Creative Technology has launched the Creative XF1, a new pair of desktop speakers. Available in either black or white, they are aimed at people who want stronger sound without filling their workspace with unwieldy audio equipment.
The 2.0 speaker system delivers 72W RMS through a bi-amplified design. Creative has also equipped each speaker with a custom 3-inch woofer, which the company says helps produce clearer vocals, stronger bass, and more detail during close-range listening.
That makes the XF1 suitable for more than just music. Creative is positioning the speakers for movies, gaming, work, and general desktop use.
“For many of us, the desktop has become the center of work, entertainment and creation,” said Ernest Sim, CEO and Executive Chairman of Creative Technology. “Creative XF1 is built to deliver room-filling power with richer depth and clarity, so every note, voice and effect sounds closer, more vivid and more real at your desk.”
Creative has included several connection options. The XF1 supports Bluetooth 6.0, USB-C audio, and a standard 3.5mm AUX input. Wireless codec support includes SBC, AAC, and LDAC.
LDAC is probably the most interesting inclusion here, especially for Android users with compatible devices. It can carry higher-quality audio than basic Bluetooth codecs, although the actual listening experience will still depend on the source device, recording quality, and environment.
There is also a subwoofer output, allowing buyers to turn the XF1 into a 2.1 system later. That is useful for anyone who likes the size of the speakers but eventually decides the built-in woofers do not provide enough low-end punch.
Creative is also leaning heavily on software customization. Its Creative Nexus app includes a 10-band parametric equalizer and more than 120 presets designed for different music genres and games.
A parametric EQ gives users more control than the usual bass and treble sliders found on many desktop speakers. Of course, many buyers will probably choose a preset and leave it there, but the additional control is welcome for those who enjoy adjusting their sound.
The speakers include detachable cork stands that angle them toward the listener. Besides giving the XF1 a slightly different look, the stands should help direct audio toward ear level when the speakers are placed on a desk.
Each speaker measures 6.10 x 3.93 x 7.52 inches. The left unit weighs 2.84 pounds, while the right weighs about 3 pounds. Creative says Bluetooth range can reach up to 33 feet in open space.
Creative XF1 can be had here for $179.99. The specifications look reasonable for that price, particularly the combination of 72W output, USB-C audio, LDAC, subwoofer expansion, and a proper parametric EQ. Still, speakers cannot be judged from a specification sheet alone.
The real question, of course, is whether the XF1 sounds noticeably better than the many established desktop speaker options already available around the same price.
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