Audioengine A1
Score: 76/100
SteelSeries Arena 9
Score: 81/100Rankings
The SteelSeries Arena 9 is a premium 5.1 USB-C gaming speaker system delivering 300 W RMS power and wireless rear speakers with reactive RGB lighting. Its reliance on SteelSeries software and large, heavy subwoofer hub can be cumbersome for small setups. Best suited for PC gamers seeking immersive surround sound.
The Audioengine A1 is a compact desktop speaker pair offering punchy bass, low-latency aptX Bluetooth and a solid wood cabinet. Its drawbacks are limited volume, modest bass extension and a lack of diverse input options. It is best for near-field listening in small spaces such as desks or dorm rooms.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
— | 300 Wbest | |
— | 20,000 Hzbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 30 msbest | — |
2 | 5.1best | |
| ↓ lower better | 2.722 kgbest | 15.06 kg |
95 dBbest | — | |
3 yearsbest | 1 years |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
General(1) | ||
Warranty (years) | 3 years | 1 years |
Connectivity(1) | ||
USB Input | false | true |
Audio & Power(2) | ||
Frequency Response (Hz) | 65-22000 Hz | 20000 Hz |
Audio Channels | 2 | 5.1 |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (kg) | 2.722 kg | 15.06 kg |
Dimensions (H×W×D) (cm) | 30.0×38.0×20.0 cm cm | 19.6×10.5×12.6 cm cm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers consistently praise the A1 for delivering big, detailed sound from a tiny enclosure, noting its accurate two-way drivers, low-distortion Class D amp, and CD-quality DAC. They commend the front-ported MDF cabinet for providing decent bass punch, but point out the inherent limits in bass extension and overall SPL, suggesting a subwoofer for full-range use.
Everyday users love the A1's strong bass, clear mids, and easy Bluetooth pairing, often highlighting its sturdy build and perfect size for desks or dorms. Recurring complaints focus on limited volume and bass depth in larger spaces, occasional Bluetooth dropouts, and the desire for more input options.
Professional reviewers commend the Arena 9 as a pioneering true 5.1 gaming system that delivers immersive positional audio without the need for external sound cards. They highlight the wireless rear speakers, premium two-way drivers, and extensive software controls as major strengths, while noting the reliance on SteelSeries software for format support and the subwoofer-centric hub as potential drawbacks.
Everyday users love the arena-like immersion, powerful bass and the hassle-free wireless rear speakers, often mentioning how the RGB lighting enhances their gaming vibe. Common frustrations revolve around the need for software to unlock full 5.1 features, the subwoofer's power-outlet requirement, and occasional Bluetooth connectivity issues.
