Typically, laptop computer manufacturers do not focus on the power and quality of built-in speakers. The first thing is power in the filling, and sound is a secondary matter. But do not forget that laptops are used by sound producers, musicians, sound engineers and simply true connoisseurs of pure and high-quality sound. But here’s the problem - a good audio system for a laptop is large in size and adds another couple of hundred dollars to the cost of the device, due to which the popularity of the brand will decrease.
The most reasonable solution is portable speakers for a laptop, which are also ideal for a desktop computer. All that remains is to choose the technical parameters and price that suits the user.
Edifier R2800
Edifier R2800 Photo: Edifier R2800
The speakers of the stereo audio system are built according to a classic three-way design with an individual amplifier for each channel. Magnetic shielding of the speakers allows you to achieve a high level of sound detail. Connection to other devices is carried out through optical, coaxial, RCA inputs. The speakers are made of 20 mm thick chipboard; the volume control and input switch are located on the side panel. Digital tone control using RCA technology. The designers paid special attention to the bass. The eight-inch rubber-mounted woofer and bass reflex driver provide expressive bass at any volume level.
Specifications
| Dimensions | 258x463x320 mm |
| Weight | 27.8 kg |
| output power | 140 W |
| frequency range | 42–20 kHz |
| Nonlinear distortion level is less | 0,5% |
Advantages and disadvantages
Excellent acoustics and sound, high-quality assembly and materials, presence of a remote control
Large size and weight, insufficient functionality of the remote control
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Passive subwoofer and its connection
This device is a simple design of a powerful speaker in a box of a certain size and shape. You can connect this type of subwoofer to your music system through an amplifier. If you already have one, then there will be no problems, but if not, you will have to fork out more. After that, it can be connected, just like the active one. If you decide to connect a subwoofer without an amplifier, you should know that you are acting at your own peril and risk, you may burn something. So, it is connected to the circuit in parallel, that is, in the same way as ordinary speakers, or to a separate output of the amplifier. In addition, the additional resistance of a fairly powerful speaker in the circuit has a bad effect on the quality and volume of the system. At the same time, some processes occur with frequencies that deteriorate the quality of the bass. So to get good sound, you will have to move it around the room until you get the optimal sound.
Top 7 best computer speakers of 2022
Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4
Harman Kardon SoundSticks 4 Photo: Harman
This audio system was created as a multimedia system, but it is so successful that it is quite capable of being the main one for a multimedia center. The down-firing subwoofer produces rich, rich sound. Its playback range is perfectly matched to the two satellite speakers. The connection to the audio source is made via a cable with a 3.5 mm connector. The main advantage of this gadget is the ability to connect to the Bluetooth interface, that is, to any smartphone. Harman True Stream technology ensures the best playback quality regardless of the source. An additional plus is the futuristic design with fluorescent lighting, stylish details, and touch controls.
Specifications
| Speaker sizes | 270x45x50 mm |
| Subwoofer size | 270x210 mm |
| Weight | 4.4 kg |
| Power | 100 W |
| frequency range | 40-20000 Hz |
Advantages and disadvantages
Stylish design, small size, Bluetooth connection
No audio cable included, poor Bluetooth connection quality
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Best AV Receivers
The receiver is the heart of the home media system
Edifier C2XD
Edifier C2XD Photo: Edifier
The main feature of this speaker system is an external amplifier, where signal sources, a subwoofer and satellite speakers are connected. The proprietary EIDC sound control dynamically adjusts the output signal characteristics to correct distortion caused by poor room acoustics. The device is equipped with a remote control. Its functions include adjusting the volume and tone levels and selecting the signal source. Input connectors: RCA and mini jack, there is a headphone output.
Specifications
| Speaker sizes | 90x180x130 mm |
| Speaker power | 2x9 W |
| Subwoofer size | 232x242x288 mm |
| Subwoofer power | 35 W |
| Amplifier Dimensions | 78x255x250 mm |
| Frequency range | 55-18000 Hz |
Advantages and disadvantages
Rich sounding bass, convenient to connect different sound sources
Lack of midrange clarity
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Defender Mercury 60BT
Defender Mercury 60 BT Photo: Defender
Elegant black speakers fit perfectly into a modern interior. Their power and sound quality are sufficient to provide a home theater experience. An additional bonus is Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity and karaoke function. The wireless remote control adjusts the microphone volume and controls the echo effect.
Specifications
| Speaker sizes | 265 x 502 x 412 mm |
| Power | 60 W |
| Frequency range | 18-24000 Hz |
Advantages and disadvantages
High-quality sound, elegant design, extensive customization options, karaoke function
The surface gets dirty easily, the diffusers are not protected
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SVEN 315
SVEN 315 Photo: SVEN
This speaker system is designed to provide sound for a laptop. Small “cubes” with single-way speakers reproduce sound clearly and intelligibly. The speaker housings are plastic, the speaker diffusers are aluminum. Power is supplied via the USB port, sound signal via mini jack. Speakers take up little space on your desk without interfering with your studies or work.
Specifications
| Speaker sizes | 70x70x70 mm |
| Total power | 5 W |
| Frequency range | 100-20000 Hz |
Advantages and disadvantages
The speakers are small and light, there is a power connection via USB
The speakers are not covered by anything, the volume control is located at the back
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Creative GigaWorks T20 Series II
Creative GigaWorks T20 Series II Photo: Creative GigaWorks
The model is not new, but it confidently remains among the top ones thanks to the presence of separate controls for low and high frequencies. The design is also interesting, with the front wall sloping back. There are protective grids, but even without them, stylish speakers adorn the gadget. The sizes are small, but the sound is clear throughout the entire range.
Specifications
| Speaker sizes | 88x230x143 mm |
| Total power | 28 W |
| Frequency range | 50-20000 Hz |
Advantages and disadvantages
Clear and rich sound, small size and excellent assembly, stylish design. There is a headphone jack, volume, bass and treble controls located on the front
Distortion at maximum volume, bulky AC adapter, awkward control knobs
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Defender X500
Defender X500 Photo: Defender
This speaker system can be connected to any devices that have a line output with a mini jack connector or via Bluetooth. Additional features: built-in FM receiver, SD memory card slot, USB connector for flash drives. That is, these speakers can work autonomously as a sound source without connecting to a computer. The speakers are controlled via a wireless remote control. The stylish backlit front panel creates an intimate atmosphere.
Specifications
| Subwoofer power | 26 W |
| Satellite speaker power | 2x12 W |
| Frequency range | 20-20000 Hz |
Advantages and disadvantages
Original backlit design, wide possibilities, low frequency adjustment
The amplifier switch is located at the back, there are few sound settings, the volume level is reset when turned off
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Expert's choice
The best portable speakers for all occasions
Find out more
Advice
Bose Companion 2 Series III
Bose Companion 2 Series III Photo: Bose Companion
The compact speaker system can be easily placed on the table due to its small size. And at the same time clearly reproduces low frequencies. Connects to a computer via a mini jack connector. There is an additional input for a second sound source and a headphone output. The volume control is located at the front.
Specifications
| Speaker sizes | 80x190x150 mm |
| Weight | 1.54 kg |
| Total power | 22 W |
Advantages and disadvantages
Thick bass sound, small size, you can connect two sound sources, there is a headphone jack and volume control on the front
No bass level adjustment, no way to disable extended stereo
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Comparison table of characteristics
For a more clear comparison of the models presented above, we use a comparative table of characteristics.
| Model | Power, W) | Frequencies (Hz) | Noise reduction (dB) | Weight, kg) | Price, rub) |
| OKLICK OK-127 | 6 | 160-20000 | 30 | 1.6 | from 959 to 1,509 |
| Edifier R980T | 24 | 70-20000 | 85 | 2.3 | from 1,211 to 1,872 |
| SVEN MS-302 | 40 | 40-20000 | 75 | 3.7 | from 3,216 to 4,019 |
| Edifier R1280T | 42 | 75-18000 | 85 | 2.8 | from 5,785 to 6,454 |
| Dialog AP-225 | 65 | 20-20000 | 80 | 4.8 | from 4,312 to 5,220 |
| OKLICK OK-441 | 50 | 35-20000 | 85 | 4.4 | from 4,993 to 5,695 |
| Creative Pebble | 8 | 50-20000 | 75 | 3.1 | from 1,568 to 2,209 |
| OKLICK OK-162 | 8 | 150-20000 | 45 | 1.3 | from 1,120 to 1,892 |
| Edifier R1580MB | 42 | 55-20000 | 85 | 2.6 | from 4,128 to 5,569 |
| OKLICK OK-128 | 6 | 150-20000 | 60 | 0.6 | from 487 to 702 |
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Top 3 best 5.1 speakers for a computer in 2022
The advent of home theaters has given rise to a new type of 5.1 speaker system that completely immerses the viewer in the sound atmosphere of the film.
Logitech Z906
Logitech Z906 Photo: Logitech
This model provides all the necessary features for watching movies. The speakers are connected to the sound source via an RCA/mini jack, digital optical or coaxial input. The control system has built-in Dolby Digital and DTS decoders. The system is controlled using a remote control. Its power is enough to provide sound in a large room; in a small room you will have to use the speakers at a lower volume.
Specifications
| Subwoofer power | 165 W |
| Center channel power | 67 W |
| Front speaker power | 67 W |
| Rear speaker power | 67 W |
| Total power | 200 W |
Advantages and disadvantages
Built-in DTS and Dolby Digital decoders, many inputs, virtually no background noise
Requires wall mounting with inch threaded bolts, no HD codecs, no optical cable included
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Defender Cinema 64
Defender Cinema 64 Photo: Defender
An excellent budget audio system with ample capabilities. There is a wireless connection via the Bluetooth interface, a slot for SD cards, a USB connector for flash drives and FM radio. The device can be connected to a computer via an RCA connector. Includes an adapter from RCA to 3.5 mm mini jack. Properly positioned speakers produce clear surround sound. The system is controlled from a wireless remote control.
Specifications
| Subwoofer power | 24 W |
| Front speaker power | 5 W |
| Center channel power | 5 W |
| Rear speaker power | 5 W |
| Total power | 64 W |
| Frequency range | 40-20000 Hz |
| Line input via connector | RCA |
Advantages and disadvantages
Sound can be adjusted via remote control, high-quality Bluetooth connection, interesting design
The sound is not good enough for music, there is a lot of background noise, the switch is mounted on the back, the sound settings are reset when turned off
Over-ear headphones
Smartphones have become the audio standard for most
Dialog AP-540
Dialog AP-540 Photo: Dialog
The housings of all speakers of the acoustic system are made of MDF, nothing rattles and does not distract from a movie or game. There is a stereo line input and a multi-channel input via an RCA connector. There is a bass adjustment, the sound can be controlled manually or from the remote control. The acoustic system creates a high-quality surround effect.
Specifications
| Subwoofer power | 40 W |
| Front speaker power | 12 W |
| Center channel power | 12 W |
| Rear speaker power | 12 W |
| Total power | 100 W |
| Frequency range | 40-20000 Hz |
Advantages and disadvantages
Fully equipped - all elements can be connected right out of the box, large volume reserve, built-in radio
The power supply gets hot when used for a long time
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Multichannel sound systems
Now let's look at the sound system. In order for the reproduced sound to receive a beautiful (high-quality) color, it is technically divided into strips. “Split into bands” means that with the help of filters (elements or microcircuits assembled in a certain way) several overlapping ranges are selected.
Each of these strips is then sent to its own separate dynamic head. (speaker). This is how the sound system diagram is formed:
- When a sound system is said to be two-way, it means that it uses one speaker for the low-frequency (LF) and mid-frequency (MF) plus one speaker for the high-frequency (HF). Circuit - LF/MF+ HF;
- Three-way circuit - LF + MF + HF;
- 2.5-way circuit - LF/MF + HF.
For simplicity (so that everything is clear at a glance), multi-channel sound systems are usually denoted by a combination of two numbers separated by a dot. The number before the dot indicates the number of mid- and high-frequency speakers (tweeters). The number after the dot indicates the number of subs (most often it is 1). Once upon a time 3.1 (now you know what that means) was cool. Then systems 4.1, 5.1 appeared and new ones continue to appear.
How to choose speakers for your computer
At first glance, it seems that choosing speakers is not difficult. On the one hand, this is true, but a hasty choice can lead to disappointment.
Firstly, you need to focus on the purpose of the gadget. For office use, the simplest speakers are sufficient, creating a quiet background sound that does not disturb others. Their main task is to transmit messages from instant messengers and signals that letters have been received. High sound quality is not required from these speakers; compactness and reliability are much more important. Wireless connection preferred.
The selection criteria change if you need an audio system for home use. Now the main thing is sound quality. A good speaker has multiple drivers to separate the frequencies. To listen to music, you need a set that includes a subwoofer that transmits low frequencies. Home cinema requires a sound system of at least five speakers creating a surround effect
The power of the speaker system must correspond to the size of the room. For an ordinary apartment, the total power of all speakers of 100 W is more than enough. For a restaurant or gym you will need at least 500 W.
Adjusting the sound of headphones connected to the audio system
Headphones are also an element of the audio system. Their sound is very easy to tune even for an inexperienced user. To start setting up headphones connected to your computer, follow the instructions below:
- Go to your operating system desktop.
- On the toolbar, right-click on the speaker icon.
- From the proposed menu, select the tab under the name of the playback device.
- In the window that opens, select the sound playback tab and configure the parameter as you wish, or apply standard settings by checking the “Default” checkbox.
If you are using wireless headphones, make sure that the system recognizes and installs them automatically, otherwise install all the drivers yourself. This can be done by using the installation disk or downloading the necessary software from the website of the manufacturer of your headphones.
I bought myself: New radio - Pioneer DEH-X9500SD Active subwoofer - Kicx ICQ 300BA Set of wires - Fusion (for connection)
I installed the radio, connected the control wire (blue-white) (on Pioneer this wire is responsible for controlling the antenna!) and ran it into the trunk to the subwoofer, connected the RCA cable to the radio and subwoofer! " + " I took it from the battery, after 30 cm I hung the fuse and ran it to the trunk on the other side separately from the acoustic wires! “-” I took it from the trunk, a bolt was sticking out to it and screwed it on! I seem to have set everything up on the radio too, turned on the subwoofer in the settings! As a result, the subwoofer does NOT play! Even the LED on it doesn't light up! Everything seems to be connected correctly, but he is silent?!
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