Best 2.0 powered computer speakers?

I have not noticed any volume issues like you describe.

I have both Audioengine A2 and A5+ speakers and have been very impressed. The A5+ speakers were amazing the few times I actually hooked them to my CD player rather than using my iPhone as the source.

The volume knob on the Audioengine A2 speakers is on the back. This isn't ideal. I don't find it to be a huge issue, but certainly understand why some might. It depends on if you plan to use the volume control on your source ( I.e. Computer) or will need to adjust the speakers all the time.

I switched the speakers left and right to get the knob on the inside of the back where it could be reached. I also swapped the RCA inputs to restore the stereo sound.

The A2 cabinets are about 1 inch thick which is nuts for such a small speaker.