Some things to finish up my PC and maybe more?

So I got a new pc and just need some final things to finish it up.

I will try to keep this short but honestly I like explaining myself so I don't have to some more later.

In no particular order I need:

  • PC Speakers 2.1 or Just Front Facing (and Super Cheap Headset or Cheapest Option for Voice Communicating) wireless headset or ear buds would be nice to eliminate cord pulling.. bonus points using a usb port

For the speakers trying to go super low powered so I don't over kill my 240 watt psu that is already very close probably to its maximum output.. I need to buy a power monitor.. So yeah just need it to sound semi decent for those times I want to dance without headphones or play some music.

I already have some good headphones just no mic.. So need a solution with sound and mic. Gonna try some of my China bought ear buds and see if they can transmit sound over voice chat and hear in game sounds etc.. honestly will be fine with a super cheap solution I don't hear much difference between $10 stuff and $100 stuff if it works it works.

  • large mouse mat and maybe wrist arm support.. basically I have a strong wooden table very sturdy but I can feel it just using my mouse and keyboard on it so need some padding of some sort.. also separately I am using a very comfy recliner arm chair right now so looking for a kind of dinner table add on so I can place my mouse and keyboard on my "lap" per se instead of my table as an option.

If this arm chair recliner had a pull out table like in those uni lectures rust would be awesome. Honestly just the right size maybe lap table (my dad used to have one for his laptop on bed was pretty awesome) would be perfect.

Recliner is definitely an improvement over the dining chair long term for my back. Was already feeling stiff lower back using my dining chair during the hours of initial set up.

Yeah that's about it for now.. Just need some stuff to round out my "battle station" and make it work nicely.

So TL;DR desktop powered speakers I.e no power plug to outlet it is powered by usb or otherwise using the pc, maybe a headset or cheap earbud solution.. bonus points for wireless I can charge via usb or otherwise np.. or a cheap mic to separate the sound solution and maybe be easier since I have a headphone already just no mic

TL;DR 2 either large arm wrist support mat pad or "dinner table" add on to my recliner arm chair, that or very large laptop lap cushion thing to have my full sized keyboard with bumped and room for mice to stably rest on during gaming sessions and otherwise

I may expand into a bigger screen and more larger speaker solution but for now just need the basics just something that sounds alright and can communicate good don't need the best.. bonus point if it has an off button sometimes you never know. My rgb mouse cannot turn off it's lights so have to manually unplug every night.. same with my keyboard it is very annoying but ah well what can you do.. it was cheap.

Comments

  • Speakers use so little draw power from the PC that it’s inconsequential. Any speakers that need power will have their own power supply and the little ones that don’t would barely use any more than a set of headphones.

  • Mouse and keyboard unplugging?- buy a USB hub with switches. $5-ish on ebay

  • I already have some good headphones just no mic.. So need a solution with sound and mic

    Buy a clip-on or desktop mic

    • can link a good cheap solution.. honestly anything bargain bin that just would let me tell off csgo (profanity) to stfu every once in awhile would be nice or communicate in pubg

      • EDIT: Oops, this comment thread is about mics. Uh… have some speakers instead?


        https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Logitech-Z213-Compact-Multimedia…

        It's a basic 2.1 system (Left speaker + Right speaker + Subwoofer), solid, works well, cheap as chips. Cheapest on eBay (that I could find):

        $29 + $15.55 delivery (or free pick up from Cabramatta, NSW, Australia)

        Logitech Z213 Compact Multimedia 2.1 System Desktop PC Speakers with Subwoofer

        7W (RMS)/14W peak power
        Down-facing subwoofer with a 4 driver
        Convenient control pod
        Adjustable bass
        Full bass, compact design
        Control pod with built-in headphone jack

        • Sweet these are the ones I am looking for. I believe these are the cheapest and still very decent speakers you can get for a mini solution for just above basic inbuilt system speakers (which sound absolutely terrible unless you want super low speakers)

          Nah this thread is for both.. Still need a mic solution clip on was suggested which might actually sound not bad.. but an all in one mic or standalone mic might be best we shall see. My mechanical keyboard can be very noisy so will have to research which ones might be able to not pick up my noisy typing etc or something.

        • @AlienC: Is it for just gaming voice-chat? Do you have headphones or webcam already? Both those can come with decent mics so if not, just get one of those that has a mic.

        • @HighAndDry: yeah for discord and steam / gaming voice chats maybe some skype and google hangouts also

          I thought my Sennheisers HD471i I bought at jb hi fi had them but apparently they don't and I bought the wrong version also in a spontaneous impulse buy rush I know not very ozbargainey of me I think I should stop typing now haha lol (bought the iPhone version stupidly and not the android version grr the HD471G) minor troublesome nuisance but it is ok looking at other options now or just a proper another gaming headset looking at some sub $30 sades ones don't need the best just need them to work.. sucks the Sennys don't have a working mic for pc very odd only iPhone apparently.

        • @AlienC: Have you tried something like this:

          https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/SMARTPHONE-HEADSET-TO-PC-LAPTOP-…

          To see if the headset will work with your PC? Those Sennheisers do have a mic - you just need to split up the signals. At worst, $5 wasted - can't buy a mic for $5 anyway.

        • @HighAndDry: might give it a shot but am using the mic and headphone port at the front of my HP Compaq 8200

          The top one in this picture

          https://www.itlinks.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/001177…

          Should that not work if it had a mic or you reckon I need that adapter still?

        • @AlienC: That should work… have you tried playing around with the windows audio settings?

          Then, double check your settings in Windows. On your taskbar, you should see an icon that looks like a speaker. Right click this icon, and you will see the option "playback devices." When your combo jack is plugged in, ensure it is set as the default device under both the playback and recording devices tabs.

          If that still doesn't solve it =/

  • creative soundblaster roar. runs off usb power. great sounding speaker.

    • Seems too expensive. Honestly don't want to spend too much on some speakers just the bare minimum enough to be usable in a small room environment and for gaming. Don't want to wake up the neighbourhood just something better than the muffled low volume crap on my inbuilt motherboard in my HP Compaq 8200.

      I am honestly considering some portable bluetooth speakers now maybe with a wired option. They seem cheap for the price and what I need and have the multi use case purpose of working with other devices etc like my mobile and tablet.. but I heard my housemates 2.1 speakers that were simple but they sounded so nicely and just filled the room so much better than headphones could ever do.

      • check ebay for a unit less than $100. produces awesome sound.

        Although, Its probably been mentioned but speakers are very subjective, and you:ll only ever be satisfied if you actually hear it. reviews for the most part can be useless, and in-store doesnt have the acoustics or proximity you:ll have using it at home. ive bought 2 cheap bluetooth speakers (for car and work) and they vary so much, and you do get what you pay for.

        New blitzwolf soundbar is cheaper, and contradictory to what ive just said above, has some awesome reviews on youtube.

        • Getting either Logitech z213 or creative a 250 or a Logitech z4 for 30 bucks from Gumtree.

          Don't need that much power just enough to make decent noise at my tiny desk. And if the z4 pulls through that is a huge saving although power is a bit high for my liking. But still value wise it is great.

          If not I'll just get the other two or some cheaper USB speakers from ebay. Trying to make my system as low powered as possible that's why all my parts are fairly low energy although want to switch monitors to an It's from this TN panel the diminished viewing angle is very obvious now before I didn't realize it so definitely need to change it.

          But for 60 bucks it was a bargain so can't complain too much about it.

        • @AlienC:

          if you dont mind me asking, why is power an important factor for your purchase?

        • @allan37825: I have no idea just always leaned towards low powered stuff ever since being drilled into my head that saving power is important for the environment and well parents haha lol .. certain family members used to be anal about it so it kind of stuck with me

          honestly i dont know i should just go all guns blazing but paying for electricity bills kind of makes you become energy conscious also if I decide to get more electronics dont want to overload the circuit example heater or something.

          Only one power plug in my room and I think a circuit can handle 2400 watts 10A max? dont quote me on that but there is a limit so the more i choose the lower powered options the more i can jam in my room and on that one circuit

          i will be building a beefier pc too so if i decide to connect that from the same circuit i will need to consider safety power limits etc

          I do like high powered stuff just gotta think about the power limits and overall running costs.. for example i dont use heaters even in really cold winter i just bulk up on clothes and blankets :) typing right now from a very cozy blanket

          :)

  • Speakers: Get anything Logitech Z-series and .1 (the .1 means it has a subwoofer). Speak power draw isn't an issue - most are externally powered if they need it, and if powered by USB - I'm not aware of any motherboards which have a USB-PD port, so you're looking at, at most, a 5A and minimum voltage power draw (to put into context - my PC when turned off still delivers this much so I can charge my phone if I need to).

    Mic: I actually don't have a headset with a mic, my webcam has a mic (and it's only $29) and it suffices for voice chat over things like Teamspeak and Discord and Skype. If you're looking to get new headphones, then look for one with a mic but otherwise no need to get a new set just for a mic. (Personally I don't voice chat that much and I use my headphones for listening to music and videos, so I have a headset with 'better' audio quality (in terms of being truer/etc) instead of a more gamer-oriented one).

    RE RGB: Yeah - I don't like getting RGB peripherals just because I use the computer mostly in the dark and find that kind of stuff too distracting (also expensive).

    • link me a good webcam with mic might need one in future and basically the cheapest one with usable maybe 720p camera will do fine

      Leaning towards the z213 2.1 speakers or the Creative A250 2.1 speakers.. creative tiny bit more expensive but bass might be nice on some nights

      bought some sades 703gt or something was $27 AUD delivered ($23 + $4 warranty because why not I have never really bought warranty and thought I would "splurge" on it now.. meant I couldn't get some $2.75 4 usb ports with switches but ah well next pay day will sort that) these have voice distortion software in them or with them so i got them why not

      now just gotta pick a faster solid permanent but flexible nbn and i should be full speed ahead good to go

  • Are your speakers for gaming and casual listening? Or will you be doing serious music listening?

    If it's the latter, I'd suggest skipping anything "gaming" branded and saving up for a set of studio monitors from JBL, Mackie or Rokit.

    • All of the above but honestly I need them also for gaming.

      But for example today I listened to a few youtube videos, now listening to some spotify music and will get on steam to do a bit of csgo tonight maybe.

      But will also be using it for netflix maybe in future so I need one for everything especially when I just wanna relax in bed and not wear headphones like I am now.

      • Ignore my suggestion, don't get studio monitors… they're expensive and will be overkill for what you're doing.

        Go with HighAndDry's suggestion… cheap non-powered speakers will have pretty weak bass. Something with a sub fills that role nicely.

  • Merged from Best Speakers under $50 and $200

    As title states what do you guys reckon is the best sub $50 speakers.

    Can be powered via USB or normally.

    Probably aiming at 2.1 aka 2 speakers and a subwoofer.

    Personally looking at the Logitech Z213 or Creative equivalents but have been tempted to maybe try some of the USB powered ones (just for energy savings sake and less cables to manage which is always a godsend) but have no idea on what each sound like nor do I know where I could test them so am asking everybody what they reckon is a good cheap but decent speakers in this under $50 category.

    Maybe also recommend some sub $200 speakers but I know there won't definitely be any sub $200 speakers that are USB powered only but wondering what would be the advantages over some cheaper alternatives.

    For me personally I don't need anything super loud just enough to fill up my small bedroom so I think even some USB powered ones will do.

    Bonus points if they don't have any annoying LED lights or are able to be turned off (this simple feature is sometimes missed on even some expensive speakers and electronics for some odd reason.. on off button nahh too expensive just forget it)

    • I don't really have anything to compare it to, but I got Creative A250 for my desktop and has been working flawlessly for the past 2 years :) Got it for $29 at Centrecom during a sale. Currently $45

      • How does it connect to the pc and what are some of its features

        basically sell it to me and give me all the details about it so i can make a purchase decision

        any cool unique or extra features worth mentioning like maybe a remote or low power or great sound or timer or something might sway me from some cheap z213 logitechs or other usb powered 2 speaker setups

        I have a headset with mic on the way but say if there was a speaker with a mic also somehow inbuilt into it that would be awesome

        • Subwoofer + left & right speaker.
          Left and right speakers connects to subwoofer by cable and sub is powered off the wall. The only cable running to your computer is a 3.5mm jack from right speaker. No USBs involved, but you cant expect a sub to be powered off a USB. No remote. Can adjust volume from right speaker.

          If you're looking for bass, then a sub is the way to go.

          I don't believe you will be able to find a speaker with inbuilt mic, but if you're going to get a webcam in the near future, just use that mic. Granted that it will not provide the best quality, at least it works.

        • Any reason for me to choose this over some Logitech z213 for $30 delivered maybe even a few dollars less if i haggle?

          It is basically now this or the z213 or some other usb powered no bass/subwoofer speakers for even less. if the quality of the speakers varies greatly I may sway to the more expensive options but honestly just want a super low powered option and the z213 or lower seems like a good fit.

          sorry I just really want to know what i am paying for with the more expensive speakers and want to reduce total system energy consumption obviously as much as possible.

        • @AlienC:
          Just a quick google comparing the two, most places are comparing the a250 with z313. Maybe that should shed some light to what the creative is being compared with. Here is a review of Z313 and A250: http://www.techdice.com/en/logitech-z313-vs-creative-labs-a2….

          And for power comsumption, the creative consumes a mere 2 more watts than the z213.

          Please let everyone know what you finally decide on and your experiences.:)

        • @allan37825: the a250 looks tempting but unless I can find it for cheaper than the z213 I might have to i side with the z213 for now.. I got an offer for a logitech z4 which is much much more expensive for 30 bucks but the power usage seems a bit high but the cheap prospect seems too good to pass up

  • Merged from Corsair Lapdog Equivalent or Rocking Chair Dinner Table / Bedside Table for Keyboard Mouse action

    https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Corsair-CH-9500000-NA-Gaming-LAP…

    https://www.amazon.com/Corsair-Gaming-LAPDOG-Control-Center/…

    https://www.corsair.com/ww/en/lapdog

    Using a recliner as my gaming seat for my pc on a desk

    currently just using the keyboard on my lap which is actually not bad and my mouse is balancing on my arm rest also ok but looking for more solid ideas to put my keyboard and mouse on while on my recliner rocking chair thingamabob

    Can still lean forward to play at my desk which is about 72 cm high but it is not good for long sessions only short stuff

    So looking for some kind of bedside table tv dinner type thing to put my keyboard and mouse on while i game and type on ozbargain etc

    the table thing contraption needs to clear 57 cm high and be at least 92 cm wide to clear the recliner and fit across.. and i guess 25 cm wide to fit the keyboard and mouse minimum but maybe 30cm to be safe

    also to be used as a literal dinner table so yeah i guess i could find something like that

    my setup is nearly done guys i swear this is not the last but we are getting nearer to there :)

    • settle for not bad, or fashion your own. those lapdogs are $100 pieces of plastic.

      I was going to get one of these but its simply not going to work, and its going to get in the way.

      I ended up getting one of these and it has helped my posture. Thinking that you can use a mouse and keyboard anywhere but on a desk is reckless.

      • That's my next step maybe manufacturing my own somehow or getting it custom made maybe.

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