Some of the Best Affordable Desktop Speakers Just Got a Significant Hi-Fi Upgrade

Audioengine makes some of the most popular desktop speakers around … and it seems to have found a successful formula of upgrading them to meet modern standards.

Earlier this year, the Texas-based audio maker released new and improved versions of its well-loved A2+ powered speaker system. They looked identical but featured an improved 24-bit DAC and a new USB-C input for easier connection to today’s laptops and desktops.

Then, this past May, it did the exact same thing with its larger HD4 powered speaker system. The speakers’ design remained the same, but Audioengine upgraded them with improved sound (thanks to a superior DAC) and a new USB-C input.

And now, to complete the lineup, Audioengine is giving the same update to its HD3 powered speaker system.

Audioengine HD3 Next Gen (2025)

Audioengine

Meet the “Next Gen”

The Audioengine HD3 Next Gen are the latest iteration of the company’s HD3 powered speaker system, which was first introduced in 2016.

Like their predecessors, the “Next Gen” speakers are primed for desktop and laptop speaker use — they connect directly via 3.5mm or (new!) USB-C. But they also have built-in Bluetooth, so when you’re not using them as computer speakers, they work as a compact stereo streaming system.

They are also equipped with a high-output OPA2134 headphone amplifier, which promises to be able to drive a wide range of headphones, for the times when want to have more listening session.

Of course, as it has done with its other compact speaker systems, the big upgrade with the HD3 Next Gen have a 24-bit DAC (a big upgrade from the previous 16-bit DAC) and a USB-C input.

Audioengine

Where do these fall?

Admittedly, Audioengine makes several compact powered speaker systems that are primed for desktop use … so keeping track of which is which can be a little complicated. As for the HD3, it falls between the A2+ and the HD4 in the company’s lineup.

In terms of size and sound quality, the HD3 and the A2+ are basically the same; they have the same 0.75-inch tweeter and 2.75-inch woofer, as well as the same 60-watt power amplifier. The difference is that the HD3 comes in more premium finishes, has detachable speaker grilles, and has a dedicated headphone amplifier.

Then the HD3 and HD4 — both now bearing the “Next Gen” distinction in their name — are identical in terms of look and features, but the HD4s are larger, twice as powerful (maxing out at 120 watts), and promise to deliver noticeably deeper bass.

Audioengine

Price and availability

The Audioengine HD3 Next Gen (2025) is available now in three finishes: satin black, real walnut veneer, and high-gloss piano white.

The cost $359, which puts them between the A2+ ($279) and HD4 Next Gen ($429) in the company’s compact speaker offerings.

Audioengine

Audioengine HD3 Next Gen (2025)

• $359 at Audioengine

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