Andover Audio has refined their unique turntable speaker concept with the Spinbase Max 2, and after extensive testing, it's clear they've addressed nearly every complaint from the original while adding compelling new features. This isn't just an incremental update – it's the complete package vinyl enthusiasts have been waiting for. Buy it on Amazon!

Specs & What's New

• 6-Speaker Array: Four 3.5" woofers + two silk dome tweeters
• Enhanced Power Output: Upgraded amplification with improved DSP
• IsoGroove Technology 2.0: Refined anti-feedback isolation
• Remote Control: Finally improved!
• High-Pass Filter: Selectable filter for cleaner sound
• Dimensions: Similar footprint to original (supports most turntables)
• MSRP: ~$549

Setup and Build Quality

The Max 2 maintains the original's refreshingly simple setup philosophy – it's still essentially plug-and-play. However, Andover has addressed several practical concerns from the original model. The inclusion of a proper remote control immediately eliminates the biggest frustration with the first Max, giving you convenient access to volume and input selection

Build quality feels more premium throughout. The unit maintains that reassuring 21+ pound heft that provides excellent vibration isolation, but the fit and finish show subtle improvements. The power supply appears more robust than the original's somewhat concerning thin cables and small wall adapter – a welcome upgrade that should provide better long-term reliability.

The refined IsoGroove technology works exceptionally well. I tested it with both MM and MC cartridges, including a high-output Grado setup that caused minor feedback issues with other systems. The Max 2 handled everything without a hint of vibration transfer, letting you place virtually any turntable directly on top without concern.

Sound Quality: Where the Magic Happens

This is where the Max 2 truly shines. The upgraded 6-speaker array with enhanced DSP tuning delivers a significantly more refined sound signature than its predecessor. The four 3.5" woofers provide fuller, tighter bass response that extends deeper into the low-end, while the silk dome tweeters offer crystalline highs without harshness.

Listening Experience:

• Highs: Crisp and detailed with excellent extension, never fatiguing
• Mids: Open and natural with improved clarity over the original
• Bass: Tighter and more controlled, with better extension
• Soundstage: Notably wider with improved stereo separation
• Dynamics: Excellent punch and impact across all frequencies

The 270° soundstage creates an impressively immersive listening experience that makes the speaker sound much larger than its compact footprint suggests. Female vocals remain bright and engaging, while male vocals benefit from the improved midrange clarity and tighter bass foundation.

The selectable high-pass filter is a thoughtful addition that helps clean up muddy recordings and works particularly well when paired with a subwoofer. Speaking of which, the sub output remains essential for those wanting full-range performance, though the Max 2's improved bass extension makes it less critical than with the original.

Bluetooth Performance

The two-way Bluetooth functionality remains a standout feature. Streaming from your phone or tablet sounds excellent, with the enhanced drivers providing better detail and dynamics than the original. The ability to transmit audio to Bluetooth headphones continues to be the simplest solution for private vinyl listening I've encountered.

Connection stability is rock-solid, and the sound quality rivals dedicated Bluetooth speakers in this price range.

How It Compares to the Original Max

Having lived with both models extensively, the Max 2 represents a thoughtful evolution rather than a revolutionary redesign. The improvements are meaningful but not dramatic – if you're happy with your original Max, this isn't a must-have upgrade.

Key Improvements Over Original:

• Audio Quality: Clearer highs, more open mids, tighter bass – but the difference is subtle
• Remote Control: Finally! A much improved remote! 
• Build Quality: More premium feel with apparent power supply improvements
• Enhanced Isolation: Refined IsoGroove technology handles even sensitive setups

What Remains Similar:

• Same practical form factor and turntable compatibility
• Similar power output levels and overall sonic character

The original Max's core strengths – simplicity, solid build, and surprisingly good sound – remain intact. The Max 2 simply refines these qualities while adding modern convenience features.

Upgrade Recommendation: For existing original Max owners, upgrade only if you specifically want TV connectivity or need the enhanced vibration isolation. The audio improvements alone don't justify the cost for most users in my opinon.

Value and Verdict

At roughly $100 more than the original Max, the Max 2 represents excellent value for new buyers, especially those who can utilize the TV speaker functionality. It successfully addresses most complaints about the original while adding genuinely useful features.

The Max 2 excels for:

• Vinyl enthusiasts wanting maximum simplicity
• Apartment dwellers needing dual-purpose audio solutions
• Anyone seeking high-quality turntable support with zero feedback issues
• Users who want excellent Bluetooth performance alongside vinyl playback

Bottom Line: The Spinbase Max 2 feels like the complete realization of Andover's original vision. While not revolutionary, it's refined, versatile, and genuinely useful. For new buyers, it's an easy recommendation.

Rating: 4.5/5 - An excellent, refined product that successfully bridges the gap between audiophile performance and mainstream convenience. Buy it on Amazon!