PSB Alpha AM5 Powered Bookshelf Speakers

PSB Alpha AM5 Powered Bookshelf Speakers at Vinyl Sound Buffalo NY

The PSB Alpha AM5 is an active powered bookshelf loudspeaker combining a built-in 50W × 2 RMS amplifier with a versatile input suite and DSP sound mode control, providing a complete desktop or bookshelf audio system without the need for a separate amplifier or receiver. Available at Vinyl Sound in Buffalo, New York, the AM5 features a ¾" aluminum dome tweeter with ferrofluid cooling and neodymium magnet, and a 5¼" cone woofer with rubber surround in a bass reflex MDF cabinet. Inputs include 3.5mm analog, phono MM (RCA) for direct turntable connection, optical digital, USB, and Qualcomm aptX Bluetooth wireless streaming. Frequency response measures 55Hz to 20kHz (±3dB) with an LF cutoff of 36Hz (−10dB). A subwoofer output is available for extending bass when paired with an external subwoofer. The Alpha AM5 is available in Matte Black and Matte White finishes and is part of Vinyl Sound Buffalo's full speaker collection, which includes powered, bookshelf, and floorstanding speakers from leading audiophile brands.

Inputs, Connectivity, and DSP Features

The PSB Alpha AM5 is designed as an all-in-one audio solution with a comprehensive input selection covering analog, digital, and wireless sources. The phono MM input accepts a direct connection from a turntable with a moving-magnet cartridge, without requiring a separate phono preamplifier, making the AM5 a practical and compact vinyl listening system. The optical digital input connects to televisions, CD players, and streaming devices, while the USB input supports direct connection to computers. Qualcomm aptX Bluetooth enables wireless streaming from smartphones, tablets, and laptops with low-latency, high-quality transmission. DSP-controlled sound modes allow the listener to adjust the AM5's tonal balance for different content types, including dialogue emphasis and soundstage enhancement. Digital signal processing also enables consistent near-field performance regardless of placement position.

Cabinet Construction and Design

The Alpha AM5 cabinet is constructed from MDF with a vinyl sleeve finish and MDF front baffle, available in Matte Black and Matte White. Perforated metal grilles are included and attach magnetically for tool-free removal. The AM5's bass reflex design extends low-frequency output to 36Hz at −10dB from a cabinet measuring 6¾" wide × 11⅖" tall × 9½" deep, making it suited to desktop, shelf, and small room placement. The AM5's DSP-tuned frequency response ensures accurate performance in nearfield listening positions typical of desktop or small room setups.

Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the PSB Alpha AM5 need a separate amplifier?

No. The Alpha AM5 is a powered speaker with a built-in 50W × 2 RMS amplifier. It connects directly to your source — turntable, TV, computer, or smartphone — without requiring a separate amplifier or receiver. This makes the AM5 a self-contained audio system suited to desktop, bedroom, or small living room use.

Can I connect a turntable directly to the PSB Alpha AM5?

Yes. The Alpha AM5 includes a dedicated phono MM input (RCA) that accepts a direct connection from any turntable with a moving-magnet cartridge, without requiring a separate phono preamplifier. Turntables with a built-in phono preamp can also be connected via the 3.5mm analog input. The AM5 is a practical and compact vinyl listening solution requiring no additional components.

What Bluetooth codec does the PSB Alpha AM5 support?

The Alpha AM5 supports Qualcomm aptX Bluetooth, which provides higher audio quality and lower latency than standard SBC Bluetooth. aptX is compatible with most Android smartphones, Windows computers, and many other devices. For iOS devices (iPhone and iPad), standard AAC Bluetooth is used, which the AM5 also supports.

Can I add a subwoofer to the PSB Alpha AM5?

Yes. The Alpha AM5 includes a subwoofer output for connecting an external powered subwoofer, extending bass reproduction below the AM5's 55Hz (±3dB) lower limit. This allows the AM5 to function as the satellite speaker section of a 2.1 desktop or small room system when additional bass output is required.

What sound modes does the PSB Alpha AM5 offer?

The Alpha AM5 includes DSP-controlled sound modes that allow the listener to adjust tonal balance for different listening scenarios, including modes that emphasize dialogue clarity and modes that expand the perceived soundstage. The DSP processing also tunes the AM5's frequency response for consistent near-field performance across different placement positions.

Can I use the PSB Alpha AM5 as a TV speaker?

Yes. The Alpha AM5's optical digital input connects directly to most televisions with an optical (TOSLINK) output, providing significantly better sound quality than built-in TV speakers. The dialogue sound mode enhances vocal clarity for TV and film content. The AM5 can also connect to a TV wirelessly via aptX Bluetooth if the television supports Bluetooth audio output.

Where to buy PSB Alpha AM5 powered speakers in Buffalo NY?

The PSB Alpha AM5 is available from Vinyl Sound, an authorized PSB Speakers dealer in Buffalo, New York. Vinyl Sound offers in-store demonstration, expert setup advice, and shipping across the continental United States. Contact Vinyl Sound Buffalo by phone or email to purchase or arrange an appointment.