When A Tweeter Doesn't Tweet: 4 Jaw Dropping Revelations

In 2025, the home audio market is packed with new brands, many of which rely on slick marketing rather than solid engineering. These brands often prioritize style over substance, leaving consumers with products that don't live up to their promises. As new audio equipment hits the shelves almost daily, it can be difficult to separate real quality from clever marketing.  

Here are four common tricks to watch out for when choosing your next home audio system, so you can make a sound investment that lasts. 

1: Fake High-End Frequency Response 

Audio equipment should reproduce sound accurately, capturing every detail of your favorite tracks. Some brands, however, exaggerate their specifications to appear more capable than they are. For example, we recently discovered a popular speaker system that is similar in style to the A2+ that claims to reach 20kHz but features a fake tweeter that isn’t even connected to the amplifier. Without a proper high-frequency driver, achieving such a range is impossible. These deceptive practices can lead to disappointment as consumers realize they aren't getting the crisp, clear highs promised by the product's marketing materials. 

A high-end frequency response is not just a number on a spec sheet. It directly affects the listening experience, especially when enjoying detailed music genres like classical or jazz, where instrument separation and clarity are critical. A real tweeter is essential for reproducing higher frequencies accurately, and a full-range driver alone simply cannot deliver the same performance. When evaluating audio equipment, always look for genuine components and avoid brands that inflate their specs. 

"Tweeter Driver Isn't Connected"

2: Misleading Low-End Frequency Claims 

Bass response is a critical factor in audio quality, yet many brands inflate their claims with misleading specs. Compact speakers that lack a dedicated subwoofer output may boast of deep bass, but they often fail to deliver. Even high-quality systems like the Audioengine A5+ Wireless Home Music System only reach down to 50 Hz without a subwoofer. This is an honest and realistic representation of what a compact system can achieve. Other brands often use digital sound processing to artificially boost low frequencies, a technique that might sound good on paper but rarely translates to real-world performance. 

The key to achieving true low-end depth lies in using a proper 2.1 setup with a dedicated subwoofer. Without this setup, you are likely to experience 'boomy' or 'muddy' bass, where the low frequencies overpower the mids and highs, reducing overall clarity. Systems that exaggerate their bass capabilities often struggle with sound pressure level (SPL) and decibel loss, meaning that the promised deep bass (if the tech specs are not a complete fabrication) is barely audible when the volume is turned up. 

3: Overpromising Wireless Performance 

Wireless audio technology has advanced significantly, but not all brands live up to their promises. Many systems boast about extensive Bluetooth range and stability, yet they often experience dropouts and poor sound quality in practice. Real-world testing is essential to verify these claims, as advertised specs do not always match actual performance. 

For example, while many brands claim long-range Bluetooth performance, only a few deliver consistently. Audioengine offers an industry-leading and first-in-class wireless range of up to 100 feet (30 meters) without sacrificing quality. By contrast, other systems may falter well within that distance, leading to a frustrating listening experience with interruptions and degraded sound. 

4: Exaggerated Build Quality and Materials 

Premium materials contribute to both the durability and the acoustic performance of audio equipment. However, when shopping online it can be difficult to determine if a product delivers on the appearance and quality promised. Genuine materials, like the real wood used in Audioengine Home Music Systems, provide real benefits, including reduced vibrations and better sound quality. 

Plastic cabinets often result in poor acoustic performance because they resonate more than real wood. This resonance can introduce unwanted noise and reduce the clarity of the sound. When choosing an audio system, examine the build materials carefully and be wary of brands that prioritize aesthetics over true performance. Quality construction is a sign of a brand that values long-term performance over short-term sales. 

Conclusion 

When investing in home audio equipment, don't be misled by marketing hype and exaggerated claims. Look for companies with a proven track record, transparent specifications, and real customer reviews. By focusing on authentic build quality and reliable performance, you can avoid the pitfalls of lesser brands and choose a system that delivers the audio quality you expect. 

Making an informed decision requires more than just reading a spec sheet—it involves understanding what those numbers mean in practical use. By steering clear of brands that use these common tricks, you can enjoy a home audio system that offers true value and exceptional sound quality for years to come.