Andover Audio has officially unveiled its latest innovation, the SpeakEasy 4 powered speakers, aimed at providing a versatile and user-friendly audio solution for various digital and analog sources. Priced at $399 per pair, these speakers offer a compact yet robust design, featuring a built-in phono preamp and a range of input options to cater to diverse audio needs.
The SpeakEasy 4 powered speakers are designed to deliver high-quality sound with ease of use. Each speaker is equipped with a 4-inch woofer and a 3⁄4-inch silk-dome tweeter, engineered to produce smooth and rich audio.
Unlike conventional speaker systems that use passive components to divide audio signals, the SpeakEasy 4 employs Andover’s Dual Direct Drive technology. This approach powers each woofer and tweeter with its own dedicated amplifier, ensuring a detailed and distortion-free listening experience across all volume levels.
One of the most impressive features of the SpeakEasy 4 is its wide range of connectivity options. The built-in phono preamp makes it compatible with most turntables, eliminating the need for an additional preamplifier. This feature is particularly appealing to vinyl enthusiasts who appreciate the retro appeal and sound quality of LP records.
The Auxiliary input allows users to connect various line-level sources, such as CD players, tuners, and personal computers. For those with digital music collections, the SpeakEasy 4 supports high-resolution signals up to 24-bit/96kHz through its TosLink digital input. Additionally, a USB port enables playback of digital music files and can also charge mobile devices, including iPhones, iPads, and other Apple and non-Apple products.
The SpeakEasy 4 powered speakers also feature a wireless receiver, allowing users to stream content directly from their mobile devices. The pre-outs provide the option to connect additional powered speakers or a subwoofer, enhancing the system’s capabilities to reproduce deep bass frequencies.
User convenience is further improved by a removable grille, a vented MDF cabinet designed for low resonance, and a choice of black or white vinyl veneer finishes. The speakers also include an LED Night Mode, which dims the internal lights five seconds after any adjustment is made and should ensure minimal distraction in low-light environments.
Control of the SpeakEasy 4 is straightforward, with an included IR remote and an intuitive front-panel control knob that features an LED to indicate different operation modes.
Bob Hazelwood, Andover’s Director of Engineering and Product Development said: “We enjoyed great success with our unique SpinBase series of one-box powered speakers for vinyl fans.
We feel it is important also to offer a more conventional powered speaker option that will not only seamlessly integrate with existing Andover components like the Songbird Streamer and SpinDeck 2 turntable, but also accommodate digital and analog sources via a well-performing, affordable tabletop speaker for anyone looking to significantly enhance these sources’ sound quality.
The result is the SpeakEasy 4—effortless setup and operation with detailed sound for a wide range of home-entertainment needs. As the name implies, we’ve made something that is easy to connect and use with whatever source you have.”
Technical Specifications:
The SpeakEasy 4 powered speakers are available for pre-order with an expected delivery in July. Customers can choose between a black or white vinyl finish to seamlessly integrate with Andover’s Spin Collection. The speakers can be purchased directly from Andover Audio’s website.
Andover Audio also offers a 60-day home trial, allowing users to audition the SpeakEasy 4 speakers in their own listening environments. Free shipping and returns further reduce the risk for potential buyers, providing a hassle-free experience.
