Things to consider…

Everything you need to know before getting started

1 USB Audio

Many desktop speakers now include a USB port that can accept a digital audio signal from a USB port on your Mac. This is often a better option than using the conventional analogue output from the headphone socket.

2 Mobile music

Desktop speakers are primarily designed to be used with a wired connection to your Mac, but many desktop speakers also provide Bluetooth for connecting to your mobile devices. KEF and AudioEngine support the high-quality aptX version of Bluetooth, too.

3 Sub standards

The KEF and AudioEngine speakers include connectors that will allow you to add a subwoofer. However, the KEF Egg speakers will only work with compatible KEF subwoofers, whereas AudioEngine’s little HD3 lets you use any third-party subwoofer that has standard RCA connectors.

4 Cabinet makers

Build quality is important for speakers, as a solid speaker cabinet reduces vibration and produces better sound quality. AudioEngine’s HD3 speakers are tiny, and perfect for a small bedroom or home office, yet their sturdy wooden cabinets produce terrific sound.

5 Power play

Logitech cheats a bit by boasting of 400W output for its Z623 speakers. However, that refers to ‘peak’ power, whereas most manufacturers measure power as the ‘root mean square’ (RMS) – which for the Z623 is