Creative's new compact XF1 desktop PC speakers support Hi-Res audio

When it comes to PC audio, especially for gaming, there's a lot of attention paid to headsets. And for good reason: there are many gaming headset options, and their mix of portability, versatility, and microphones makes them a go-to choice for multiplayer gaming and social interaction. That said, dedicated speakers will always have a place in any setup, and if you're looking for a more compact option, you might want to check out the new Creative XF1 Desktop Speakers.

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The physical design here, available in black or white, is traditional bookshelf in that you've got a pair of woofers and tweeters in a design that hasn't really changed all that much in decades. However, the Creative XF1 Desktop Speakers are definitely modern as the built-in DAC supports high-resolution audio across Bluetooth 6.0, USB-C audio, and AUX input. On the wireless front, it supports the lossless LDAC codec for premium sound.

Now, when it comes to overall audio presence, larger speakers/woofers are important. As compact speakers, the Creative XF1 can output 72W of room-filling sound with its 3-inch FEA-optimized woofers. There's also bi-amplification with dedicated amps for both high and low frequencies, delivering cleaner, more balanced sound. As for the high-resolution playback, they support up to 40 kHz via USB Audio and analog line-in.

And as a nice little bonus to amplify the sound of these compact speakers, the Creative XF1 also ships with cork stands that angle the speakers. In addition to wired and wireless connectivity, customization is handled via the Creative Nexus app. This includes a 10-band Parametric EQ for fine-tuning the sound, along with a wide range of presets and profiles for music, movies, gaming, and productivity. The Creative XF1 Desktop Speakers are expected to become available on July 16 for around $190 USD.

Here's a look at the specs.