Argon Audio Forte A5 WiFi Bookshelf Speakers, White (Pair)

The Argon Audio Forte A5 WiFi is an active bookshelf speaker with built-in network streaming that works over WiFi, HDMI ARC and a phono input without a separate amplifier or streamer. In white, the compact pair blends in almost invisibly against light walls – handy for living spaces where the tech isn't meant to play the lead role. Plug in, connect to WiFi, and you're up and running.

Why the Forte A5 WiFi?

In each speaker, fully digital Class D amplifiers with a combined 4 × 80 watts drive a 5-inch woofer with a dual-layer cone and a 1-inch soft-dome tweeter separately – with DSP and an active crossover instead of passive components in the signal path. The result is a surprisingly mature, controlled sound for this cabinet size, reaching down to 40 Hz. And yes: the amplifier power is exactly the same as in the big A55 column – the cabinet makes the difference, not the electronics.

What you get

Wireless streaming works via AirPlay 2, Chromecast and Spotify Connect, with multiroom running over DTS Play-Fi. There's also HDMI ARC for the TV, one optical and one analogue RCA input, a phono MM input for the turntable, Bluetooth 4.2 for quick playback from your phone, and a sub-out if you want more low end later. The second speaker connects via the included speaker cable, and setup is done through the app. A paid subscription isn't required – internet radio, vinyl and TV sound all work without one.

Who is the Forte A5 WiFi for – and who isn't it for?

Plain talk: large rooms with high ceilings and serious deep-bass ambitions are the domain of the Forte A55 WiFi – same technology, bigger cabinet. The A5 WiFi is the uncomplicated all-rounder for medium-sized living rooms, home offices or the sideboard under the TV, where a soundbar and a stereo system are both called for at once. Anyone looking for just a Bluetooth speaker is reaching a size too small – and leaving quite a bit on the table.

Our verdict

The Forte A5 WiFi brings the idea of a "whole system in a speaker" into bookshelf format: compact, low on cables, with a range of connections you rarely find in this size. Whether the A5 or A55 suits your room better is something we're happy to work out together – HD Zürisee in Wädenswil, 044 680 22 00 or WhatsApp 076 534 22 00 (text only, no calls).

Technical specifications

• Type: Active 2-way bookshelf speaker with network streaming (stereo pair: active speaker + passive speaker)
• Power: 4 × 80 W (Class D, fully digital signal path, DSP, active crossover)
• Tweeter: 1″ soft dome (neodymium)
• Woofer: 5″ (dual-layer cone)
• Frequency range: 40–20,000 Hz (± 3 dB)
• Max. resolution: 24-bit / 96 kHz
• WiFi streaming: AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify Connect
• Multiroom: DTS Play-Fi, AirPlay 2, Chromecast
• Bluetooth: 4.2 (AAC)
• Inputs: HDMI ARC, optical (Toslink), analogue RCA, phono MM
• Outputs: sub-out (RCA), speaker output to the passive second speaker
• Connectors: gold-plated
• Control: DTS Play-Fi app, remote control
• Cabinet: MDF, magnetic front grille
• Standby consumption: < 0.5 W
• Dimensions (W×H×D): 16.5 × 27 × 23 cm
• Weight: 8.2 kg (pair, manufacturer's net figure)
• Finish: White (matte lacquer)
• Included: pair of speakers, speaker cable (3 m), power cable, remote control with batteries, magnetic front grilles, felt pads, quick start guide

Frequently asked questions

Do I need an amplifier or streamer for the Forte A5 WiFi?

No. The amplifiers and streaming module sit inside the speaker. You connect it to your WiFi and play via AirPlay 2, Chromecast or Spotify Connect – a separate amplifier, AV receiver or network player isn't needed. TV, turntable and other sources connect directly to the active speaker.

What is the difference between the Forte A5 WiFi and the Forte A55 WiFi?

Both have the same electronics: 4 × 80 watts, the same inputs, the same streaming services. Only the cabinet differs. The A5 WiFi is the compact bookshelf speaker with one 5-inch woofer and 40 Hz reach, the A55 WiFi the floorstanding column with two woofers and 35 Hz for larger rooms.

Can I connect the Forte A5 WiFi to my TV?

Yes. Via HDMI ARC you connect it directly to your TV and control the volume with your TV remote. An optical input is also available as an alternative. This means the pair replaces a soundbar while remaining a full-fledged stereo system for music.

Is the Forte A5 WiFi delivered as a pair?

Yes. You get a stereo pair: one active speaker with amplifier, streaming and all the connections, plus the passive partner speaker, connected via the included three-metre speaker cable. Power cable, remote control and magnetic front grilles are included.

Why buy the Forte A5 WiFi from HD Zürisee?

Because with active streaming speakers, the details make the difference: network, placement, the HDMI handshake with your TV. That's exactly what we discuss with you beforehand, instead of leaving you alone with the box. Plus warranty handling as an authorised dealer and our own technician in-house.

Pairs well with

To get the compact speaker playing at ear height, speaker stands are worth it. A turntable for the phono input and clean cables & connectors also fit well. If you have more room to fill, take a look at the floorstanding speakers or the whole Argon Audio world.