GoKawiilModern desktop PCs and laptops aren't typically known for having the best sound systems right out of the box. Desktop manufacturers spend money on graphics cards and central processors instead of high-end audio components, as that's what consumers pay attention to.
But laptop makers have been making serious strides with audio. HP has teamed up with Bang & Olufsen, and Samsung owns several high-profile audio brands, including Harman Kardon. Newer Apple MacBook speakers sound pretty good, especially when compared to stuff that was coming out a decade or so ago. However, laptops are hobbled by the form factor. There's only so much room for speaker parts.
These factors have left consumers looking for external solutions. Luckily, there are plenty to choose from. Here are some ways to get the best audio out of your desktop PC or laptop.
Pair some external speakers
External speakers are the obvious choice here. This is a tried-and-true solution, though there are some caveats worth considering. The tech here has come a long way since the days of tinny-sounding bookshelf speakers, but that means there are hundreds of options to choose from. Some have built-in digital audio converters (DACs), and others offer wireless sound. Some are part of larger systems that include subwoofers, while others are passive and require an external power source.
In other words, go with something that sounds great and meets your budget. Speakers with integrated DACs tend to sound a bit better, due to higher-quality decoding, but an external DAC also gets the job done. Wireless setups are more convenient than wired systems, for obvious reasons, but tend to sound a bit thinner. High-end Wi-Fi speakers perform better than Bluetooth speakers, as Wi-Fi has a higher bandwidth than Bluetooth.
A system with a standalone subwoofer is also a great choice. These speakers accentuate the bass response and can typically be tucked away underneath a desk or entertainment table.
Don't forget about headphones
Headphones are always a great option, especially if you don't have the space for a real-deal speaker setup. A high-end pair of cans will sound decent out of the box, as most laptops and desktops have a built-in DAC of some kind. However, there are a couple of ways to increase the sound quality, which is important if you like to listen to hi-res audio.
For wired headphones, consider a portable DAC. These are usually about as small as a USB stick and plug into a USB port. They tend to sound better than a computer's built-in DAC. This can be coupled with a standalone headphone amp and a good pair of wired headphones for the ultimate in sound quality. Go for some open-back or closed-back studio monitors here. A standard gaming headset will technically get the job done, but this isn't the best option for top-tier audio.
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