A1 2nd Gen launched

35 replies

One key question would be if moving to BT 5.1 improves the reliability of the stereo pair connection.  I’ve tried that on first gen A1s, but dropouts have discouraged me from using it more often - which is a shame because they really do sound great in stereo.  I have successfully used a wired solution with a L/R splitter and separate 3.5mm cable runs to each speaker, but that really defeats the benefit of being able to wirelessly stereo pair.

Jeff

I notice it also has Apple, Google, and Microsoft fast pair. I have not heard those terms before. Are they something new, or just new terminology? I also see that the B and O app has been updated to add the ability to sign in with one’s Apple account when setting up products.

Can the new A1 be used without Alexa (it can) But I mean without any kind of account / subscription to Amazon to get it installed/working.

I contacted my dealer today actually to get an A1 'OG' but they were sold out. I can think of still buying the new A1 then but any pre-registration like with the GVA Beasounds is a no go for me.

 

 

Ferdinand wrote:

Can the new A1 be used without Alexa (it can) But I mean without any kind of account / subscription to Amazon to get it installed/working.

I contacted my dealer today actually to get an A1 'OG' but they were sold out. I can think of still buying the new A1 then but any pre-registration like with the GVA Beasounds is a no go for me.

Yes no problem, that’s how i’ve been using the gen2.

It’s a big inprovement over the mk1 in terms of sound, amazing they pulled it off like this again 😁

I was lucky to order an A1 from my dealer in Natural Brushed last minute. It has to be the first Contrast Collection product to be discontinued then. 

I really like the A1, for me it's the best portable speaker inherited from Beoplay. 

Only 2 colors: black & aluminum : ok, we see that the path for A LOT of limited color collections is open! Strange that they didn't release the classic green at start.

3 mics : if they are not only for Alexa, it could be the ultimate multipurpose home/office/garden/party conference speaker (ok, there is absolutely no other product in this category)! 

Nice that they managed to make it thinner and still improve the sound.

Better battery performance and full water resistance are also nice bonus.

One thing that is not cool in this range of products : battery is not replaceable : I do not buy B&O as disposable products.

Ah, and the LED at the top fixes the main issue for me : I was always looking at the full circle to find the status LED!

I just finished and uploaded my review on the Gen 2 A1 for anyone interested 😁

https://youtu.be/FOQ8mXK8XEI

 

Michael

Daniel wrote:

I was lucky to order an A1 from my dealer in Natural Brushed last minute. It has to be the first Contrast Collection product to be discontinued then. 

I also bought one, discounted - £159. Can't complain about the price. I also feel it's an upgrade from my early A1 which I bought when first launched. Feels like a far deeper and stronger sound.

Also, I use my A1 more than any other B&O product. I take in the terrace and all over.

I went to buy one today, but I found the sound to be metallic and cold. Will buy a 1.gen again when they are discounted.

Just my personal opinion and taste in sound.

I had the same opinion you did, Leo. I just got the charcoal sand one (v.1) literally two days ago and I love the warmth of the sound. I also particularly like that color. They made me a very good deal on it and I just think it will have a good rich sound for a long time.

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