Beosound A1 vs Explore – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Beosound A1 3rd Gen & Beosound Explore share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Beosound A1 3rd Gen rather than the Beosound Explore.

Why Do I Recommend The Beosound A1 3rd Gen?

  • The Beosound A1 3rd Gen features a dedicated 3.25-inch woofer for deeper low-frequency reproduction and fuller bass response in music playback, whereas the Beosound Explore uses dual full-range drivers without a dedicated woofer.
  • Beosound A1 3rd Gen comes with a 3-microphone array for clear hands-free calling and voice pickup in meetings or calls, while the Beosound Explore has no built-in microphone.
  • It supports aptX Adaptive codec for higher-quality wireless audio streaming with lower latency and better detail retention, whereas the Beosound Explore supports only SBC and AAC codecs.
  • The Beosound A1 3rd Gen includes USB-C audio input support for direct wired playback from compatible devices without Bluetooth compression, while the Beosound Explore does not support wired audio input.
  • Beosound A1 3rd Gen has multipoint Bluetooth connectivity for switching between two connected devices without manual reconnection, whereas the Beosound Explore does not support multipoint pairing.
  • It features a 360-degree omnidirectional sound design for consistent audio coverage in all directions in indoor and group listening setups, while the Beosound Explore uses a directional stereo output.
  • The Beosound A1 3rd Gen has a higher bass SPL of 64 dB for stronger low-end output and more impactful sound at lower volumes, while the Beosound Explore has a bass SPL of 59 dB.
  • Beosound A1 3rd Gen has a flatter 46 mm height profile for easier placement on tables and stable positioning on flat surfaces, whereas the Beosound Explore has a taller 124 mm vertical cylindrical design.

Maybe the Beosound Explore can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Beosound A1 3rd Gen. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Side-by-Side Comparison

FeatureBeosound A1 3rd GenBeosound Explore
Sound Output Type360° omnidirectionalStereo directional
Driver Configuration1 × 3.25″ woofer + 1 × 0.6″ tweeter2 × full-range drivers
Amplifier Configuration1 × 30W + 1 × 30W2 × 30W full-range
Maximum SPL92 dB91 dB
Bass SPL64 dB59 dB
Microphone System3 microphonesNone
Speakerphone SupportYesNo
Audio Codec SupportSBC, AAC, aptX AdaptiveSBC, AAC
Multipoint ConnectivityYesNo
Wired Audio (USB-C)YesNo
Battery Capacity3000 mAhNot specified
Sound Dispersion Pattern360° radialForward stereo spread
Strap TypeLeather strapIntegrated carabiner
Mounting MethodLoop carryClip attachment
Build SurfaceSmooth aluminum perforatedRibbed anodized aluminum
Sound Tuning FocusBass-enhancedNeutral outdoor tuning
PriceCheck Beosound A1 3rd Gen PriceCheck Beosound Explore Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Bluetooth Connectivity: Both speakers support Bluetooth wireless technology, allowing seamless pairing with smartphones, tablets, and laptops. This ensures stable audio streaming without the need for cables in everyday use.
  • Wireless Audio Streaming: Each model enables wireless playback from compatible devices, making them suitable for music, podcasts, and video audio. This provides flexibility for both indoor and outdoor listening scenarios.
  • Total Amplifier Power: Both speakers are equipped with a 60 W amplifier system, delivering consistent output power across different environments. This allows both models to maintain adequate loudness for personal and small group listening.
  • USB-C Charging: Both devices use USB-C ports for charging, ensuring compatibility with modern charging cables and adapters. This simplifies charging and reduces the need for multiple cable types.
  • Rechargeable Battery: Each speaker includes an integrated rechargeable battery designed for portable use. This eliminates dependency on constant power sources and supports mobility.
  • Battery Life (20+ hrs): Both speakers provide battery endurance exceeding 20 hours under typical usage conditions. This allows extended listening sessions without frequent recharging.
  • Portable Design: Both models are compact and lightweight enough to be carried easily in a bag or by hand. This makes them practical for travel, outdoor use, and everyday portability.
  • Aluminum Build: Each speaker uses an aluminum enclosure, contributing to structural durability and resistance to wear. This also helps maintain consistent acoustic performance.
  • Dust Resistance (IP6X): Both speakers are rated for full dust protection, preventing particles from entering the internal components. This is important for outdoor environments such as beaches or hiking trails.
  • Water Resistance (IPX7): Both devices can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. This provides protection against rain, splashes, and accidental drops in water.
  • App Support (B&O App): Both models are compatible with the Bang & Olufsen mobile app for control and customization. This allows users to adjust settings and manage connections easily.
  • Custom EQ (Beosonic): Each speaker supports Beosonic EQ tuning, enabling users to modify sound profiles based on preference. This helps tailor audio output for different music genres or environments.
  • Stereo Pairing: Both speakers support pairing with another unit of the same model for stereo playback. This expands the soundstage and improves channel separation.
  • Firmware Updates: Both devices receive firmware updates through the companion app, ensuring continued performance improvements and feature support. This helps maintain long-term usability.
  • Bluetooth Profiles (A2DP, AVRCP): Both speakers support standard Bluetooth audio and control profiles for streaming and playback management. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices.
  • On-Device Controls: Each speaker includes physical buttons for playback, volume, and power control. This allows quick adjustments without needing to access a connected device.
  • LED Status Indicator: Both models feature LED indicators to display power, pairing, and charging status. This provides clear visual feedback for device operation.

Common Features

FeatureBeosound A1 3rd GenBeosound Explore
Bluetooth ConnectivityYesYes
Wireless Audio StreamingYesYes
Total Amplifier Power60 W60 W
USB-C ChargingYesYes
Rechargeable BatteryYesYes
Battery Life (20+ hrs)YesYes
Portable DesignYesYes
Aluminum BuildYesYes
Dust Resistance (IP6X)YesYes
Water Resistance (IPX7)YesYes
App Support (B&O App)YesYes
Custom EQ (Beosonic)YesYes
Stereo PairingYesYes
Firmware UpdatesYesYes
Bluetooth Profiles (A2DP, AVRCP)YesYes
On-Device ControlsYesYes
LED Status IndicatorYesYes
Price Check Beosound A1 3rd Gen Price
Check Beosound Explore Price

FAQ

Do both speakers support Bluetooth connectivity?
Yes, both Beosound A1 3rd Gen and Beosound Explore support Bluetooth connectivity, allowing wireless pairing with smartphones, tablets, and laptops for audio streaming.

Which speaker has better battery life?
Beosound Explore has a longer battery life of up to 27 hours, while Beosound A1 3rd Gen provides up to 24 hours under typical listening conditions.

Can both speakers be used outdoors?
Yes, both speakers are designed for outdoor use and feature IP67 ratings, meaning they are resistant to dust and can handle water exposure such as rain or splashes.

Does Beosound A1 3rd Gen support phone calls?
Yes, Beosound A1 3rd Gen includes a built-in three-microphone array that allows it to function as a speakerphone for calls.

Does Beosound Explore have a microphone for calls?
No, Beosound Explore does not include a microphone, so it cannot be used for voice calls or voice assistant interactions.

Can both speakers be paired for stereo sound?
Yes, both models support stereo pairing, but they can only pair with the same model type, meaning A1 pairs with A1 and Explore pairs with Explore.

Which speaker is more suitable for travel and hiking?
Beosound Explore is more suitable for travel and hiking due to its cylindrical design, integrated carabiner, and more rugged construction for outdoor conditions.

Which speaker delivers stronger bass performance?
Beosound A1 3rd Gen delivers stronger bass due to its dedicated woofer and higher bass output compared to the full-range driver setup in Beosound Explore.

Do both speakers support app-based sound customization?
Yes, both speakers work with the Bang & Olufsen app and support Beosonic EQ, allowing users to adjust sound profiles based on their preferences.

What type of charging do these speakers use?
Both speakers use USB-C charging, making them compatible with modern charging cables and power adapters.

Are both speakers waterproof?
Yes, both models are rated IP67, which means they are waterproof and can survive temporary immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.

Which speaker is lighter and more compact?
Beosound A1 3rd Gen is lighter and more compact with a flatter circular design, making it easier to carry in smaller bags.

Do both speakers support wired audio input?
Beosound A1 3rd Gen supports USB-C audio input for wired playback, while Beosound Explore does not support wired audio connections.

Which speaker has newer Bluetooth technology?
Beosound Explore uses Bluetooth 5.2, while Beosound A1 3rd Gen uses Bluetooth 5.1, resulting in a slight difference in wireless efficiency and stability.