Computer Speakers Reviews

For this update, we found the best computer speaker reviews at PC Magazine. Though the site doesn't do the rigorous testing of some enthusiast sites, most reviewed PC speakers get extensive listening trials and the reports do a great job of covering high and low points. CNet.com's reviews are on par with those at PC Magazine, but the site has reviewed far fewer computer speakers of late. Techtree.com's reviews are also solid, but that site is based in India and some of the PC speakers covered are not available in the United States. Sister sites Tom's Hardware and Tom's Guide produce the most detailed reports, but neither reviews computer speakers often enough to be a top resource. Consumer Reports has tested home-theater speakers, but not computer speakers.

With digital music formats (such as MP3), movies, home digital-video editing and high-adrenaline game play fast becoming everyday pursuits, manufacturers have been pumping out more 5.1, 6.1 and even 7.1 speaker systems.

Reviews say that 5.1 PC speaker systems can create a wonderful listening experience. Among top quality 5.1 computer-speaker systems, the Logitech Z-5500 (*est. $220) is a top choice in the reviews we read. Reports note that it delivers room shaking bass, natural mid tones and crisp highs. Plus it's got enough power and accuracy that you can hear spaceships whiz past your head while watching a Star Wars DVD, or hear a twig snap behind when playing a first-person shooter game.

A 7.1 speaker system supports two rear-channel speakers in addition to the 5.1's standard setup of three front speakers, two side surround speakers and one subwoofer. The problem is that there's very little content out there that's optimized for 7.1 surround sound.

The extra two channels perhaps benefit gamers the most because 7.1 sound can be rendered in PC games with Microsoft's DirectSound and Creative's EAX sound processing. Nearly all audio CDs are recorded in stereo (which only requires two channels). Many movies and games have DTS or Dolby Digital audio, which sounds best on 5.1 computer speakers. Some newer audio formats (DTS-EX, DTS-HD MA, Dolby ProLogic II and IIX, and Dolby TrueHD, for example) have 6.1 or 7.1 channels of audio information, but games and movies having these formats are still the minority, and those that do are also capable of outputting great 5.1-channel sound, as well.

Also, keep in mind that a 7.1-channel PC speaker system needs to be paired with a high-end sound card capable of outputting eight channels of audio (seven for the satellite speakers and one for the subwoofer). Most digital sound cards can handle 5.1-channel sound (five channels for the satellite speakers and one for the subwoofer). Low-end sound cards are rated for 2.1-channel sound (two satellites plus a subwoofer).  ... Continued

Our Consensus Report shows how many times products are top-ranked by reviewers included in our
All The Reviews Reviewed chart.

Regardless of whether you are looking for a two channel computer speaker system, a surround-sound speaker system or laptop speakers, Logitech models usually go straight to the top in reviewer's eyes. That said, the Harman/Kardon Soundsticks II system gets consideration from reviewers for its great sound and funky looks. The Altec Lansing VS2421 won't win fans among audiophiles, but even the harshest critics say it is among the better budget choices.