Hi-Fi class audio systems are devices that reproduce high-quality sound. They will give you new experiences from listening to music or watching your favorite movie on a computer, TV or in the car (however, not all acoustics are suitable for cars). The following is a selection of the best audio systems for the home in 2022.
Criteria for choosing good home acoustics
When choosing modern Hi-Fi acoustics, the following parameters are taken into account:
- Device location. First of all, they decide on the place where the acoustics will be installed. Today, 2 types dominate the market: floor-mounted and shelf (or wall-mounted). Floor-standing acoustics, as a rule, have a massive body and large drivers that produce powerful sound with fat bass. Bookshelf speakers are compact and do not take up much space in the room. They are inferior to floor-standing models in terms of power, but they reproduce detailed sound.
- Acoustics type. Speakers can be active or passive. The former have an amplifier inside, so they are ready to work immediately after switching on. Savings follow from this. But due to the fact that the developer places both speakers and electronics in one housing, the sound quality often suffers. For passive acoustics, you need to additionally buy an external amplifier. Even if it is expensive, this way the user gets more opportunities to upgrade the audio system.
- Number of lanes. In theory, the greater the number of “highly specialized” speakers, the better. However, crossovers distribute the signal between them, and in many ways their quality and tuning accuracy affect the purity of the reproduced audio. Therefore, two-way or three-way acoustics are optimal.
- Smooth frequency response. The smoother the amplitude-frequency response, the clearer the music sounds across the entire frequency range. It’s unlikely that anyone wants to buy a speaker whose highs are swamped and the lows are raised. The frequency response is indicated by manufacturers or in publications conducting similar tests.
- Speaker power. The power of the acoustics should not be lower than the power of the amplifier. Otherwise, when you try to raise the volume to maximum, the speakers will begin to wheeze. In addition, when choosing power, the installation location of the speaker is also taken into account. For example, if you need to pump up the hall with music at a concert or organize a disco, you need a powerful model. Conversely, there is no point in buying 400-watt speakers for a small apartment.
What is audio system 2.0, 2.1, 5.1 and 7.1
Before moving on to choosing computer speakers, you should understand the designations of the type of speaker systems:
- 2.0 – these are two-channel acoustics, i.e. ordinary stereo systems consisting of two speakers. This audio system is affordable, easy to use and compact, as it takes up minimal space on your desktop;
- 2.1 – this acoustics is similar to the previous one, but comes with a subwoofer. It is responsible for reproducing low frequencies (bass);
- 3.0 – three-channel acoustics, consisting of three speakers. Accordingly, a subwoofer is added to the 3.1 acoustics;
- 5.1 – acoustics with surround sound. Its kit includes a subwoofer and five speakers: two rear and front, and one center. In such acoustics, the effect of presence is achieved, that is, Dolby Digital (like in a cinema);
- 7.1 – a sound system that produces realistic surround sound reproduction. There are 7 speakers and one subwoofer around the perimeter. This ensures complete immersion in the content.
If the user wants to enjoy surround sound in games, then a 5.1-channel audio system is suitable for this purpose. Of course, 7.1 channel is better, but it requires a lot of free space to accommodate it.
If you need an inexpensive model with standard sound, then a 2.0- or 2.1-channel audio system is suitable for this purpose. The two-speaker speakers are compact and therefore suitable for installation in small spaces.
FAQ
- What is the most powerful acoustics in the world? The power of the Quantum 677 speakers reaches 350 W.
This is enough to pump up not only an apartment with music, but also a rather large building. However, there are acoustic speakers that are 10 or even 15 times superior to Quantum. We are talking about Ultra-Slim ARRAY acoustics from the Bose brand, the power of which was 4900 W. The manufacturer himself stated that the peak power of the speakers is as much as 11,000 W, but this is hard to believe. There is information that there is a more powerful column. According to the source, it was produced by an illegal Japanese company, which never patented it. Its power reached 7800 W.
Best PC Speaker Manufacturers
When choosing a speaker for a computer, the manufacturer is also taken into account. Among the best companies stand out:
- Logitech is a company that is famous for the quality of its audio equipment;
- Bose is a proven American brand;
- SVEN is a brand that offers affordable speakers, incl. ultra-budget category;
- Edifier - this manufacturer has appeared recently, but has earned the trust of users due to the affordability and sound quality of the acoustics;
- Creative is a company famous for its sound cards, but it also produces high-quality acoustics.
Connecting to a computer: instructions
Connecting speakers to a computer is carried out in several stages:
- On the back panel of the PC there are three (sometimes more) round inputs. The front speaker plug is inserted into the green socket.
- There should be a blue one next to the green entrance. A subwoofer is connected to it.
- The speakers are connected to the mains. Many models have an indicator light. It will light up when connected to power.
- Turn on the computer. In most cases, the system will install the necessary drivers itself. If this does not happen, then the drivers are downloaded from the device manufacturer’s website. Sometimes they are on the disk that comes with the kit. After installing the drivers, the computer restarts and the new device should work correctly.
Editor's Choice
Creative Sound BlasterX Katana
Creative Sound BlasterX Katana.
Photo: market.yandex.ru This multi-channel gaming soundbar has a good design, powerful sound and technical components - a built-in sound card,
a large number of ports, bluetooth, compatibility with game consoles. It can be placed directly under the monitor. The subwoofer here is also very compact. The dimensions allow convenient use of the speakers, even when connected via a wire.
This model has good sound for both music and watching movies. The user will also find here convenient software and settings via a computer. In night mode, the bass can be noticeably reduced. A remote control can always come in handy - it is included in the kit. The connection is not satisfactory.
Main characteristics
| Total power | 75W RMS/150W PMPO |
| Wireless connection | yes, Bluetooth 4.2 |
| Mains power | There is |
| Peculiarities | Playback from USB flash drive: up to 128 GB with FAT/FAT32/exFAT file system; common audio formats such as MP3, WMA, FLAC and WAV. (MP3 and WMA up to 320 kbps, FLAC up to 1.3 Mbps.) |
Advantages and disadvantages
In night mode, the bass can be noticeably reduced. Convenient control and connection
Inconvenient location of the headphone jack
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Comparison of price and characteristics
A visual table will allow you to compare the characteristics and cost of each of the models considered:
| Model | Subwoofer/speaker power, W | Subwoofer/speaker speaker dimensions, mm | Subwoofer dimensions, mm | Speaker dimensions, mm | Average price, rub. |
| CROWN MICRO CMS-350 | 15/10 | 1×101.6/ 1×76.2 | 250x151x281 | 110x180x115 | 3 250 |
| OKLICK OK-441 | 30/10 | 1×100/ 1×70 | 160x260x305 | 100x150x100 | 3 450 |
| Ginzzu GM-425 | 30/15 | 1×133.4/ 1×76.2 | 170x312x330 | 105x202x116 | 3 690 |
| SVEN MS-302 | 20/10 | 1×128/ 1×77 | 159x272x245 | 104x171x108 | 3 800 |
| Defender Tornado | 30/15 | 1×133.4/ 1×76.2 | n/a | n/a | 5 290 |
| Dialog AP-250 | 50/15 | 1×165/ 1×25.4, 1×101.6 | 230x404x310 | 140x401x130 | 6 829 |
| Logitech Z533 | 30/15 | 1×133/ 1×66 | 255x265x195 | 100x170x85 | 7 490 |
| Creative Stage | 40/20 | n/a | 115x420x250 | 550x70x78 | 9 990 |
| Edifier S351DB | n/a | 1×203.2/ 1×25.4, 1×88.9 | 265x289x312 | 127x222x156 | 22 000 |
How to make a subwoofer for a computer
An active subwoofer for a PC with your own hands will require assembling a low-frequency amplifier. There are many simple circuits made on a modern element base. A small speaker system does not require large output power. The easiest way is to assemble a subwoofer amplifier for a computer using integrated circuits. A good option would be to choose a low-frequency amplifier circuit based on the TDA1555Q chip. The housing contains four integrated amplifiers. The device can be made three-channel, with two full-range speakers and a bass speaker, or four-channel.
The device does not require an external sound card and can be connected to the line output of any computer. The left and right channels are the same, and in the low-frequency path there is an RC filter to limit the high frequencies of the audio range. A strong drop in level begins at a frequency of 400 Hz. If the Realtek HD audio driver is installed on your computer, then audio files can be corrected using a multi-band equalizer. Resistors R1 and R2 adjust the signal level in each channel. The signal to the bass amplifier is limited in level and summed. Then, after passing through the filter, it enters the ULF input. The microcircuit can be powered from a unipolar source with a voltage of 10 to 18 volts.
Top 10 best 2.1 speakers with subwoofer in 2022 according to KP
Logitech G G560
Logitech G G560.
Photo: market.yandex.ru According to the manufacturer, when listening to music through these speakers, you can feel the explosive effect of a peak power of 240 W, which the speakers can withstand for several seconds. But during these moments the sound reaches its maximum strength. The sinusoidal power that remains for a long time is 120 W. This is combined with a down-firing subwoofer and two satellite speakers with lightweight, durable metal cones. As the creators of this audio system say, thanks to the design of the diffuser, a three-dimensional sound environment has been created in which all the nuances of sound reproduction can be distinguished from different angles.
Gamers will really like the model; in principle, it is designed for them. The bass used adds presence. The creators of the speakers note that they work great with popular video games. A nice bonus will be the LIGHTSYNC function - lighting that reacts to events in the games Battlefield 1, Civilization VI, Counter Strike: GO, Discord, Dota 2, Final Fantasy XIV Stormblood, Fortnite, Grand Theft Auto V, Killing Floor 2, Metronomicon, Tom Clancy's: The Division, Total War: Warhammer II).
Main characteristics
| Total power | 120W RMS/240W PMPO |
| Wireless connection | yes, Bluetooth |
| Dimensions | 1x165 mm |
| Frame | MDF |
| Peculiarities | two satellite speakers, one subwoofer with power cable, USB cable, user documentation; DTS X 7.1 Ultra decoder support |
Advantages and disadvantages
Video game responsive lighting, powerful bass
The subwoofer is very large, it is difficult to find a place for it
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Harman/Kardon SoundSticks 4
Harman/Kardon SoundSticks 4. Photo: market.yandex.ru
According to the manufacturer, these speakers combine amazing sound and unsurpassed design. They are made in interesting transparent cases that can surprise guests. The speakers will be clearly visible - as if they were placed in a glass flask. It's very fascinating. The system is highly appreciated by music lovers.
These speakers with subwoofer can fill the space with energetic highs and stunning lows. At low frequencies, the air literally shakes next to the speakers - the bass here is so cool. In addition, you can easily control the subwoofer using the buttons located on it.
Main characteristics
| Total power | 140 W |
| Wireless connection | yes, Bluetooth 4.2 |
| Frame | plastic |
| Power | 100 W |
| Mains power | There is |
| Peculiarities | rated output power: 2 x 20 W RMS + 1 x 100 W RMS |
Advantages and disadvantages
Powerful bass and clear sound. The system has a stylish design
There is no audio cable to connect to TV
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Edifier S351DB
Edifier S351DB.
Photo: market.yandex.ru The device has excellent sound, the details of each composition are clearly audible. Users will also be pleased with the tight bass. The parts of the model are made of high-quality materials. The system can be connected to devices via optics and bluetooth.
These speakers also achieve excellent sound when paired with a smartphone. You can control the switching of sound modes, smartphone to audio system, and sound strength using the remote control that comes with the kit. There is a pleasant backlight on the control unit. The power of the model is 150 W - an excellent indicator for those who like the loudest sound possible. It will be useful to have bluetooth and the Aptx protocol, which encodes and decodes digital audio data transmitted via bluetooth into a specific format.
Main characteristics
| Total power | 150 W |
| Wireless connection | yes, Bluetooth |
| Frame | MDF |
| Dimensions | 1x203.2 mm |
| Mains power | There is |
| Peculiarities | Bluetooth Aptx support |
Advantages and disadvantages
Availability of bluetooth and Aptx protocol, good sound from a smartphone
There is no indication of the current volume level
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LG OK65
LG OK65.
Photo: market.yandex.ru A modern model of a music center from LG Electronics. The design of the center consists of front speakers with a power of 330 W and a subwoofer with a power of 170 W. The total output power is 500 W, which allows you to generate a high-quality surround sound picture. The device is also capable of receiving FM signals. The speaker illumination will change depending on the rhythm of the music you are listening to.
The speakers support wireless communication via Bluetooth. This allows you to use not only disks or USB drives as signal sources, but also smartphones, laptops, tablets and MP3 players. The built-in equalizer allows you to fine-tune the signal strength of individual frequencies in accordance with the listener's musical preferences.
Main characteristics
| Total power | 500 W |
| Wireless connection | yes, Bluetooth |
| Frame | MDF |
| Power | 170 W |
| Mains power | There is |
| Subwoofer diameter | 200 mm |
Advantages and disadvantages
A very powerful model with really strong bass. Good build quality. The system is easy to use
Very bright backlight colors. Some people have to turn it off
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Ginzzu GM-212
Ginzzu GM-212.
Photo: market.yandex.ru Powerful speakers that have clear bass and clear spatial sound. According to the manufacturer's description, this is an ideal multifunctional music system for home and outdoor use. The remote control, display, five-band equalizer, adjustment of low and high frequencies, Megabass system and many other features will allow you to comfortably listen to your favorite music, sound in games or movies.
The device can operate both from the network and from the built-in rechargeable battery. The subwoofer here (low and mid frequencies) is two 8-inch speakers. Twitter (tweeter) - one 2-inch speaker. You can easily listen to the radio on this system; it supports microSD cards. To create more surround sound, speaker synchronization is available.
Main characteristics
| Total power | 72 W |
| Wireless connection | yes, Bluetooth |
| Frame | plastic |
| Sound functions | bass adjustment, treble adjustment, equalizer, speaker synchronization |
| Peculiarities | FM radio, display, microSD support, passive mode |
Advantages and disadvantages
Low-frequency sound enhancement function "Megabass", microphone input and electric guitar input, Karaoke function
Doesn't remember settings after shutdown
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SVEN MS-2050
SVEN MS-2050.
Photo: market.yandex.ru This model, even though it is not the highest price on the market, has enough advantages. There is a Bluetooth module that normally receives audio signals without failures even at a distance of more than 10 meters. The subwoofer and satellite housings are made of high-quality MDF. Subwoofer power is 30 W, a very good indicator.
The set includes a convenient control panel, high-quality sound reproduction, clear and detailed, possible both from a PC and from a mobile phone. The owner can use either a memory card or a regular flash drive. The sound itself is not satisfactory; it will also please fans of strong bass.
Main characteristics
| Total power | 55 W |
| Wireless connection | yes, Bluetooth |
| Mains power | There is |
| Frame | MDF |
| Frequency range | 45-150 Hz |
| Power | 30 W |
Advantages and disadvantages
The Bluetooth module receives the signal without interruption, good sound quality
The speakers pick up the radio in standby mode, which is not very pleasant at night
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Dialog AP-250
Dialog AP-250.
Photo: market.yandex.ru The subwoofer of these speakers, like themselves, is made of MDF, which is considered quite reliable for this kind of product. There are no complaints about the sound; the subwoofer does its job perfectly. The low frequencies are deep, soft, filling - they add great velvety and volume to the sound. Fans of strong bass should definitely like this model. There are also no distortions at high volumes.
The controls are very simple and there are no connection problems. Bluetooth speakers receive without problems, the signal can be received even from the next room. The stylish design also adds advantages to the speakers; they can also be connected to a TV.
Main characteristics
| Total power | 80 W |
| Wireless connection | yes, Bluetooth |
| Mains power | There is |
| Frame | MDF |
| Power | 50 W |
Advantages and disadvantages
Good subwoofer power. Clear sound without distortion
Weak IR receiver on subwoofer
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Defender G26
Defender G26.
Photo: market.yandex.ru A solid model, equipped with everything necessary. It copes well with its main function, and the subwoofer provides high-quality low-frequency sound. The built-in tuner turns the speaker into a full-fledged radio receiver. There is also an MP3 player. The device supports USB storage and Bluetooth pairing.
The speaker housing material is plastic, the subwoofer material is MDF. The audio system is absolutely easy to set up - just read the clear instructions. Connection with other devices is carried out via Bluetooth.
Main characteristics
| Total power | 26 W |
| Wireless connection | yes, Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Mains power | There is |
| Frame | MDF |
| Power | 12 W |
| Speaker sizes | 3″ |
| Peculiarities | cable length: 1.3 m; maximum distance between satellites: 1.3 m; RF range: 87.5–108.0 MHz |
Advantages and disadvantages
Good sound quality, there is a picture on the subwoofer body, which adds advantages to the appearance of the model, convenient connection
Not the most powerful model.
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OKLICK OK-431
OKLICK OK-431.
Photo: market.yandex.ru These speakers immediately attract the buyer with their price. It is far from the largest on the market, however, they have high-quality sound. You don’t have to use the bass, but if you’re an amateur, the sub works in such a way that you can feel the vibration on the floor and, as the owners of this audio system say, you can hear the bass even across three rooms. The device plays music from all possible sources - no need to worry about the connection.
These speakers are perfect for working with a TV, to which you can easily connect via a cord. At high volumes in films you can hear all the special sound effects. When turned off, the system does not make any sounds - not all devices can boast of this.
Main characteristics
| Total power | 23 W |
| Wireless connection | yes, Bluetooth |
| Mains power | There is |
| frequency range | 150-20000 Hz |
| Speaker sizes | 101.6 mm |
| Power | 6 W |
Advantages and disadvantages
Strong bass. No hum in standby mode
Can't control volume via Bluetooth
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Smartbuy MAJESTY
Smartbuy MAJESTY.
Photo: market.yandex.ru Excellent music system. Suitable for listening to music in an apartment or, for example, in a garage. The subwoofer does its job perfectly - the bass is rich and powerful. The device reads USB and microSD (up to 32 GB), and also picks up the radio. TV connection options are available using AUX or Bluetooth. A pleasant thing for buyers is the price of this model - far from the highest on the market.
The manufacturer of the model assures that the total power of the speakers - 60 W - will “pump” the entire entrance. The subwoofer is reliably protected from damage. Its body is made of wood. The speakers look good and are easy to connect and set up. For an affordable price, what more do you need?
Main characteristics
| Total power | 60 W |
| Wireless connection | yes, Bluetooth |
| Mains power | There is |
| Frame | tree |
| Dimensions | 345x170x310 mm |
| Power | 30 W |
Advantages and disadvantages
Convenient control, high-quality subwoofer housing material, trouble-free pairing with many devices via Wi-Fi
You cannot connect a microphone to this model.
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