Computer Speaker Review

The best speaker reviews compare sound quality and value

For this update, we found the best computer speaker reviews at PCMag.com. All but the oldest models get extensive listening trials, and the reports cover high and low points in detail. Australia's GoodGearGuide.com also keeps up with the latest in PC speakers, though their reviews aren't as detailed as PCMag's and some models aren't available in the United States. CNET's reviews are on par with those at PCMag.com, but the site has reviewed fewer computer speakers.

ConsumerReports.org doesn't cover computer speakers, but some other consumer magazines from around the world, including Britain's Which? magazine and Australia's Choice magazine, do weigh in with some helpful information, though not all of the computer speakers covered are available in the U.S. Amazon.com and Newegg.com are the best places to read user-written reviews.

Like the larger systems used for home theater, computer speakers are classified and marketed by the number of audio channels they support. The most basic type is a 2.0-channel system (more conventionally called stereo) that includes speakers for just the right and left audio channels. A 2.1-channel speaker system is similar, but includes a subwoofer (that's the ".1") to fill in some lower frequencies that the small enclosures of PC speakers usually just can't handle.

With digital music formats (such as MP3), movies, home digital-video editing and high-adrenaline games now everyday pursuits, 5.1-channel computer speaker systems have become very popular. These add a center-channel speaker and two rear-channel speakers to a 2.1-channel system to create a full surround-sound experience. Reviews say that 5.1-channel PC speaker systems can create an exciting listening experience for films and games, taking you into another world with spaceships whizzing past your ear or enemies creeping up behind you. Most modern digital sound cards can handle 5.1-channel sound, though you should check your computer before buying speakers.

As you look about, you'll also find some 7.1-channel PC speaker systems. Those add two additional rear-surround speakers for what's supposed to be an even more immersive surround-sound experience. Still, many experts question their value. PCMag.com's Don Labriola puts it best: "Depending on whom you talk to, 7.1-channel audio is either the Holy Grail of immersive sound or the answer to a question nobody asked." Additionally, there's relatively little content out there that's optimized for 7.1-channel surround sound and few sound cards that support it.