Diferentes tipos de parlantes para computadora

Los parlantes de computadora son un componente esencial del hardware de computadoras de escritorio y portátiles de hoy. Ya sea en forma de parlantes con alimentación externa o unidades de parlantes integradas, estos dispositivos brindan a los usuarios comentarios esenciales en forma de refuerzo de sonido. Como propietario de una computadora, comprender cómo funcionan sus parlantes y qué energía requieren garantiza que tenga todos los recursos que necesita para disfrutar de su hardware al máximo.

Afortunadamente, identificar y dominar la funcionalidad de los diversos tipos de unidades de altavoces en funcionamiento se puede lograr con relativa facilidad.

Los conceptos básicos de las unidades de altavoces externas

En términos generales, hay cuatro configuraciones de altavoces principales en uso. Dependiendo de las necesidades específicas de cada individuo, uno de estos cuatro arreglos principales probablemente satisfará todas sus necesidades de audio. Estas cuatro configuraciones son:un sistema de dos altavoces, una disposición de altavoces 2.1, una disposición de altavoces 5.1 y una disposición de altavoces 7.1.

Para la gran mayoría de los usuarios ocasionales de computadoras, un sistema de dos altavoces más que satisface sus necesidades. Los sistemas de dos altavoces proporcionan una reproducción estéreo precisa del sonido, enrutando la señal de audio estéreo original a las unidades de altavoz izquierda y derecha dedicadas. Para el usuario de la computadora, dividir la señal de audio en estos dos canales crea una experiencia que agrega vitalidad e inmersión a juegos, películas y otras aplicaciones.

Debido a su popularidad, los sistemas de dos altavoces están disponibles en una variedad de puntos de precio. Aunque los sistemas de dos altavoces a menudo carecen del rango de frecuencia de las configuraciones de altavoces más grandes y elaboradas, estos dispositivos aún cumplen con los requisitos de la mayoría de las aplicaciones multimedia.

Configuraciones avanzadas de altavoces

Aunque los sistemas de dos altavoces son populares, un número significativo de usuarios de computadoras optan por arreglos de altavoces más avanzados. En general, los sistemas de altavoces que utilizan más de dos altavoces se componen de altavoces satélite y un subwoofer. El altavoz de subgraves representa el ".1" sumado al número de altavoces satélite que se están utilizando. Por ejemplo, en una disposición de altavoces 2.1, se utilizan dos altavoces satélite junto con un subwoofer. En un sistema de altavoces 5.1, se utilizan cinco altavoces satélite en combinación con un subwoofer.

Inicialmente, puede parecer que los arreglos de altavoces 2.1, 5.1 y 7.1 se pueden usar indistintamente entre sí para el espectro de aplicaciones informáticas que se usan en la actualidad. Aunque esto puede ser cierto, hay usos recomendados para cada una de las configuraciones mencionadas.

2.1 Definición de altavoz

El sistema de parlantes de computadora 2.1 comúnmente vendido consta de dos parlantes satélite y un subwoofer. Dada la pequeña huella física de los sistemas de altavoces 2.1, estas unidades representan el equilibrio perfecto entre portabilidad y funcionalidad. En términos generales, los sistemas de altavoces 2.1 son ideales para las personas que principalmente utilizan su hardware de audio para reproducir música. . Independientemente del género específico o la plataforma de música que se utilice, los sistemas de altavoces 2.1 son más que capaces de proporcionar una excelente reproducción de música.

5.1 Sistemas de altavoces

En un sistema de altavoces 5.1, cinco altavoces satélite individuales se emparejan con un subwoofer. A diferencia de un sistema de altavoces 2.1, las configuraciones de altavoces 5.1 son capaces de proporcionar un sonido envolvente. Las configuraciones más grandes de altavoces también pueden proporcionar refuerzo de sonido envolvente, aunque a menudo requieren una inversión financiera mayor. In many situations, individuals use 5.1 speaker systems for playing movies or video games on their computers.

Many video games are specifically designed to provide an immersive, surround sound-driven experience for players. Although 5.1 speaker systems include a significantly larger amount of hardware than two-speaker configurations, they can still be purchased at an affordable price point in popular electronics stores.

7.1 Speaker Arrangement

As the larger speaker configuration in use today, a 7.1 system includes seven individual satellite speakers and one subwoofer. The 7.1 systems are capable of a degree of sound precision that is rarely in use. Although these systems may be worth the additional investment for audio applications where such sonic clarity is possible, this particular speaker configuration is not often necessary.

In fact, 7.1 surround systems automatically revert to 5.1 surround audio when encountering audio programmed in more standard surround sound configurations . Anyone who is interested in 7.1 surround sound should know that these systems are typically more expensive than any of the configurations mentioned previously. Because of this, individuals may choose to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of 7.1 systems before making the financial investment.

The World of Sound Bars

A soundbar is yet another option available to individuals in the market for computer speakers. This innovative system provides accurate stereo reproduction of audio without requiring a large hardware profile. Given their relatively small physical dimensions, sound bars are often positioned on top of or directly under a display, allowing individuals to take advantage of excellent stereo sound reproduction while simultaneously minimizing general clutter.

Unlike the systems mentioned previously, which include multiple hardware units, a soundbar is an all-in-one system. Each of the satellite speakers is aligned within a sophisticated array that creates a highly immersive experience during use. In recent years, the price point for soundbars has dropped dramatically, making them an affordable and powerful solution for those who are seeking to create a home theater-like experience with their speakers.

Although soundbars pack an incredible amount of performance into a small hardware profile, these units typically do not feature the same level of audio clarity as traditional speaker systems at the same price point. This is primarily because soundbars do not include a subwoofer with their primary hardware unit, rendering playback of lower range frequencies impossible.

However, to overcome this particular issue, many soundbars being sold come equipped with a wireless subwoofer. In some situations, soundbars are complemented by multiple satellite speakers to optimize audio playback. Whether this system matches your specific expectations and preferences, however, is entirely up to you.

Powered vs. Non-Powered Speakers

In some situations, you may be required to purchase an additional amplifier to ensure that your speakers play audio successfully. These speaker units are often referred to as non-powered speakers. Non-powered speakers are typically considered to be more sophisticated than powered units, due in large part to the fact that individuals can customize the specific amp they are using to modify the final sound output.

That being said, powered speakers often win over customers because they act as an all-in-one system without requiring additional financial investment. For the majority of users, powered speakers are the preferred solution.

Wireless Speaker Systems

For many individuals, the ability to configure a speaker system that is free of annoying cables is a huge perk. Wireless speaker systems have become a popular item for individuals who are seeking to integrate audio solutions in a variety of environments seamlessly.

In many situations, wireless speakers connect to a computer using the Bluetooth communication protocol. Bluetooth is commonly found on the majority of modern computer hardware. After connecting to the computer, these speakers output any audio from the computer just as if they were connected by conventional cabling.

Some wireless speaker systems may opt to connect with your computer through your wireless network rather than Bluetooth connectivity. In situations such as these, it is important to make sure that the speaker system won't conflict with your internet connectivity during use.

Not only do wireless speaker systems connect to your computer through the internet or Bluetooth, but they also link with each other without the use of cords or cabling . This allows individuals to specifically tailor the physical setup of their speakers to their liking. For example, they can adjust the positioning of their wireless speakers to accommodate a larger group or to experiment with various forms of surround audio playback. The ability to customize your setup to this degree is a distinct perk of wireless systems and a huge advantage over traditional audio speakers.

Wireless speaker systems are the perfect solution for individuals using laptops who may need speaker reinforcement while they are traveling or on-the-go. Portable wireless speakers can be purchased relatively inexpensively through the majority of electronics retailers. You can buy wireless computer speakers at Walmart and various other popular shopping outlets.

Considering Your Options

With any of the speakers mentioned previously, you can not only integrate this hardware into your computer setup but also into your home stereo system. The majority of modern speaker systems are compatible with both televisions and stereos, meaning that the line of separation between a home stereo system and computer speaker setup has become virtually indistinguishable.

Your budget will most likely play a significant factor in your decision to purchase a particular computer speaker system. Before taking the leap and purchasing the latest and greatest speaker hardware, take a moment and clarify what your specific need is.

For example, are you planning on using your computer speakers to watch movies as part of a home theater setup? Or, are you looking for a lightweight system that you can transport with you? Are you looking for a system that will accurately output the immersive sonic environments in your video games, or are you more in the market for a straightforward stereo output?

Knowing specifically what you need to accomplish your goals with regards to your stereo system helps you avoid overspending on a system that you won't be using to its full potential.

Your stereo system represents a significant purchase and should be thoroughly researched before you make your financial investment.

Moving Forward With Your Purchase

Once you have decided which specific speaker system you want to purchase, you can begin the process of finding the best possible price. Depending on the size of your speaker system, you may benefit from shopping at traditional retail stores rather than online to avoid excess shipping costs. Generally speaking, however, you can expect to find the majority of popular speaker systems through both online and brick-and-mortar stores.

If you have any questions about computer speakers and general performance, you should take the time to ask an audio expert at any one of several electronics stores before committing to your purchase. Given the fact that some of these units can be quite expensive, it pays to take the time to resolve any nagging issues, concerns or questions you may have before you finalize your purchase and begin using your new gear. Audio professionals are more than happy to listen to your specific needs and walk you through various options that can meet and exceed your requests at the best price point possible.