Bang & Olufsen announced the third-generation Beosound A1, an evolution of its award-winning portable Bluetooth speaker. Priced at ยฃ299/$349, this compact marvel sets a new benchmark for sustainability and performance, earning the prestigious Cradle to Cradle Certifiedยฎ Bronze Level statusโthe first Bluetooth-only speaker to achieve this honor. With a replaceable battery, up to 5 years of Beocare coverage, and a 10-year lifespan, the Beosound A1 3rd Gen is built to last, both in style and substance.
โThe Beosound A1 3rd Gen is a testament to our commitment to circular design and uncompromising audio quality. Itโs not just a speakerโitโs a sustainable investment in sound.โ โ Mads Kogsgaard Hansen, Head of Product Circularity & Portfolio Planning at Bang & Olufsen
Unmatched Sound in a Compact Form
The Beosound A1 3rd Gen delivers a rich, room-filling sound that defies its size. Equipped with the largest woofer in its class, it produces a Bass SPL of 64dBโ2dB deeper than its predecessorโfor powerful, resonant bass. The speakerโs 360-degree sound design, driven by a 3.5-inch woofer and 0.6-inch tweeter, ensures immersive audio indoors or out. With support for the high-quality aptX Adaptive codec via Bluetooth 5.1, every note is crisp and clear.
Sustainability at Its Core
As the first portable Bluetooth speaker to achieve Cradle to Cradle Certifiedยฎ Bronze Level status, the Beosound A1 3rd Gen is designed for longevity. Its modular construction allows for service, upgrades, and repairs, with a replaceable battery available through Bang & Olufsen stores. The speakerโs 10-year lifecycle minimizes waste, aligning with B&Oโs circular design philosophy. A 5-year Beocare warranty further ensures peace of mind for audiophiles investing in this premium device.
Key Features of the Beosound A1 3rd Gen
- Powerful Bass Performance: Largest woofer in its class, delivering 64dB Bass SPL, 2dB deeper than the previous model for rich, room-filling sound.
- Extended Battery Life: Up to 24 hours of playtime at moderate volumes, six hours more than its predecessor, perfect for all-day listening.
- Refined Craftsmanship: Pearl-blasted aluminium body with 2,173 precision-milled holes and a waterproof leather strap for a luxurious, tactile finish.
- IP67-Rated Durability: Fully dust- and waterproof, capable of withstanding submersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, ideal for outdoor adventures.
- New Colourways: Available in classic Natural Aluminium and two nature-inspired finishes: Honey Tone and Eucalyptus Green.
- Enhanced Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX Adaptive codec and a three-microphone array with FarField technology for clear voice calls.
Designed for Versatility and Style
The Beosound A1 3rd Gen retains its iconic circular design, crafted from pearl-blasted aluminium for a premium, understated aesthetic. Its IP67 rating ensures resilience against dust, sand, and water, making it a perfect companion for beach trips, poolside lounging, or rainy hikes. The speakerโs USB-C port supports both charging and wired audio playback from devices like laptops, with a fabric USB-C cable included. Stereo pairing with other 2nd or 3rd Gen A1 units adds versatility for larger spaces.
The new Honey Tone and Eucalyptus Green colourways join the timeless Natural Aluminium finish, offering fresh, nature-inspired aesthetics that blend seamlessly into any environment. The waterproof leather strap enhances portability, making it easy to carry or hang.
Why the Beosound A1 3rd Gen Stands Out
Bang & Olufsenโs Beosound A1 3rd Gen is more than a speakerโitโs a statement of innovation and responsibility. Unlike competitors like the Bose SoundLink Max (ยฃ399/$399) or JBL Charge 6, the A1 combines high-end audio with unmatched sustainability. Its compact size belies its powerful output, delivering hi-fi quality that rivals larger systems. The removal of Amazon Alexa from the 2nd Gen model simplifies operation, focusing on core audio performance, though it lacks Auracast support for future-proofing.
At ยฃ299/$349, the Beosound A1 3rd Gen is a premium investment, but its durability, repairability, and extended warranty justify the cost. Compared to the 2nd Genโs original ยฃ199/$250 price, the 3rd Genโs enhancementsโdeeper bass, longer battery life, and sustainable designโmake it a worthy upgrade.
Experience It Yourself
The Beosound A1 3rd Gen is available now at Bang & Olufsen stores and select retailers. Visit a store to experience its room-filling sound and explore its stunning new colourways. For audiophiles seeking portable audio thatโs as sustainable as it is sonically superior, the Beosound A1 3rd Gen is a must-have.
