Introduction to Bang & Olufsen’s Latest Release

High-end Danish audio brand Bang & Olufsen has unveiled the third generation of its esteemed Beosound A1 Bluetooth speaker. This updated model retains the portability and minimalist design of its predecessor, including its distinctive puck-shaped appearance. However, several key enhancements have been incorporated under its sleek, pearl-blasted aluminum exterior.

Upgrades and Enhancements

A significant upgrade in the new A1 is the larger woofer, which boasts a bass output of 64dB. This represents a 2dB improvement over the second-generation model. Although the numerical increase may seem modest, Bang & Olufsen asserts that this enhancement enables the speaker to fill a room with robust sound comfortably. Furthermore, users with an older A1 model can pair it with the latest version to create a stereo pair, resulting in even more impressive sonic performance.

Battery Life and Connectivity

The battery life of the Beosound A1 3rd Gen has been extended to 24 hours, a substantial increase of six hours compared to its predecessor. While it utilizes the slightly older Bluetooth 5.1 standard, the new A1 supports both Microsoft Swift Pair and Google Fast Pair. These features streamline the device pairing process, reducing the number of steps required. The three-microphone setup from the previous model has been retained, allowing users to take calls directly from the speaker.

Durability and Sustainability

The updated speaker boasts an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, ensuring its durability in various environments. Its modular design is another noteworthy feature, as it allows users to replace or upgrade components that may become damaged or outdated over time. Notably, the Beosound A1 3rd Gen has received a Bronze certification from Cradle to Cradle, a globally recognized sustainability standard. This certification acknowledges the brand’s efforts in minimizing waste and promoting sustainability, from supply chain management to production processes. Although the Bronze level is the lowest on the C2C scale, it demonstrates Bang & Olufsen’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

Availability and Pricing

The Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 3rd Gen is available for purchase in the Natural Aluminium finish, as well as two new nature-inspired color options: Honey Tone and Eucalyptus Green. The speaker is available starting today, with a price tag of $349.