Computer Speakers

Best 2.1 computer speakers

If you don't plan on much 3D gaming or movie watching on your computer, or you just don't have the space for so many speaker enclosures, experts say you'll do well with a good-quality 2.1 computer speaker system. Most audio CDs are recorded in stereo, so you'll hear music as it's been recorded with two small speakers and a subwoofer. Some two-channel speaker systems without a subwoofer are also available, but few do very well in most reviews.

While true audiophiles might be let down, reports say that the Altec Lansing VS2421 (*est. $40) is a solid choice among budget 2.1channel computer speaker systems. Frazier Barretto, writing for Techtree.com, says the Altec Lansing VS2421 is one of the best 2.1 PC speakers available. Audio quality is not perfect, but judged acceptable for a budget system. Most notably, the VS2421 is capable of producing powerful bass levels. However, high and midrange frequencies tend to fall short at higher volumes. Stuart Miles, in his review for Pocket-lint.co.uk, largely agrees, adding "audiophiles will say they lack warmth and mellowness to the overall sound." However, he says that as far as a budget upgrade goes, "you can't go wrong."

In addition to the satellites and subwoofer, the Altec Lansing VS2421 computer speakers also include a hardwired remote that allows for control of the volume and treble (bass controls are located on the rear of the subwoofer).The remote also includes a microphone, mute button, and an auxiliary input for your mp3 player or CD player. Miles isn't very impressed with the microphone's quality and grumbles that the remote is too large.

The Logitech X-230 (*est. $35) is an older 2.1 computer-speaker system that gets some begrudging recognition from reviewers. These PC speakers received a decent rating from the editors of OnSpeakers.com. When examined by TomsGuide.com, testers found the system to reproduce sound accurately, with balanced and clear highs, mid-tones and bass notes. Although the Logitech computer speaker doesn't get loud enough to pump music through more than one room, there is no distortion at the upper reaches of its volume. The Logitech X-230 PC speaker has a 20-watt subwoofer and two 6-watt satellite speakers.

Although the X-230 is still available from many retailers, Logitech has officially discontinued this model, replacing it with the Logitech X-240 (*est. $40) computer speakers. Overall, professional reviews are not overly positive. The harshest is at PC Magazine, where Tim Gideon says that the sound quality is "decent" given the computer speakers' modest price, but the picture is spoiled by "some seriously annoying flaws." The worst of those is a hum that's pretty noticeable at moderate volumes when the speakers are connected to a PC." Techgage.com's Rory Buszka is a little more complimentary -- but only a little. He doesn't note any hum, but pinpoints in detail a number of other sonic shortfalls. He does temper his criticism, however, by noting that given the price, the performance is not bad, and is an upgrade over the "cheap speakers" included as standard in many mainstream PCs. User reviews of these computer speakers at Amazon.com, while not extensive, are generally positive. One longer post, however, recommends sticking with the Logitech X-230 instead. The Logitech X-240 is a step down in power compared to the X-230; its subwoofer is rated at 15 watts, and the satellites at 5 watts each.

If you want something a little more high-end, the Logitech Z-2300 (*est. $90) has greater oomph. Several reviewers have found this computer speaker system to be their favorite of all of the 2.1 systems. On paper, the Logitech Z-2300 computer speaker has more power than the cheaper Logitech X-240 or Altec Lansing VS2421, with two 40-watt satellites and a 120-watt subwoofer. In reviews at CNet.com, editors call the Logitech Z-2300 "spectacular." Rich Brown writes, "If you're looking for a set of 2.1 speakers, buy these. It's as simple as that." The Z-2300, which is THX certified, is able to attain room-shaking volume with no distortion. Watching a Lord of the Rings DVD is "pure joy," continues Brown.

In addition to two somewhat plain looking satellite speakers and a cube-shaped subwoofer, the Logitech Z-2300 computer speaker comes with a small controller console, which houses a large volume knob, a bass control and a headphone jack.

Speaking of funky looks, the Harman/Kardon Soundsticks II system (*est. $110) has taken the 2.1 PC speaker market by storm and has given the Logitech Z-2300 a run for its money. In a review for PC Magazine, Sascha Segan remarks that "these speakers look a little like two tentacles and a jellyfish. But acoustically, they swim with the sharks, serving up clear treble, strong bass, and great imaging when we tested them using a CD player, a PC, and an iPod."

Constructed of sturdy clear plastic, the Soundsticks II consists of two 10-watt satellite speakers and a 20-watt sub. The frequency response of 44Hz to 20kHz allows for the delivery of punchy low ends and crisp highs. One criticism of this computer speaker system is the placement of the treble and sub controls on the rear of the sub, which makes it harder to adjust levels. Knob placement aside, the Harman/Kardon Soundsticks II computer speaker system is a solid choice for music, movies and gamers alike.

Bose makes several home theater and portable laptop speakers, along with other high-end audio gear. We found a nice review for the 3-piece Bose Companion 3 computer speaker (*est. $250) at PC Magazine. Don Labriola writes that the Bose is a great looking speaker system. Sound quality is "delightfully transparent." The Bose, however, is a little lacking when it comes to bass.

If you want to experience 5.1-channel sound, but lack the space for all those speaker enclosures or a suitable sound card, a computer speaker system with simulated surround sound might be worth considering. TruSurround HD from SRS Labs is one popular technology. TruSurround HD simulates surround sound by creating phantom speakers that seem to surround the listener. The downside of TruSurround HD is that it adds costs to the system, and its effectiveness varies greatly with the source material and other factors. In many cases it may make more sense to purchase a new soundcard and a 5.1 system, provided you have the space.

The Bose Companion 5 (* est. $400) is the Companion 3's big brother. It uses Bose's TruSpace surround processing technology, which essentially works the same as TruSurround HD. Intended for users who watch movies and play games in a home-office environment, these computer speakers receive a rating of "excellent" from the editors of CNet.com. In addition to the two satellite speakers and single subwoofer, there's a separate volume control unit that also includes a headphone output and an input for an MP3 player. Seemingly all reviewers agree that this system produces great sound, but at a steep price. For example, PC Magazine's Tim Gideon writes, "It's a solid product, but for $400 I'd like a little more."

Logitech Z-Cinema (*est. $250) 2.1-channel computer speakers feature surround-sound technology (TruSurround HD in this case) at a more affordable price than the Bose Companion 5 system. Reviews for the Z-Cinema, however, are mixed. PC Magazine's Gideon is impressed with the value, noting that while the speakers aren't cheap, "it's a fair price for what you get." However, he is taken aback by a number of issues, including a large subwoofer, intrusive software and a remote that is reportedly difficult to master.

MaximumPC's Michael Brown says that audiophiles have no need to audition the Z-Cinema, but they are ideal for use with a PC-based home theater. Brown is a skeptic when it comes to simulated surround, but says that "we found ourselves diggin' the SRS TruSurround HD that Logitech uses." He adds that it does a great job of fooling listeners that sounds are originating from behind their heads.

The Parrot Wireless Hi-Fi System (*est. $450) allows users to stream music from Bluetooth devices, or from a PC via an included dongle. These computer speakers offer a built-in Bluetooth receiver, two-channel Class-D amplifiers with 60 watts of output per channel and upgradeable firmware (via the Bluetooth link from a PC). What sets these computer speakers apart is Bluetooth connectivity, which allows wireless audio streaming. CNet.com's David Carnoy notes that while the PC speakers themselves are quite good, already compressed MP3 sources are compressed further still -- something that the quality of the computer speakers readily reveals if the source material is not high quality to begin with. Carnoy also points out that although these PC speakers are wireless, each is powered by an AC adapter, which is plugged into the wall. Finally, the Parrot computer speakers are very expensive.

If you lack the room for a subwoofer, 2.0-channels computer speaker systems are available. Less expensive options are almost universally poor performers and get little respect from reviewers. Moving up in quality, and price, EverythingUSB.com says that the 60-watt Logitech Z-10 (*est. $140) is an excellent 2.0 speaker system, with "phenomenal sound quality and zero distortion or overemphasized frequencies." The bass will fall short however for those who prefer to feel their music as opposed to just listen to it, as this unit does not include a separate subwoofer.

The Logitech Z-10 features an LCD screen that displays track information and other system statistics. That, along with lighted touch-sensitive buttons and a black on silver finish, makes this system very nice looking. The display and buttons are designed to work only under Windows, but there's a third-party solution that brings full Mac compatibility; see the Alternative Considerations section below.

5.1-channel computer speakers

A 5.1-channel computer speaker setup, which includes four satellite speakers, a center speaker and a subwoofer, requires a bit more effort to install. Ideally, the speakers should be mounted on the wall or sit on tables at ear level -- two satellite speakers in front to the right and left, two satellites behind you, and the center channel either on the wall directly in front or mounted on top of your computer screen. The subwoofer can go on the floor, usually under your desk. You'll have to contend with wires snaking around the room to each speaker. Some people run the wires up and along the ceiling, while others run them along the baseboards. For those who don't want to contend with an excess of wires, wireless computer speakers are available, but reviews suggest that sound quality might not be as good.

There's more universal support these days for sound cards that enable 5.1-channel audio. In fact, we took a look at the sound options on some new Dell desktops and found that even the default sound card on most midrange desktops supports six audio channels (five for the satellite speakers and one for the subwoofer). This means that most new computers have native support for 5.1-channel audio.

The Logitech Z-5500 (*est. $220) computer speakers consistently score excellent ratings in reviews. According to TomsGuide.com, the Z-5500 has a terrific subwoofer capable of high volume and subtlety without distortion. At MaximumPC, editors croon over its "hair raising, soul crushing power."

PC Magazine's Don Labriola is a little more reserved in his review of the Logitech Z-5500 computer speakers. Although he agrees with other reviewers that the Logitech can attain "frighteningly high volume levels and gut-thumping bass," Labriola writes that the low end of the sounds spectrum is too exaggerated, overwhelming the mid and high frequency output. Still, this kind of floor-pounding volume and bass performance is exactly the characteristic many gamers and movie-lovers look for.

The Logitech Z-5500 PC speaker system is THX-certified, meaning it conforms to the digital sound standard established by Star Wars creator George Lucas. This six-piece speaker system (one big woofer and small four satellites plus a center channel) has 505-watts of power and can create realistic surround sound from ordinary two-channel inputs -- from, say, your TV or stereo. Decoders for Dolby and DTS are on board, though if you have a top-of-the-line sound card, you won't really need them, since they're probably included on the card. The Logitech Z-5500 Digital speaker system has a separate control module, with appropriate buttons and knobs on the front and all the inputs/outputs on the back. The Z-5500 also includes coaxial and optical digital inputs, so you can connect it to a game console, home theater setup or portable audio player. If your PC sound card has a digital audio output, you can also use that connection to reduce wiring clutter and keep the signals in the digital domain for as long as possible.

Logitech's biggest competition in this arena may be the Creative GigaWorks ProGamer G500 (*est. $210) , a 310-watt PC speaker system. CNet's editors say the ProGamer is a great choice for DVDs and games, because it's nice and loud with lots of power. Like the Logitech Z-5500, the ProGamer speaker also has a console module, but it's not quite as sophisticated as the one on the Logitech, and it doesn't include decoders for Dolby Digital or DTS audio specifications. That means you can't hook up the ProGamer to a game console or home-theater setup without using a receiver.

MaximumPC is also a fan of the Creative GigaWorks ProGamer G500. Its bass performance is great for rendering explosions. It gets "crisp, piercing highs that never crackled or sounded muddy," writes Josh Norem. Testers did find a slight problem with rattle on the very deepest bass levels. At PC World, editors rate the Logitech Z-5500 over the Creative Gigaworks ProGamer G500, but not by a large margin. Editors say the Logitech is best overall, but that the Creative speakers do a nice job with stereo music, and if you mainly plan on listening to music instead of movies and games, you might opt for the ProGamer instead. Of course, if your focus is on mainly music-listening, then you could just go with a 2.1 system.

Those interested in the Creative GigaWorks ProGamer G500 may also want to consider the Creative GigaWorks ProGamer G550W (*est. $340) , which adds wireless connectivity for the rear-channel speakers. The benefit of wireless rear speakers is that it eliminates the need to run wires from front to back, allowing for a cleaner, easier installation.

Michael Brown, of MaximumPC, auditioned the ProGamer G550W computer speakers, rating them an 8 out of 10, explaining that although they sounded good and offered plenty of power, there was a constant hiss emitted from the rear speakers. Additionally, you'll need to make room on your desktop for the wireless transmitter unit. Note that both the ProGamer G500 and G550W appear to have been recently discontinued. However, we saw good availability for both, and they both can still be ordered directly from Creative's website.

If more than $200 is more that you want to spend on 5.1 surround-sound computer speakers, there are good choices in the $100 range. Although at this price point, you'll have to consider how important surround sound is to you, since there are some excellent 2.1 PC speakers available for about the same money, such as the Logitech Z-2300 discussed above.

The Altec Lansing FX5051 (*est. $180) is "great for office work and road warriors, but inadequate for gamers, graphics professionals, and media center users," according to EverythingUSB.com. This 5.1 computer speaker system was praised for its clever design, excellent sound reproduction and deep bass, although it fell short in other areas. Reviewers explain that a low hiss is constantly present when the unit is powered on and that it doesn't support multi-channel audio for all games. One advantage is that thanks to its USB connectivity, you don't need a six channel sound card to enjoy surround. Still, reviews suggest that for the price, there are better computer speakers on the market than the FX5051.

PC Magazine give a general thumbs up to the Logitech G51 (*est. $150) . Jamie Lendino of PC Magazine explains that Logitech "attempts to bring the power of larger, more-expensive systems like the still-current Logitech Z-5500 to one that's half the price," adding that for the most part, they have succeeded. Lendino goes on to explain how although the G51 does not match the Logitech Z-5500's sonic accuracy, its 155 watts will prove to be powerful enough for gamers and movie buffs on a budget. Techgage's Rory Buszka also likes the G51 computer speaker setup, calling it a "worthy contender in the world of surround gaming audio." He does add, however, that the price is on the high side for a mid-range surround sound package.

We found the same type of evaluation for the Logitech X-530 (*est. $60) . With a total of 70 watts, the X-530 isn't going to bring down the house, but at TomsGuide.com, its sound reproduction is described as precise and stable. At CNet.com, editors call the Logitech X-530 "passable," adding that a decent 2.1 configuration is ultimately a better choice.

Though still available at some retailers, the Logitech X-530 has been discontinued and replaced with the Logitech X-540 (*est. $75) computer speaker system. We didn't spot many professional reviews, but Techgage has a generally positive write-up. Greg King says that the X-540 does not disappoint, and that he has heard nothing else in its price range sound as good. Reading between the lines, however -- "I suppose I could also pick apart the overall sound of the X-540 but that really isn't that fair," he writes -- one can surmise that he's heard more expensive speakers that sound better. User reviews at Amazon.com are reasonably positive.

Portable laptop speakers

All of the above computer speakers can be used with a laptop, but because of their subwoofers, they're best left in one place. If you need to take PC speakers with you, you'll appreciate a portable notebook speaker. Most portable PC speakers have two satellites and no subwoofer. Some have just one speaker.

The Logitech AudioHub (*est. $60) is a 15-watt portable speaker system that includes a powered, three-port USB hub. The AudioHub's speaker configuration consists of a pair of 2-inch tweeters and 1 3-inch driver that acts as a woofer. A removable webcam stand allows for adjustable height while video chatting or holding a web conference. One downside is that a carrying case isn't included. Everything USB's Eric Hanson gives the AudioHub a conditional recommendation, saying it is best for those who have a permanent place to use their laptop rather than for those who want something to use wherever they happen to be. DigitalTrends.com's Josh Norem compliments the sound quality, but adds that the computer speakers aren't especially powerful and that the AudioHub is a little pricey. User reviews at Amazon.com are very good.

With an overall weight of less than two pounds and an included hard-shell carrying case, the Logitech V20 (*est. $55) is a good travel companion. The V20 includes hardware controls for functions like Play/Pause, Stop, Next, Previous, Mute and Volume Up and Down -- a feature that's extremely uncommon in portable PC speakers. However, for these to work, the controlled application -- such as WinAmp -- must be active on the desktop. EverythingUSB reports that although the Logitech V20 are USB powered, there was no sign of the common "digital hiss," and that the laptop speakers could reach rather loud volumes.

The Klipsch ProMedia Ultra 2.0 (*est. $100) are 2.0-channel laptop speakers that get consideration as both desktop and portable solutions. PC Magazine's Don Labriola says that these speakers produce "some of the most live-sounding output we've heard from any value-priced two-piece system." However, as Eric Dahl of PC World points out, calling these speakers "portable" is a stretch." Think of the Ultra 2.0s as the loaded 17-inch laptops of mobile speakers," he writes. "You won't want to carry them around all day, but you can take them from place to place easily, and, once you get there, you'll have a nearly desktop-quality experience." Sound quality is generally considered first rate, though we've seen comments that the volume could be more robust. These laptop speakers can be hard to find in stores.

Important Features: Computer speakers

Here's what experts say to consider when buying a PC speaker system:

• Generally, music lovers will do well with a 2.1 speaker system, while gamers and movie buffs will appreciate a 5.1 setup. Music is nearly always recorded in stereo -- which only needs two speakers for the best sound. 5.1 speakers can upmix stereo sound to three additional speakers, but no sonic qualities are gained. Movies and games, on the other hand usually support 5-channel surround sound. Not all sound cards support more than two speakers, so check to see that you have a compatible card in your PC before buying a surround-sound system.

• If you don't have the space or the sound card for 5.1-surround, a speaker system with simulated surround sound might be worth considering. Some speaker systems include technologies such as TruSurround HD which simulates a 5-channel surround field using just two speakers. Reviews say the effect can be surprisingly convincing, though the experience varies with the source material.

• Make sure you have room for the subwoofer. Much larger than the satellite speakers, the subwoofer boosts the quality of lower-frequency, or bass, sounds. A subwoofer produces non-directional sounds, so it doesn't matter where you put it. Preferably, though, it should be small enough to fit under your desk.

• Don't get more wattage than you need. This is the sum total of the wattage of each of the system's satellite speakers and subwoofers. The five-piece Logitech Z-5500 Digital has a whopping 505 watts, though most systems are far less powerful (which isn't necessarily a bad thing, if you're not using your PC to wake the neighborhood). A headphone jack is also a good idea for late-night multimedia sessions.

• If you want to also use your computer speakers with a home theater setup, a game console or an iPod (or other MP3 player), check the specs. Not all PC speakers support those other uses. With a digital audio output, you can hook up the speakers directly to a game console. Otherwise, you'll have to route the speakers through a receiver. Some models come with an adapter for game consoles. Look for a line-in port if you want to plug in a music player.

• Frequency response reflects on sound quality. This measures how accurately the speakers reproduce low- and high-frequency sounds. The human ear can pick up sounds down to about 20 hertz (Hz) on the low end and up to about 20 kilohertz (kHz) on the high end. Most speakers can hit 20kHz easily, but they tend to vary a bit more on the low end. See our Comparison Chart for specifications on the speakers listed in ConsumerSearch Fast Answers.

• Wireless units can reduce clutter. Wireless speaker systems make it easier to install a speaker system, especially ones with lots of satellite speakers. However, these systems are more costly than their wired counterparts, and there are fewer choices. And even wireless speakers really aren't -- you still need to connect to a wireless receiver in most cases -- but at least they eliminate the room-spanning wire runs typical in a surround-sound system.

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

# of Picks	Model (With Retailer Links)	Details from Amazon.com
4	Logitech Z-5500 (*est. $220)	details
2	Logitech Z-2300 (*est. $90)	details
2	Harman/Kardon Soundsticks II (*est. $110)	details
2	Altec Lansing VS2421 (*est. $40)	details
1 each	Klipsch ProMedia Ultra 2.0, Altec Lansing VS2421 , Audioengine A5 , Logitech G51 , Logitech X-230 , Logitech AudioHub , Logitech V20 , Logitech Z-10

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.

Sponsored links