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Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Silent PC Review’s “AudioEngine A2: Little Big Speakers,” published May 29–30, 2008, reviewed the original Audioengine A2—not today’s A2+. It found a tiny, self-amplified pair that sounded unusually full and coherent for its size, especially at a desktop or moderate listening level. The trade-off was physical: limited deep bass and headroom. The original A2 is now a historical model; Audioengine’s current version of the concept is the A2+ Next Gen.
What the original Audioengine A2 was
Written by Mike Chin, the Silent PC Review article covered a pair of compact powered speakers intended chiefly for computer and digital-music listening. The left speaker housed the stereo amplifier; the right was passive and connected with speaker cable. RCA and 3.5 mm inputs let the pair also serve an iPod, television, DAC, or other line-level source. “Little big speakers” was the review’s descriptive title, not a separate product name.
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At roughly $199 on the street in 2008, the A2 combined both speakers and amplification in a footprint of about 6 × 4 × 5.25 inches per speaker. That convenience—and the attempt to get convincing sound from such small enclosures—was central to its appeal. Read the original Silent PC Review article.
Why the A2 stood out
The A2 offered a simple alternative to a computer-speaker setup built around lightweight plastic satellites or a separate amplifier: connect a source, power the pair, and listen. Its MDF cabinets, integrated amplification, and restrained styling made it feel more like a small home stereo than a typical computer accessory of the period.
#1 Best Overall
- WHY CUSTOMERS CHOOSE A2+ – Real wood cabinets, custom-tuned components, built-in amplification, app-free setup, and a 3-year warranty provide a premium alternative to plastic computer speakers that are often replaced every few years
- MINIMAL FOOTPRINT, FLEXIBLE SETUP: Slim rectangular studio speakers fit tight workspaces yet fill rooms with balanced sound, doubling as bluetooth computer speakers and wired desktop speakers for pc in modern home offices or creative studios.
- FLEXIBLE PC GAMING AUDIO: Built as gaming speakers for pc, this compact pair also works as handy usb speakers or simple wireless computer speakers with adapters, delivering focused stereo sound that keeps your desk clean and your attention on the action.
- BLUETOOTH 5.4 Adaptive, aptX-HD & WIRED CONNECTIVITY – Stream wirelessly from phones, tablets, and computers or connect TVs, turntables with built-in preamps, gaming systems, and music streamers through USB-C, RCA, or 3.5mm AUX inputs
- READY FOR WORK AND PLAY: Each slim speaker for computer duty also supports gaming monitor speakers, giving your rig a compact gaming speaker partner that fits tight spaces, upgrades everyday audio, and makes it easy to enjoy music, calls, and relaxed games.
Chin reported that Audioengine developed the A2 after discussions with Slim Devices, maker of the Squeezebox music player, which needed a compact self-amplified speaker system. The review’s account, based on an interview with Audioengine co-founder Brady Bargenquast, says the design went through more than six iterations. That is the review’s reported development history, rather than an independently documented product timeline.
Original A2 specifications
| Specification | 2008 original A2 |
|---|---|
| Type | Powered stereo desktop pair |
| Dimensions | 6 in high × 4 in wide × 5.25 in deep per speaker |
| Amplifier output | 15 W RMS per channel |
| Cabinet | 18 mm MDF, as reported by the 2008 review |
| Woofer | 2.75-inch woven Kevlar/aramid-fiber cone |
| Tweeter | Silk dome |
| Inputs | RCA and 3.5 mm stereo mini-jack |
| Speaker connection | Binding posts and separate speaker cable |
| Power | External auto-ranging AC/DC adapter |
| Wireless audio | None |
| Street price at review | Approximately $199 in 2008 |
The review reported the supplied adapter as rated up to 17.5 volts and 1.8 amps (about 31.5 watts). That figure describes the adapter rating cited in the period review; it is not the speaker’s per-channel audio output.
How the A2 sounded in the review
Chin characterized the presentation as smooth, balanced, detailed without being overly clinical, and unusually spacious for speakers this small. He heard good integration through the crossover region and satisfying midbass weight. That weight could make music feel full, but it did not amount to genuine deep-bass extension. The review also found that the A2 could sound lively at moderate levels, then clip audibly when driven too hard.
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Portable source and open space
Using an iPod in a large open space, the reviewer heard convincing vocals and engaging jazz, pop, rock, and classical playback. The speakers reached what he considered moderately loud levels before clipping became apparent. The finding is a listening impression from that setup, not a standardized maximum-output rating.
Rank #2
- WHY CUSTOMERS CHOOSE A2+ – Real wood cabinets, custom-tuned components, built-in amplification, app-free setup, and a 3-year warranty provide a premium alternative to plastic computer speakers that are often replaced every few years
- DESIGNED FOR DESKTOP LISTENING – Compact powered speakers engineered for nearfield listening on desks, delivering detailed stereo sound for music streaming, gaming, video calls, podcasts, and movies in home offices, bedrooms, and apartments
- 24-BIT DAC & HI-RES AUDIO – Integrated digital-to-analog converter connects directly to your computer through USB-C, helping preserve the detail, clarity, and dynamics of high-resolution music, streaming services, and personal audio libraries
- BLUETOOTH 5.4 Adaptive, aptX-HD & WIRED CONNECTIVITY – Stream wirelessly from phones, tablets, and computers or connect TVs, turntables with built-in preamps, gaming systems, and music streamers through USB-C, RCA, or 3.5mm AUX inputs
- HANDCRAFTED WOOD CABINETS, CUSTOM-TUNED SOUND – Hand-finished real wood cabinets reduce unwanted resonance while custom-tuned drivers deliver clear vocals, accurate imaging, and room-filling sound that brings music, games, and movies to life
At a computer desk
Nearfield listening showed both the A2’s strengths and the influence of the setup. The speakers sounded detailed and musical, but a noisy integrated sound card became audible when the speaker gain was turned up high. A hollow or resonant desk colored the sound, and the close listening distance emphasized bass warmth. Angling the speakers inward and upward improved the presentation in the reviewer’s experience; soft isolation material also reduced some desk interaction.
With a television
In the reviewer’s setup, the A2 sounded clearer and more dynamic than the television’s built-in speakers. Bass warmth could sometimes make dialogue less distinct when speech overlapped with substantial low-frequency music.
In a large-room stereo comparison
The A2 remained credible at moderate levels, but it could not match larger speakers for deep bass, scale, or dynamic headroom. The reviewer heard strain as he raised the volume and called comparison with larger NHT speakers inherently unfair. The A2’s strongest case was compact listening, not replacing full-size room speakers.
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What the review measured—and what it did not
Alongside listening impressions, the 2008 article reported approximate AC power use and sound-pressure readings. These are measurements from that review’s equipment and method, not modern standardized laboratory results.
Rank #3
- WHY CUSTOMERS CHOOSE A2+ – Real wood cabinets, custom-tuned components, built-in amplification, app-free setup, and a 3-year warranty provide a premium alternative to plastic computer speakers that are often replaced every few years
- DESIGNED FOR DESKTOP LISTENING – Compact powered speakers engineered for nearfield listening on desks, delivering detailed stereo sound for music streaming, gaming, video calls, podcasts, and movies in home offices, bedrooms, and apartments
- 24-BIT DAC & HI-RES AUDIO – Integrated digital-to-analog converter connects directly to your computer through USB-C, helping preserve the detail, clarity, and dynamics of high-resolution music, streaming services, and personal audio libraries
- BLUETOOTH 5.4 Adaptive, aptX-HD & WIRED CONNECTIVITY – Stream wirelessly from phones, tablets, and computers or connect TVs, turntables with built-in preamps, gaming systems, and music streamers through USB-C, RCA, or 3.5mm AUX inputs
- HANDCRAFTED WOOD CABINETS, CUSTOM-TUNED SOUND – Hand-finished real wood cabinets reduce unwanted resonance while custom-tuned drivers deliver clear vocals, accurate imaging, and room-filling sound that brings music, games, and movies to life
| Use condition reported by Silent PC Review | AC power | SPL and distance |
|---|---|---|
| Off but connected | 1 W | 0 dB reported |
| On, idle | 4 W | 0 dB reported |
| Desktop listening | 4–6 W | 60–70 dB at 1 m |
| Moderately loud TV programming | 4–20 W | 60–85 dB at 2 m |
| Large-room music near overload | 15–30 W | 60–85 dB at 3 m |
The reviewer also reported a power factor of approximately 0.4. The listening descriptions are subjective observations; the table contains the reviewer’s approximate readings. Neither should be confused with current manufacturer specifications or a controlled contemporary comparison.
Strengths and limitations
| What worked well | Where the design was constrained |
|---|---|
| Very small footprint with amplification built in | Limited deep bass without a subwoofer |
| MDF cabinets and understated appearance | Less output and headroom than larger speakers |
| Coherent midrange and strong nearfield presentation | Audible clipping if pushed beyond its comfort zone |
| RCA and mini-jack analog inputs | Original model has no USB, Bluetooth, or other modern digital input |
| Simple setup with a computer or line-level source | Rear-mounted power/volume control and, according to the review, short supplied speaker cable |
| Could provide a clear stereo upgrade for a small TV setup | Desk resonance and noisy computer analog outputs could undermine results |
The A2 did not use compression circuitry to mask overload. That helped preserve an open, dynamic presentation at sensible levels, but distortion was the user’s signal to turn it down. Continuing to play through audible clipping could risk damage. This is the original model’s behavior as described in the historical review; it should not be assumed to describe the electronics or protection features of a current A2+.
How to set up an original A2
- Place the pair symmetrically. Keep left and right speakers at similar distances from your listening position on a stable surface.
- Aim the tweeters toward you. Angle the speakers inward so their axes cross slightly in front of your seat. If they sit below ear level, tilt or raise them.
- Control desk vibration. If bass sounds thick or the desk resonates, try isolation pads or stands and, where practical, move the speakers away from the wall.
- Set gain to avoid noise. If computer hiss or noise appears with the speaker volume high, lower speaker gain and raise the source level without clipping the source. A cleaner line output or external DAC may help if the computer’s analog output is noisy.
- Back off when distortion starts. The original review reports audible clipping under overload; reduce volume rather than listening through it.
- Choose the system for the bass you need. The small cabinets cannot deliver deep bass by placement alone. Consider a compatible subwoofer system or larger speakers if low-frequency extension is a priority.
These placement and gain suggestions reflect the original reviewer’s observations and general setup logic, not a manufacturer-required procedure.
Is a used original A2 worth buying?
It can make sense for a collector, someone restoring a period desktop system, or a listener who finds a working pair at a suitably low used price and wants the original design. It is not the sensible choice for someone expecting a new product, modern connectivity, or current warranty coverage. The 2008 review establishes historical listening impressions, not the availability, condition, or reliability of used units.
Rank #4
- COMPLETE DESKTOP AUDIO SOLUTION All-in-one computer speaker bundle featuring A2+ Bluetooth speakers and DS1M stands, designed for clear, balanced sound in home office and desktop setups.
- COMPACT SPEAKERS WITH PREMIUM SOUND A2+ Bluetooth computer speakers deliver crisp highs, detailed mids, and rich stereo sound in a compact design ideal for small desks and minimal setups.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY FOR PC & MORE Connect easily via Bluetooth, USB, or analog inputs for seamless use with laptops, desktop computers, phones, and other audio devices.
- IMPROVED CLARITY WITH ANGLED STANDS DS1M desktop speaker stands feature a 15° tilt to enhance speaker positioning, sound clarity, and overall listening accuracy.
- BOLD GREEN DESIGN Finished in green for a unique, modern look that stands out while complementing your desktop setup.
Before buying a used pair, check that both speakers play, the left speaker’s amplifier starts reliably, and the external power supply is included and correct. Test the volume control and input jacks for crackling or dropouts; inspect the speaker cable, cabinets, and drivers for damage. These are prudent checks, not evidence that any particular fault is common.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Original A2 versus current A2+ Next Gen
Audioengine’s current product is the A2+ Next Gen Home Music System with Bluetooth aptX-HD. Its specifications and inputs belong to a later generation and should not be projected backward onto the 2008 A2. The following current price and product details were displayed on Audioengine’s U.S. site on August 18, 2026; prices and finish availability can change.
| Feature | Original A2 | A2+ Next Gen |
|---|---|---|
| Era | Reviewed in 2008 | Current model listed in 2026 |
| Dimensions | 6 × 4 × 5.25 in per speaker | Approximately 6 × 4 × 5.25 in per speaker |
| Amplifier output | 15 W RMS per channel | 15 W RMS per channel at 4 ohms; 60 W total peak output listed |
| Computer connection | Analog inputs only | USB-C as well as analog |
| Wireless | None | Bluetooth 5.3; aptX-HD, aptX, AAC, and SBC listed |
| Subwoofer connection | Not identified in the 2008 review | Variable RCA line output |
| Price | About $199 street price in 2008 | $279–$299 displayed on Audioengine’s U.S. site on August 18, 2026 |
The A2+ Next Gen’s manufacturer-listed frequency response is 65 Hz–22 kHz ±2 dB. Audioengine says USB-C can bypass a computer’s built-in audio components by using the speakers’ internal DAC; that describes the signal path, not a guarantee of audible improvement on every computer. The company lists typical Bluetooth range up to 100 feet and latency around 120 ms; actual codec selection depends on the source device, and wireless delay may matter for games or video.
Audioengine lists a three-year warranty and a 60-day audition/return period for products purchased directly through its online store. Its product page also notes that some computers may fail to wake USB after inactivity. If USB audio stops after sleep, disconnect and reconnect the cable, reselect the A2+ as the audio output, try another USB port, restart the audio app, or power-cycle the speakers; Bluetooth or analog can serve as a fallback.
Best Value
- DESIGNED FOR DESKTOPS, GAMING & HOME OFFICES – Compact powered speakers deliver detailed stereo sound for computers, laptops, gaming systems, music streaming, video calls, podcasts, and personal listening spaces
- BLUETOOTH aptX HD & USB DAC – Stream high-resolution audio wirelessly from smartphones, tablets, and computers or connect directly through USB to bypass lower-quality computer audio circuitry for improved detail and clarity
- BUILT-IN HEADPHONE AMPLIFIER – Easily switch between room-filling speaker playback and private listening using the integrated headphone amplifier and front-panel headphone output
- CONNECTS TO COMPUTERS, TURNTABLES & MEDIA DEVICES – USB, RCA, and 3.5mm AUX inputs provide flexible connectivity for desktop computers, record players with built-in preamps, gaming consoles, TVs, and music streamers
- HANDCRAFTED WOOD CABINETS & PREMIUM COMPONENTS – Real wood cabinets, custom-tuned drivers, and a built-in amplifier deliver accurate stereo imaging and balanced sound, backed by a 3-year warranty and U.S.-based customer support
For current specifications and purchase terms, consult Audioengine’s A2+ Next Gen product page and technical specifications. Audioengine’s separate older A2+ technical page describes USB Type-B and an earlier DAC; those specifications are not the same as the Next Gen USB-C listing: older A2+ specifications.
Which current system fits better?
- A2+ Next Gen: The closest current match for someone who wants the compact powered-speaker idea with USB-C, Bluetooth, analog inputs, and a subwoofer output. Audioengine’s U.S. page displayed prices from $279 to $299 on August 18, 2026.
- A2+ with a powered subwoofer: Consider this route if compact stereo is important but music, films, or games need deeper bass. The A2+ provides variable RCA output; Audioengine lists its S6 powered subwoofer separately. A subwoofer adds low-frequency output but does not by itself cure desk resonance.
- HD3 Next Gen: Audioengine lists the HD3 at approximately $359. It is a more feature-rich compact option for buyers willing to pay more; current pricing and features are listed on the company’s speaker lineup.
- A5+: Audioengine lists A5+ Bluetooth models at approximately $499–$569 depending on finish or configuration. The larger system is the more relevant direction when room size and output matter more than the A2’s minimal footprint; see the current speaker listings.
- Another kind of setup: If upgradeability matters more than simplicity, passive bookshelf speakers and a separate amplifier are worth considering. For private listening, headphones or nearfield monitors may suit better. No current prices or specific third-party models are established here.
Who the original A2 suited
The A2 was most convincing for a listener close to the speakers, in a small room, at moderate levels, who valued compact size and straightforward analog connections. It could improve a desktop or small-TV setup without requiring a separate receiver.
It was a poor match for listeners who expected deep bass without a subwoofer, high-volume party playback, or full-room home-theater impact. The rear control placement and lack of digital or wireless inputs also matter if those are must-have features.
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The 2008 Audioengine A2 earned its “little big” reputation by producing unusually balanced, cohesive sound from a tiny powered pair. Its bass weight and musical presentation were real strengths, but they did not overcome the limits of small cabinets: deep bass, large-room scale, and high-volume headroom were not its purpose. Treat the original as a notable historical product or carefully checked used purchase; for the same compact concept with current connectivity, look to the A2+ Next Gen.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
