At first glance, differences between Andover's SpinBase 2 ($349) and the MAX 2 might not be obvious—dimensions are roughly the same and the SpinBase MAX 2 retains the series’ understated appearance with its heathered fabric grille and classic control knob. But inside, things get more serious. The MAX 2 trades its predecessor’s vented cabinet for an acoustic suspension enclosure. That means sealed—and for audio performance, that generally means tighter, more accurate bass.
According to Bob Hazelwood, Andover’s Director of Engineering and Product, the change was made to improve tonality and low-end roll-off. “Although the MAX 2 does play louder than the previous version, our goal was to also deliver more apparent detail and better tonality,” Hazelwood explains. “I’d say the SpinBase MAX 2 has a more refined sound, with greater neutrality and a more extended frequency range.”
The MAX 2 steps things up with six total drivers: four 3.5-inch woofers and two ¾-inch silk-dome tweeters. That’s a notable upgrade over the oval-shaped woofers used in the base SpinBase 2 model. With 100 watts of Class D amplification onboard, the new system is rated to dig down to 50Hz—ten hertz deeper than its predecessor—and can deliver a room-filling 270-degree soundstage that’s designed to spread music evenly across a space.
Connectivity remains a highlight. There are phono and line-level inputs, an optical digital input, and support for USB flash drive playback. You’ll also find a subwoofer output for system expansion and a headphone output for private listening. And speaking of private listening, the MAX 2 features separate Bluetooth chips for 'send' and 'receive,' allowing users to stream music in and send it back out to Bluetooth-enabled headphones or speakers without hiccups.
Day-to-day use is simplified with an included remote control, offering access to volume, input selection, and tone controls (bass and treble). As part of the Spin Series, the MAX 2 is designed to complement other Andover gear, including the SpinDeck 2 turntable, SpinSub subwoofer, and SpinStand LP rack.
Physically, it still measures 18" wide by 13.5" deep, but the cabinet height increases to 4.25", raised to accommodate the larger woofers and acoustic refinements. Available in both black and white, it blends easily into modern or retro setups alike.
The SpinBase MAX 2 is priced at $549 and ships with a power adapter, RCA cable (with ground), and a quick start guide. It’s available now at andoveraudio.com, Amazon, and other authorized retailers.
Click here to purchase the SpinBase MAX 2 on Amazon.
Click here to purchase the SpinBase 2 on Amazon.
Related Reading:
- Andover Audio Launches SpinBase 2, Featuring Enhanced Sound, Connectivity, and Style
- Andover Audio Launches SpinBase MAX, a More Power Version of Its Popular Turntable Speaker System
- SpinDeck MAX Is the Perfect Mate for Andover Audio's SpinBase Turntable Speaker System
- Andover Audio's SpinSub Brings Low-End Muscle to Its SpinBase Turntable System
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