It’s true what they say, nothing can replace a full-blown hi-fi system. But we know a few desktop speakers which come pretty damn close! A desktop 2.1 speaker system has everything a full speaker system has – including a sub-woofer – but in a much smaller case. This makes it suitable for a number of applications, especially when integrating a full hi-fi set up into a small space.
Yes, the size is paramount. But don’t skimp on sound quality when it comes to selecting your desktop speakers. There more than enough ‘PC Speakers’ options out there that, in our opinion, offer less sound quality in favour of being small, light and stylish. And we should know – we have stocked enough to know that they simply will not sell to anyone who anyone who holds sound quality in just as high regard as the size. Luckily we now only stock the best in both the size and sound qualities – and here we have the cream of the desktop 2:1 speaker crop.
Just so we’re clear, you really can have it all. Convenience in the form of a compact speaker that sounds as good as the full sized version. Whether it’s for your home office, your TV or your bookshelves, contained below is the answer you’re looking for.
Remember, all prices stated were correct at the time of publishing and may be subject to change.
1. Acoustic Energy Aego M Active – £179
First up, we have the delightful Aego Ms. Two speakers and a subwoofer, in a teeny tiny package. Perfect for your bedroom, your office/study or anywhere else that could benefit from some compact, hi-fidelity sound. This little set up is excellent value for money – and will melt into your contempoary décor with ease. Easy to set up and without any fussy features, these speakers will bring instant entertainment – and excellent sound quality – to the smallest of spaces, and for a pretty small price too.
Why do we like it?
This is a very good starting point for a compact 2:1 system. These three tiny units will be at home on any desk or shelf, and will pump out a pleasing, balanced sound. No mess, no fuss – just real hi-fi at a bargain.
Why do they like it?
This system sounds so much bigger than is look. The dinky satellites are just 10cm tall, and can easily fill your room with superb sound’ (What Hi-Fi? Magazine)
2. Yamaha NX-B150 – £299.95
A very new offering from Yamaha. These are quite possibly the cutest little speakers and subwoofer you will ever lay your eyes upon. Based on the design of a spotlight, these extremely versatile (not to mention tiny) speakers can stand on their own feet (or foot, if you look at them as individuals), or be happily mounted on a wall anywhere in your home. In four fetching finishes, they’ll blend in perfectly and deliver beautiful, balanced sound invisbibly – unless, of course you want them to be seen. They’ll be perfectly at home on a desktop too, freeing up plenty of space and filling it with sound. These are both wired and wireless speakers – completely Bluetooth compatible – with an auto standby function that takes the hassle out of switching the units off and on again.
Why do we like it?
They may be adorable (they’re like something out of a Pixar animation!), but don’t underestimate them – they pack sound serious potential for mind-blowing sound, which can be angled accordingly due to the two speakers being fully adjustable. Not to be overlooked.
3. Jamo P102 – £429
Next up we have the charming, compact but powerful Jamo P102 set up. Two tiny satellites and a 3” subwoofer, and that all important tiny footprint. Perfect for your workstation, your games system, your TV and anywhere else that could benefit from a big sound (in a small package). This hi-fidelity sound is achieved through the use of a unique coaxial configuration in the tweeters, the mid-range and the woofer – lending itself to full, rich and balanced sound. Close your eyes and you will be convinced you’re listening to something bigger. Much bigger. A fantastic little team of speakers which – thanks to their balanced sound – will be completely at home with any type of audio.
Why do we like it?
Such a big sound, such a small package. And their Danish design will be at home pretty much anywhere too. The kitchen, the bedroom… and of course, the desktop. They’ll snuggle up to any monitor perfectly.
4. Focal XS iPod Desktop 2:1 System – £429
And now something special for the Apple lovers out there. A Focal system that features two satellite speakers, a subwoofer, with one speaker base featuring an iPod dock and a USB output and the other featuring a cradle for the system remote (yeah, it has a remote too) how’s that for a feature-packed speaker system? A tiny package, with a great deal of potential. And it’s a Focal – so you know it’s going to sound good. And guess what? It does! Hi-fi quality sound in a small, super-stylish, feature packed all-in-one speaker system. Phew.
Why do we like it?
Focal seem to have thought of everything here. All you need is an iPod to make the most of this set up. But it will work with any other source too if you’re not an Apple person – just plug in and enjoy.
Why do they like it?
‘This set is clearly aimed at audiophiles who want high fidelity to extend to their PC audio […] overall the XS, with its built-in iPod dock, is generally excellent.’ (PC Mag)
5. Elipson Planet 2:1 – £749
And we have reached the pinnacle, once again. At the peak of the tiny 2:1 mountain is the Elipson Planet. This system of two satellites (Planet Ms) and a subwoofer (Planet Sub) sound as iconic as they look. Tiny yet powerful, these may be the priciest option on offer, but they are worth every penny. The Planet Ms are fitted with a two-way coaxial and the 20cm sub has 200W amplification, combined they offer a flawless combination of both power and balance. They’re not the smallest system on this list – but they are worth the extra deskspace (if that’s what you’re using them for, they’re pretty versatile in terms of location), and will attract as much attention for their looks as well as their sound. Real hi-fi has never looked better.
Why do we like it?
It’s a delightfully weird looking set up, but the build quality and sound are second-to-none on this list. So even if it’s not to your taste in the looks department, it will definitely impress when you hear it (although, to be clear, we love the way it looks.)
Why do they like it?
‘This is a fine sounding system that is genuinely satisfying to listen to […] They have an innate timing which helps them sound fully in control even with fast and complex material produces bass that has a commendable level of detail and texture to it.’(Hi-Fi Choice Magazine)
This list proves that real hi-fi isn’t something that has to take up all of your available space. Does bigger sound better? Maybe a little. But there are alternatives if you simply don’t have the space. And they’re hardly compromises.
Fancy a cheaper set-up minus a subwoofer? Then check out our Top 5 Desktop Speakers Blog. Believe us when we say, there are plenty of great sounding options out there – you just need to know where to look.