Audioengine A2+ vs. B&W 607 S2 Anniversary

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to setting up a personal audio sanctuary, the choices one makes in selecting speakers are pivotal in defining the sonic landscape of their environment. The Audioengine A2+ Wireless Bluetooth Speakers and the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition Speakers are two exceptional options, each with their unique sound signature and aesthetic appeal, standing as testaments to their manufacturers' commitment to audio excellence.

Design and Build Quality

The Audioengine A2+ presents itself with a compact and unassuming design, making it a versatile player in various spatial settings. Their solid construction and the variety of finishes allow these speakers to blend seamlessly into the décor without drawing undue attention to themselves. Meanwhile, the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition exudes a more classic refinement, with its distinctive tweeter-on-top design and detailed craftsmanship. It might command a bit more space, but it does so with a purposeful assertion of its audiophile heritage.

Connectivity and Convenience

One of the most striking differences between these speakers lies in their connectivity options. The Audioengine A2+ is a champion of modern convenience with built-in Bluetooth for wireless streaming, appealing to a user base that prioritizes easy access to music from various devices. This feature greatly enhances the user experience for those who relish the ability to play tunes from their smartphones or tablets without fumbling with cables. In contrast, the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition remains a more traditional offering, focusing on wired connections that promise a purist approach to signal transmission, which some argue is essential for the best possible sound quality.

Sound Performance

When it comes to sound, the Audioengine A2+ surprises with its robust performance from such a small form factor. It offers a warm and inviting sound signature, with a commendable balance between the lows and the highs. The bass, while not earth-shattering, is clean and punchy enough for casual listening. The A2+'s are ideal for near-field listening and perform admirably in small spaces where their sound can envelop the listener without overwhelming the room.

The Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition, on the other hand, is a powerhouse of clarity and detail. Its Continuum cone technology ensures a pristine midrange performance that is both articulate and expressive. Highs are delivered with a crisp precision, thanks to the Decoupled Double Dome tweeter - a feature that reduces distortion and enhances the overall clarity of the sound. Bass response is also noteworthy, with a depth and definition that belies the speakers' modest size.

Where the Audioengine A2+ might falter is in the arena of large room filling sound. They are, after their compact nature, limited in the scale of sound they can produce. Conversely, the 607 S2 has a surprising capacity to deliver a wider soundstage and greater dynamic range, making it a fit companion for larger rooms or for listeners who crave a more expansive audio experience.

Another aspect to consider is the user's intent with the speakers. The Audioengine A2+ is a fantastic entry-point for those new to the audiophile world, offering simplicity in setup and operation, without sacrificing sound quality. It's the kind of speaker system that invites you to enjoy music without getting overly technical about the process. The Bowers & Wilkins, however, is a clear step-up for the serious audiophile, demanding more careful pairing with amplifiers and source components to truly shine. It offers an invitation to dive deeper into the nuances of audiophile-grade listening.

Price-wise, the Audioengine A2+ is positioned as an affordable entry to high-quality sound, which is an attractive proposition for those who seek value alongside performance. The Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition, with its pedigree and enhanced audio fidelity, commands a higher price point, one that is justified for the discerning listener who is willing to invest more for an elevated acoustic experience.

In summary, both the Audioengine A2+ Wireless Bluetooth Speakers and the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition Speakers offer compelling arguments for their respective places in your home audio system. The A2+'s cater to a modern, convenience-driven lifestyle, whereas the B&W's cater to a more traditional, fidelity-focused audience. Choosing between these two depends on your personal audio priorities, the physical context of where they'll be enjoyed, and the depth of your engagement with the music you love.