There’s a familiar disappointment that many of us who appreciate high-fidelity audio have experienced. We curate the perfect sound system for our homes, only to leave it all behind the moment we step out the door. The search for a portable speaker often feels like a series of compromises: we sacrifice clarity for volume, design for durability, or battery life for a manageable size. For years, I carried a bulky, utilitarian speaker on trips, accepting its tinny treble and muddy bass as the price of convenience. It did the job, but it never brought joy. The music was just background noise, a hollow echo of the rich, immersive experience I had at home. This is the precise dilemma the Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) Portable Speaker aims to solve: to deliver an uncompromised, audiophile-grade listening experience in a package you can hold in the palm of your hand. It challenges the very notion that portable sound must be a lesser version of the real thing.
- Sound bigger than it looks: A peak power of 2x140 watts contained in a sleek, small speaker. Beosound A1 brings soul-stirring sound to any trip.
- Waterproof for life's thrills and spills: Share your soundtrack on the go. A durable, wireless speaker designed for life on the road, chilled pool holidays or a hectic home life.
What to Consider Before Buying a Portable Bluetooth Speaker
A Portable Bluetooth Speaker is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for liberating your music, podcasts, and audiobooks from the confines of headphones or stationary systems. It’s your personal soundtrack for beach days, backyard barbecues, hotel rooms, and even your home office. The primary benefit is freedom—the freedom to share high-quality audio with others, to enhance the atmosphere of any space, and to do so without a web of cables. It transforms solitary listening into a shared experience and brings a layer of richness to everyday activities, from cooking in the kitchen to relaxing on the patio.
The ideal customer for a premium device like this is someone who values audio fidelity and design aesthetics as much as portability. They are discerning listeners who can tell the difference between boomy, undefined bass and tight, articulate low-end frequencies. This product is for the professional who needs a reliable and clear conference call speaker that also delivers exceptional music quality after hours, or the traveler who refuses to compromise on their listening experience on the road. Conversely, it might not be the best fit for those whose sole priority is raw, deafening volume for large outdoor parties. Users on a tight budget or those needing a speaker that can withstand extreme abuse on a construction site might find more suitable, ruggedized alternatives that prioritize loudness and durability over sonic nuance.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: True portability is defined by size and weight. A speaker should be compact and light enough to slip into a backpack or carry-on without a second thought. The Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) Portable Speaker, with its 5.24″ diameter and 0.56 kg weight, is a masterclass in this regard. Consider where you’ll use it most—on a crowded desk, a picnic blanket, or hanging from a hook. A smaller footprint offers greater versatility.
- Capacity/Performance: This encompasses audio quality and battery life. Look beyond simple wattage; consider the driver configuration, frequency response, and support for codecs like aptX Adaptive for higher-quality streaming. Battery life is critical. An 18-hour rating at typical listening volumes, as this speaker offers, means it can handle a full day of use without sending you scrambling for a charger.
- Materials & Durability: The materials dictate both the look and the lifespan of a speaker. Cheaper plastic models may be light but can feel flimsy and scratch easily. The A1’s combination of pearl-blasted aluminum, polymer, and waterproof leather is a statement of intent—it’s built to look beautiful and endure the elements. An IP67 rating, signifying it’s fully dustproof and waterproof (submersible in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes), is the gold standard for go-anywhere durability.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: A good speaker should be intuitive. How simple is the Bluetooth pairing process? Are the on-device controls easy to operate? A companion app, like the one from Bang & Olufsen, can unlock deeper customization, such as EQ presets and stereo pairing. For maintenance, a wipe-down is usually all that’s needed, but be mindful of components like the speaker grille, which can be vulnerable if dropped.
While the Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) Portable Speaker is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- Outdoor-Proof Speaker: Portable design with IPX7 waterproof protection to safeguard against splashes, waves, and water vapor. Get incredible sounds at home, on camping trips, or for outdoor...
- [Immersive Sound Experience & Dual Connectivity] Experience unparalleled sound quality with this wireless Bluetooth speaker's 2 drivers and advanced technology that delivers powerful, well-balanced...
- Portable Bluetooth Speaker, Speaker Diameter
First Impressions: Scandinavian Design Meets Sonic Power
Unboxing the Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) Portable Speaker is an experience in itself. From the moment you lift the lid, it’s clear this is a premium product. There’s no flimsy plastic or excessive packaging; just the speaker, nestled securely, a high-quality USB-C cable, and a quick start guide. The first thing I noticed upon picking it up was the reassuring heft and the cool, smooth touch of the aluminum dome. The Grey Mist color is subtle and sophisticated, blending seamlessly into any environment, from a modern kitchen counter to a rustic wooden deck. The integrated leather strap is not just a practical carrying handle; it’s a tactile detail that adds warmth and character. There are no jarring edges or cheap-feeling buttons. Everything is flush, precise, and thoughtfully designed. Setting it up was effortless; a long press of the power button puts it into pairing mode, and my smartphone found it instantly. This initial encounter immediately justifies its premium positioning and sets high expectations for its performance, which you can explore further on its product page.
What We Like
- Exquisite, class-leading audio clarity and balanced sound
- Premium build quality with aluminum, leather, and polymer
- Fully waterproof and dustproof (IP67 certified) for true go-anywhere use
- Excellent portability with a compact, lightweight design and integrated strap
- Versatile functionality as both a music speaker and a high-quality conference call device
Limitations
- Maximum volume is not as high as some larger, rugged competitors
- The battery is not user-replaceable, raising long-term sustainability concerns
A Deep Dive into the Beosound A1’s Performance
After weeks of intensive testing—in my home office, on a weekend camping trip, and during backyard gatherings—it’s clear that the Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) Portable Speaker isn’t just another Bluetooth speaker. It’s a meticulously engineered piece of audio equipment that redefines expectations for its size class. Its performance is a delicate dance between power and precision, durability and design, simplicity and sophistication.
Sonic Signature: A Masterclass in Clarity and Balance
The single most compelling reason to choose this speaker is its sound quality. In a market saturated with devices that artificially boost bass to create a false sense of power, the A1 is a breath of fresh air. During my testing, I listened to a wide range of genres, from the complex layers of an orchestra in classical music to the deep sub-bass of electronic tracks and the delicate vocals of acoustic folk. The A1 handled everything with an astonishing level of grace and fidelity. As one user aptly noted when comparing it to a competitor, “that speaker has bass and volume… but it really lacks clarity. The A1 gen2 may not get as loud, but it sounds better. The bass is more defined. The mids and highs are on point.” This perfectly captures our findings. The 3.5” aluminum cone mid-woofer and 0.6” silk dome tweeter, powered by two 30-watt Class D amplifiers, work in perfect harmony.
Listening to a track like “A Sky Full of Stars” by Coldplay, the piano intro is crisp and clear, Chris Martin’s vocals are forward and full of emotion, and when the bass drops, it’s punchy and tight, not a boomy, distorted mess. This is 360-degree sound done right. Placing the speaker in the center of a room fills the space evenly, with no discernible “bad” spot to listen from. The B&O companion app adds another layer of control, allowing you to tailor the sound with its intuitive Beosonic equalizer. You can easily drag a cursor between “Bright,” “Energetic,” “Warm,” and “Relaxed” to find the perfect profile for your music or environment. Furthermore, for those seeking a truly immersive experience, the ability to stereo pair two A1 speakers is a game-changer, creating a wide and convincing soundstage that rivals small bookshelf speakers.
Design & Durability: A Marriage of Elegance and Engineering
Bang & Olufsen’s heritage in design is legendary, and the A1 is a worthy successor. The pearl-blasted aluminum grille isn’t just for looks; its Fibonacci-inspired hole pattern is acoustically optimized. The double-molded polymer base provides a stable, non-slip foundation. It feels substantial and luxurious in a way that plastic competitors simply cannot replicate. One user described their first encounter as “love at first sight. Beautiful build and sounds like silk.” This immediate aesthetic appeal is a huge part of its value proposition. However, this beauty is not fragile. The IP67 certification is not just a marketing bullet point; it’s a promise of resilience.
We took it to the beach, where it was unfazed by sand and a few splashes of saltwater (rinsed with fresh water afterward, of course). It sat poolside, providing the soundtrack to an afternoon swim without any cause for concern. The most stunning testament to its durability comes from a user review that borders on the unbelievable: “He and friends took the canoe and speaker out…and accidentally sunk the canoe and new speaker. They retrieved both a week later and the speaker still works, despite being at the bottom of the lake for so long.” While we certainly don’t recommend testing this, it’s a powerful anecdote that confirms its waterproof claims are not exaggerated. There is a caveat, however. Another user reported that after dropping the speaker in the sand, the grille came off and could not be replaced. This highlights that while it’s incredibly resistant to water and dust, its elegant design can be susceptible to damage from drops and impacts. It’s tough, but not indestructible.
The All-Day Companion: Battery Life and True Portability
A portable speaker is only as good as its battery, and the Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) Portable Speaker delivers here as well. The official rating is up to 18 hours at typical listening volumes (around 55dB). In our real-world testing, this proved to be quite accurate. For casual listening throughout a workday or a lazy weekend afternoon, we never once had to reach for the USB-C cable. One user planning a trip specifically prioritized “solid battery life,” and was happy to report the speaker “met and exceeded my expectations.” When you do push the volume higher for a small outdoor gathering, that number will naturally decrease, but we still comfortably got over 8-10 hours at a party-appropriate level. The speaker also features a helpful LED indicator that changes from green to orange to red as the battery depletes, and it intelligently optimizes power consumption, ensuring you get the most out of every charge.
Its physical portability is just as impressive. It’s small enough to be a permanent resident of my work backpack. As another user mentioned, it’s the perfect travel companion: “I take it to everywhere, bathroom, deck, yard, or gym room… I bought this for the upcoming trips as I love to listen to music in the hotel room. the size is perfect!” The leather strap makes it easy to grab and go or hang from a tree branch, a doorknob, or a hook in the shower. This combination of long-lasting power and an effortlessly portable form factor makes the A1 an incredibly versatile companion for daily life and travel alike. You can check the latest price and color options online.
Beyond Music: A Surprisingly Capable Conference Speaker
One of the most underrated features of the A1 is its prowess as a communication device. In an era of remote work, a high-quality speakerphone is essential. The A1 features a three-microphone array with far-field technology, which is a significant upgrade from its predecessor. During our tests, we used it for multiple Zoom and Microsoft Teams calls. Colleagues on the other end consistently reported that our voice was exceptionally clear and natural, with minimal background noise. One user purchased it specifically to improve their work-from-home setup, seeking “reliable, high quality audio for conferencing,” and it’s easy to see why. Another user called it an “excellent conference call speaker,” praising its hardware noise and echo canceling. This dual functionality adds immense value. It declutters your desk by combining a world-class music speaker and a professional-grade speakerphone into one elegant device. The inclusion of built-in Amazon Alexa voice control further enhances its utility, allowing for hands-free music control, weather checks, and smart home commands.
What Other Users Are Saying
The sentiment surrounding the Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) Portable Speaker is overwhelmingly positive, with users consistently praising its superior audio fidelity and premium design. Many, like one reviewer, state it is “far superior” in audio quality to more mainstream options from brands like JBL and Bose. The phrase “magic to the ears” appears, highlighting the immediate “wow” factor upon first listen. Its role as a dual-purpose device for both music and work is also a frequently-cited benefit, with one person noting it’s an “excellent conference call speaker” for group Zoom meetings.
However, the feedback isn’t without its criticisms. The most significant and recurring concern is the non-replaceable battery. One user summed up the frustration perfectly: “Minus a star as is landfill eventually, well actually hazardous waste. As YOU CANNOT CHANGE THE BATTERY WHEN IT DIES!!! WTH?” This is a valid and important point for anyone concerned with product longevity and environmental impact. Another point of critique is that while its sound is clear, it doesn’t reach the party-level volumes of some competitors, with a user stating, “these are not speakers for a big party- they just don’t get that loud.” These balanced perspectives confirm our findings: it’s a speaker that prioritizes quality over sheer quantity.
Comparing the Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) Portable Speaker to the Alternatives
While the Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) Portable Speaker excels in its niche of premium, portable audio, the market offers a wide variety of options catering to different needs and budgets. It’s a great time to see its full feature set and user reviews before looking at how it compares to others.
1. ASEAT Bluetooth Speaker Cell Phone Stand
- 【Phone Stand & Bluetooth Speaker】- ASEAT Cell Phone Holder with wireless speaker is made of high quality loudspeaker and BLUETOOTH V5.3 which perfectly realize enhanced bass, accurate mids and...
- 【LED Color Changing Atmosphere Lights】- The phone stand not only frees your hand when using phone or tablet, but can be a colorful atmosphere light. Mellow music and lighting helped to create the...
The ASEAT device represents a completely different philosophy. It’s a multi-function gadget that combines a Bluetooth speaker with a cell phone stand and an LED light. This is not for the audiophile but for the user who values utility and novelty over acoustic performance. Its sound quality will not compete with the B&O’s clarity and depth, but it offers practical features the A1 lacks. Someone looking for a fun, inexpensive desk accessory or a gift for a tech enthusiast who enjoys quirky gadgets would likely prefer this. It’s a choice of broad functionality over specialized excellence.
2. W-KING 90W Bluetooth Speaker with Subwoofer
- 90W Max Crazy Bass: W-KING D8 loud bluetooth speaker has 2 powerful subwoofers which deliver punchy and booming bass, 2 tweeters product crisp treble, 2 passive radiators extremely compress air to...
- Hi-Fi Audio and Bass Up: The Portable speaker matches an advanced DSP chip which achieves zero-distortion and reproducts orignal sound and enhances 30% bass. Let you listen to your favorite singer...
If the Beosound A1 is a scalpel, the W-KING is a sledgehammer. With 90W of power, dual subwoofers, and a rugged, boombox-style design, this speaker is built for one thing: getting loud. It’s the ideal choice for large outdoor gatherings, beach parties, or job sites where you need to project sound over a wide area and compete with background noise. It sacrifices the nuanced, balanced audio and refined aesthetics of the B&O for raw power and deep, thumping bass. A party host or anyone prioritizing volume above all else would find the W-KING to be a far better fit for their needs, and at a lower price point.
3. Dprofy Portable Magnetic Golf Speaker
- ❤【Instant Install, More Convenient and Easy to Use】: Dprofy wireless magnetic Bluetooth golf speaker with built-in super strong magnets which is more convenient than other golf Bluetooth...
- ❤【With Hang Hook】: And our golf speaker come with a aluminum hang hook, you can use it to hang the golf speaker on your golf club bag and golf stand bag.
The Dprofy speaker is a highly specialized product designed for a specific activity: golf. Its standout feature is the powerful magnet that allows it to attach securely to a golf cart frame. It prioritizes convenience and ruggedness for the course, with an IPX6 waterproof rating and shockproof build. While its audio will be clear enough for enjoying music between holes, it’s not engineered with the same high-fidelity drivers as the Beosound A1. A passionate golfer who wants a dedicated speaker for their rounds would choose the Dprofy for its purpose-built design, something the more general-purpose A1 doesn’t offer.
Our Final Verdict: Is the Beosound A1 Worth It?
After extensive hands-on testing, the Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) Portable Speaker has earned its place as a top-tier contender in the portable audio world. It is, without a doubt, one of the best-sounding speakers you can find in this size class. Its combination of stunning, balanced audio, impeccable Scandinavian design, rugged waterproof construction, and excellent speakerphone capabilities makes it an incredibly versatile and desirable device. It’s for the discerning listener, the design aficionado, the frequent traveler, and the remote professional who appreciates quality and is willing to invest in it.
The drawbacks—its price, a volume ceiling that won’t power a rave, and a non-serviceable battery—are real considerations. However, they don’t detract from what this speaker accomplishes. It’s not trying to be the loudest or the cheapest; it’s engineered to be the best. If you’re tired of compromising and want a portable speaker that delivers a genuinely beautiful listening experience every time you press play, the A1 is a phenomenal choice. It’s an investment in superior sound that you can take absolutely anywhere. For those who believe life is too short for bad audio, we can’t recommend it highly enough. Find out if the Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (2nd Gen) Portable Speaker is the right audio companion for you by checking its latest price today.
Last update on 2025-10-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API