Creative Labs Pebble Plus 2.1 USB desktop speakers with subwoofer review

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Creative Pebble Plus 11

REVIEW – I am a sucker for 2.1 channel audio systems: A left and right speaker plus a subwoofer. As an admitted bass-head, I really wanted to try out the new Creative Labs Pebble Plus speaker.

What is it?

the Pebble Plus is a USB-powered 2.1 desktop speaker system with subwoofer.

What’s in the box?

  • Left and Right speakers
  • Cabling (attached)
  • Subwoofer

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Hardware specs

2x2W RMS, 1x4W RMS (up to 8W RMS, peak power 16W)

Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 75dB

Frequency Response: 50Hz – 20kHz

Design and features

The two sphere-shaped speakers are permanently attached together with cabling. Β They stand with a 45 degree upward angle, ideal for desktop use.

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The right speaker features a volume knob that doubles as a power switch, and an LED indicator.
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There are three cable ends: 1/8β€³ stereo plug for audio, a single RCA-style connector for the subwoofer, and a USB connector for power.

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There’s one hidden control under one of the speakers: A high-low gain switch. I almost missed it.

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The subwoofer has no adjustments, and just one audio input. It has no amplifier built-in.

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It’s quite small and light, weighing in at under 2-1/2 lbs.

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Setup

I did not find any instructions in the box, but there is a wiring diagram on the side.

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Here’s the entire setup with my 13β€³ MacBook Pro. Note that both the audio connector and USB are connected to the laptop.

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Performance

I found the 45 degree angle of the left and right speakers provided a very nice sound to it. But for you bass-a-holics, be warned: The subwoofer is deeply disappointing. A few times I had to lean in and wonder β€œis this thing working?” Yes, it works, but only just. No rumbling low frequencies. It’s merely some low-end fill.

What I like

  • Angled speakers
  • Easy to use
  • Handsome

What needs to be improved

  • Anemic low-end for bass-heads

Final thoughts

For the price, the Pebble Plus 2.1 USB desktop speakers with subwoofer are β€œjust fine”. But if you want something with more boom and thunder, look elsewhere.

Price: $39.99
Where to buy: Amazon
Source: The sample of this product was provided by Creative Labs.

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