Asides from the computer itself, speakers are undoubtedly one of the most essential peripherals required to fully realize the ‘sonic’ potential of your computer. While generic 2-speaker systems will do it for the average workstation user, those of us who want the perfect audio experience whether it be with games, movies, or music need a good set of speakers. The difference between generic, run-of-the-mill speakers and surround sound speakers is quite noticeable. Even the best recordings will sound boring when played on a poor speaker setup. Teamed up with a good soundcard, speakers can drastically improve your lackluster MP3’s and games.

A good computer speaker system can run well over $200 CDN, but there are many excellent solutions for buyers on a budget. However, there are certain things to look for, no matter what your price range.

Manufacturer: Although brand names tend to be more expensive than no-name counterparts, they tend to have much better products in terms of sound quality. Reputable companies that manufacture speakers range from the ultra-expensive Klipsch to budget speaker companies such as Labtec. A list of recommended speaker companies will be provided at the end of this guide.

Satellite Quality: ‘Satellite’ is a fancy name given to an individual computer speaker. Speaker satellite quality is a huge factor (besides sound) in any sound system purchase. Chances are, if the satellite is built with cheap and flimsy materials, it’s not worth your time. Consider buying a system with satellites that lean towards to heavy side so they are more stable. However, be careful: some companies put weights in their speakers to make them seem to be a ‘higher quality’ product. Some satellites have slots on them for wall-mounting. Others can come with small stands. Speaker volume control systems are usually located on one of the satellites or a little ‘remote’ that extends from a cable. Controls can vary from volume adjustment to surround volume. Good speaker systems also have a headphone jack located conveniently on one of the satellites. Also, be sure that the satellites are magnetically shielded for use near monitors. If not, you will notice that the picture on your monitor will seem wavy and distorted. In the long run, non-shielded speakers can damage your monitor.

Most professional-type speakers seem to be more of a 2-for-1 deal. If you look closely at them, some satellites have 2 different, smaller, speakers. These are called tweeters and midrange speakers. The smaller tweeter is designed to transmit only high-pitched tones, while the larger midrange provides sound from the middle of the sound spectrum. Not all speaker systems have both a tweeter and a midrange, especially the less-expensive sets. However, most speaker systems use a midrange to fulfill the duties of both a midrange and a tweeter.

Subwoofer Quality: The subwoofer is what produces the low-range sounds of any speaker system. Many cheap sets do not even come with a subwoofer. Subwoofers contain a large speaker that vibrates to create very low tones. The general rule for subwoofers is ‘the bigger the more powerful’. This, however, does not always hold true. A larger subwoofer will enable the speaker inside to generate more resonance, therefore creating a much louder and richer tone. What also matters is the enclosure: wood enclosures generally conduct sound waves better than plastic. Some subs also have a volume control for the sub alone. Most, if not all subwoofers also have a host of outlets where the satellites are plugged in. Ensure that the outlets are easily accessible.

System Wattage: System wattage is where many companies choose to exaggerate the capabilities of their speaker systems. The wattage is basically a relation of how loud and powerful the speakers can get. Generally, the higher the wattage the louder the speakers can go without blowing out. Also, the tones will not sound as ‘tinny’ with more powerful systems. However, there are usually two wattage ratings provided: normal (peak output under perfect conditions) and RMS (Root Mean Square). Note that the RMS wattage is always lower than the advertised ‘normal’ wattage. RMS wattage is what to consider when buying speakers, as it measures how much power the speakers can safely handle for long periods of time.

Expect individual satellites to have a rating of around 3-10 watts. Although this may seem like very little, five 3 watt speakers can generate a lot of noise! If purchasing a surround sound system, then the center speaker generally is more powerful than the left and right satellites.

The majority of your speaker system’s wattage will be produced by the subwoofer. This is because the sub requires large amounts of energy to produce low tones. Also, bass tones make music sound more full and deep, so more power is required to make those tones noticeable.

Wiring/Connections: The wires that are used to attach your speaker system to your computer are very important. They carry the electronic signals that tell the speakers how to vibrate and produce sound, so if the quality of the wires is low, the sound can suffer. Heavy-duty speaker wires are always a plus, as they are more resistant to damage and stretching. Also consider length when you are purchasing your set. If the wires are relatively short, you might not be able to place your satellites where you want to.

The plugs that connect the speakers to the subwoofer and the computer should be high quality to ensure the best transfer of signals. They should be colour coded to aid with installation.

The plugs that connect to your sound card are usually analog plugs, meaning that for a 5.1 speaker system, for example, you would connect three plugs, for front, back, and center. Some high-end systems use digital plugs, meaning that only one plug is required. Make sure you have a compatible sound card for this feature.

Some higher-quality speaker systems come with adapters so that you can use your set with video game consoles and portable audio players. Although not necessary, if you plan on using your speaker system for something else other than computer audio, it may save you some money.

THX: Some very expensive speaker sets are THX-certified. THX-certified speaker sets are the cream of the crop, as they are engineered to deliver the best possible sound. They have a minimum amount of distortion and very clear sound. To fully utilize your THX speakers, you should have a THX-certified sound card as well.

Types of Speaker Systems: There are many types of speaker systems ranging from simple stereo speakers to overwhelming 7.1 audio sets. Speaker sets are usually classified by two numbers with a period in between. The first number represents the number of satellites and the second the number of subwoofers. If you want quality sound, you should at least settle on purchasing a 2.1 system. The most common types of systems are 2.1 and 5.1. For most gamers and movie-watchers, a 5.1 system is best, as it is surround-sound capable depending on the sound card. 5.1 systems can provide positional audio (being able to hear things from different directions), while 2.1 systems can only provide simple stereo. As most mp3s are stereo encoded, a 2.1 system is sufficient for music lovers. Still, 5.1 systems can simulate surround sound by extending the stereo mix onto the left-rear, right-rear, and centre channels. However, 5.1s really shine in games and movies, where you can take advantage of hardware surround sound.

Other speaker setups include 4.1 (5.1s without the center channel/speaker), 6.1, and 7.1. The 6.1 and 7.1 systems are generally quite expensive but impractical. With speakers that are supposed to be placed behind the listener, it would be hard to find a place for them. Most people simply use a desk that is in front of them, not surrounding them. Also, not many sound cards are capable of supporting 6.1 and 7.1 surround sound. The newer sound cards are able to, however, so the decision rests on you. The only real advantage of have a 6.1 or 7.1 system would be for hardcore gamers or audiophiles.

Sound: The ultimate deciding factor in your speaker purchase is obviously how they sound. Many reputable stores provide floor models that allow you to listen to samples of music. The more expensive systems tend to generate better, clearer sound. Still, the decision is up to you. The price doesn’t necessarily dictate the sound quality.

What to listen for:

• Be sure that the highs produced by the speakers do not sound overly ‘tinny’, weak, or distorted.
• Midrange should sound clear and pronounced, never distorted.
• Lows should be generated exclusively by the subwoofer. If you hear the satellites trying to do the subwoofer’s job, then the manufacturer is probably trying to compensate for a weak subwoofer.
• All sounds should intertwine properly with nothing overpowering the other. If you find the highs are too piercing or midrange too loud, then consider something else.
• If possible, try out the speakers with different types of audio. This allows you to experience a wide range of sounds and make a better judgment.

Recommended Manufacturers:
Altec Lansing – Makes middle-of-the range speaker systems. Very good quality.
Creative – Makes higher-end speaker systems.
Klipsch – Professional audio company; manufactures superb speaker systems. Expensive.
Labtec – Budget speaker company, not much selection but great for the budget buyer.
Logitech – Makes mid-to-high-end speaker systems. Some of their higher end speaker systems are comparable to Klipsch’s but are almost as expensive.

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