Most of the MP3 speakers that flood the Stuff office on a daily basis don't live and breathe hi-fi – they exist for convenience and music snacking. This is, of course, fine for many people, but now a few systems are appearing that could yet convince audiophiles to scope out the digital scene.

We first saw the original Audioengine A5 speakers back in 2007. Riding the wave of interest in digital music, those large powered speakers delivered impressive sound on a budget to play any music source via their 3.5mm inputs. A few years in the making, we now have an upgraded model.

Stereo and 3.5mm input; remote control; tight; well-marshalled bass; good sonic detail

No iPod dock

A while back, Audioengine introduced the Audioengine 2 ($199, 4 stars), powered desktop monitors that are the closest thing to flat response, audiophile-level speakers you'll find under $200.

Audiophile-quality performance; Flat response speakers that provide refined bass performance; Attractive design

Remote has very few controls on it; No ability to adjust treble or bass; Not for bass lovers

Amazing pair of speakers! Has to be heard to be believed!! Brought the white pair, looks so stylish and sexy! Numerous compliments and complaints, can't help but raise the roof, neighbours can't get enough! Bassy, clean and performs well from dance t o soul.

Yes, we could quibble about there not being an integrated AC power outlet anymore, but the combination of the design improvements (USB port on back), feature tweaks (included remote), and the speakers' exceptional sound makes the Audioengine 5+ speakers worthy of an Editors' Choice Award.

The Audioengine 5+ powered speakers deliver phenomenal sound and offer simple, attractive styling; They feature two audio inputs and an integrated USB port for charging source devices (phones, iPods); The two speakers can be placed as far apart as needed to optimize stereo separation.

The speakers aren't cheap, and many will find them to be too large and bulky compared with standard PC speakers; The AC power port found in the earlier model is no longer present, and you can't switch between the two inputs--both are always active

I gave high marks to Audioengine's earlier PC speakers, the Audioengine 5 series ($300 now, formerly $350) and step-down Audioengine 2 series ($200), because they really are quite impressive.

The Audioengine 5+ powered speakers deliver excellent sound quality and provide a clutter-free way to listen to smartphones, iPods, or any other audio source.

The Audioengine 5+ powered speakers deliver phenomenal sound and offer simple, attractive styling; They feature two audio inputs and an integrated USB port for charging source devices (phones, iPods); The two speakers can be placed as far apart as needed to optimize stereo separation; A remote for controlling volume is included.

The speakers aren't cheap, and many will find them to be too large and bulky compared with standard PC speakers; The AC power port found in the earlier model is no longer present, and you can't switch between the two inputs--both are always active.

How many powered loudspeakers are available for $399 a pair? Probably more than I can count on my fingers and toes. And if I were forced to listen to them all, back-to-back, I'd be ready for counseling or medication. Thank God for exceptions.

Product Audioengine A5+ speaker system & Wireless Audio Adapter W1 set Manufacturer Audioengine MSP $399 /pair; $99 set The first Audioengine product was the A5, released in 2005. This well-engineered, compact, powered speaker pair quickly earned many accolades from reviewers, and firmly established...

Very good speakers to use with Wi Fi applications

Attractive Design; Easy to Mount; Easy To Set Up; Good Power Output; Great Sound Quality

(1 items) I've been a fan of Audioengine's A5 powered bookshelf speakers ( ) since I first laid ears on them in 2006. They provided plenty of enjoyable sound for their size and, at $350, they were a solid bargain.

Punchy sound; Dual inputs; Plenty of volume

Lacks predecessor's built-in AC port; Sound favors bass and lower-mids