Creative GigaWorks HD50 review

The humble PC speaker is often neglected by system builders, with the result that what could be a highly capable entertainment PC is hobbled by flimsy, tinny-sounding speakers. Adding a bit more oomph to your setup is easy and, if you don't want a tangle of wires hanging out of the back of your PC, Creative's latest desktop stereo pair is a good choice. They're beautifully built from thick, sturdy white plastic, and rubber pads on each speaker's base help isolate each unit from vibration. There isn't much bass on offer, but the top-porting means they're not overly sensitive to where you place them on the desk, and the result is a warm, well-balanced, punchy sound that's free from distortion. They go surprisingly loud, too.

Author: Jonathan Bray