Test 3 Sound quality

Do they sound as good as they look?

If you’re on a tight budget then the Logitech Z623 and M-Audio AV32.1 both provide good value for money, with complete 2.1 systems that also include a subwoofer. The Logitech Z623 provides clear, detailed sound that works well for music, gaming and films, and the 200W output is phenomenally loud if you want to have a party. But while the subwoofer works well, the higher frequencies can be harsh. The AV32.1 isn’t quite so loud, but at 110W it can still pump up the volume when it needs to, and produces a more balanced sound. The AV32.1 is also designed for recording and editing music, so it has a ‘neutral’ tone that accurately reproduces the sound of instruments and vocals, and will appeal to musicians.

The Creative Katana also boasts a powerful subwoofer, but its soundbar design is more focused on watching films and playing games. It’s good for music too, with detailed, expansive sound. However, the soundbar doesn’t capture the left/right separation you get from traditional two-piece stereo systems.

Beef up the bass

The chunky R2000DB from Edifier doesn’t have a subwoofer, but the sheer size of the speakers means that they’re seriously loud, and have room for a big bass radiator that helps produce a solid depth. The sound can also really fill a room. Higher frequencies can sound harsh when pushed, but the speakers are so loud that you’ll seldom need to raise the volume.

Unsurprisingly, it’s the more expensive AudioEngine HD3 and KEF Egg that vie for top honours on audio quality. The HD3 may be compact, but the speakers are well built, and the sturdy wooden cabinets produce a strong, expansive sound that seems a lot louder than the 30W quoted by AudioEngine. The KEF Egg is a bit larger and a bit louder, but both of its speakers produce a rich, warm sound that works well with everything from acoustic ballads on the one hand to classical and even heavy rock on the other. Neither set of speakers really excels at the lower end, lacking either a subwoofer or the bulk and body of the Edifier speakers, but both give the option of adding a hi-fi quality subwoofer if you want to really boost the bass.

The R2000DB doesn’t have a subwoofer, but the sheer size of the speakers means that they’re seriously loud