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I have to admit that I've been watching a lot of Mighty Car Mods lately and one of their catchphrases is "Mad", which I guess is Austrialian for "Cool". Similar to how Fosters is Austrialian for Beer.
At least according to the Americans.
So, what does this have to do with Creative Sound BlasterX Kratos S3 2.1 Desktop speakers? Nothing really cept for the "Mad"Shrimps that published the review.
Sound BlasterX Kratos S3 is an entry-level 2.1 speaker system from Creative, which is marketed mostly at gamers, but can be also used on a wide range of devices thanks to the analog audio interface. It comes with two 2.75’’ satellites and one 5.25’’ down-firing subwoofer for a RMS total power of 46W. This should be more than enough for small apartments or for users that do not want to spend a fortune on a more advanced system, while providing easy switching with headphones, thanks to the included headphone jack located on the right satellite.
We should have our own review of a kickass desktop speaker system with its own LED lightihng effects for extra Asian sales potental. [Check the latest Hardware Asylum Podcast for more information on that reference].
Creative’s Sound Blaster remains a legendary name in PC gaming, although today’s gamers might be more familiar with the company’s speakers and headphones than their iconic sound card. Today we’re looking at the Sound BlasterX Kratos S3, a 2.1 desktop speaker system with a focus on gaming that retails for just under £70.
Features & Specifications
- 92W 2.1 system w/ analogue connector [3.5mm]
- satellites: 158 x 95 x 102mm, 0.5~0.6 kilograms
- subwoofer: 227 x 170 x 227mm, 2.4 kilograms
- 2-year limited hardware warranty
Design
The Kratos S3 have a typical gamer design, made from glossy black plastic, matte black wood and a few red accents. Each satellite is angled upwards slightly, as befitting their expected placement on a desk, while the subwoofer is elevated by four chunky feet.
Each satellite has a 2.75-inch driver that dominates the front of the device, while the subwoofer is a 5.25-inch downward-firing unit with a port tube design. All three enclosures are made of wood, with Creative promising a ‘fuller, warmer, more natural sound than plastic-based designs.’
The right satellite includes a volume knob, with a subtle red LED when the speakers are on. A headphone port sits just behind the volume knob, allowing a more convenient way of connecting speakers than rooting around underneath your desk.
The back of the subwoofer includes a bass level knob, allowing you to tune the bass for your listening preferences and environment. It’s also where everything else plugs in. The left speaker connects using an RCA cable, while the right requires a 13-pin DIN cable. As this is a 2.1 system, only a single 3.5mm line out cable is required. Finally, the non-removable power cable is also present here.
The simple, classic design of these speakers definitely appeals, but how do they actually sound? How easy are they to use? The testing section will answer these questions, so let’s head on over!
Testing
We used the Kratos S3 speakers for a period of two weeks, testing them for gaming, television and movies. Here are our impressions.
Ease of use
First of all: setup. This was a very straightforward system to assemble, as each component can only connect to the other in one very obvious way. Once connected, it’s plug-and-play; choose your volume and bass level and you’re away.
It’s a bit vexing that the bass knob is hidden on the back of the subwoofer, but it does make for a simpler and cleaner look. Along similar lines, it would have been nice to have a second 3.5mm input or Bluetooth compatibility for connecting a smartphone or games console, but these are understandable non-inclusions due to the price.
Sound quality
Once turned on, our review unit started to produce a soft but high-pitched whine, which persisted at the same level regardless of volume setting. This was quite discernible during moments of quiet in games or films, and proved quite annoying. This persisted the entire time the speakers were on, whether connected to a computer, Android smartphone or nothing at all. Different speakers used in an identical setup [same connection to a PC, same power outlet] didn’t produce any similar noise, suggesting an issue with the shielding of our review unit. Other reports online suggest this is not a one-off case, sadly.
Otherwise, the S3 produced some pretty respectable tones. Despite the minimal size of the satellites, they can get very loud; we didn’t often need to exceed 33% volume [except for the obligatory full volume rendition of the 1812 Overture]. The satellites produced relatively clear mids but lacked a little in the upper registers, particularly at higher volumes. However, for games this was more than adequate given the relatively low price point.
The subwoofer ranged from ‘discernible bass’ to ‘the neighbours came over to complain’, although we’d recommend sticking to the 60% mark or below to avoid a bloated sound. However, in moderation the subwoofer added a nice level of bombast to dramatic set pieces in video games and movies.
Wrapping up
Creative’s Sound BlasterX Kratos S3 are a solid set of desktop speakers for gaming use, with the subwoofer’s prominent bass providing a more cinematic audio experience than your standard 2.0 speakers. We did find a few flaws as well, including an annoying high pitched whine from our review unit, so you may want to order these from a retailer with a reasonable return policy [e.g. Amazon]. Regardless of these niggles, the Kratos S3 are a compelling pick at the sub £100 price bracket.