Tired of tinny TV sound but short on space? The Creative Stage Pro 2.1 soundbar might be your compact audio savior. This unassuming setup, featuring a soundbar and separate subwoofer, belies its impressive audio capabilities, delivering a surprisingly rich and immersive experience for its size.
Creative, a brand synonymous with quality PC audio since the SoundBlaster days, continues its tradition of offering technically impressive gear at wallet-friendly prices. For $229.95, the Stage Pro 2.1 packs a punch with features like Dolby Audio (Digital and Plus), a remote control, and a versatile range of inputs including HDMI, USB-C, Optical, AUX, and Bluetooth. It even boasts an adjustable EQ with presets for Movie, Music, Vocals, Gaming, or a flat response.
But here's where it gets controversial: while it lacks Dolby Atmos for true 3D sound, its 2.1 setup with a dedicated subwoofer delivers a surprisingly wide soundstage, especially considering its compact size.
Design-wise, it's a mixed bag. The angular bronze accents add a touch of flair to the standard soundbar design, but some might find it a bit generic. And this is the part most people miss: its compact dimensions (550mm x 112mm x 80.7mm for the soundbar) make it ideal for desktops or smaller living spaces, catering to both gamers and TV enthusiasts alike.
Under the hood, the Stage Pro 2.1 boasts impressive specs: 20W RMS per channel for the soundbar, a 40W RMS side-firing subwoofer, and passive radiators for enhanced bass response. Its connectivity options are commendable, covering most modern devices.
Sound quality is where this system truly shines. Our tests revealed a surprisingly neutral sound signature, delivering clear highs, solid mids, and a surprisingly punchy bass for its size. While the high treble can get a bit harsh at maximum volume, dialing it back to 75% reveals a well-balanced and enjoyable listening experience.
However, the lack of a dedicated Night Mode might be a dealbreaker for late-night movie marathons.
In conclusion, the Creative Stage Pro 2.1 is a fantastic value proposition for those seeking a significant upgrade from their TV's built-in speakers without breaking the bank. Its compact size, versatile connectivity, and impressive sound quality make it a strong contender in the budget soundbar category.
What do you think? Is the lack of Dolby Atmos a dealbreaker for you? Or does the Stage Pro 2.1's affordability and performance outweigh this omission? Let us know in the comments below!
Product Links:
- Product Page: https://au.creative.com/p/speakers/creative-stage-pro
- Manual: https://files.creative.com/manualdn/Manuals/TSD/14687/oJ4l0OpmpT/QSG-StagePRO-03MF849500000B.pdf
Specifications:
- Price: $229.95
- Availability: Creative online and CE/IT resellers
- Warranty: 12 months ACL
- Origin: Made in China
- Company: Singapore-based Creative Labs (Est. 1981)
Ratings (out of 100):
- Features: 90 - Impressive feature set for the price.
- Value: 90 - Excellent value for money.
- Performance: 90 - Outstanding performance in its category.
- Ease of Use: 90 - Plug-and-play simplicity.
- Design: 85 - Functional but could be more innovative.
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Looking for a desktop-focused 2.1 system? Check out our review of the BlueAnt SOUNDBLADE: https://cybershack.com.au/reviews/blueant-soundblade-serious-2-1-sound-for-the-computing-desktop-av-sound-review/
