Beosound 1 vs 2: The Ultimate Comparison (2024)

When it comes to wireless speaker systems, Beosound 1 and Beosound 2 immediately come to mind as popular choices. These premium audio products from Bang & Olufsen offer not only elegant design but also top-notch sound quality.

In this article, I’m going to dive into the similarities and differences between these Beosound 1 vs 2, ultimately helping you make an informed decision on which one might be right for you.

At first glance, it’s easy to see that both Beosound 1 and Beosound 2 share a sleek, modern aesthetic that can complement any home environment.

However, the key differences between them lie beneath their beautiful exteriors. One of the main aspects to consider when choosing between the two speakers is their intended use, as each one caters to specific needs and preferences.

For those who prioritize portability and flexibility, the Beosound 1 might be the better option with its rechargeable battery and easy-to-move design.

On the other hand, if you’re after superior audio performance and the ability to seamlessly blend into your home’s multiroom audio setup, then the Beosound 2 could be the perfect pick for you. Read on as I continue to explore the ins and outs of these highly sought-after wireless speakers.

Design Comparison: Beosound 1 vs 2

When it comes to the design of the Beosound 1 and the Beosound 2, there are several key differences that make each product unique.

Both have a stunning appearance that catches the eye, but they each possess their own distinctive features. Let’s dive into the design aspects of these two incredible speakers.

The Beosound 1 is a wireless speaker system with a conical shape that stands on its point, offering unparalleled 360-degree sound dispersion.

It’s constructed from a single piece of aluminum, which gives it its sleek and polished appearance. Its top portion has an intuitive touch-sensitive surface that allows for seamless control of volume, track changes, and more. The Beosound 1 is available in different finishes, including natural aluminum, bronze tone, and brass tone.

Key features of Beosound 1’s design:

• Conical shape for 360-degree sound
• A single piece of aluminum
• Touch-sensitive control surface
• Variety of finishes

On the other hand, the Beosound 2 exhibits a cylindrical shape, providing an immersive sound experience with multidirectional audio. It’s also crafted from a single piece of aluminum, ensuring a unified and high-quality feel.

The speaker has an elegantly hidden control panel on its top surface which can be accessed with a light press. The Beosound 2 comes in the same finishes as the Beosound 1: natural aluminum, bronze tone, and brass tone.

Highlights of Beosound 2’s design:

• Cylindrical shape for multidirectional sound
• A single piece of aluminum
• Hidden control panel
• Selection of finishes

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Connectivity: Beosound 1 vs 2

When it comes to connectivity, both the Beosound 1 and Beosound 2 offer a reliable mix of wired and wireless options. I’ve found they both feature Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and AirPlay 2 support. Additionally, they include a selection of ports and connections to suit different user preferences.

Let’s break down the various connectivity possibilities for Beosound 1:

• Bluetooth 4.2 with aptX support for high-quality wireless audio streaming
• Built-in Wi-Fi (dual-band 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz) for stable internet connection
• Apple AirPlay 2 for seamless iOS device compatibility
• DLNA: Digital Living Network Alliance compliant for easy connection with other DLNA devices
• Google Chromecast built-in for easy access to streaming services
• Line-in/optical combo port to connect to your TV or other audio sources
• Ethernet port for a hard-wired internet connection

For the Beosound 2, it offers similar connectivity options, but with a few differences:

• Bluetooth 4.1 with aptX support for high-quality wireless audio streaming
• Built-in Wi-Fi (dual-band 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz) for stable internet connection
• Apple AirPlay 2 for seamless iOS device compatibility
• DLNA: Digital Living Network Alliance compliant for easy connection with other DLNA devices
• Google Chromecast built-in for easy access to streaming services
• Power Link port for connecting to other Beosound devices
• Ethernet port for a hard-wired internet connection

As can be seen from the table, there are only a few minor differences in connectivity options between the two models.

The Beosound 1 has an upgraded Bluetooth version and a line-in/optical combo port, while the Beosound 2 features a Power Link port, which is perfect for integrating multiple Beosound devices.

Both the Beosound 1 and 2 offer versatile connectivity solutions, appealing to all types of users. Their compatibility with various streaming services and devices, as well as wired and wireless options, make them suitable for almost any audio setup.

Speaker Output: Sound Clarity and Volume

When comparing Beosound 1 and Beosound 2, it’s important to look at their speaker output in terms of sound clarity and volume. I’ve had the chance to test both these speakers extensively and will provide insights based on my hands-on experiences.

Starting with the Beosound 1, this device features a single 40-watt full-range driver and a 20-watt woofer. The 360-degree sound dispersion allows for an immersive listening experience, making it well-suited for small to medium-sized rooms.

In terms of sound clarity, it performs well with sharp highs, detailed mids, and moderate bass. It can certainly fill up a room with its volume, but there are limitations when it comes to very large spaces.

On the other hand, the Beosound 2 sports a more robust speaker configuration, including the following components:

• 1 x 40-watt tweeter
• 2 x 11-watt mid-range drivers
• 1 x 20-watt woofer

These components contribute to an even better sound experience with pronounced bass, well-balanced mids, and crystal-clear highs. Its 360-degree sound dispersion is also impressive, but the speaker offers a more versatile performance, suitable for larger rooms or even outdoor environments.

In terms of volume, Beosound 2 takes the lead. Thanks to its larger drivers and more powerful output, it has no issues with filling up larger spaces. Below is a comparison table of the two speakers’ outputs:

Speaker	Full-range Driver	Mid-range Driver	Woofer	Total Output
Beosound 1	1 x 40-watt	None	1 x 20-watt	60-watts
Beosound 2	None	2 x 11-watt	1 x 20-watt	82-watts

Both Beosound 1 and Beosound 2 offer impressive sound clarity and volume. Nonetheless, the Beosound 2 has the edge with its more powerful output and versatile performance capabilities.

The Beosound 1 is still a great choice for small to medium-sized rooms, but if you’re looking for a speaker that excels in larger spaces or even outdoors, the Beosound 2 would be the better option.

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Bass Performance Comparison: Beosound 1 vs 2

When it comes to bass performance, both the Beosound 1 and Beosound 2 have their unique characteristics. I’ve had the chance to experience both of these incredible speakers and here’s what I’ve found about their bass output.

Beosound 1 relies on its 4-inch woofer, delivering a deep bass that can impressively fill up a room. The speaker’s 360-degree design ensures that the bass is evenly distributed throughout the space, which is ideal for those who love immersing themselves in music.

On the other hand, Beosound 2 features a 5.25-inch woofer, which provides more power when it comes to low-frequency sounds. The bass output is richer and more detailed on the Beosound 2 as compared to the Beosound 1.

The Beosound 1, with its 360-degree sound dispersion, is perfect for those who want a speaker that can easily blend into their living space and provide consistent bass coverage.

On the other side, the Beosound 2’s bass performance focuses on a specific area, making it suitable for people who prefer to have a concentrated listening spot or an area in which the speaker is aimed.

Now let’s talk about some potential drawbacks. While the Beosound 1 emits a deep bass, it might not be powerful enough for some individuals, especially if they’re into music genres that require a heavy bass presence. This is where the Beosound 2 comes in handy, as it’s designed to offer a more impactful bass performance— perfect for bass enthusiasts.

It’s important to note that the Beosound 2’s directional bass might not be the ideal choice for people who require uniform sound distribution. Its focused output might be felt significantly stronger in certain areas of the room than in others.

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Battery Life: Beosound 1 vs 2

When it comes to battery life, portability, and power, Beosound 1 and Beosound 2 each have their pros and cons. Having personally used both devices, I can provide a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.

First, let’s discuss Beosound 1. Its rechargeable Lithium-ion battery offers a battery life of up to 12 hours on a single charge. This makes it highly portable, allowing you to take it with you for a day out without worry.

Plus, it charges quickly – just 4 hours to the full capacity. Overall, the Beosound 1 is perfect for those on the go who need a compact speaker with impressive battery life.

On the other hand, the Beosound 2 comes with a built-in power supply, meaning it needs to be plugged into an outlet at all times. Although this might seem like a drawback for portability, it ensures consistent audio performance without any dips in quality due to battery life. It’s ideal for people who want to use the speaker primarily indoors, where power outlets are readily available.

Now, let’s talk about power output. Both speakers boast incredible audio performance, with the Beosound 1 delivering 90 watts of audio power and the Beosound 2 offering 130 watts.

Though the Beosound 2 has a higher power output, it’s essential to consider your power needs for your specific use case. If you’re looking for a more portable, battery-operated speaker, the Beosound 1’s 90 watts should be more than sufficient for most situations. However, for indoor use or larger spaces, the Beosound 2’s 130-watt power output might be the better option, providing more robust sound coverage and intensity.

When choosing between the Beosound 1 and Beosound 2, it’s crucial to consider what you value most – portability and battery life or continuous power with a higher output.

The Beosound 1 offers exceptional battery-operated performance, while the Beosound 2 excels in situations where a power outlet is available and produces more powerful sound. Ultimately, the decision will come down to your individual preferences and requirements.

The Beosound App: Control and Customization

As a powerful speakers, Beosound 1 and 2 offer an enhanced audio experience supporting multi-room setups. Both models seamlessly integrate with the Beosound app, giving me full control and customization options.

The Beosound app is easy to navigate, and I quickly discovered that I could personalize my listening experience with just a few taps. Below are some Beosound app features that really stood out:

• Speaker setup: The app has guides that made it incredibly easy for me to set up Beosound 1 and 2 and integrate them with my other devices. With the app’s assistance, I had my Beosound speakers up and running in no time.
• ToneTouch: This intuitive feature enables me to craft the desired sound profile based on mood, time of day, or activity. With ToneTouch, all I have to do is move my finger around the app screen and watch the speaker’s sonic characteristics adapt in real-time.
• Custom sources: I can create an organized list of my favorite music sources, allowing me to launch them quickly.
• Multi-room control: The app demonstrates its true power by managing multiple Beosound speakers in different rooms. I can control what’s playing in each speaker, set the volume, and synchronize the music throughout my home.

The Beosound app elevates the listening experience with its easy-to-navigate interface and convenient features, making the most out of Beosound 1 and 2’s capabilities. From sound customization to multi-room control, the app provides unparalleled control over my audio environment.

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Smart Home Integration

I’ve seen a rising interest in smart home integration for audio systems. With Beosound 1 and Beosound 2, users are offered convenient compatibility with popular smart systems.

Both speakers have built-in Google Assistant, allowing control over your home automation devices with just your voice. Additionally, they support Apple AirPlay 2 and Chromecast. Let’s take a closer look at these features and how they can enhance your smart home experience.

Google Assistant is an excellent inclusion in these speakers, as it serves multiple purposes. Not only does it allow you to control your music, but it also enables you to manage various aspects of your smart home. I’ve seen it perform tasks like dimming the lights, turning on the thermostat, and even providing updates on the weather. It’s a versatile feature that I believe users will appreciate.

Apple AirPlay 2 and Chromecast support increases the Beosound 1 and Beosound 2’s ability to stream content from different devices. Here’s a list of benefits these integrations offer:

• Stream music or podcasts directly from your iOS or Android device
• Share content with multiple speakers in your home
• Control volume and playback from your smartphone or tablet
• Enable multi-room audio for an immersive listening experience

It’s worth noting that the Beosound speakers also have Bluetooth connectivity, making it easy to connect and play music from various sources.

As far as smart home integration is concerned, Beosound 1 and Beosound 2 are compatible with popular systems like Philips Hue, Lutron, and Crestron. Integrating these speakers into your existing smart home ecosystem allows you to benefit from centralized control of all your connected devices.

Using Beosound 1 and Beosound 2 in a smart home setup, you can create customized scenes and routines which may include turning on the speakers at a specific time, adjusting lighting, and controlling the temperature. It’s these seamless integrations that make these speakers a valuable addition to any smart home.

The ease of smart home integration for Beosound 1 and Beosound 2 not only enhances the listening experience but also adds convenience to your daily life.

Their compatibility with popular systems makes it simple to control and manage different aspects of your smart home with voice commands, smartphone apps, or even through custom automation.

Pricing and Value: Choosing the Right Speaker

When it comes to deciding between Beosound 1 and Beosound 2, it’s essential to consider the pricing and value of each speaker.

As with any investment, you want to ensure that the product you’re purchasing aligns with your needs and budget. In this section, I’m going to discuss the pricing and value of both speakers to help you make an informed decision.

Starting the Beosound 1, it’s priced at $1,750. For this cost, you get:

• A compact, portable speaker
• 360-degree sound projection
• Built-in Google Assistant
• 16-hour battery life for mobility

On the other hand, the Beosound 2 comes in at a higher price, around $2,250. Despite being slightly more expensive, it offers:

• Superior sound quality with more powerful output
• A larger, more durable build
• A wider frequency response range for better audio performance
• Multiroom functionality (however, no built-in battery)

Now that we’ve looked at the numbers, it’s important to think about the key factors that would contribute to your decision. When deciding which of these speakers is the right fit for you, consider the following:

• Portability versus Home Use: If you’re looking for a powerful portable speaker you can take with you on the go, the Beosound 1 might be the better option. However, if you value sound quality and performance over mobility, the Beosound 2 would be the ideal speaker for your home.
• Budget Constraints: For some, the price difference of $500 may be a significant factor in their decision-making process. In that case, you’ll have to assess whether the additional features and performance of the Beosound 2 are worth the extra investment for you.
• Compatibility with Other Devices: Multiroom functionality might be a key deciding factor for those who want seamless integration with their existing audio setup. The Beosound 2 offers this capability, while the Beosound 1 is geared more toward users seeking standalone sound solutions.

Ultimately, the choice between the Beosound 1 and Beosound 2 will come down to your priorities and preferences. By considering the pricing, features, and value offered by each speaker, you’ll be better equipped to make the right decision for your specific needs.

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Popular Alternatives to Beosound 1 and 2

Having had the opportunity to experience both Beosound 1 and 2, I’ve also taken note of some popular alternatives in the market. These options are worth considering if you’re looking for a speaker system delivering exceptional sound quality while showcasing stylish design.

Sonos Five is a great alternative to Beosound 1 and 2. It offers superior sound quality and a sleek, modern design. Being compatible with various streaming services, I found it a versatile option for music lovers. A key advantage of the Sonos Five is its Trueplay tuning technology, which adapts the speaker’s sound to its environment for optimal performance.

Another strong contender is the Apple HomePod, known for its pleasing design and unmatched sound quality. With the power of Siri at your disposal, voice assistance adds convenience and allows for seamless interaction with smart devices.

What I appreciate about the HomePod is its excellent soundstage and 360-degree audio experience, making it an attractive choice for audiophiles.

If you’re more inclined towards a portable option, the Bose SoundLink Revolve+ would be a solid choice. It offers mobility without compromising sound quality or design.

With a 16-hour battery life and an easy-to-carry handle, I found it perfect for on-the-go listening. Furthermore, the water-resistant design adds durability and the ability to withstand demanding environments.

In terms of design, the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay A9 stands out with its stunning, unconventional circular form. This speaker packs powerful audio and an attention-grabbing look.

I was particularly impressed with its customizable design elements, allowing you to personalize the speaker’s appearance according to your preference.

Lastly, the KEF LS50 Wireless speaker system caught my attention with its superior sound performance and high-resolution audio capabilities. The Uni-Q driver array technology in this speaker promises remarkable audio clarity and an expansive soundstage.

Additionally, with multiple connectivity options and the ability to integrate into a larger system, I found this a flexible alternative to Beosound 1 and 2.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing between Beosound 1 and Beosound 2, I’ve found that various factors in play lead me to a decision. While both speakers offer exceptional sound quality and design, their individual features and use cases make them suited for different needs.

So what’s the final call? It really depends on your priorities. Personally, I’d opt for the Beosound 1 if portability ranks high on my list, and the Beosound 2 if I’m in search of richer audio performance. Regardless of your choice, both Bang & Olufsen speakers deliver a premium experience that you’re sure to enjoy.