Bang and Olufsen is known for delivering premium audio products with impeccable design and advanced technology. The Beosound A1 (2nd Generation) stands as a prime example of the company’s dedication to excellence and innovation. This portable speaker combines high-quality audio, sleek design, portability, and durability to provide an exceptional listening experience. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting an outdoor gathering, or traveling, the Beosound A1 promises to enhance your audio experience with its rich sound and advanced features.
In this detailed review, we will explore the Beosound A1’s features, performance, design, pricing, and more, offering you a comprehensive understanding of what this wireless, waterproof Bluetooth speaker has to offer.
Quick Specs of Beosound A1 (2nd Generation)
- Size: 5.3 x 1.8 inches (13.5 x 4.5 cm)
- Weight: 1.0 lb (0.45 kg)
- Battery Life: Up to 18 hours
- Bluetooth Version: Bluetooth 5.1
- Waterproof Rating: IP67 (dustproof and waterproof)
- Charging: USB-C
- Voice Assistant: Alexa
- Colors Available: Black Anthracite, Grey Mist, Gold Tone, Anthracite Oxygen, Pink, Green
- Price: $299
Portable Bluetooth Speaker Release Date
The Beosound A1 (2nd Generation) was released in 2020 as a successor to the original Beosound A1. As expected from a second-generation model, this version improves sound performance, durability, and connectivity. The design was also slightly tweaked to keep up with the latest trends and enhance user experience. Since its release, the Beosound A1 has received rave reviews from audiophiles, casual listeners, and design enthusiasts alike.
Unboxing of the Beosound A1 (2nd Generation)
When you first unbox the Beosound A1 (2nd Gen), you’re immediately impressed with its quality packaging. The speaker comes in a compact box that highlights Bang & Olufsen’s dedication to luxury and craftsmanship. Inside the box, you’ll find:
- Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) Speaker
- Quick Start Guide
- USB-C to USB-A cable (1.25 m)
The unboxing experience is simple and sleek, reflecting the premium nature of the speaker. Setting up the speaker is effortless—charge it, connect it to your device via Bluetooth, and you’ll enjoy superior sound.
Design, Display, and Controls
The Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) is a beautifully designed speaker that combines modern aesthetics with practical functionality. With its rounded shape, brushed aluminum grill, and high-quality leather strap, this speaker has a minimalist yet luxurious feel. Bang & Olufsen is known for its sophisticated design language, and the Beosound A1 exemplifies this commitment. The combination of aluminum and water-repellent leather ensures durability while keeping the speaker looking elegant and stylish.
Controls
There are buttons for controlling volume, playing/pausing music, and skipping tracks, as well as a voice assistant button to activate Alexa. The button layout is straightforward, and the touch-sensitive controls ensure ease of use. The controls of the Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) are located on the top of the speaker for easy access. The control buttons are subtly integrated into the speaker’s design, maintaining a sleek and clean look.
Differences Between Sizes and Variants
Unlike some portable Bluetooth speakers that come in various sizes and models, the Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) is available in only one size. However, the speaker doesn’t lack versatility, as it provides enough power and audio quality to meet the needs of most users. The compact size makes it perfect for carrying around, whether you’re traveling, at the beach, or hiking.
The speaker comes in a variety of six colors:
- Black Anthracite: A classic, understated option that blends seamlessly into any environment.
- Grey Mist: A soft, neutral color that suits modern interiors.
- Gold Tone: Adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the design.
- Anthracite Oxygen: A fresh twist on the traditional anthracite color, giving it a unique look.
- Pink: A vibrant and playful option for those who want to stand out.
- Green: A nature-inspired color that brings a sense of tranquility.
These color choices allow users to pick a style that fits their personality and preferences.
Features of the Beosound A1 (2nd Generation)
The Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) loads features designed to deliver a premium audio experience. Despite its compact size, the speaker packs performance-enhancing technology, making it one of the most impressive portable Bluetooth speakers.
Impressive Sound Quality
The Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) delivers sound quality that defies its size. Featuring a bass woofer, it provides punchy low-end frequencies that add richness and depth to your music. The speaker excels at producing sharp details and crisp highs, while its round shape ensures that sound is dispersed evenly in all directions. Whether you’re indoors or outdoors, the Beosound A1’s sound fills the room, offering an immersive listening experience. It’s an ideal companion for small to medium-sized spaces, delivering premium audio without the bulk of larger speakers.
Extended Battery Life
With up to 18 hours of playtime, the Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) is perfect for long trips, beach days, and outdoor adventures. This extended battery life is a significant improvement over the first-generation model, offering users the ability to enjoy music for extended periods without worrying about recharging. Depending on the volume and usage, the playtime may vary, but it’s more than sufficient for a full day of music enjoyment.
Waterproof and Dustproof (IP67 Rating)
One of the standout features of the Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) is its IP67 waterproof rating. The speaker fully protects against dust and withstands submersion in water up to 1 meter (3.3 feet) for up to 30 minutes. Whether you’re taking it to the beach, using it by the pool, or enjoying it in the rain, you don’t have to worry about damage from moisture or dirt. The rugged construction ensures the speaker performs well in all environments, making it ideal for outdoor activities and travel.
Voice Assistant Integration (Alexa)
The Alexa voice assistant integration allows you to control the Beosound A1 hands-free. You can ask Alexa to play your favorite music, set reminders, check the weather, or even control smart home devices—all with a simple voice command. The three microphones positioned on top of the speaker ensure clarity when using voice commands, making it perfect for meetings, voice calls, and casual chats.
Beosound A1 Bluetooth 5.1 Connectivity
Bluetooth 5.1 equips the Beosound A1 (2nd Gen), ensuring a solid and reliable connection with minimal interference. The Bluetooth range allows you to stream music from your device without interruption, even if you’re a few meters away. Additionally, the Microsoft Swift Pair and Google Fast Pair features enable quick pairing with compatible devices, saving time and effort during the setup process.
Stereo Pairing Capability
The Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) supports stereo pairing, letting you connect two speakers for enhanced sound. This feature creates a stereo system that fills larger spaces with high-quality audio. Whether hosting a party or relaxing, stereo pairing improves your listening experience.
Portable and Lightweight Design
At just 1 lb (0.45 kg), the Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) is incredibly lightweight and easy to carry. The leather strap adds an extra layer of portability, allowing you to hang the speaker or bring it with ease. Its compact size makes it the perfect travel companion, and you can easily toss it in a bag without taking up too much space.
Elegant Design and Premium Materials
Bang & Olufsen is known for its attention to design, and the Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) is no exception. The speaker features a brushed aluminum exterior that adds a premium touch, along with high-grade leather that feels luxurious to the touch. The design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical, ensuring durability while maintaining its elegant appearance.
Beosound A1 Price and Availability
The Beosound A1 (2nd Generation) is priced at $299, which positions it as a premium portable Bluetooth speaker. While the price may seem steep compared to other portable speakers, the combination of superior sound quality, premium design, and durability justifies the investment for those who prioritize top-tier performance and style. The speaker is available for purchase through Bang & Olufsen’s official website and various retailers around the world.
Beosound A1 Portable Bluetooth Speaker Comparison
When compared to other popular portable Bluetooth speakers, such as the Sony SRS-RA5000 and Sony SA-RRS3S Wireless Speakers, the Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) excels in terms of audio quality and design. While the Sony SRS-RA5000 and Sony SA-RRS3S offer impressive sound for various environments, the Beosound A1 provides more detailed sound with richer bass response, making it perfect for those who appreciate high-fidelity audio.
Both the Sony SRS-RA5000 and Beosound A1 are waterproof in terms of water resistance, but the Beosound A1 stands out with its IP67 rating, offering a more rugged and durable design. Additionally, the integration of Alexa in the Beosound A1 adds extra convenience, making it more than just a speaker—it’s a smart device that can assist with a range of tasks.
Is It Worth Buying the Beosound A1 Portable Bluetooth Speaker?
For audiophiles and design-conscious individuals looking for a premium portable Bluetooth speaker, the Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) is worth the investment. Its outstanding audio quality, waterproof design, long battery life, and smart features make it a top choice for those who want the best of both worlds—functionality and style. Whether you’re using it for travel, outdoor adventures, or home listening, the Beosound A1 ensures you’ll have a great sound experience wherever you go.
Conclusion
The Beosound A1 (2nd Generation) is a premium portable Bluetooth speaker with high-quality sound and a sleek design. Its compact size combines durability, performance, and style, offering a complete audio solution in one package. Features like waterproofing, long battery life, and Alexa integration make it perfect for home, travel, and parties. With rich sound and a premium build, the speaker delivers exceptional performance for any occasion.Enjoy the A1 whether lounging, on the go, or hosting a party, impressing with style and sound. At $299, it’s an investment worth making for anyone who appreciates superior sound and elegant design in a portable speaker.
FAQs: Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) Bluetooth Speaker Review
What is the battery life of the Beosound A1 (2nd Gen)?
The Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) offers up to 18 hours of playtime, depending on the volume level and usage.
Is the Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) waterproof?
Yes, the Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) has an IP67 rating, meaning it's waterproof and dustproof, and can be submerged up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
How do I pair the Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) with my devices?
The Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) supports Bluetooth 5.1 for seamless pairing, and it also features Google Fast Pair and Microsoft Swift Pair for quicker connections.
How do I charge the Beosound A1 (2nd Gen)?
The Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) uses a USB-C port for charging. A USB-C to USB-A cable is included in the box.
Is the Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) suitable for outdoor use?
Yes, the Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) is designed for outdoor use, with water and dust resistance, and a portable, durable build.
