The Audioengine A2+ is a popular choice for anyone seeking high-quality desktop speakers. These compact yet powerful speakers are designed to deliver exceptional sound quality, making them perfect for a variety of uses, from casual listening to professional audio work. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about connecting your Audioengine A2+ speakers to a PC, ensuring you get the best possible performance from your setup.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Audioengine A2+ Speakers
Before diving into the specifics of connecting the A2+ speakers to your PC, it’s important to understand what makes these speakers stand out. The Audioengine A2+ speakers are known for their:
- High-Quality Sound: With built-in amplifiers, silk dome tweeters, and Kevlar woofers, the A2+ speakers provide clear, balanced audio with rich bass and crisp highs.
- Versatility: The speakers are compatible with a wide range of devices, including PCs, Macs, smartphones, tablets, and turntables.
- Connectivity Options: The A2+ offers multiple connectivity options, including USB, RCA, and 3.5mm inputs, making it easy to integrate into any setup.
Now, let’s explore how to connect these speakers to your PC.
Step-by-Step Guide to Connecting Audioengine A2+ to a PC
1. Unboxing and Setup
When you first receive your Audioengine A2+ speakers, you’ll find the following items in the box:
- Two speakers (left and right)
- Speaker wire
- Power supply
- USB cable
- RCA cable
- 3.5mm mini-jack cable
- Setup guide
Start by carefully unpacking all the components and placing them on a flat surface. Ensure you have enough space to work comfortably.
2. Connecting the Speakers
The A2+ speakers have a built-in amplifier in the left speaker, which means all connections will be made to this speaker. The right speaker is passive and connects to the left speaker using the provided speaker wire.
- Place the Speakers: Position the left and right speakers on either side of your PC monitor. Ensure they are at ear level for the best listening experience.
- Connect the Speaker Wire: Take the provided speaker wire and connect one end to the left speaker’s output terminals (marked with red and black). Connect the other end to the right speaker’s input terminals, ensuring the colors match.
- Connect the Power Supply: Plug the power supply into the left speaker’s power input and connect the other end to a power outlet.
3. Connecting to Your PC via USB
One of the simplest and most effective ways to connect your A2+ speakers to your PC is via USB. This method provides a digital connection, ensuring high-quality audio transmission.
- Connect the USB Cable: Take the provided USB cable and connect one end to the USB input on the back of the left speaker. Connect the other end to a USB port on your PC.
- Power On the Speakers: Turn on the speakers using the power switch located on the back of the left speaker. The power indicator light should illuminate.
- Select the Speakers as Your Audio Output Device: On your PC, navigate to the sound settings (this process varies slightly depending on your operating system):
- Windows: Right-click the sound icon in the system tray, select “Open Sound settings,” and choose “Audioengine A2+” as your output device.
- Mac: Open “System Preferences,” go to “Sound,” and select “Audioengine A2+” as your output device.
4. Connecting to Your PC via RCA or 3.5mm Mini-Jack
If you prefer an analog connection or if your PC doesn’t have a free USB port, you can connect the A2+ speakers using the provided RCA or 3.5mm mini-jack cables.
Using RCA Cables
- Connect the RCA Cable: Take the provided RCA cable and connect one end to the RCA input on the back of the left speaker. Connect the other end to the RCA output on your PC (if available) or to a 3.5mm to RCA adapter.
- Power On the Speakers: Turn on the speakers using the power switch located on the back of the left speaker. The power indicator light should illuminate.
- Select the Speakers as Your Audio Output Device: Follow the same steps as in the USB connection method to select the A2+ speakers as your output device.
Using 3.5mm Mini-Jack Cable
- Connect the 3.5mm Mini-Jack Cable: Take the provided 3.5mm mini-jack cable and connect one end to the 3.5mm input on the back of the left speaker. Connect the other end to the headphone or line-out jack on your PC.
- Power On the Speakers: Turn on the speakers using the power switch located on the back of the left speaker. The power indicator light should illuminate.
- Select the Speakers as Your Audio Output Device: Follow the same steps as in the USB connection method to select the A2+ speakers as your output device.
5. Fine-Tuning Your Audio Settings
Once your speakers are connected and selected as the audio output device, you may want to fine-tune your audio settings to get the best sound quality:
- Adjust Volume Levels: Use the volume knob on the back of the left speaker to set the overall volume. Adjust the volume on your PC to achieve the desired listening level.
- Equalizer Settings: If your PC’s audio software includes an equalizer, you can adjust the settings to enhance the sound to your preference. Experiment with different presets or create a custom EQ curve.
- Sound Enhancements: Some PCs come with built-in sound enhancement features, such as bass boost or virtual surround sound. Enable or disable these features to see if they improve your listening experience.
Advanced Setup Options
Using a Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC)
While the A2+ speakers have a built-in DAC for the USB connection, some audiophiles prefer using an external DAC for potentially better sound quality. Here’s how to integrate an external DAC into your setup:
- Connect the DAC to Your PC: Use a USB cable to connect the DAC to your PC.
- Connect the DAC to the Speakers: Use RCA cables to connect the output of the DAC to the RCA input on the left speaker.
- Select the DAC as Your Output Device: On your PC, navigate to the sound settings and select the DAC as your output device.
Adding a Subwoofer
If you want to enhance the bass response of your A2+ speakers, consider adding a subwoofer to your setup:
- Choose a Subwoofer: Select a subwoofer that complements the A2+ speakers and fits your budget.
- Connect the Subwoofer: Use an RCA cable to connect the subwoofer’s input to the RCA output on your PC or to a dedicated subwoofer output if your DAC or audio interface has one.
- Adjust Crossover Settings: Set the crossover frequency on the subwoofer to blend seamlessly with the A2+ speakers. A typical setting is around 80Hz, but you can adjust this to your preference.
- Position the Subwoofer: Place the subwoofer in a location that provides even bass response throughout the room. Experiment with different positions to find the best spot.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Despite the straightforward setup process, you might encounter some issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
No Sound
- Check Connections: Ensure all cables are securely connected and the speakers are powered on.
- Select the Correct Output Device: Make sure the A2+ speakers are selected as the audio output device in your PC’s sound settings.
- Volume Levels: Check the volume levels on both the speakers and your PC.
- Driver Issues: Update your PC’s audio drivers to the latest version.
Distorted Sound
- Volume Levels: Reduce the volume on both the speakers and your PC to prevent distortion.
- Cable Quality: Use high-quality cables to avoid interference and signal loss.
- Source Quality: Ensure you are using high-quality audio files or streaming services.
Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
- Pairing Mode: Make sure the Bluetooth adapter is in pairing mode and the speakers are discoverable.
- Interference: Move the speakers and Bluetooth adapter away from other electronic devices that might cause interference.
- Update Firmware: Check for firmware updates for your Bluetooth adapter or PC.
Enhancing Your Listening Experience
Positioning the Speakers
Proper speaker placement can significantly impact sound quality:
- Distance: Place the speakers equidistant from your listening position and at least 3-6 feet apart.
- Height: Position the speakers so that the tweeters are at ear level when you are seated.
- Angle: Angle the speakers slightly towards your listening position to create a more focused soundstage.
Room Acoustics
Improving the acoustics of your room can enhance your listening experience:
- Soft Furnishings: Use rugs, curtains, and cushions to absorb sound reflections and reduce echo.
- Speaker Stands: Place the speakers on stands or isolation pads to reduce vibrations and improve sound clarity.
- Room Layout: Experiment with different room layouts to find the best sound quality.
Upgrading Components
If you’re looking to further enhance your audio setup, consider upgrading components:
- High-Quality Cables: Invest in high-quality cables to ensure optimal signal transmission.
- External DAC: Upgrade to a high-end external DAC for better sound quality.
- Power Conditioning: Use a power conditioner to protect your audio equipment from electrical noise and surges.
Final Thoughts
The Audioengine A2+ speakers are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to upgrade their desktop audio experience. By carefully following the connection and setup guidelines, you can maximize the performance of these speakers and enjoy high-quality sound whether you’re listening to music, watching movies, or working on audio projects.
With their versatility and superior sound quality, the A2+ speakers are a valuable addition to any PC setup. By understanding the different connection options, troubleshooting common issues, and considering advanced enhancements, you can ensure that your Audioengine A2+ speakers deliver exceptional audio performance tailored to your preferences.