Amazon just dropped its best smart speakers yet, but they're going to cost you. The new Echo Studio 2nd Gen and Echo Dot Max feature completely redesigned circular bodies, enhanced audio capabilities, and built-in smart home hubs. The catch? Both models carry premium price tags that position them as Amazon's flagship audio devices rather than budget-friendly options.
Amazon is betting big on premium audio with its latest Echo lineup refresh. The company's fall hardware event in September revealed a strategic shift away from its overcrowded speaker portfolio toward two standout models: the Echo Studio 2nd Gen and the newly renamed Echo Dot Max.
The move signals Amazon's intent to streamline its Echo ecosystem around proven winners. According to WIRED's hands-on review, both speakers deliver "fantastic sound performance" while integrating Amazon's newest Alexa+ assistant right out of the box. But this premium positioning comes with a price jump that positions the Echo Dot Max at what the flagship Echo used to cost.
The redesign is immediately striking. Both models feature circular bodies with an indented center reminiscent of a speaker dust cap - a design language that screams premium audio. The volume and mute buttons now sit within that indent, while a new touch control on top lets users pause or resume music with a simple tap. The familiar Alexa light ring has been repositioned around the indent, creating a more cohesive visual experience.
"Amazon is finally planning on cutting down its lineup to focus on the best of the best," notes WIRED's review, highlighting how several Echo models have had limited availability this year. The screen-equipped Echo Show 10 and once-flagship Echo have been notably scarce, with new-generation Echo Show 8 and 11 models due in November seemingly positioned as replacements.
The strategic implications are clear. Amazon is banking on the popularity of its Echo Dot line while pushing users toward higher-margin products. The Echo Dot Max essentially inherits the flagship Echo's price point, while budget-conscious consumers get funneled toward speakers like the Echo Pop.
Technically, both new models pack significant upgrades. The Echo Studio 2nd Gen maintains its position as Amazon's immersive audio powerhouse, while the Echo Dot Max gains the smart home hub functionality that was previously exclusive to higher-end models. This hub integration means both speakers can directly control Zigbee and Matter devices without requiring additional hardware.
