8 Best Bass Computer Speakers 2022
By Robert Jones · 2021-01-03
Right, if your PC speakers sound a bit thin, you're in the right place. I've tested countless sets and these are my top picks for computer speakers that genuinely deliver a proper, satisfying low end.
Right, listen up. If you've ever sat at your desk, clicked play on a track, or fired up a game, and thought "this sounds a bit… weedy, doesn't it?", then you're in the right place. Most computer speakers, bless 'em, are about as exciting as a wet weekend in Skegness when it comes to proper sound. And that's just not on. After more than two decades of getting my hands dirty with all sorts of audio kit – from monster subwoofers to tiny bookshelf speakers – I can tell you that a decent set of speakers at your desk makes all the difference. We're talking proper bass, solid mids, and crisp highs. It's not just about volume; it's about feel, immersion, and frankly, enjoying your tunes and games as they were meant to be heard. Let's cut through the marketing fluff and find some kit that actually delivers. **Quick Verdict: For a seriously punchy, room-filling sound that won't break the bank, the Edifier S350DB is still my top recommendation.**  *8 Best Bass Computer Speakers 2022 — tested in the SpeakersMag workshop, mind.* ## Why Bass Isn't Just a "Nice to Have" for Your Desk I know, I know. Some might scoff, "It's just computer speakers, Robert. What's all this fuss about bass?" And yeah, if you're just doing a quick video call or listening to background noise, anything will do. But if you're genuinely into your music – proper albums, not just YouTube clips – or you get stuck into your gaming, or even watch films at your desk, then bass isn't optional. It's absolutely crucial. Think about it. Bass is the foundation, the very bedrock of what you hear. It's what gives a track its weight, a movie scene its impact, and a game its immersion. Without it, everything just sounds… thin. Lifeless. Like listening to music through a tin can, you know? It's not just about a big, booming rumble; it's about the subtle textures, the depth, and the feeling that a piece of music or an explosion is actually happening, not just being hinted at. Take a drum kit, for example. If all you're getting is the splash of the cymbals and the sharp crack of the snare, where's the punch? Where's that satisfying thump of the kick drum hitting you in the chest? It’s not right, is it? Or a movie explosion – without that deep, resonant *thump*, it's just a pathetic little pop. For music, especially genres like electronic, hip-hop, or even rock and blues, a good solid bassline is the heartbeat, the glue that holds everything together. Even classical or acoustic tunes benefit massively from proper low-end reproduction, giving instruments like double basses or cellos their full, rich character. Without that, it's just not the same. Trust me, I've mixed enough tracks to know. ## What to Look For (and What to Avoid) in Proper Bass Computer Speakers When I'm eyeing up a new set of desk speakers, especially ones claiming to have "bass," I'm not just looking at the size of the woofer. Oh no. There's a bit more to it than that. You need to consider the whole package, otherwise you'll just end up with a boomy mess that rattles your desk without actually giving you any musicality. ### The Subwoofer Question: 2.0 vs. 2.1 Right, first off, do you need a separate subwoofer? A 2.1 system, with two satellite speakers and a dedicated sub, is often the go-to for proper bass. The sub handles all the really low frequencies, leaving the smaller satellites to concentrate on the mids and highs. This usually gives you a cleaner, more impactful sound overall. For many, this is the sweet spot. You get that deep rumble without the main speakers struggling. However, a good 2.0 system – just two full-range speakers – can still pack a surprising punch, especially if the drivers are a decent size and the cabinets are well-designed. These are usually a bit more compact, which is great if desk space is tight. You won't get the same earth-shattering lows as a dedicated sub, but for most music and general use, a quality 2.0 can be really satisfying. It's all about compromise, isn't it? ### Size, Power, and Port Design Generally speaking, a bigger driver can move more air, which usually translates to better bass. But it's not just size. The amplifier's power output is important too; you need enough juice to drive those speakers properly. Don't get caught up in silly "PMPO" figures, though. Look for RMS wattage – that's the real, continuous power. Anything north of 20-30W per channel (for satellites) and 50W+ for a sub is a good start. Then there's the port. Many speakers have a port (a hole, basically) to help extend the bass response. It's tricky, though. A poorly designed port can lead to "chuffing" noises or really boomy, uncontrolled bass. I've heard plenty of those. A front-firing port is often easier to place near a wall than a rear-firing one, which can get a bit boomy if it's too close to a surface. ### Connectivity: More Than Just a Jack Gone are the days when a simple 3.5mm jack was all you needed. Now, you'll want to look at Bluetooth for wireless convenience – handy for playing tunes from your phone without firing up the PC. Optical inputs are brilliant if you're connecting to a TV or a games console for a cleaner digital signal. USB is also becoming more common for direct digital audio from your computer, bypassing its often-average sound card. Some even offer RCA inputs for older kit. The more options, the better, usually. ### Build Quality and Materials This is where experience really comes in. Cheap, flimsy plastic cabinets often sound just that – cheap and flimsy. MDF (Medium-Density Fibreboard) is generally preferred for speaker cabinets as it's dense and helps minimise unwanted vibrations. Good quality drivers, solid wiring, and decent components all add up to a better, more durable speaker that will last you a good few years. You can often tell a lot by just tapping the cabinet; if it feels hollow, move on. ## The Contenders: My Picks for Bass-Heavy PC Sound Alright, let's get down to brass tacks. I've had a good few of these in the workshop, some for years, some just for review, and I've put them through their paces with everything from thumping drum and bass to delicate classical pieces. Here are my top choices for computer speakers that genuinely deliver a satisfying low end. ### 1. Edifier S350DB – The All-Round Bass Beast (My Top Pick) Honestly, I've lost count of how many times I've recommended these. The Edifier S350DB is a 2.1 system that just nails it. You get two cracking bookshelf-style speakers and a hefty 8-inch wireless subwoofer. That sub, by the way, is a proper bit of kit, kicking out serious bass that's both deep and surprisingly tight for the price. I've had these in my own living room setup for a while, just to see how they stand up to daily abuse, and they've never disappointed. The clarity from the satellites is excellent too, with titanium dome tweeters giving you crisp highs without sounding harsh. Bluetooth, optical, coaxial, RCA – it's got connectivity for days. You even get a little remote. For around £350-£400, these are hard to beat. * **Who it's for:** Anyone who wants serious, controlled bass and excellent all-round sound for music, movies, and gaming. Great for medium-sized rooms. * **Who should skip it:** If desk space is absolutely at a premium, or if you only need something for background listening. It's a sizeable bit of kit. **Pros:** * Powerful, deep, and surprisingly tight 8-inch subwoofer * Excellent clarity and detail from satellite speakers * Wireless sub for flexible placement * Loads of connectivity options (Bluetooth, optical, coaxial, RCA) * Solid build quality, comes with a remote **Cons:** * Can be a bit large for small desks * Price might be a bit steep for casual users ### 2. Klipsch Promedia 2.1 – The Punchy Classic Ah, the Promedia 2.1. This system has been around for donkey's years, and for good reason. It's one of those designs that just works. You get two small, punchy satellites and a hefty 6.5-inch subwoofer. What makes these special is the sheer *attack* they have. The bass isn't just deep; it's fast and impactful, making them brilliant for gaming and action movies. Music sounds lively too. They might not have the sheer refinement of the Edifiers, but for pure oomph per pound, they're stellar. Expect to pay around £150-£200. * **Who it's for:** Gamers and action movie fans who want punchy, dynamic sound. Good for smaller to medium desks. * **Who should skip it:** If you're looking for a more refined, audiophile-grade sound, or if you need digital inputs (it's mainly analog). **Pros:** * Excellent impact and punchy bass * Great for gaming and movies * Relatively compact satellites * Good value for money **Cons:** * Limited connectivity (mainly 3.5mm input) * Bass can sometimes overpower the mids if not adjusted carefully * Design is a bit dated now ### 3. Logitech Z623 – The No-Nonsense Thumper If you just want big, boomy bass and don't want to spend an absolute fortune, the Logitech Z623 is a solid choice. It's THX-certified, which means it can get seriously loud without distorting too badly. The 2.1 system includes a powerful 7-inch subwoofer that genuinely shakes the desk. It's not the most nuanced bass, mind you; it's more about brute force than subtle detail. But for explosions, hip-hop, or just making a racket, it does the job. I've heard these in countless student flats and gaming setups. Usually around £120-£150. * **Who it's for:** Budget-conscious users who prioritise loud, impactful bass for gaming, movies, or bass-heavy music genres. * **Who should skip it:** If you want a balanced, refined sound for critical listening, or if you need lots of input options beyond analog. **Pros:** * Very powerful and loud bass * THX-certified for loud, clear sound * Affordable price point * Simple to set up and use **Cons:** * Bass can be a bit overpowering and less controlled * Mids and highs are decent but not exceptional * Only analog inputs ### 4. Audioengine A2+ Wireless – Compact Class with a Kick Now, if you're tight on space but still want some proper bass from a 2.0 system, the Audioengine A2+ are fantastic. They're tiny, honestly, but they put out a sound that defies their size. You won't get window-rattling lows, but the bass they *do* produce is surprisingly deep, tight, and musical. It's not boomy at all; it's controlled. They're brilliant for music listening, offering superb clarity and a lovely open soundstage. The wireless version adds Bluetooth with aptX, which is a nice touch. They're not cheap, usually around £250-£300, but for premium compact sound, they're worth it. * **Who it's for:** Users with limited desk space who prioritise sound quality, clarity, and controlled, musical bass from a 2.0 system. * **Who should skip it:** If you absolutely *need* a separate subwoofer for earth-shattering lows, or if your budget is very tight. **Pros:** * Incredibly compact size, ideal for small desks * Surprisingly deep, controlled, and musical bass for a 2.0 system * Excellent clarity and detailed soundstage * Bluetooth aptX for high-quality wireless streaming * Premium build quality **Cons:** * Expensive for their size * Won't provide the same deep rumble as a dedicated subwoofer ### 5. PreSonus Eris E3.5 BT / E4.5 BT – Studio Quality at Your Desk For those of you who dabble in a bit of music production, or just want a really accurate, flat response, the PreSonus Eris series are brilliant. They're studio monitors, essentially, but they work wonders as desktop speakers. The E3.5s are great for smaller spaces, while the E4.5s offer a bit more grunt and bass extension thanks to their larger drivers. What you get here is *honest* bass. It's not artificially boosted; it's just what's in the recording. They have acoustic tuning controls on the back, so you can tweak them to suit your room, which is a godsend. The BT versions add Bluetooth too. Expect around £100-£150 for the E3.5 BT and £180-£220 for the E4.5 BT. * **Who it's for:** Music producers, DJs, or anyone who values accuracy and a neutral sound signature with decent, un-hyped bass. Excellent for critical listening. * **Who should skip it:** If you want super-exaggerated, boomy bass for casual gaming or movies, these might sound a bit "flat" to you initially. **Pros:** * Excellent accuracy and neutral frequency response * Detailed, controlled bass (especially the E4.5 BT) * Acoustic tuning controls to adjust to your room * Good connectivity options (RCA, TRS, Bluetooth) * Solid build quality, often used in professional settings **Cons:** * Bass isn't as "fun" or exaggerated as consumer speakers * Can sound a bit clinical for some tastes * Might need a sub if you need very deep lows consistently ### 6. Creative Pebble Plus 2.1 – The Ultra-Budget Surprise Right, if you're absolutely skint but still want *some* bass, the Creative Pebble Plus 2.1 is a bit of a miracle worker. For around £40-£50, you get two tiny spherical satellites and a small down-firing subwoofer. Now, don't expect miracles – it's not going to shake your foundations. But compared to any built-in laptop speakers, or even basic 2.0 systems at this price, the Pebble Plus adds a much-needed warmth and a surprising amount of low-end thump. It's powered by USB, which is incredibly convenient. I've given these to my nephew for his gaming setup, and he loves them. Great little bit of kit for the money. * **Who it's for:** Students, those on a very strict budget, or anyone needing a significant upgrade from laptop speakers with some actual bass. * **Who should skip it:** Anyone expecting rich, detailed, or powerful bass. It's an upgrade, not a revelation. **Pros:** * Incredibly affordable * Adds surprising low-end warmth and thump for the price * USB-powered for convenience * Compact and stylish design **Cons:** * Limited power and overall sound quality (you get what you pay for) * Bass can be a bit muddy at higher volumes * Not suitable for critical listening or large rooms ### 7. Bose Companion 2 Series III – Simple, Refined 2.0 Now, Bose often gets a bit of stick in the audio world, but their Companion 2 Series III 2.0 speakers are actually pretty decent for what they are: simple, elegant desktop speakers with a surprisingly full sound. You won't get earth-shattering bass here, but what you *do* get is a well-integrated, natural-sounding low end that complements the mids and highs beautifully. They're super easy to set up, take up minimal space, and sound consistently good across different genres. For around £100-£120, they're a solid, no-fuss option for those who want a refined 2.0 experience without a separate sub. I've used these as a backup pair in the office for years. * **Who it's for:** Users who want a simple, elegant, and refined 2.0 system with good, natural-sounding bass without needing a separate subwoofer. * **Who should skip it:** If you need deep, impactful bass for movies/gaming, or if you're looking for advanced features and connectivity. **Pros:** * Compact and elegant design * Natural, well-integrated bass for a 2.0 system * Clear mids and highs * Very easy to set up and use * Reliable Bose quality **Cons:** * Lacks deep, impactful subwoofer-level bass * Limited connectivity (just 3.5mm inputs) * Can be a bit pricey for the features offered ### 8. SteelSeries Arena 7 – The Gamer's Choice with a Light Show Alright, if you're a serious gamer and you want something that looks the part *and* delivers the goods, the SteelSeries Arena 7 is worth a look. This 2.1 system isn't just about the sound; it's also got reactive RGB lighting that syncs with your screen. The 6.5-inch subwoofer delivers a proper rumble that adds masses of immersion to games, and the two-way speakers provide good detail for footsteps and dialogue. It's got USB, optical, and Bluetooth connectivity, so it's pretty versatile. It's not cheap, mind you, usually around £280-£320, but for an all-in-one gaming solution with genuinely good bass, it's a strong contender. * **Who it's for:** Dedicated PC gamers who want powerful, immersive sound with deep bass and reactive RGB lighting for extra flair. * **Who should skip it:** If you don't care about RGB lighting, or if you're purely focused on critical music listening over gaming immersion. **Pros:** * Powerful 6.5-inch subwoofer for deep gaming immersion * Reactive RGB lighting for a fun, immersive experience * Good clarity for in-game audio cues * Multiple connectivity options (USB, optical, Bluetooth) * Strong, modern design **Cons:** * Quite expensive, especially if RGB isn't a priority * Sound signature is tuned for gaming, less neutral for music * Can take up a fair bit of desk space ## Comparison: Quick Look at My Top Bass Picks Here's a little table to help you compare the main bits and bobs of my top choices: | Feature / Model | Edifier S350DB | Klipsch Promedia 2.1 | Logitech Z623 | Audioengine A2+ Wireless | PreSonus Eris E4.5 BT | Creative Pebble Plus 2.1 | Bose Companion 2 III | SteelSeries Arena 7 | | :---------------------- | :---------------- | :------------------- | :----------------- | :----------------------- | :-------------------- | :----------------------- | :------------------- | :-------------------- | | **System Type** | 2.1 | 2.1 | 2.1 | 2.0 | 2.0 | 2.1 | 2.0 | 2.1 | | **Subwoofer Size** | 8-inch (wireless) | 6.5-inch | 7-inch | N/A | N/A | 4-inch | N/A | 6.5-inch | | **Power (RMS Total)** | 150W | 200W | 200W | 60W | 50W | 8W | 10W (approx) | 250W | | **Connectivity** | BT, Opt, Coax, RCA | 3.5mm, RCA | 3.5mm, RCA | BT, RCA, USB | BT, RCA, TRS | USB, 3.5mm | 3.5mm | USB, Opt, BT, 3.5mm | | **Approx. Price (£)** | £350-£400 | £150-£200 | £120-£150 | £250-£300 | £180-£220 | £40-£50 | £100-£120 | £280-£320 | | **Best For** | All-round quality bass | Punchy gaming/movies | Loud, budget bass | Compact, musical 2.0 | Accurate studio sound | Ultra-budget upgrade | Simple, refined 2.0 | Immersive gaming | ## Setting Up Your Speakers for the Best Bass Alright, you've got your new kit. Don't just plonk it down anywhere and expect magic, though. A little bit of thought goes a long way to getting the best out of your bass. Believe me, I've seen some shockers. ### Subwoofer Placement: It Matters More Than You Think If you've got a subwoofer, don't just tuck it away in a corner and forget about it. That's often where you'll get the most bass, but it can also be the boomiest and least controlled. Try experimenting. The "subwoofer crawl" method is a classic: put the sub in your listening position (your chair), play some bass-heavy music, and then crawl around the room listening for where the bass sounds best. That's where your subwoofer should go. Seriously, try it. You'll be surprised. Failing that, usually somewhere near your desk, out of the corner, is a good start. Also, try not to have it vibrating directly on your desk – a bit of isolation like a pad or even a thick mat can help. ### Speaker Position: Stereo Imaging and Boundary Reinforcement Your main speakers (the satellites) should form an equilateral triangle with your head. So, if they're a metre apart, your head should be a metre away from each of them. Angle them slightly inwards towards you – this is called "toe-in" – to improve the stereo image. Try to get them roughly at ear height too. If they're too low, prop them up on some stands or even a couple of thick books. Having them too close to a wall can also give you a bit of a bass boost (called "boundary reinforcement"), which can be good, but too close and it can get muddy. Experiment, honestly. Move them an inch here, an inch there. It makes a bigger difference than you'd think. ### Room Acoustics: The Hidden Factor This is a bit more advanced, but your room plays a massive part in how your speakers sound. Hard, reflective surfaces (bare walls, glass, hard floors) can make everything sound harsh and echoey. Soft furnishings (carpets, curtains, sofas, bookshelves) absorb sound and help tame reflections, making the bass sound tighter and the overall sound more natural. Even a few well-placed plants can make a difference! You don't need to turn your office into a recording studio, but just being aware of how your room interacts with the sound can help. ## FAQ: Your Bass Speaker Questions Answered ### Q: Can I add a separate subwoofer to my 2.0 speakers? A: Absolutely, in most cases! Many 2.0 speaker systems, especially studio monitors like the PreSonus Eris, have dedicated subwoofer outputs. If yours doesn't, you can often connect a subwoofer with high-level inputs (speaker wire connections) to your amplifier, or use a splitter cable from your computer's audio output to feed both the speakers and the subwoofer. Just make sure you get a subwoofer that's designed to integrate well with your main speakers, and don't go overboard on size if your main speakers are tiny. ### Q: My bass sounds boomy and muddy, what can I do? A: This is a common one. First, try adjusting your subwoofer's volume and crossover frequency (if it has one). Lower the volume a bit. If the bass is still boomy, move the subwoofer away from corners and walls. Corners will exaggerate bass the most. Also, try lifting the subwoofer off the floor slightly with isolation feet or a thick pad – this can reduce vibrations transferring to the floor and desk. Finally, check your speaker placement for your main speakers; too close to a wall can sometimes contribute to muddiness. ### Q: Is wireless (Bluetooth) sound quality good enough for bass? A: For most casual listening, yes, modern Bluetooth with aptX or AAC codecs is perfectly good. You won't notice a huge difference in bass response compared to a wired connection for everyday use. However, if you're a real purist or doing critical mixing, a wired connection (USB, optical, or analog) will always offer the most stable and highest-fidelity signal. Bluetooth is brilliant for convenience, though. ### Q: Do expensive cables make a difference to bass? A: Honestly? For desktop speakers, usually not. Once you get to very high-end hi-fi setups, some argue for slight improvements, but for computer speakers, basic, good quality cables are absolutely fine. Don't fall for the marketing hype of super-expensive "audiophile" cables for this sort of setup. Spend your money on better speakers or a better subwoofer instead. That's where you'll hear a real difference. ### Q: My desk vibrates like crazy with the bass. Any tips? A: Ah, the rattling desk. A classic. The main culprit is usually your subwoofer or even your main speakers vibrating through the desk surface. The simplest fix is isolation. Put your subwoofer on a thick isolation pad (like an Auralex SubDude or even just a thick rubber mat) or a dedicated subwoofer stand. For your main speakers, small isolation pads or stands under them can help immensely. Even a few tennis balls cut in half can work wonders in a pinch! This stops the vibrations from travelling through your desk and turning it into a giant, uncontrolled sounding board. ## Final Word: Get That Proper Low End Look, life's too short for tinny sound. If you're spending hours at your computer, whether it's for work, play, or just chilling out, you deserve sound that actually makes you feel something. A proper set of speakers with a decent bass response isn't just a luxury; it's a fundamental upgrade to your daily grind. It makes music fuller, games more immersive, and films more impactful. You don't need to remortgage the house, either. As I've shown, there are fantastic options out there at various price points. So, take my advice. Have a think about what really matters to you, what your budget is, and how much space you've got. Then, pick one of these bad boys, set it up properly, and prepare to actually *feel* your audio. You'll wonder how you ever managed without it. Cheers, Robert.