Audioengine HD4 Wireless Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers Review Powerful Sound for Music and Home Theater

Description

Elegant Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the Audioengine HD4 Wireless Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers are undeniably sleek. The walnut finish is absolutely stunning, giving it a modern yet classic look that blends effortlessly with almost any interior decor. These speakers are compact yet feel incredibly sturdy, thanks to their solid wooden construction. Measuring 6.5 inches deep, 5.5 inches wide, and 9 inches tall, they fit perfectly on a desk or shelf without dominating the space. While setting them up, I appreciated the removable magnetic speaker grille, which adds a touch of personalization to the aesthetic.

However, I noticed that while the build quality is impressive, the 7.2-pound weight per unit might make them a bit cumbersome for those who plan to move them around frequently. On the flip side, the heft does add to the premium feel and ensures they stay put when in use.

Outstanding Audio Performance

These speakers truly deliver on sound quality. The 120-watt power output combined with 4-inch custom aramid fiber woofers and 0.75-inch silk dome tweeters produces rich, room-filling audio. Whether I was streaming a movie, playing music, or gaming, the clarity remained top-notch. The bass was punchy without overwhelming the mids or highs, creating a well-balanced sound profile.

What really stood out to me was the aptX HD Adaptive Bluetooth 5.3 technology. It ensures seamless wireless connectivity up to 100 feet and delivers 24-bit audio clarity. I tested it with multiple devices, including my smartphone, laptop, and TV, and the connection remained rock-solid. There’s also minimal latency, which is a game-changer for gaming or watching action-packed movies.

Simple Setup and Connectivity Options

The setup process couldn’t have been more straightforward. The package includes everything you need: a Bluetooth antenna, 4-meter speaker wire, power supply and cord, 2-meter RCA audio cable, and a 2-meter 3.5mm mini-jack cable. I was up and running in no time, and switching between devices was a breeze.

Apart from Bluetooth, the analog and USB input options add versatility. I particularly liked the RCA output feature, which allows these speakers to integrate seamlessly into a larger sound setup. However, I did feel that the absence of an included subwoofer might leave bass enthusiasts wanting a bit more depth, especially for larger living rooms.

Key Benefits

• Exceptional sound clarity with balanced audio across lows, mids, and highs.
• Bluetooth 5.3 with aptX HD for lag-free, high-quality wireless streaming.
• Compact design with a stunning walnut finish that fits any room.
• Multiple input options, including USB, RCA, and 3.5mm analog.

Areas for Improvement

• Lacks a dedicated subwoofer, which might disappoint those who prefer deeper bass.
• Limited portability due to its weight and lack of a built-in handle.

Competing Products

When comparing these speakers to competitors like the Edifier R1700BT or even the Klipsch R-51PM, the HD4’s Bluetooth range and audio clarity stand out. The Edifier, for instance, offers solid sound quality but doesn’t match the 24-bit clarity or the premium design of the HD4. On the other hand, Klipsch’s model might edge out the HD4 in bass depth and loudness, but it comes at a higher price point and lacks the same level of aesthetic appeal.

For someone like myself who values a balance of design, performance, and connectivity, the HD4 strikes a fantastic middle ground. But if bass-heavy soundscapes are a priority, investing in an additional subwoofer or exploring Klipsch might be worth considering.

Bang for the Buck

In terms of price-to-quality ratio, these speakers offer a compelling case. The Audioengine HD4 provides high-fidelity audio, premium materials, and a user-friendly setup that justifies its cost. While not the cheapest option on the market, the extended Bluetooth range and durable build make it a long-term investment worth considering. If you’re looking for a set of speakers that combines aesthetic appeal with excellent sound quality, this one is undoubtedly a strong contender.

Additional information