When it comes to exceptional sound quality and stylish design, Bang & Olufsen’s products stand out among the competition. Two of their most popular speakers, the Beosound 2 and the Beoplay A9, offer unique features and capabilities, but deciding which one is the best fit for your needs can be challenging. Let’s delve into the key differences between these two high-end audio systems to help you make a choice.
The Beosound 2 is a versatile, wireless speaker designed with 360-degree sound dispersion in mind, allowing it to fill a room with crisp, detailed sound no matter where it’s placed. It’s also compatible with a wide range of streaming services and smart home ecosystems, making it an excellent choice for those looking to seamlessly integrate their audio experience into their overall technological setup. On the other hand, the Beoplay A9 sports a distinctive, eye-catching design inspired by a satellite dish with adjustable legs and a removable cover, enabling it to blend effortlessly into any interior design style.
When it comes to audio quality and performance, both speakers excel. The Beosound 2 offers an impressive balance of bass, mids, and treble, while the Beoplay A9 is renowned for its deep, powerful bass and detailed sound at high volumes. Your choice ultimately depends on the specific features you prioritize, such as form-factor, smart home compatibility, and design aesthetics. Understanding the distinctions will help determine which of these Bang & Olufsen speakers best meets your expectations and amplifies your listening environment.
Beosound 2 and Beoplay A9: Key Features
When it comes to Beosound 2 and Beoplay A9, it’s essential to understand their key features. Both of these B&O premium speakers deliver stunning sound quality, but they do have certain distinctions that set them apart.
The Beosound 2 is a compact, cylindrical-shaped speaker, designed for portability and flexibility. It can be easily moved around the house, allowing for seamless music playback. Some of its key features include:
- 360-degree sound: The Beosound 2 projects sound in all directions, ensuring an immersive listening experience.
- Multiroom capability: This speaker can be connected to other B&O devices for a synchronized audio experience.
- Voice control: Google Assistant is built into the Beosound 2, making it a handy smart home device.
- Aluminum body: It has a sleek and durable aluminum design that offers both stylish looks and longevity.
On the other hand, the Beoplay A9 is a statement piece in itself. Its unique, contemporary design makes it the center of attention in any room. The speaker consists of three adjustable wooden legs and a large, circular speaker, resembling a satellite dish. Some notable features of the Beoplay A9 include:
- Powerful sound: With its 480 watts of power, the Beoplay A9 offers impressive and room-filling audio performance.
- Customizable design: The speaker cover and legs are available in various colors and finishes to match any interior décor.
- Touch controls: Intuitive touch controls on the back of the speaker make it easy to play, pause, or adjust the volume.
- Multiroom and streaming: The A9 is compatible with the B&O Multiroom system and supports popular streaming services like Spotify, Tidal, and Deezer.
Here’s a quick comparison of the two speakers’ key specifications:
| Specification | Beosound 2 | Beoplay A9 |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 8.1 x 19.5 in (20.8 x 49.6 cm) | 27.6 x 35.8 x 16.2 in (70.1 x 90.8 x 41.1 cm) |
| Weight | 12.6 lbs (5.7 kg) | 33.1 lbs (15 kg) |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay, Chromecast | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay, Chromecast, DLNA |
| Amplifier | 1 x 40W + 2 x 11W | 1 x 160W + 2 x 80W + 2 x 80W |
| Power Output | 134W | 480W |
Overall, each B&O speaker has its unique list of KEY FEATURES, and it depends on what you’re looking for in terms of design, portability, and audio performance. The Beosound 2 leans more towards versatility and smart home integration, while the Beoplay A9 truly shines in aesthetics and sheer power output.
Sound Quality Comparison
When comparing the Beosound 2 and Beoplay A9, it’s essential to dive into the sound quality provided by each device. As an audiophile, I have tested both speakers extensively and can provide a detailed comparison.
The Beosound 2 features a 360-degree sound experience with its unique conical design. It sports a powerful 5-driver setup, including a 3/4-inch tweeter, two 2-inch midrange drivers, a 5-1/4-inch woofer, and a 7-1/2-inch high-excursion woofer. This combination generates crisp and detailed audio with deep bass and excellent highs. It’s also capable of filling larger rooms with ease, making this an impressive speaker for virtually any space.
On the other hand, the Beoplay A9 comes equipped with a 7-driver setup, which includes a 3/4-inch tweeter, two 3-inch midrange drivers, two 5-inch bass drivers, and an 8-inch woofer. The A9 delivers an immersive, room-filling sound with its 480-watt power output and is especially known for its bass performance. Many users find the A9 captivating to listen to, thanks to the richness and clarity it provides.
Key specs for both devices:
| Feature | Beosound 2 | Beoplay A9 |
|---|---|---|
| Tweeter | 3/4-inch | 3/4-inch |
| Midrange Drivers | Two 2-inch | Two 3-inch |
| Woofer(s) | 5-1/4-inch and 7-1/2-inch high-excursion woofer | Two 5-inch bass drivers and an 8-inch woofer |
| Power Output | Not specified | 480 watts |
| Frequency Response | 33 Hz – 23,400 Hz | 33 Hz – 23,000 Hz |
Now, let’s discuss some aspects that contribute to the overall listening experience:
- Spatial Sound: The Beosound 2 excels in creating an immersive 360-degree soundstage. This gives you an impressive experience, regardless of your position in the room. While the Beoplay A9 is not 360-degree, it still effortlessly fills the room with sound.
- Detail and Clarity: Both speakers offer excellent detail and clarity, but the Beosound 2 edges out slightly due to its 5-driver setup. This makes it better for listening to more intricate music genres or audio-heavy content.
- Bass Performance: The Beoplay A9 takes the cake when it comes to bass performance. With its dedicated bass drivers and larger woofer, the A9 provides a deeper and more impactful bass response than the Beosound 2.
In summary, both the Beosound 2 and Beoplay A9 offer exceptional sound quality. While the Beosound 2 is ideal for those looking for a balanced and detailed sound with a 360-degree experience, the Beoplay A9 shines when it comes to bass performance and overall richness. Consider your personal preferences, room size, and intended use when deciding between these two incredible speakers.
Design and Aesthetics
When comparing the Beosound 2 and the Beoplay A9, it’s apparent that both speakers have their own unique and appealing design. I’ve had the opportunity to experience these devices firsthand, and I can attest to their striking appearances. The design of both speakers certainly impresses and serves as a conversation starter.
The Beosound 2 boasts a sleek, conical aluminum body that seems to defy gravity. It’s minimalist and modern design can effortlessly blend into a variety of home settings. One of the key aspects of the Beosound 2 is its 360-degree sound dispersion, which allows it to fill any room with high-quality audio. The Beosound 2 features:
- Dimensions: 8.1 in x 17.4 in (20.6 cm x 44.2 cm)
- Weight: 10.4 lbs (4.7 kg)
- Finish: Aluminum, available in natural, brass-toned, or bronze-toned
On the other hand, the Beoplay A9 presents a unique, almost-avant-garde appearance with its circular shape and tall, slender legs. It can be placed on its legs or hung on a wall, depending on your aesthetic preference. The A9 is also known for its impressive sound quality and room-filling audio. The Beoplay A9 offers:
- Dimensions: 27.6 in x 35.8 in (70.1 cm x 90.8 cm) with legs
- Weight: 33.1 lbs (15 kg)
- Finish: Various fabric and wood options, with customizable covers
To further point out the differences between both speakers, let’s look at a comparison table:
| Specification | Beosound 2 | Beoplay A9 |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 8.1 in x 17.4 in (20.6 cm x 44.2 cm) | 27.6 in x 35.8 in (70.1 cm x 90.8 cm) with legs |
| Weight | 10.4 lbs (4.7 kg) | 33.1 lbs (15 kg) |
| Finish | Aluminum, available in natural, brass-toned, or bronze-toned | Various fabric and wood options, with customizable covers |
To sum up the design elements, the Beosound 2 is best suited for those who prefer a minimalist, modern aesthetic, while the Beoplay A9 caters to individuals who seek a more conspicuous, artistic statement piece. It’s important to consider how each speaker would fit within your home environment and personal taste. Keep in mind that both options deliver phenomenal audio quality, making your choice primarily a matter of design sensibilities.
Connectivity and Compatibility
When discussing the Beosound 2 and the Beoplay A9, it’s crucial to consider their connectivity and compatibility options. Both devices are designed to enhance user experience with seamless connectivity, but there are differences worth noting.
The Beosound 2 is notable for its versatility. With built-in Wi-Fi, it supports popular streaming services like Spotify, Deezer, and TuneIn. Additionally, it can connect to other Beosound devices to create a seamless audio ecosystem. One of its key selling points is the support for multiroom audio through Beolink Multiroom technology. The list of connectivity options includes:
- Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz & 5 GHz)
- Bluetooth 4.2
- Apple AirPlay 2
- Chromecast built-in
- 3.5mm audio input (Aux)
Now let’s turn to the Beoplay A9. Also equipped with Wi-Fi, the A9 supports similar streaming services and offers multiroom functionality through Beolink Multiroom technology. However, the A9 takes compatibility a step further, integrating a Spotify Connect feature which enables direct streaming from Spotify without using a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection. The Beoplay A9 also offers the following connectivity options:
- Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz & 5 GHz)
- Bluetooth 4.2
- Apple AirPlay 2
- Chromecast built-in
- 3.5mm audio input (Aux)
- Spotify Connect
Another important aspect to note is compatibility with voice assistants. While both devices are equipped for future updates regarding voice control, currently, the Beosound 2 stands out due to its built-in Google Assistant. This feature allows hands-free control and enhances the overall user experience. The Beoplay A9, on the other hand, lacks an integrated voice assistant.
| Beosound 2 | Beoplay A9 |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi |
| Bluetooth 4.2 | Bluetooth 4.2 |
| Apple AirPlay 2 | Apple AirPlay 2 |
| Chromecast built-in | Chromecast built-in |
| 3.5mm audio input | 3.5mm audio input |
| Google Assistant* | |
| Spotify Connect |
*Built-in
In summary, both Beosound 2 and Beoplay A9 offer numerous streaming and connectivity options, ensuring their users can enjoy music from a variety of sources. The Beosound 2’s built-in Google Assistant and the Beoplay A9’s Spotify Connect feature give each device its unique advantage. Ultimately, your choice between the two devices may come down to your preferences when it comes to voice control and specific streaming service compatibility.
Ease of Use and Setup
When it comes to setting up and using the Beosound 2 and Beoplay A9, I found both products to be relatively straightforward. However, there are some differences worth noting.
For Beosound 2, the setup process was a breeze. I simply connected the speaker to power, downloaded the Bang & Olufsen app on my smartphone, and followed the instructions provided. The app made it easy to connect the speaker to my Wi-Fi network for seamless streaming. Additionally, Beosound 2 supports voice control through the integration with Google Assistant, which simplified the user experience even more.
Here are some features that stood out in Beosound 2:
- Intuitive setup via the Bang & Olufsen app
- Google Assistant integration for voice control
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity options
On the other hand, the Beoplay A9 also offered an easy setup process. While it doesn’t offer native voice control like the Beosound 2, it can still be controlled via the Bang & Olufsen app. One major advantage of the Beoplay A9 is its customizable appearance. Users can easily switch between various legs and covers to match their interior design preferences. Additionally, the Beoplay A9’s touch interface is cleverly incorporated into its design, making it very user-friendly.
Here’s what I appreciated about Beoplay A9:
- Customizable appearance with interchangeable legs and covers
- Capable touch interface on the speaker surface
- Bang & Olufsen app integration for setup and control
| Beosound 2 | Beoplay A9 | |
|---|---|---|
| App Setup | :heavy_check_mark: | :heavy_check_mark: |
| Voice Control | :heavy_check_mark: | :x: |
| Customizability | :x: | :heavy_check_mark: |
| Touch Interface | :x: | :heavy_check_mark: |
Regarding daily use, both speakers provide a great experience. Beosound 2’s Google Assistant integration allows users to control playback and volume by simply using their voice. However, the Beoplay A9’s touch interface, located on its surface, provides an intuitive way of controlling playback and volume without needing a voice command.
In the end, both the Beosound 2 and Beoplay A9 offer user-friendly setup processes and convenient controls. Although the Beosound 2 comes with an integrated Google Assistant for voice commands, the Beoplay A9 shines with its customizable appearance and touch interface. It’s important for users to consider their personal preferences and needs when choosing between the two speakers.
Audio Customization Options
Having used both the Beosound 2 and Beoplay A9, I’ve found that each speaker offers different audio customization options to suit various listening preferences. In this section, I’ll dive into the possibilities each speaker provides so you can make a well-informed choice.
With the Beosound 2, you’ll get three different sound modes to choose from:
- Lounge: Ideal for when you want a more laid back listening experience.
- Party: The perfect choice when you want the music to fill the room and get people moving.
- Speech: Enhances clarity when focusing on spoken content, such as audiobooks or podcasts.
Additionally, the Beosound 2 also offers ToneTouch, an intuitive tool within the Bang & Olufsen app that allows you to easily adjust sound characteristics by dragging a dot around the interface. This feature provides endless possibilities for customizing the audio profile to match your preferences.
Now, let’s take a look at the Beoplay A9. This speaker offers the Room Adaptation feature which automatically optimizes the audio output based on the positioning of the device. You can choose from three options:
- Free: For when the A9 is placed away from walls or corners.
- Wall: Select this option if the A9 is against a wall.
- Corner: Use this setting when positioning the speaker in a room corner.
However, the Beoplay A9 doesn’t stop there in terms of audio customization. The Bang & Olufsen app offers a 5-band equalizer, giving you the power to adjust the audio profile manually. Here’s what you can tweak:
- Bass
- Lower Midrange
- Midrange
- Upper Midrange
- Treble
In summary, both the Beosound 2 and Beoplay A9 offer various audio customization options:
- Beosound 2 uses sound modes and ToneTouch.
- Beoplay A9 relies on Room Adaptation and a 5-band equalizer.
These features allow you to tailor the audio output, ensuring you get the best listening experience possible from each speaker.
Portability and Placement
When it comes to portability and placement, the Beosound 2 and Beoplay A9 offer distinct features that cater to different preferences and space requirements.
Beosound 2 prides itself on its sleek, compact design and flexibility in placement options. The device sports a conical shape, measuring 8.1 inches in diameter and 19.6 inches in height. Weighing just 10.4 pounds, it’s relatively easy to move around your home. Some of its placement options include:
- On a tabletop or countertop
- In a bookshelf or cabinet
- On a dedicated floor stand
The Beoplay A9 is a larger and more conspicuous speaker, with its impressive, iconic design. Boasting a diameter of 27.6 inches and a height of 35.8 inches when mounted on its tripod legs, it isn’t your typical compact speaker. It weighs approximately 32.6 pounds, which makes it less convenient in terms of portability compared to the Beosound 2. Despite its size, the A9 provides flexibility in placement with the following options:
- On its included tripod legs
- Mounted on the wall using a dedicated bracket
- Placed flat against the wall on a floor cushion
When it comes to connectivity, both speakers feature a multitude of options such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and more. However, it’s important to keep in mind that their placement can impact the connectivity and overall audio experience. I found that the Beosound 2 tends to excel in spaces with minimal obstructions, while the Beoplay A9 can handle more challenging environments such as large, open rooms.
| Speaker | Dimensions | Weight | Placement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beosound 2 | 8.1″ x 19.6″ | 10.4 lbs | Tabletop, Bookshelf, Floor Stand |
| Beoplay A9 | 27.6″ x 35.8″ (w/ tripod legs) | 32.6 lbs | Tripod Legs, Wall-mount, Floor Cushion |
In summary, the Beosound 2 is ideal for those seeking portability and a speaker that easily blends into various spaces. On the other hand, the Beoplay A9 is crafted for those searching for a bold statement piece and a speaker that can fill large rooms with its powerful sound. No matter your preferences, both speakers offer versatility in placement, ensuring an immersive audio experience wherever they’re located.
Pricing and Value
When considering the Beosound 2 and Beoplay A9, it’s important to examine their pricing and the value they provide to users. I’ll discuss both aspects in the following paragraphs to help you make an informed decision.
Beosound 2 is a premium wireless speaker with a distinctive conical design that offers impressive audio performance. Its price tag, which lies in the ballpark of $2,250, is a reflection of the speaker’s quality materials and top-of-the-line technology. The Beosound 2’s exceptional sound quality, which features 360-degree audio dispersion, is a testimony to its worth.
On the other hand, the Beoplay A9 has a unique design that allows it to blend seamlessly into any room as either a free-standing or wall-mounted unit. With its competitive price tag of around $3,000, the A9’s versatility and room-filling sound make it a worthy contender in the high-end audio market.
| Product | Price |
|---|---|
| Beosound 2 | $2,250 |
| Beoplay A9 | $3,000 |
Features Comparison
- Beosound 2:
- 360-degree audio dispersion
- Google Assistant integration
- Solid aluminum unibody construction
- Easy multi-room integration with Beosound speakers
- Beoplay A9:
- Unique design as a free-standing or wall-mounted unit
- Customizable fabric covers and wood finishes
- Broad compatibility with most streaming services
- Appealing to design-conscious buyers
When assessing the value of these two speakers, I’d suggest factoring in how important design is to you. The Beoplay A9’s customizable wood and fabric options enable it to seamlessly integrate with your interiors, while the Beosound 2’s conical shape could be perceived as more avant-garde.
Additionally, consider the way you intend to use the speaker. If you’re an avid user of Google Assistant, the Beosound 2 may be a better fit. However, if design is paramount and you have a penchant for products that offer unique functionality, the Beoplay A9 could be your dream match.
Now that you’ve got a clearer picture of the pricing and value of Beosound 2 and Beoplay A9, you can make an educated choice when it comes to their respective merits. Both speakers boast top-quality sound performance and stylish design, but picking the perfect option ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and priorities.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Diving into customer reviews and ratings, I’ve gathered insightful information regarding the Beosound 2 and Beoplay A9. People generally praise both devices for their premium sound quality and stunning design. However, there are differences in user preferences and experiences that can shed more light on which speaker may be the better fit for you.
Owners of the Beosound 2 frequently comment on its powerful sound and flexibility in placement. Its 360-degree audio projection means it can fill a room with sound no matter where it’s located. Moreover, customers love its sleek, modern design that incorporates an aluminum build and easy-to-use touch controls. One downside, though, is that some users mention that it can be a bit bass-heavy, overwhelming other sound frequencies.
Notable features of the Beosound 2 include:
- 360-degree audio projection
- Premium aluminum build
- Touch-sensitive controls
On the other hand, the Beoplay A9 receives high praise for its well-balanced sound profile and eye-catching design that doubles as a piece of art. Fans of this device appreciate its customizable appearance, with interchangeable leg options and fabric covers. Additionally, they give a thumbs up to its powerful, room-filling sound and app accessibility. However, this may not be the choice for those with limited space, given its larger footprint.
Highlighted features of the Beoplay A9 are:
- Well-balanced sound
- Customizable design and appearance
- Solid app integration
When it comes to star ratings, the results are quite close. So, I’ve compiled a table to summarize the average ratings for each device:
| Speaker | Average Rating | Number of Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| Beosound 2 | 4.7 | 62 |
| Beoplay A9 | 4.4 | 104 |
These ratings reflect the overall satisfaction of customers with each product. It’s evident that both speakers have made their mark in the world of high-end audio equipment. However, these numbers alone don’t tell the whole story. Since preferences and priorities differ from person to person, it’d be wise to consider the individual features and strengths of each device before making your final decision.
Final Verdict: Beosound 2 vs Beoplay A9
After in-depth analysis and comparison, I’ve determined that the Beosound 2 and Beoplay A9 stand out in their own ways, appealing to different types of users. Here’s a brief overview of their strengths:
- Beosound 2:
- Excellent sound quality with powerful bass
- More portable and compact design
- Google Assistant integration
- Suitable for any room or setup
- Beoplay A9:
- Stunning design that doubles as a piece of artwork
- Larger, room-filling sound capabilities
- Customizable physical appearance
- Perfect for larger spaces and open-concept living areas
When it comes to pure audio performance, both speakers deliver incredible sound quality. However, the Beosound 2 takes the lead with its more powerful bass and dynamic range. Additionally, the Google Assistant integration provides an added layer of functionality, making it a more versatile choice.
In terms of design, the Beoplay A9 is second to none. Its eye-catching appearance and customizable options allow it to blend seamlessly with any home decor while still standing out as a statement piece. If you’re looking for a speaker that offers both style and excellent sound, the Beoplay A9 is the right choice.
Ultimately, the decision between the Beosound 2 and Beoplay A9 comes down to personal preference and intended use. Both speakers offer outstanding audio quality and unique features. If portability, smart assistant integration, and powerful sound are the top features you’re after, the Beosound 2 may be the better option. On the other hand, if design and aesthetics are your primary concerns, the Beoplay A9 stands out as a clear winner.