Acoustic Energy AE100 MK2 Bookshelf Speakers Satin White (Pair)

Acoustic Energy AE100² — Bookshelf / Bookshelf Loudspeaker (Pair)

The AE100² is the entry point to Acoustic Energy's loudspeaker range — and it sets a remarkably high bar. A ground-up redesign of the original 100 Series rather than a simple refresh, it packs performance that genuinely belies its compact dimensions and accessible price point. If you're building your first serious hi-fi system or need a capable compact speaker for a second room, the AE100² should be near the top of your shortlist.

Despite its modest footprint, this is a speaker engineered to deliver real dynamic impact. The 130mm paper-cone mid/bass driver is built around an ultra-high force, long-throw motor system — technology that trickles down directly from Acoustic Energy's premium 500 Series. It gives the AE100² a full-bodied, punchy bass response that you wouldn't expect from a cabinet this size, along with the headroom to play louder and cleaner than many competitors at the price.

Wide Dispersion Tweeter Technology

The 25mm soft dome tweeter is housed within Acoustic Energy's Wide Dispersion Technology (WDT) waveguide, a feature shared across the range. This ensures smooth, consistent treble output over a wide listening area rather than confining the sweet spot to a single chair. The result is an open, spacious soundstage with natural high-frequency air — impressive at any price, let alone this one.

Smarter Cabinet Engineering

In a first for this price bracket, the AE100² uses HDF (High Density Fibreboard) construction rather than standard MDF. This allows thinner cabinet walls with no loss of mass or stiffness, freeing up internal volume for improved bass response without increasing the speaker's external dimensions. A rear-mounted slot port — another feature borrowed from higher up the range — provides a larger cross-sectional area than a conventional round port, reducing air turbulence and distortion for cleaner low-frequency output even when you push the volume.

Fit, Finish and Flexibility

The AE100² takes visual cues from the award-winning 500 Series, with gently rounded top and bottom edges and a quality vinyl veneer finish available in Black, Satin White, or Walnut. Slim magnetic-fit cloth grilles are included for those who prefer a clean, driver-free look. Equally at home on dedicated speaker stands or a bookshelf, the AE100² is a genuinely versatile performer for stereo listening, as part of a multi-channel home cinema system, or paired with the AE Sub for full-range capability.