SteelSeries Arena 9 Illuminated 5.1 Desktop Gaming Speakers
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About SteelSeries Arena 9 Illuminated 5.1 Desktop Gaming Speakers
Overall Feedback:
87% positive
92% were impressed with the sound quality, but 8% encountered issues
I am thoroughly impressed with the sound quality of the speakers, despite not being an audiophile.
I am impressed with the sound quality of the speakers. The vocals are warm, distinct, and sharp with good separation between instruments and vocals. The bass is more than adequate, but not thumping. They sound great when playing games too, with distinct and immersive sound effects.
I found that the speakers don't get loud enough for filling a room with sound, although they have enough volume if you are sitting right in front of them on your computer.
90% highlighted the size and form factor, but 10% faced issues
The speakers fit my desk with a triple monitor setup, but if you have a smaller desk, double check the dimensions.
I was surprised by the size of the speakers at first, as the images did not accurately depict their size. The speakers give off the impression of being smaller than they actually are.
74% found them to be exceptional, but 26% struggled
The Steel Series software is quick, efficient, and pleasantly surprising. The lighting sync feature accurately keeps up with what's on screen.
I enjoy using the Surround up mix feature while listening to music and browsing the web. It engages the surround speakers and syncs the lights to the music.
The speakers have a selector that allows me to leave the headphones plugged in, solving the issue of constantly plugging and unplugging the headset.
I constantly had to reach for the volume control knob located on the speaker itself, which was a hassle.
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83% appreciated the connectivity options, but 17% were dissatisfied
The connectivity options of the computer-speakers are as follows: The rear speakers wirelessly connect to the system for data, but they connect to each other via an RCA type connector and one has a power cable. The front speakers connect to the subwoofer (including center) with a proprietary connector or RCA. The subwoofer connects to the computer via a USB cable (which might need a longer cable or USB extender).
I have multiple connectivity options with the speakers like two 3.5mm inputs, headphone out, and bluetooth. Additionally, unlike most speakers, the arena 3s have three active sources at the same time.
I am dissatisfied with the connectivity options of the speakers. I face problems like massive delay between the sound and the source, and having to physically hold down the button on the speaker to pair the device every time I switch back and forth from devices. The satellite speakers use some proprietary connector when connected to the sub, so forget being able to buy any sort of cable extensions. If the included wires aren't long enough, I am out of luck.
77% were satisfied with the compatibility, but 23% faced problems
I can't change the light color on these speakers and they are not compatible with my Mac.
89% liked the bass performance
The bass is loud but not insanely deep. I suggest using a third party extension to make it louder and deeper.
88% were satisfied with the audio output power, but 12% raised concerns
The sound quality is good but not the best in the industry. The volume highs and lows are very dynamic, meaning that as soon as a scene gets intense, the sound volume explodes.
