigned audio drivers and Bluetooth 5.1 deliver enhanced 360° sound with a 92db max loudness when streaming, and if you’re feeling flush you can buy two and pair them for stereo. Sound can be personalised using the B&O app.
Design-wise the second-gen A1 doesn’t look any different to its predecessor; but seeing as there was nothing wrong with the pearl-blasted aluminium chassis before, we’ve no qualms about that. Only now there’s a higher IP67 waterproof rating, which extends to the carry string, and a soft polymer base.
Since launch the A1 has had a number of seasonal finishes added to the line-up, and for an extra £120 you can get a Berluti special edition. Reet fancy.
Is it any good?
The A1 serves up a performance as refined as its design, with toe-tapping punch and confident but not overpowering bass.
The weight that’s served up is impressive from such a petite unit, but it remains controlled, giving you rumble where you want it without weighing down the rest of the presentation.
In fact, clarity is the defining feature in this speaker, with vocals and instruments through the midrange sounding crisp, detailed and expressive. Treble is well handled too, creating an overall sound that blends with absolute cohesion.
Volume can be pushed pretty loud without affecting the airy soundstage, though 360° sound is better-realised in the Explore model on p58.
If your outdoor speaker needs are more garden picnic than trail hike, this is a premium speaker with a sound to match. It sits unashamedly at the top of this group’s budget, but it’s worth the extra cash if you have it.
Price £200 / stuff.tv/banga1
Key specs ● 60W, 3.5in tweeter, 3.5in woofer ● Bluetooth 5.1, USB-C ● Up to 18hrs ● IP67
● 133x133x 46mm, 558g