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Edifier M3300SF

The speakers that are supplied with a new PC, or that are built into flat screen monitors, are generally not the best when it comes to quality of output. If you’re at all serious about using your PC to enjoy music or watch movies then a decent set of speakers is an essential upgrade.

If you don’t want the complexity and miles of cable involved in a 5.1 or 7.1 surround-sound system, but do want improved sound quality for day-to-day use then 2.1 systems are a compromise. Edifier’s offering has a weighty, wood-cased, sub-woofer and two flat-panel satellites. There’s a wired remote to adjust the volume and allow you to plug in a pair of headphones. The satellites are shiny black and the whole set up has a sleek, executive look.

Being flat the satellites don’t take up much room on your desk. What matters with speakers though is how they sound and in this the M3300SF doesn’t disappoint.

Flat panel speakers are less sensitive to positioning than conventional units so there’s no messing around to find that elusive stereo sweet spot. They’re not very good at bass sounds though, which is where the sub-woofer comes in. The Edifier’s sub-woofer is surprisingly powerful and the quality remains consistent at different volume levels. The bass is solid and sounds higher up the scale remain crisp.

It comes with all the necessary cables and clearly labelled connections so it’s easy to set up – it’s mains powered though so you’ll need an extra socket.

Whilst it’s aimed at PC users the M3300SF is also a great option for upgrading flat-screen TV’s which often have weedy speakers as standard. You’ll struggle to find better sound quality at this price.

Source: PC Utilities, UK

Written by: Ian Barker

Published: Issue #140