The Best Speakers for PS5 Gaming: Immersive Audio for Your Console Setup
By Robert Jones · 2026-03-09
Right then, you've shelled out for a PS5. Don't let flat TV audio ruin the experience! I've been testing the best speakers for PS5 gaming – from desk setups to living room soundbars – so you can feel every explosion and hear every detail.
Right then, you've shelled out for a PS5. Marvellous bit of kit, isn't it? But if you're just relying on your telly's built-in speakers, you're really doing yourself, and your games, a disservice. I've been messing about with audio gear for decades, and trust me, hearing every explosion and feeling every rumble makes a world of difference. That lovely Tempest 3D AudioTech from Sony? It really shines when you give it something decent to work with. I've had a fair few speakers come through the workshop over the years, and gaming setups used to be a bit of a niche, mostly headphones. But now, with games looking and sounding so cinematic, folk are wanting proper speakers. Something that fills the room, gives you that physical thump. It's a different ball game entirely. So, I've put a load of PS5-compatible speakers through their paces, from compact desktop setups to roaring living room rigs, to see what actually delivers. Some were cracking, others… well, let's just say they wouldn't last five minutes on my workbench. **Quick Verdict: Don't scrimp on your PS5 audio; it's half the fun.**  *The Best Speakers for PS5 Gaming: Immersive Audio for Your Console Setup — tested in the SpeakersMag workshop. Yeah, that's my old workshop table, bit messy, I know.* ## Why Your PS5 Deserves Better Sound Than Your TV Can Offer Let's be honest, most TV speakers are a bit pants, aren't they? They're an afterthought, tucked away, trying to be invisible. They do a job, sure, but they're not designed to reproduce the rich soundscapes modern games create. Think about *God of War Ragnarök* – the clash of Mjolnir, the booming voice of Kratos, the subtle creaks of ancient trees. Your TV speakers turn that into a rather flat, two-dimensional affair. It's like watching a blockbuster on a tiny old portable screen; you get the gist, but you miss all the spectacle. Sony's Tempest 3D AudioTech is a clever bit of engineering. It's designed to place sounds precisely around you, giving you a real sense of space and direction. This isn't just for immersion; it's practical. Hearing exactly where that enemy is sneaking up from, or the direction of an incoming missile, can genuinely impact your gameplay. But for that 3D magic to work, you need speakers that can actually articulate those subtle positional cues. A decent set of dedicated speakers, even a good soundbar, can unlock that potential. It's not just about being louder; it's about being clearer, more dynamic, and putting you right in the thick of it. ### Connections Matter: HDMI, Optical, USB, Oh My! One thing that often trips people up with console audio is getting it hooked up correctly. Modern consoles, including the PS5, aren't always super flexible with their audio outputs. HDMI is the main one, obviously, carrying both video and audio to your TV. But if you want to bypass your TV's speakers or use a separate audio system, you need to think about how your chosen speakers will connect. * **HDMI eARC/ARC:** This is usually the best bet for soundbars and AV receivers. It allows audio to be sent *from* your TV *to* the sound system via the HDMI cable. Means less messing about. Make sure your TV and your sound system both support eARC for the best quality, especially if you're after uncompressed audio formats. * **Optical (TOSLINK):** The PS5 itself doesn't have an optical out, which is a bit of a pain. Some TVs still do, though. If your sound system relies on optical, you'll likely need to connect your PS5 to your TV via HDMI, and then use the optical out from your TV to your sound system. Just be aware that optical has bandwidth limitations, so you might not get the very latest uncompressed surround sound formats. * **USB:** Increasingly, some desktop gaming speakers connect via USB. This is often brilliant for PC gamers, and for PS5 users who play at a desk with a monitor, it can be a surprisingly direct and high-quality connection. It usually handles power and audio all in one go. * **3.5mm Aux:** Less common for a primary console setup, but some smaller speakers or soundbars might offer it. It's an analogue connection, so usually not the choice for top-tier audio quality, but it's simple and works everywhere. ## My Top PS5 Speaker Picks – What I've Had My Hands On I've been testing speakers for donkey's years, and gaming audio has always been a bit of a mixed bag. For a long time, it was all about headsets. And they're still brilliant, especially for competitive stuff or late-night sessions. But as consoles have got more powerful and games more cinematic, the demand for proper speaker setups has shot up. People want that physical presence, the bass you feel in their chest. It's a different beast entirely. Here are the ones that impressed me, and a couple that didn't quite make the cut. ### 1. SteelSeries Arena 9 – Proper Surround for the Desk Now, this is an interesting one. SteelSeries has always been a big name in gaming peripherals, but speakers? I was a bit sceptical at first, to be honest. The Arena 9 is billed as a 5.1 system, and it really is. Not a soundbar faking it, but proper individual speakers: two fronts, a centre, two wireless rears, and a beefy 6.5-inch subwoofer. It’s designed clearly with a desk setup in mind, connecting via USB. That’s a big plus for PS5 owners who use a monitor. When I first set it up in my workshop, the RGB lighting was a bit… much. Flashing away like a disco. But you can dial that right down or turn it off, thankfully. What really matters is the sound. And for a gaming-specific system, it’s surprisingly good. The front speakers are clear, and the centre channel does a solid job of keeping dialogue intelligible – crucial in story-heavy games like *Final Fantasy VII Rebirth*. The wireless rears are a godsend for cable management; no one wants metres of wire trailing across their floor. They add a genuine sense of spaciousness, placing enemies behind you accurately. The subwoofer, sitting under my desk, delivered a satisfying thwack without ever sounding flabby or boomy. It's quite a large footprint, mind, so make sure you've got the room. It’s not cheap, usually around £300-£350, but for what you get, it's pretty good value. * **Pros:** Genuine 5.1, clear dialogue, solid bass, wireless rears, USB connection for PS5. * **Cons:** RGB might not be for everyone, a bit chunky for smaller desks, needs a fair few power sockets. **Who it's for:** Gamers with a dedicated desk setup and a bit of space, who want proper surround sound without an AV receiver. If you're serious about competitive shooters or just love being utterly absorbed, this is a strong contender. **Who should skip it:** Those with limited desk space, anyone who hates RGB, or if you're playing on a living room TV. ### 2. Creative Katana V2X – Compact Soundbar for Desktops Creative has been doing PC audio for ages, and their Katana range has always been popular. The V2X is a slightly smaller, more refined version of their Katana V2, aimed squarely at desk users. It's a soundbar with a dedicated subwoofer, which is an excellent compromise for folks who want better audio than their monitor offers but don't have space for multiple speakers. It connects via USB to the PS5, which is simple and effective. I tested this one on my second workbench, paired with a 27-inch gaming monitor. The soundbar itself is slim enough to sit under most monitors without blocking the screen. The sound is clear and surprisingly wide for its size. It uses some virtual surround tech, which, while not quite the real deal like the Arena 9, still does a decent job of making games sound bigger and more atmospheric. The subwoofer is a bit more compact than the SteelSeries one, but still provides a welcome punch. Explosions in *Helldivers 2* had a satisfying weight to them. Dialogue was crisp. It doesn't have the same pinpoint accuracy for positional audio as a true surround system, but it's miles better than any monitor speakers. Usually retails around £200-£220. * **Pros:** Compact, good sound quality for its size, dedicated subwoofer, easy USB connection, good value. * **Cons:** Virtual surround is no match for real 5.1, not ideal for a large living room. **Who it's for:** Desk gamers with limited space who want a significant upgrade over monitor speakers. If you play a lot of single-player, story-driven games and want better immersion, this is a great shout. **Who should skip it:** If you absolutely must have true physical surround sound, or if you're using it in a big living room. ### 3. Sonos Beam (Gen 2) – Premium Living Room Soundbar Now, moving into the living room setup. Sonos is a brand I've reviewed countless times, and they generally do a grand job. The Beam Gen 2 is their mid-range soundbar, and it's brilliant for PS5 if you want something sleek and powerful for your main TV. It connects via HDMI eARC/ARC, which means it pulls the audio directly from your TV, including that lovely uncompressed 3D audio from the PS5. Setting it up is a doddle through the Sonos app, as expected. In my living room, the Beam Gen 2 really shone with cinematic games. The soundstage is wide, and the dialogue clarity is exceptional – never missed a word in *Cyberpunk 2077*, even with all the neon-soaked chaos. It uses virtual Dolby Atmos, which, while not having upward-firing speakers, does a remarkable job of creating a sense of height and envelopment. Explosions have heft, and the dynamic range is impressive. It doesn't come with a dedicated subwoofer out of the box, but you can add a Sonos Sub Mini or Sub later if you want serious bass, though that bumps the price up significantly. On its own, it's usually about £400-£450. A bit pricier than the others, but you're paying for quality, ease of use, and expandability within the Sonos ecosystem. * **Pros:** Superb sound quality, excellent dialogue clarity, easy setup, virtual Atmos, expandable with other Sonos speakers. * **Cons:** No dedicated subwoofer included (a big extra cost), relies on HDMI eARC/ARC from your TV. **Who it's for:** Living room gamers who want premium sound, a sleek aesthetic, and the option to build a wider wireless home cinema system. If you already have Sonos gear, it's a no-brainer. **Who should skip it:** Those on a tighter budget, or if your TV doesn't have an eARC/ARC HDMI port. ### 4. Yamaha SR-B20A Soundbar – Budget Living Room Option If the Sonos Beam is a bit rich for your blood, but you still want a significant upgrade for your living room PS5 setup, the Yamaha SR-B20A is a solid, no-nonsense choice. Yamaha has a long history in audio, and they know how to make a decent soundbar without breaking the bank. This one is a 2.1 system, meaning two front channels and an integrated subwoofer. It connects via HDMI ARC or optical, so it's pretty versatile. I tested this in a smaller sitting room with a 40-inch TV. For its price, typically around £150-£180, the sound quality is genuinely impressive. It produces a much fuller, more dynamic sound than any TV speakers could manage. The bass from the built-in subwoofer is surprisingly punchy, giving action sequences in *Call of Duty* a decent kick. It also features Yamaha's 'Clear Voice' technology, which works well for boosting dialogue, something I always appreciate. It won't give you true surround sound or Atmos, but it creates a much wider and more engaging soundstage. It's not as sleek as the Sonos, and the remote feels a bit cheap, but for pure sound-per-pound, it's hard to beat. * **Pros:** Very affordable, much better sound than TV speakers, good bass for an integrated sub, clear dialogue, versatile connections. * **Cons:** No true surround, remote feels a bit flimsy, not as premium-looking as pricier options. **Who it's for:** Budget-conscious living room gamers who need a significant upgrade in sound quality without spending a fortune. A great entry point into better console audio. **Who should skip it:** If you're after true surround, deep, chest-rattling bass, or a premium, minimalist design. ### 5. Edifier R1280DBs – Quality Stereo for Desks or Small Rooms Sometimes, simple stereo is all you need, especially if space or budget is a concern. Edifier makes some cracking powered speakers, and the R1280DBs are a fantastic example. These are active bookshelf speakers, meaning they have their own amplifier built-in – just plug them into the wall and connect your audio source. They offer optical, coaxial, and RCA inputs, plus Bluetooth. For PS5, the optical input is usually the best bet, though you'll need a TV with an optical out, as the PS5 doesn't have one directly. I've had a pair of these in the workshop for six months, using them for everything from music to podcast editing, and they punch well above their weight. For PS5 gaming, they provide excellent stereo separation and clarity. The sound is natural and well-balanced, with a surprising amount of bass for their size. Playing *Alan Wake 2* on these gave the eerie atmosphere real depth, and the directional audio, while only stereo, was still very effective. You won't get surround sound, of course, but the quality of the stereo image is superb. They also come with a small remote for volume and input selection. Typically available for around £120-£150. * **Pros:** Excellent stereo sound quality, versatile inputs, compact size, great value, can double as music speakers. * **Cons:** No surround sound, relies on TV's optical output, external power for each speaker. **Who it's for:** Gamers who prioritise clear, balanced stereo sound over surround, especially for desk setups or smaller rooms. Excellent choice if you also want good speakers for music. **Who should skip it:** Anyone who demands true surround sound or physical bass you can feel. ## Comparison Table: PS5 Speaker Showdown | Feature | SteelSeries Arena 9 | Creative Katana V2X | Sonos Beam (Gen 2) | Yamaha SR-B20A | Edifier R1280DBs | | :---------------- | :------------------ | :------------------ | :------------------- | :----------------- | :-------------------- | | **Type** | 5.1 System | 2.1 Soundbar | Virtual Atmos S.Bar | 2.1 Soundbar | 2.0 Bookshelf | | **PS5 Connection**| USB | USB | HDMI eARC/ARC | HDMI ARC/Optical | Optical (via TV) | | **Surround** | Yes (True 5.1) | Virtual | Virtual (Atmos) | Virtual | No (Stereo) | | **Subwoofer** | External (6.5") | External (Included) | Optional Add-on | Integrated | No | | **Price (approx.)**| £300-£350 | £200-£220 | £400-£450 | £150-£180 | £120-£150 | | **Ideal Use** | Desk (True Surround)| Desk (Compact) | Living Room (Premium)| Living Room (Budget)| Desk/Small Room (Stereo)| ## How to Get the Best Sound from Your PS5 Speakers It's not just about buying the right speakers; you've got to set them up properly too. Even the most expensive system will sound rubbish if it's just plonked down willy-nilly. Here are a few tips I've picked up over the years. ### Placement is Key For any speaker system, placement makes a massive difference. If you're using a stereo pair like the Edifiers, try to form an equilateral triangle with yourself and the speakers. This helps create a proper stereo image. For soundbars, ensure they're positioned centrally below your TV and aren't blocked by anything. If you've got a system with rears, like the SteelSeries Arena 9, make sure those rears are actually *behind* you and slightly to the sides, not just shoved up against a wall. Angle them slightly towards your listening position. Subwoofers often benefit from being in a corner, but experiment a bit – some can get too boomy there. Trial and error, that's the name of the game. ### Room Acoustics Now, this is where things get a bit more audiophile, but it's important. Your room plays a huge part in how your speakers sound. Hard surfaces like bare walls, glass, and wooden floors can reflect sound, making it echoey or harsh. Soft furnishings, carpets, curtains, and even bookshelves full of books can absorb sound, helping to dampen reflections and make the sound clearer and more controlled. You don't need to go turning your living room into a padded cell, but a few strategically placed rugs or curtains can make a surprising difference. Even just having a sofa will help absorb some of those reflections. ### PS5 Audio Settings Don't forget to dive into the PS5's own audio settings. Go to **Settings > Sound > Audio Output**. Here you can select your output device, change the HDMI Device Type (usually AV Amplifier for soundbars/receivers), and adjust the audio format. For most setups, especially with a soundbar or AV receiver, you'll want to set it to 'Linear PCM' or 'Dolby' for the best results, letting your sound system decode the audio. Experiment with these settings; sometimes one works better with a particular setup than another. Also, check your TV's audio settings – sometimes TVs have their own processing that can mess with the sound, so look for a 'passthrough' mode or turn off any unnecessary audio enhancements. ## FAQ: Your PS5 Speaker Questions Answered ### Can I use my existing hi-fi speakers with my PS5? Yes, absolutely, if you have an amplifier. You'd connect your PS5 (via your TV's HDMI ARC or optical out) to an input on your stereo amplifier. That then drives your hi-fi speakers. It's a perfectly good way to get excellent sound, especially if you prioritise music quality too. Just make sure your amplifier has the right inputs. ### Is a soundbar or a full surround system better for PS5? It depends entirely on your room and budget. A full 5.1 or 7.1 system with discrete speakers will almost always offer the most accurate and immersive surround sound, especially for positional audio. However, they're more expensive, take up more space, and involve more cables. A good soundbar (especially one with virtual Atmos or a dedicated subwoofer) offers a fantastic compromise for most living rooms – much better than TV speakers, but more compact and often simpler to set up than a full system. ### Do I need a special "gaming" soundbar for my PS5? Not necessarily. While some soundbars are marketed specifically for gaming and might have features like low-latency modes or RGB lighting, many regular home cinema soundbars from reputable brands will perform just as well, if not better, for PS5 audio. The key is good sound quality, decent bass, and appropriate connectivity (HDMI eARC/ARC or USB for desktop). ### Will better speakers reduce input lag for audio? No, better speakers themselves won't reduce *input* lag (the delay between your input and what happens on screen). However, some audio processing, particularly virtual surround sound or certain sound modes on TVs or soundbars, can introduce *audio* lag, causing the sound to be slightly out of sync with the video. Always check for a 'Game Mode' or 'Passthrough' setting on your TV and sound system to minimise this. ### What about a gaming headset instead? Headsets are brilliant, especially for competitive online play where pinpoint audio cues are vital, or for late-night gaming when you don't want to disturb anyone. They often provide incredibly accurate 3D audio. However, they're not the same as feeling the sound reverberate through a room. Speakers give you that physical presence, that shared experience if you're playing with mates, and a sense of scale that headphones just can't quite replicate. Ideally, have both – speakers for when you want to feel it, headphones for when precision and quiet are key. ## Final Word Honestly, if you've splashed out on a PS5, don't let mediocre audio let the side down. It's like having a gorgeous painting but viewing it in a dimly lit room. The right speakers – whether it's a compact desk setup or a full-on living room soundbar – can genuinely transform your gaming experience. You'll hear things you never noticed before, feel the impact of every explosion, and get utterly lost in those virtual worlds. For my money, the SteelSeries Arena 9 is top of the pops for a serious desk setup, and the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) is the one to beat for the living room if your budget allows. But even the more affordable options here will be a massive step up from your TV speakers. Go on, give your ears a treat; you've earned it. And trust me, your games will thank you for it.