Enjoying a computer multimedia experience is kind of hard when you have dinky little speakers with a maximum output of like 2 watts. Upgrading your computer speakers can turn your gaming, interactive and leisure experiences on your computer into pleasurable ones. Know the basics before you buy with this simple guide.

Most new desktop computers come with a pair of speakers. They may sound pretty decent, but many people upgrade to better sounding speakers some time in the future.

Considering that the Internet has many sites where you can listen to great music and sounds, you may wish to get the most from them. There are many different types of speakers available that can deliver excellent sound. Most models come as 2 speakers for stereo reproduction. There are some kits that include 3 speakers, the 2 speakers for left and right channels, plus a subwoofer that reaches super low frequencies. You'll find that some of these kits can compete with the performance of your home stereo system.

All computers have good sound cards but if you are really seeking high-performance audio and MP3 file capabilities, you may wish to consider upgrading your sound-processing card.

For the most part, though, it isn't necessary. Most computers can deliver very good stereo sound. You may find some models with 3D-Stereo or Virtual-Surround. They use 2 speakers and an enhancement circuit to deliver a wider audio spectrum that feels like surround. Some higher priced models may even offer Dolby Digital Surround, which distributes sound into 5 distinct channels for home-theater applicability. These would require 5 or 6 speakers and offer a great experience when viewing DVD software on your computer system.

Sound is delivered by the speaker-systems through a built-in amplifier, rated by 'watts per channel'. Theoretically, the greater number of watts is believed to improve clarity of sound. With speakers this compact, wattage is only a small factor. The type, size and number of drivers are important. Whether there are bass-reflex ports available and if a subwoofer is included are other factors associated with the overall accuracy and pleasure of sound output. Speakers delivering 5-watts per channel can actually sound clearer, louder and richer than speakers delivering 10-watts per channel.

A driver is another way to refer to speakers. A 3-inch driver means the speaker size itself is three inches in diameter. When there is only one driver, it is usually identified as a full-range driver. This means that only one speaker handles the entire range of music. A Subwoofer might have a driver closer to 5 inches because a larger size is often associated with better bass reproduction but, where size may be an issue, a 3" subwoofer driver may also be sufficient. The addition of special cabinet engineering (such as the inclusion of bass-reflex ports) can significantly enhance the fullness and depth of sound, and better overall performance, even with a smaller driver.

Some speakers may have 2 drivers in each. One driver usually accounts for the reproduction of the higher treble frequencies, while the other reproduces the low, bass frequencies. Referred to as a two-way speaker system, sound across the heard audio range is more accurately articulated.

Drivers are manufactured with magnetic coils that help deliver the electrical signals directly to the speaker. Larger speakers tend to require larger magnets, allowing better reproduction of lower range frequencies. Magnetic shielding is always integrated into computer speakers to protect the data integrity of your computer and the performance of your monitor.

Generally the greater number of watts is associated with better sound but you can actually get decent sound from speakers with only 5-watts per channel. It often depends on what music you're listening to and how critical you are of the sound. Wattage, however, is only one determining factor.

Reproducing the low, bass frequencies have often been associated with larger speaker systems with large drivers, usually exceeding 5 inches in diameter. In order to better reproduce bass with smaller speakers, science and engineering have figured out ways to capture certain bass frequencies absorbed by the speaker cabinet. You can easily tell if a pair of speakers has this technology by just looking at them. They usually have holes, located either on the front or in the back of the speakers. These specially-designed holes allow for better airflow when music is played. This airflow helps make music sound deeper and richer.

How you arrange your speakers around your computer and your sitting position can also make a difference in how you hear your audio. If you get a two-piece speaker system, set-up is easy. Just make sure the speakers are facing the right direction, and that the left speaker is placed to your left while facing your computer, the right as well. If there is an AC adapter that needs to be attached, then make sure you plug it in before you turn the speakers on. These speakers tend to come with speaker wire.

If you have a three-speaker system, the same applies for the first two speakers. Subwoofers are usually placed in the center for more depth, but their placement is often less critical. You can place a subwoofer on a nearby shelf or the floor, provided the speaker wire is long enough.

Frequency response refers to a speaker system's ability to output frequencies on both ends of the human hearing spectrum. This is measured in Hertz (Hz), which represents cycles per second. The lower numbers are associated with the lower bass frequencies while the higher numbers represent the higher treble frequencies. Optimal human hearing is about 20Hz to 20,000Hz. The closer a frequency response meets that range, the more likely that the sound output is accurately reproduced. Of course, better speaker systems are likely to offer more faithful frequency responses and music qualities.

Most speakers have bass, treble, tone and volume controls on the speakers themselves, usually on either the left or right speaker. When playing music from your computer (besides your CD player) you may have digital equalizers and other changeable settings (on your computer's sound card) that can modify the sound to match the qualities you're listening for.

Speakers often are connected to a mini-plug jack located on your computer's tower or on your notebook's port panel.

Most of these speakers include an AC adapter (usually 110 Volts) to work with your house current. Some models may also work with batteries, for portability.