Bose Companion 2 Series III
Score: 86/100
Mackie CR2-X Bar Pro
Score: 83/100Rankings
The Bose Companion 2 Series III delivers clear, balanced stereo sound with a spacious soundstage and convenient dual inputs, though it lacks modern wireless connectivity and deep bass.
The Mackie CR2-X Bar PRO is a premium desktop soundbar that delivers clear mids and highs with BMR drivers, offers versatile wired and wireless inputs, and adds RGB lighting for visual flair. It excels in compact spaces but falls short on deep bass and lacks a remote.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
100 Wbest | 60 W | |
| ↓ lower better | 65 Hz | 58 Hzbest |
20,000 Hzbest | 20,000 Hzbest | |
— | 69.85 mmbest | |
1 yearsbest | 1 yearsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 2.223 kgbest | 2.3 kg |
— | 10 mbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(3) | ||
Total Output Power (W) | 100 W | 60 W |
Frequency Response (Low) (Hz) | 65 Hz | 58 Hz |
Audio Output Mode | Wired analog | Stereo |
Power & Battery(1) | ||
Power Source Type | AC adapter | AC Adapter |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Connectivity Options | Dual 3.5mm inputs; headphone jack; AC power | Bluetooth, USB-C, 3.5mm analog |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Control Method | Analog volume dial | Capacitive-touch, physical buttons |
Accessories(1) | ||
Included Accessories | AC power adapter; 3.5 mm audio cable; proprietary interconnect cable | AC power adapter, USB-C to USB-A cable, 3.5 mm audio cable, user manual |
Physical Specs(2) | ||
Overall Weight (kg) | 2.223 kg | 2.3 kg |
Dimensions | 19.0 x 7.9 x 15.0 cm | 49.3 x 11.9 x 10.4 cm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers consistently highlight the Companion 2 Series III's clear, balanced sound and impressive soundstage, while noting the lack of Bluetooth or USB-C makes it feel dated.
Everyday users love the crisp, clear audio and dual inputs, but complain about the absence of Bluetooth and modest bass.
“sounds great”
“the best desktop speakers for most people”
“Rich, room-filling sound from a tiny chassis.”
Professional reviewers praise the BMR drivers, clear stereo imaging and low-latency USB-C audio, noting it as a strong premium desktop solution.
Everyday users love the compact footprint, clear vocals, and quick Bluetooth pairing, while complaining about thin bass and the inability to fully turn off the lighting.
