As with any set of speakers, you rely very much on the quality of your sound card. From our experience, sound quality is generally very similar from chipset to chipset. The biggest difference is through the number of connections and the quality of software provided.

We tested these speakers using the Audigy 2 ZS. This card has full 7.1 analogue output and coaxial SPDIF. We were disappointed not to see optical output but very few of their speakers support this.

What impresses us most about Creative sound cards, is the software. The suite itself is excellent, with full independent control of each speaker coupled with CMSS and CMSS 2. One useful function is the ability to up mix a 2 channel signal to all 7 speakers.

With DVD audio starting to turn up on the market and Shoutcast now supporting AC3 streaming, we are starting to see 5 and 7 speakers finally becoming a bonus to music listeners. With upmixing to all 7 speakers, even with stereo signals you can fill the room with the best possible sound.

At £249.99 including VAT from Dabs, the Gigaworks S750 speakers are excellent value for money and get our full recommendation. Our main gripe is lack of digital input.

At £63.99 including VAT for the Audigy 2 ZS, this doesn't offer a considerable amount over decent onboard sound.

<< Back | 1 | | 2 | Next >>