Again in 2016, the unique A1 Bluetooth speaker (8/10, WIRED Recommends) was one of many first from Bang & Olufsen underneath its extra reasonably priced Beoplay sub-brand. The trendy puck of brushed aluminum was a welcome antidote to all of the rubberized Bluetooth bins, and as a testomony to good design, aesthetically it has modified little via three generations.
The third-generation Beoplay A1 has simply been launched, and whereas the design stays immediately recognizable and effortlessly cool, internally it has gone via an entire makeover and now sounds higher and is extra sustainable than ever. It is likely one of the most interesting transportable audio system I’ve ever listened to, and stays as covetable as ever.
Identical Pores and skin, New Innards
{Photograph}: Chris Haslam
So what’s new? First, there are two new finishes to associate with the basic aluminium—Honey Tone (my assessment pattern), and Eucalyptus Inexperienced. The speaker is significantly effectively made and flawlessly completed. It appears and feels as premium because it ought to for $399.
There’s a tweak on the design of the leather-based strap, however the essential modifications come from inside. In accordance with B&O, the A1 third Gen has the biggest woofer in its class (3¼ inch), with a claimed bass SPL of 64 dB, which is 2 dB larger than the 2nd Gen mannequin. Battery life has elevated too, from 18 to 24 hours. Apparently, Alexa voice assistant has been dropped, as—in response to B&O immediately—prospects didn’t need it. It nonetheless has a microphone and thus nonetheless works as a speakerphone.
The A1 Gen 3 can also be the primary Cradle to Cradle Licensed (Bronze degree) Bluetooth speaker on this planet. In layman’s phrases, the speaker has a modular design that may be each upgraded and repaired, serving to to increase its lifespan. Batteries might be changed, as an example, for those who take your speaker right into a Bang & Olufsen retailer. The model’s dedication to longevity and sustainability is to be counseled, and helps to justify the premium pricing.
Bluetooth 5.1 appears a little bit dated right here, and means there’s no Auracast compatibility, however you do nonetheless get multipoint connectivity, stereo pairing, and aptX Adaptive compatibility. The IP67 ranking ensures mud and waterproofing, plus the USB-C socket can be utilized for knowledge switch (future upgrades) in addition to charging.
Weighing 1.2 kilos and measuring 5.24 in diameter x 1.81 inches excessive, the A1 isn’t pocketable, however it’s additionally not large enough to trigger points in a bag or backpack. There’s no protecting case, however the aluminum is hard and confirmed no in poor health results after a couple of weeks being intentionally bumped and jostled about. Reviewer Parker Corridor has dropped the primary and second technology audio system many instances and hasn’t observed any horrific put on, past a couple of small dents. The leather-based carry strap is elegant, with delicate however elegant branding, and if you would like you should utilize the IP67 speaker like an old-school bathe radio.
Technology Recreation
{Photograph}: Chris Haslam
Two 30-watt Class D amplifiers (60 watts complete energy) run the brand new, super-sized 3¼ inch woofer and one 0.6 inch tweeter, and collectively they pump out spectacular 360-degree audio.