There are lots of people with lots of queries regarding 2.0 and 2.1 speakers, like, is there any difference, which is better, which one will be the best option for TV, gaming, movies, etc.
So, here comes this article was written keeping the queries of you in mind.
By going through it, you can know about some known models and brands from both types of speakers and finally, you can figure out-
- Difference between 2.0 and 2.1 speakers
- 2.0 vs 2.1 speakers for PC
- 2.0 vs 2.1 speakers for music
- 1 speaker with subwoofer for TV
Without further ado, let’s get into it.
What are 2.0 and 2.1 speakers?
Firstly, 2.0 speakers mean the left and the right stereo sound with 2 distinct channels. Just like the old stereos, this system separates the sounds in order to create an impressive experience/full experience. All the devices, almost, come with 2 stereo speakers at least.
Then comes the 2.1 speakers, which creates a separate bass sound by adding in the subwoofer. Note that, this sub gets counted as 1/10th of the channel. The reason behind it is that, it does not sound distinct that comes via the bass, rather it affects the low frequency. 2.1 surround is present in many soundbars.
Therefore, a 2.1 speaker means, the user has the stereo sound as well as the sub to help to fill in extra depth to the music or audio. There are also soundbars with a built-in subwoofer, which I feel causes a little bit of muffle in sounds.
Remember, for any 2.0 or 2.1 surround system, a receiver is not really necessary, the user can get by with the help of an amp as well. However, a receiver won’t be a bad choice either as it supports many channel systems. Plus it comes with HDMI ports, supports high resolution, more connectivity options, and many other features and facilities. Now let’s get deep into 2.0 vs 2.1 Speakers.
Difference: 2.0 vs 2.1 Speakers
I guess by now you have got a little idea about the basic difference between 2.0 vs 2.1 Speakers. That is, the main difference between both the devices is the presence of a subwoofer.
The 2.1 has a built-in sub( sometimes external) inside the soundbar built inside of the soundbar, whereas the 2.0 soundbars don’t have any subwoofer.
Is there any audible difference between the speakers?
Yes and no. Firstly, the 2.0 speakers are good at channeling the bass, however, they lack the subwoofer. So, systems with built-in sub perform better sometimes.
There is a but, a low-quality soundbar with a 2.1 system fails to provide better bass than a better quality 2.0 soundbar.
Let me explain a little more, suppose you have a pair of 6.5-in woofers that works excellently in your 2.0 system. Again, your 2.1 system comes with a cheap 4 or any 6-inch woofer. So which one will produce better bass?
So, whether you buy a 2.0 or 2.1 speaker, the output depends on the quality.
Logitech S120 2.0 stereo speakers
Another Logitech speaker, S120 is a 2.0 stereo speaker that works with any gadget with a headphone jack of 3.5 mm input. It works perfectly on television, computer, smartphone, tablet and music players.
Product Differentiator
The S120 Speaker is an affordable device that is easy to set up and easy to use. The pair of these speakers push the power of 2.3 watts in total. In addition, this device also features one volume and power control knob along with a headphone jack of 3.5 mm via which one can connect his/her computer’s soundcard.
Features
It is easy to set up
This speaker has got a slim design and it offers an easy setup, making it super user-friendly. You can connect your PC’s soundcard via any 3.5 mm input and can also access all controls located on the right-side speaker.
It delivers clear stereo sound
Logitech S120 produces 2.2 watts RMS and 4.4 watts peak power, as a result, this device produces clear stereo sound and provides a nice experience.
Logitech S120 is affordable and light weighted
This speaker is slim and lightweight which saves the user’s desk space, plus he/she can move it easily if they want to change its position.
It has easy controls
The power button, headphone jack as well as volume button are located at an easy position, that is at the right side of the speaker.
Edifier R1280t powered bookshelf- 2.0 stereo speakers
Another 2.0 stereo speaker, R1280T provides quality performance with its amazing sound quality. Not only that, it comes with an array of connections which definitely attracts a good number of users.
Product Differentiator
This speaker is a powerful bookshelf device that combines a retro outlook with modern audio quality. Its universal power supply is around 100V to 240V, which helps in producing a strong sound.
Moreover, it has dual inputs of RCA in order to connect many audio sources together. Interestingly, it has a wireless remote for controlling, or adjusting the volume and also to mute it, sometimes.
Features
It delivers quality performance
The R1280T has great audio quality. It is an affordable as well as versatile bookshelf speaker producing uncompromising sound. Further, with the help of the 4’’ bass driver and a bass reflex port, the R1280T bookshelf speaker system produces rich and robust bass notes.
The precise control is great
In this powered bookshelf speaker, one can personalize their listening experience by taking the help of the treble, bass, as well as volume dials located on the R1280T active bookshelf speaker.
The RCA Inputs
As stated earlier, this device has 2 RCA inputs which let the user easily connect with different devices, like laptops, smartphones, record players, or tablets.
You can see the options for RCA to AUX or the RCA to RCA connections in this device. Moreover, various cables are included here as well.
It comes with a wireless remote
With the help of the remote one can control the volume and mute it if needed. Plus, at the side where the active speaker is located, there is a built-in tone control. With the help of it, you can get a comfortable level while the speaker is powered on.
Cyber Acoustics CA-2014 multimedia
The CA-2014 is a 2-piece computer speaker system or call it an amplifier system from Cyber Acoustics. It provides rich quality stereo sound in an unassuming and simple package. The speakers are connected to the PC or any other audio source through a stereo cable of 3.5mm stereo cable for forming excellent compatibility.
Product Differentiator
It has a power button in the frontal panel as well as volume controls that let the user make any quick adjustments. Also, a standard-sized headphone jack (3.5mm) is provided for listening privately, if anybody wants.
Features
It is simple enough to use
This 2.0 stereo speaker has no complexity to use. Also, there is a user manual which will surely help you.
The compatibility is great
There is a stereo input sized 3.5mm providing excellent compatibility with the PC, MP3 players, and many others.
This device allows private listening
CA-2014 a standard-sized headphone jack (3.5mm) is provided for listening privately. So, if anybody does not want to share their favorite tracks with others, she/he can use this headphone jack.
The power and volume button are right in front of your hand
In the soundbar, there is a power button in the frontal panel and volume controls which will let you make any quick adjustments just within a short time.
Creative Pebble 2.0 USB-Powered Desktop Speakers
Among the cheapest 2.0 setup speakers, Creative pebble is one of the well-known brands. It not only comes at a very reasonable price but also provides a nice sound.
Product Differentiator
This device is quite different than the usual ones. That is, Creative pebble desktop speakers ain’t powered by USB speakers. I mean, they receive power through the USB by plugging it with the cable sized 3.5mm. If plugging is not an issue for you, at this price the sound quality won’t disappoint. This device delivers sleek audio and also it looks great doing it.
Features
It delivers impressive audio
Creative pebble has a powerful full-range covering a 2-inch driver along with a passive radiator that provides a nice audio performance.
It can drive a maximum of 8 Watts of the total power
The 8 Watts power helps to deliver a strong sound in the high-gain mode. The driver also elevates 45 degrees which angle at the user for private listening.
The volume controls are easy to access
The volume controls are placed right in the front. You can quickly operate them or can also ask any noob to operate if your hands are busy, as it is too easy!
It is powered by the USB-C port
The higher power obtained by the USB-C gets the need for the wall outlet eliminated.
Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers
Edifier by bringing their R1700BT in the market has filled up the gap of what the consumers were looking for such a long time; an Edifier device with great sound quality. Besides, the Edifier R1700BT bookshelf is the latest release of the brand which has given the customers a well-designed speaker.
The previous models of this brand like R2000DB and R1000DB were not doing bad either and still, they are used today, however, the R1700BT is said to be the better among them.
Product Differentiator
The Edifier R1700BT is made by using sleek designs and some technology tweaks which helped it to deliver an impressive level of sound quality.
Features
It has a sophisticated design
The 10-degree angle of this device directs the sound straight towards the listener.
The eagle eye tweeter does a great job
This model has a new eagle eye tweeter feature developed that is responsible for delivering great sound or audio quality every freaking time!
R1700BT has 4’’ bass drivers
The drivers are responsible for delivering rich lows as well as solid highs.
It delivers clear sound
The digital signal processing and the dynamic range control technologies nicely deliver a clear and bright sound quality.
It works with Bluetooth as well
The remote control and the Bluetooth connectivity make using the R1700BT easier.
Klipsch promedia 2.1 thx computer speakers
Klipsch promedia is a 2.1 system speaker which is also THX certified. The speakers go well with the MP3 players or PCs but they are best with DVD players, game consoles and the TV.
Product Differentiator
The Klipsch promedia speakers have successfully passed the THX certification. So there is no doubt of getting anything other than good sound quality.
Moreover, the satellite speaker provides an output of 55 watts each, whereas the subwoofer provides 50 watts which help to deliver a good sound. Therefore, these speakers will be a great choice for the listeners.
Features
The 2.1 Output
This device provides the stereo output with the help of an additional sub delivering the bass. This gives the user a stereo sound with an excellent.
Its satellite speakers work great
Klipsch promedia’s satellite speakers emphasize both the standard 3-inch woofers and the Micro Tractrix horns which provide more dynamic and clean sound.
This device is THX certified
The speakers have successfully passed the THX certification. So there is no doubt of getting anything other than good sound quality.
The control pod helps to easily control the speakers
Attached with any one of the satellite speakers, the control pod allows the users to control the speakers easily. Not only controlling the speakers, with the help of it one can connect their headphones and plug the stereo signal wires or the PC.
Majority Teton 32 Inch 2.1 Channel Bluetooth Soundbar
A black and slim 32’’ Bluetooth soundbar; Majority Teton easily fits under any television monitor or desktop monitor. Also, one can simply pop it anywhere, as it probably fits everywhere.
Product Differentiator
This device supports HDMI ARC, Bluetooth, Optical, 3.5mm headphone jack, RA, etc. It also comes with remote control, built-in sub as well as HDMI ARC, RCA, and Optical input which includes Optical Cables RCA, and HDMI. It will work great for gaming and Television.
Features
You can connect your device with it via Bluetooth
Audio can be played wirelessly from Bluetooth-enabled gadgets, like MP3 players or smartphones.
It comes with an HDMI ARC
This feature helps to control the soundbar along with the television at the same time. Moreover, there are RCA and Optical connections included with this device.
The Teton includes USB input
This input lets the user play audio from the USB stick. Not that, RCA, Optical Cable, and HDMI come with this device.
There is a built-in sub
The device is designed nicely with a built-in sub along with a pair of speaker drivers for getting a powerful and high definition surround sound effect.
The Teton comes with remote control
One can easily and quickly control the mode, volume, bass, and treble settings using the remote control.
Creative Stage 2.1 Channel Under-Monitor Soundbar
2.1 channel, Creative stage is a great all-encompassing audio entertainment device for anyone’s room. It features an under-monitor high performing soundbar for the user’s television and PC.
Product Differentiator
The sub provides a perfect boost for rich whopping bass that vibrates throughout the area of the room. With a great number of connectivity options, the Creative stage is a great entertainment system for using both in a living room or a desktop PC setup.
Features
There are lots of audio modes in this device
One can use the modes for any ambiance, such as concerts, movies, music, gaming, and enjoyment.
MP3 from a USB drive
In this device, you can play the MP3 files from the USB hard drive.
It is compatible with many formats
Creative stage has USB storage of up to 32GB and it can play MP3 audio formats on the storage devices.
Creative stage supports FAT32 formats and has myriad inputs
As stated earlier, with a great number of connectivity options this device also supports FAT32 format, has an optical input, ARC input, an integrated AUX-in of 3.5mm for other devices.
Logitech Z625 Powerful THX Sound 2.1 Speaker
2.1 powerful speaker, Logitech Z625 is THX Certified which nicely produces the ultimate sound as well as a fine gaming-grade audio.
Product Differentiator
The Logitech Z625 will give you the best experience for music and movies. It has a peak of 400 Watts and 200 Watts of RMS power helping to deliver a thundering bass and crisp sound.
Plus, one can connect a maximum of 3 compatible devices easily via 3.5mm, RCA, or optical inputs. Even, accessing the controls present on the right side satellite speaker are super easy.
Features
It is a THX-certified device
Logitech Z625 is designed to produce and deliver an accurate audio experience. Note that, THX-certified speaker means these speakers are tuned to deliver the artist’s truthful vision right into the user’s living/bedroom.
It produces the powerful sound of 400 Watts
As mentioned earlier, This 2.1 system produces a peak of 400 Watts and 200 Watts of RMS power which helps in delivering an amped audio. That is why the user will get a thundering bass and crisp sound at the time of watching any movies packed with action and listening to music as well. In short, it produces a powerful sound.
Logitech Z625 has a flexible Setup
It supports more than one inputs simultaneously, which includes 3.5mm, RCA, or optical input. Not only that, in this 2.1 speaker system one can connect a maximum of 3 compatible devices, like the television, PC, and game console. Interestingly, disconnecting is not required at all, at the time of switching between the audio sources.
The controls are located in a user-friendly position
The power button, bass, volume, auxiliary jack, and headphone jack are located in an easily accessible position, that is on the right side of the satellite speaker.
2.1 – Channel JBL Bar Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer
Our last device, the 2.1 channel JBL bar has a slimmer profile, which fits anywhere easily. It is super easy to use and it also features JBL Surround Sound, Dolby®, system power of 300 Watts along with a wireless 6.5-inch subwoofer in order to provide deep bass and balanced sound for the music, movies, and games.
Product Differentiator
This device has an HDMI input, AUX input as well as some USB wired connections which enables the user to expand the home entertainment or home theater options wider.
Further, the JBL bar is Bluetooth enabled in order to form a conducive wireless connection. Also, this device features the JBL SoundShift allowing the user to quickly switch between sound from the mobile and the sound from the television.
The user can moreover use the soundbar flexibly with the existing television’s remote control.
Features
It delivers a strong sound
The JBL bar produces the strong sound of power 300 Watt. This output ensures praiseworthy audio performance for the movies as well as music.
JBL Bar is great for movies
The surround sound of JBL makes movies, especially the action genre, come alive without even any hassle of extra speakers or wires.
It delivers deep and rich bass
The wireless sub of 165mm produces deep and rich bass.
Overall: 2.0 vs 2.1 speakers
I have tried to briefly put into words the best 2.0 and 2.1 speakers available currently (sorry if I have missed any). Again, I will state that 2.0 and 2.1 speakers are quite alike where one comes with the subwoofer and the other doesn’t.
I don’t want to be diplomatic, but there is no clear winner in 2.0 vs 2.1 speakers. There are some really good and bad models from both the type. Also, it won’t be wise to compare a cheap 2.1 speaker with a branded and quality 2.0 speaker and vice-versa, while making a purchase. Always remember, the output/result depends on the quality.
FAQs
You can count this FAQ section as waving Goodluck touch, as this section is here to solve your problems about 2.0 vs 2.1 speakers.
What are the best 2.1 speakers?
–> Check out the JBL bar. This device features the JBL SoundShift allowing the user to quickly switch between sound from the mobile and the sound from the television.
Which one is better among 2.0 vs 2.1 soundbars?
–> Depends. Firstly, the 2.0 speakers are good at channeling the bass, however, they lack the subwoofer. So, systems with built-in sub perform better sometimes.
There is a but, a low-quality soundbar with a 2.1 system fails to provide better bass than a better quality 2.0 soundbar.
Between the 2.1 speakers vs 2.1 soundbars which one shall I go for?
–> A soundbar is quite affordable and also less space. So, if you have a budget or space shortage, then a soundbar it is. Otherwise, you can also go for a speaker.
What is the difference between a 2.0 and 2.1 speaker?
–>The 2.1 has a built-in sub( sometimes external) inside the soundbar built inside of the soundbar, whereas the 2.0 soundbars don’t have any subwoofer.
Student and Tech journalist.