Bose Companion 20
Score: 80/100
Audioengine A2+
Score: 85/100Rankings
The Audioengine A2+ offers high-resolution sound, solid build quality, and a rich set of inputs for desktop use. Its bass response is modest and Bluetooth range is limited. Ideal for near-field listening on a desk where detail matters.
The Bose Companion 20 is a compact 2.0 desktop speaker system praised for its rich sound and sleek design. Its drawbacks include a premium price, short cables, and lack of a subwoofer. Ideal for users who prioritize soundstage and aesthetics over deep bass.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
70 mmbest | 70 mmbest | |
2best | 2best | |
— | 15 Wbest | |
— | 4 Ωbest | |
— | 30 mbest | |
— | 3 yearsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 1.13 kgbest | 3 kg |
7best | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Battery & Power(1) | ||
Power Source | external_power_pack_ac | AC |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (kg) | 1.13 kg | 3 kg |
Dimensions (H×W×D) (cm) | 21.9x8.9x11.9 cm | 17.8×15.2×15.2 cm cm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Reviewers consistently commend the Companion 20 for delivering strong, natural bass and a wide, clear soundstage through its TrueSpace processing and ported design, calling it the best-sounding desktop speaker system available. However, they criticize Bose for withholding key specifications, the absence of a subwoofer, and a price that seems high for the limited disclosed performance data.
Everyday users appreciate the clear, bass-rich audio and the convenience of the control pod, noting the speakers fit well on small desks and are easy to set up. Recurring frustrations center on short cable lengths, a perception of high cost, and occasional distortion when the volume is maxed out without adjusting the source.
Professional reviewers commend the A2+ for delivering studio-grade clarity and punch from a compact enclosure, noting its high SNR, low distortion, and solid MDF construction. While the soundstage and detail are praised, critics consistently point out the limited bass extension and occasional instability at maximum output, recommending larger models like the A5+ for users needing more low-frequency impact.
Consumers appreciate the A2+ for its big, clear sound relative to its size, easy Bluetooth setup, and desk-friendly design. The most common criticisms revolve around thin bass response, the absence of accessories such as stands or a subwoofer, and occasional high-frequency instability when pushed hard.
“Impressive bass and clear sound for music, videos, and gaming on PCs”
“Short cables restrict where I can place the speakers”
“nice detail and punch for their size”
Audioengine A2+ suits audiophiles seeking detailed sound and spec transparency, while Bose remains the go-to for compact desktops needing easy control.
