Audioengine A2+
Score: 83/100
SteelSeries Arena 9
Score: 81/100Rankings
The Audioengine A2+ is a compact 2.0 powered desktop speaker system offering high-fidelity sound with Bluetooth 5.0 and aptX low-latency support. Its small drivers limit deep bass response and it lacks a subwoofer or built-in stands. Ideal for users seeking detailed mids/highs in a small-footprint setup.
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.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
15 W | 300 Wbest | |
— | 20,000 Hzbest | |
69.85 mmbest | — | |
| ↓ 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(2) | ||
Warranty (years) | 3 years | 1 years |
Compatibility (Consoles/PC) | PC, MAC, Laptop, Tablet | PC, PlayStation, Mobile, Mac |
Audio & Power(3) | ||
Power Output (W) | 15 W | 300 W |
Frequency Response (Hz) | 65-22000 Hz | 20000 Hz |
Audio Channels | 2 | 5.1 |
Lighting(1) | ||
RGB Lighting | false | true |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (kg) | 2.72155 kg | 15.06 kg |
Dimensions (H×W×D) (cm) | 15.24×10.16×13.34 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 commend the Audioengine A2+ for delivering studio-grade clarity, detail, and power in a miniature form factor, noting its low distortion, high SNR, and flexible connectivity. However, they also point out the inherent limitation of its small drivers, which results in modest bass performance and occasional high-frequency instability at full volume, and they criticize the absence of accessories such as stands or a subwoofer.
Everyday users love the A2+ for its loud, clear sound and easy Bluetooth setup, especially in small office or bedroom environments. The most common complaints revolve around the thin bass response on bass-heavy music and the desire for bundled accessories like stands or a subwoofer.
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.
“nice detail and punch”
“cute”
