Originally introduced in 2010 the Audioengine N22 Premium Desktop Audio Amplifier was a compact integrated stereo class A/B power amplifier and high-quality headphone amp, designed to "connect your iPod, computer, and speakers or headphones for a great-sounding personal stereo system," which is what made sense at the time. The original N22 was ready to connect a subwoofer via the variable line output and charge an iPod via the USB power port. Two audio inputs enabled to have a computer and iPod always connected. The model "N22" derived from the fact that it was rated at 22 watts per channel but Audioengine never disclosed what it used in the power stage, just detailing the popular Burr-Brown/TI OPA2134 for the headphone amp stage.
The new N22 Micro now features a familiar, high-performance, low-noise Texas Instruments OPA1602-based amplifier, enough to power any set of passive desktop or bookshelf speakers, delivering less distortion, and enhanced quality. In contrast, this time Audioengine doesn't say what it changed in the headphone amp circuit.
Unlike previous generations, the new N22 Mini now features three input options including Bluetooth, Analog, and USB, which is what makes sense today. This allows users to connect a pair of passive speakers, and a subwoofer, with the input options making the N22 compatible with smartphones, iPods, computers, TVs, and more. Not only that, but the N22 was also engineered to drive a wide range of headphones, with a higher quality built-in headphone amplifier.
The N22 Mini Desktop Audio Amplifier and Headphone Amp is now a more compact size, measuring in at 7"(H) x 2.75"(W) x 5.5"(D) and continues to feature a simple volume control with an integrated on/off switch, just above the 3.5mm headphone output. The front panel now features a Bluetooth pairing button and LED indicator to guide the user on the status of the wireless connection.
The new Audioengine N22 Mini Desktop Audio Amplifier and Headphone Amp is clearly one of those no-frills designs that characterizes the company's portfolio, easy to use and designed to help people enjoy their music.
www.audioengine.com
