Cheap Computer Speakers

I’ve mentioned before that deciding what you want in your speakers is very important. Computer speakers come in different configurations, and what you use your speakers for can help determine which setup is best for you. Here’s a run down, complete with images of layout guides and samples:

2.0 or 2 Speaker System

This just refers to a basic setup with 2 satellites, often placed next to the monitor to provide a stereo sound with left and right channels. The lack of a subwoofer isn’t necessarily a bad thing; there are plenty of 2.0 speakers with good bass and it’s a great space-saver. This is the preferable choice if you have space constraints and/or can’t afford to have excessive bass leak through to neighboring rooms or apartments. If you’re mostly using your speakers for listening to music, this is often sufficient. That’s not to say that it’s a poor choice for video games or movies, however; it depends on the quality of the product itself. While 2.1 speakers seem to be the standard for most computer setups these days, the possible lack of cohesion between the subwoofer and the satellites (especially dangerous with cheap sets) means that a good pair of 2.0 will often provide a better sound stage.

Note: this may also refer to the built-in speakers that laptops or certain PC speakers have. These are generally very poor quality and we won’t be talking about, or referring to these in this site.

2.1 Speaker System

This adds a subwoofer to the 2 satellite speaker setup, which serves as a dedicated output for low frequencies. This is a popular choice for people looking for an upgrade from stock speakers as it seems like a significant enough upgrade with the extra component, but not drastic enough to warrant a 5.1. Computer speakers in online stores tend to carry more 2.1 setups over the other types, so you should be spoilt for choice if that’s what you’re looking for. If you can afford enough space to place a subwoofer in your setup, the extra bass boost should improve your listening experience. Note that poor 2.1 systems can offer a worse listening experience to good 2.0 speakers, so it’s important to choose the right one. This setup is good if you want the extra bass response, but don’t require an extra-immersive surround sound effect.

5.1 Speaker System

This takes the spatial presence of your audio to another dimension by introducing three speakers into the mix to total five satellites and a subwoofer, surrounding the listener to give a true "surround sound" effect. Additional satellite speakers are placed directly to the front, as well and the left and right rear. This is great if you want a more immersive experience when playing video games and movies (make sure they support surround sound though); music mostly doesn’t benefit from this as much, although some albums have a 5.1 mix and you do still get a more "wholesome" sound due to the positioning of speakers around you. Of course, these come at a steeper price, with cheaper ones pushing the $100 mark. As mentioned with the 2.1, however, a poor subwoofer could ruin the sound even when compared to a good 2.0 setup. Furthermore, at the sub-$100 mark, there aren’t many good 5.1 systems. Another important factor to consider before deciding on these is that they require a fair bit of space around your computer due to the rear speakers that may require stands as well.

7.1 Speaker System

This is an upgrade to the 5.1, with two additional satellites to the side of the listener. However, these systems are often expensive, with an average price of around $300. Due to the nature of the site, I will not go into these in detail.

Hopefully this will help in your decision making process.