Bang & Olufsen’s Beosound A1 3rd Gen: The Ultimate Portable Speaker Upgrade for Audiophiles
Bang & Olufsen has solidified its reputation as a leader in premium audio with the launch of the third-generation Beosound A1 Bluetooth speaker. This latest iteration builds upon the success of its predecessors while introducing meaningful upgrades that cater to modern audiophiles. Priced at $349, the Beosound A1 3rd Gen combines cutting-edge sound engineering, sustainability, and sleek Scandinavian design into a compact, portable package.
Enhanced Bass Performance for Immersive Sound
One of the standout improvements in the Beosound A1 3rd Gen is its enhanced bass response. The speaker now delivers 64dB of bass, a 2dB increase over the previous model. While this may seem incremental, Bang & Olufsen assures users that the difference is noticeable, allowing the speaker to fill a room with rich, detailed sound. For those seeking an even more powerful audio experience, the new A1 can be paired with an older model to create a stereo setup, doubling the sonic impact.
Extended Battery Life for All-Day Listening
Battery life has seen a significant boost, now offering up to 24 hours of continuous playback—six hours more than the second-generation model. This makes the Beosound A1 3rd Gen an ideal companion for long trips, outdoor gatherings, or extended listening sessions at home. The speaker retains its fast-charging capabilities, ensuring minimal downtime between uses.
Seamless Connectivity with Bluetooth 5.1
While the Beosound A1 3rd Gen doesn’t feature the latest Bluetooth 5.2 or 5.3 standards, it compensates with support for Microsoft Swift Pair and Google Fast Pair. These technologies streamline the pairing process, allowing users to connect their devices almost instantly. The speaker’s three-microphone array also remains intact, ensuring crystal-clear voice calls and reliable voice assistant functionality.
Durability and Sustainability: A Step Forward
Bang & Olufsen has prioritized durability and environmental responsibility with this release. The Beosound A1 3rd Gen boasts an IP67 rating, making it dustproof and waterproof—perfect for poolside parties or beach outings. More impressively, it’s the world’s first speaker to receive a Bronze certification from Cradle to Cradle (C2C), a globally recognized sustainability standard. This certification evaluates products across their entire lifecycle, from material sourcing to production and disposal. While Bronze is the lowest tier in C2C’s ranking system, it signals Bang & Olufsen’s commitment to reducing waste and improving eco-friendliness.
The speaker’s modular design further enhances its sustainability credentials, allowing users to replace or upgrade individual components rather than discarding the entire unit. This approach not only extends the product’s lifespan but also reduces electronic waste.
Stylish Design with New Color Options
True to Bang & Olufsen’s minimalist aesthetic, the Beosound A1 3rd Gen retains its iconic puck-shaped design with a pearl-blasted aluminum shell. Buyers can choose from three finishes: the classic Natural Aluminium and two new nature-inspired hues—Honey Tone and Eucalyptus Green. These additions cater to users who want their audio gear to complement their home décor or personal style.
How the Beosound A1 3rd Gen Stacks Up Against Competitors
To understand the Beosound A1 3rd Gen’s position in the market, let’s compare it to other high-end portable speakers:
1. Bose SoundLink Revolve+ II ($329) – Offers 360-degree sound and 17-hour battery life but lacks the sustainability features and modular design of the A1.
2. Sonos Roam ($179) – More affordable and supports Wi-Fi connectivity, but its 10-hour battery life falls short of the A1’s endurance.
3. Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3 ($199) – Known for its rugged build and powerful bass, though it doesn’t match Bang & Olufsen’s premium materials or design finesse.
While competitors may undercut the A1 on price, Bang & Olufsen’s focus on sound quality, durability, and sustainability justifies its premium positioning.
Expert Verdict: Who Should Buy the Beosound A1 3rd Gen?
This speaker is ideal for:
– Audiophiles who demand superior sound in a portable package.
– Frequent travelers needing long battery life and rugged construction.
– Eco-conscious consumers looking for sustainable audio products.
– Design enthusiasts who appreciate minimalist, high-end aesthetics.
For those who prioritize cutting-edge features like Wi-Fi streaming or voice assistant integration, alternatives like the Sonos Roam might be more suitable. However, if uncompromising sound quality and build are your top priorities, the Beosound A1 3rd Gen is a standout choice.
Where to Buy and Current Deals
The Beosound A1 3rd Gen is available now through Bang & Olufsen’s official website and authorized retailers like Amazon and Best Buy. Early adopters may find limited-time bundles or discounts, so it’s worth checking multiple outlets before purchasing.
Final Thoughts
Bang & Olufsen’s Beosound A1 3rd Gen is a refined iteration of an already excellent portable speaker. With improved bass, extended battery life, and a stronger emphasis on sustainability, it cements its place as a top-tier option in the competitive Bluetooth speaker market. While the $349 price tag is steep, the speaker’s performance, durability, and eco-friendly design make it a worthwhile investment for discerning listeners.
Explore Bang & Olufsen’s full range of audio products to find the perfect match for your lifestyle. For the latest deals on premium speakers, check our expert-curated buying guide today.