Stage Air V2

My entry drug to this arena was a Creative Stage Air v2. A nice step up from built in speakers for AUD$60. I don't think the more expensive Creative models are comparable to similarly priced mainstream soundbars but the Stage Air V2 punches above its weight for its size in articulating good sound clarity down to 40Hz (but not thumping bass by any stretch of the imagination) and can be used as a portable speaker.

Good advice. While the Q990F is great, a good 3.1 at 1/3rd the cost might be good enough. I am literally listening to a A$60 Creative Stage Air 2. Much better than builtin speakers. Good enough for me. Only thing i would add is to shop around for deals. I wouldn’t pay full price for any soundbar and idealy 30 to 50% off RRP. Black Friday is a few weeks away and next year’s models will get announced at CES in January.

I like the Stage Air V2 as it is a lower price point and has a battery and you can dual purpose or later repurpose as a portable speaker. The usb-c connection is a bit dodgy.

The Stage Air is significantly better and clearer than my MSI GT72 gaming notebook which is meant to be at least okay sound wise. I can only guess the models you mentioned are better again but the Air is good bang for buck on special here atA$60 or so.