Audioengine is known for its audiophile-centric approach to affordable speakers for computers and the rest of your home, but less so for portable Bluetooth models. And unlike the rest of its product lineup, the $169 Audioengine 512 employs digital signal processing (DSP), which is almost a given for a portable Bluetooth speaker this size, but still uncharted territory for the Austin-based audio company. Luckily, the DSP doesn't squash the dynamics, and there's a genuine sense of bass richness, balanced with excellent clarity in the highs. Keep in mind the 512 isn't water resistant, a choice the Audioengine says is based on a sonics-first approach to the design. So this isn't necessarily the speaker to take on a hike or sit by the pool with, but it's perhaps the closest audiophiles will get to a sub-$200 portable Bluetooth model. Design Measuring 3.0 by 7.8 by 3.0 inches (HWD) and weighing in at 2.5 pounds, the pill-shaped 512 is available in black or military green models. The fro...
The Audioengine 512 speaker takes an audiophile approach to portable Bluetooth audio with generally solid results.
Excellent audio quality with rich lows and detailed highs; Reasonably priced for performance level; Easy to use
Can distort on deep bass; Not water resistant; No speakerphone