2.1 speaker systems combine a pair of speakers (the "2.0" bit) with a subwoofer (the "0.1" bit), and are an alternative to a pair of active desktop speakers, if you specifically want great bass response, or if you want smaller speakers on your desktop but don't want to compromise on the bass response that a larger desktop speaker could offer. 2.1 speakers are a very popular choice for watching movies and gaming on a Mac or PC. Some of these systems are amplified and some of them require a separate amplifier (please refer to each item or contact us for help choosing).

A subwoofer is designed specifically for the playback of low end bass frequencies. This is why 2.1 speakers speakers can offer far better bass performance than typical active speakers or even typical smaller bookshelf speaker setups, as the subwoofer handles all the bass and is purpose-built to do so. Most of these 2.1 systems are powered, housing an amplifier in the subwoofer, which powers the system and the satellites meaning that you can plug a device or source directly into the amplifier section of the subwoofer.

This is a cherry-picked range of 2.1 Speakers, from entry-level to high-end, built with audiophile components and hi-fi design principles. Rest assured, we don’t sell any of the typical cheap "plasticky" systems that are available on the high street – all of our products are selected for their sonic excellence and build quality and are all made by reputable hi-fi brands. We have a range of 2.1 Speakers available in a range of colours, sizes and styles to suit your requirements. We offer free next day delivery on everything, meaning you can be up and running enjoying your favourite movies and music in absolutely no time at all! Alternatively, we are always happy to demonstrate any product shown here by prior arrangement in our midlands showroom for you to hear them for yourself.

As we mentioned, 2.1 Speakers are ideal for situations where space is limited. As the separate standalone subwoofer handles bass frequencies, the satellites can be built smaller, as they only need to handle mid and high frequencies. This means that they can be easily housed on a desktop or cabinet, while the subwoofer can be stowed away under a desk or in a corner.

With high resolution audio files becoming more and more popular, and plenty of internet music and movie streaming services available; computers, laptops and tablet devices are rapidly becoming the centre of many multimedia systems. It is not always possible to accommodate a typical stereo hi-fi setup on a computer desk, in a living room or in a kitchen, so these systems have become a very attractive solution to delivering high quality audio performance, yet also being compact enough to fit on a desk or hide away.

Thanks to the improved bass performance of 2.1 Speakers, many customers find them ideal for use with TVs, as the improved bass offerings give a much more full-bodied sound than a typical TV, more akin to a home cinema surround sound system. This means the rumble of explosions in your favourite movies, or the depth of a movie soundtrack’s orchestra will be fully felt and delivered in a much richer fashion than is possible with typical speaker setups.

Of course, 2.1 Speakers may not be able to offer the same immersive cinematic experience as a 5.1 speaker package, but they can offer a substantial improvement over standard PC or TV speakers and offer excellent value for money, a good alternative to a full home cinema system when this cannot be accommodated.