Webuser Forums: Basic cheap speaker systems upgrades Benchmark test to sort the good from the chaff

This is Not a tip but an Idea for a future article for buyers

Something basic which is overlooked in the Hardware dept. and as far as I know is what makes a good Good speaker setup without spending too much cash and what to look out for as regard build quality
That last point gives me an idea for a Benchmark test to perform
To pass the Test there must be No Noise except where stated

Starting with the Wiring and plugs (Computer OFF) Volume Normal setting
A)Can you hear any crackling in the speakers if you turn the Plug slightly? (and is the Plug a tight fit?)
B) Where the wiring goes into the speaker is it able to be moved if you pull and push it? And is there a grommet fitted to stop chafing? Cheap speakers often omit these and the wire is Knotted inside the casing.

Next the Controls
Check the motion of the controls is smooth from end to end and they project squarely through the casing! Also any off volume control do have a positive click to them. Failure rate is high if the internal breaker has a weak spring
(sign of cheapness) and Of course they fail the speakers are Junk

Look for a system with an On button (separate volume control) and an "On" light. Can leave On all the time if you like? Less wear and tear

Now Switch the Computer on, and these 2 tests will show up the cheap from the good.
1st test watch the screen carefully especially if your speakers are positioned next to the Monitor .Is there any flickering,which disappears when the speakers are switched off? (Poor quality magnets and/or shielding)Try turning the speaker On and Off If there is a big Flick seen,then its the Off control which is Poor.
Next test is Sound quality..Bass and Treble conrols can be compensated for on the Sound "Audio Properties" settings on a Basic setup
Music Powerwise Expect 2 ,5 or 10 watt systems The rest is technical mumbo jumbo speak to most of us.

For a good home system look for a 5 Watt which will be about 20 pounds

And this is why the Cheapest under a tenner 2 watt systems don't work on your ears.
Turn the volume up as high as you dare Not on any site and listen for Either a deep Hum(feedback). Poor wiring! or as on My computer Squeals whines and rumbles

This is due to shielding being not included !

So I can hear the Processor and Fan also the Router and Much more as loads increase

And Yes, I admit,I am using 2 watt cheapo speakers (ex Argos)as a stopgap. Am switching back to a 5 watt Maplins speakers(Music power 280 watts ) in a few days.
Their quote Total power output: 280W (5 Watts RMS) www.maplin.co.uk/module.aspx?ModuleNo=33758&doy=30m11#overview
and you'll also Note they have Magnetically shielded in the spec sheet
If you look at others and it does not say this then avoid like the Plague

PS Weak cheap speakers always need to be run at high volume. But generally The "higher" the spec the lower the Volume
If you have to run speakers at a high volume with poor sound

Then invest in something better

Surely an investment £20-£25 won't break your wallet?

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