Living in a small house with limited space can be challenging, especially when you have numerous gadgets and items cluttering your surroundings. One significant issue is finding enough desk space to accommodate everything. However, thanks to the rise of wireless and minimalist peripherals and devices, there are ways to maintain order even in tight quarters.

Over the past two months, I’ve been using the Creative Stage Air V2, a lightweight, compact, and portable soundbar. Despite being a soundbar, it seamlessly integrates into most setups and has replaced the Logitech Z407 as my daily driver. Considering its similar price point, the Creative Stage Air V2 does an impressive job beyond being just a dedicated PC speaker.

Here are 5 reasons why you should consider the Creative Stage Air V2 for your PC or console gaming setup.

5 Reasons to Consider the Creative Stage Air V2

PC and Console-friendly

When selecting a device, versatility is one of my top priorities, and the Creative Stage Air V2 perfectly suits my multi-device setup.

During the day, I connect the soundbar to my PC using the provided USB-C to USB-A cable, which also doubles as its charger. It neatly fits beneath my monitor, and its unassuming design seamlessly integrates with my other peripherals. With dimensions of approximately 410 x 94 x 75 mm (16.1 x 3.7 x 2.9 inches) and a weight just above 1 kg, it’s impressively compact.

The Creative Stage Air V2 features a glossy plastic body, though this is my primary concern. Unlike a matte finish, the glossy casing attracts dust, scratches, and fingerprints, necessitating careful handling. If you’re not overly bothered by this, it’s a minor detail. However, discerning users should take note.

After my workday, I unplug the soundbar and relocate it to the opposite side of the room, where my PS5 and Xbox Series X reside. Another USB-C to USB-A cable connects it, and I’m ready to enjoy quality sound.

While it may not be the best choice for users with high-quality TVs, console enthusiasts who pair their PS5 and Xbox Series X with a gaming monitor will appreciate the Creative Stage Air V2 for its impressive audio output that will outshine the stock speakers on their monitors.

Keep in mind that performance can vary based on room size, but for small living rooms or studio setups, the Creative Stage Air V2 excels.

Setup in a Snap

As previously mentioned, the Creative Stage Air V2 is remarkably user-friendly. Upon powering it on, recognition occurs within seconds, allowing for seamless operation. This simplicity and ease of use are significant selling points, resonating with many users.

The ability to get it up and running in just 10 seconds is particularly appealing. Furthermore, its compatibility with nearly all of my home devices is the icing on the cake.

For those considering using the Bluetooth feature with their phone or Nintendo Switch, rest assured—it’s entirely feasible. The soundbar is equipped with a Bluetooth 5.3 module. Pairing is as straightforward as pressing the Bluetooth button (located near the volume and power buttons) twice. The LED indicator on the front of the soundbar blinks to signify pairing mode.

In case you haven’t been counting, here’s a quick recap of the devices I’ve been using the Creative Stage Air V2 with: my PC, PS5, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, and iPhone. You can also pair it with your laptop, other mobile devices like your iPad, and more, making it an almost all-in-one solution for your audio needs.

Pick up and Play

The Creative Stage Air V2 is a versatile device that operates even when unplugged, making it ideal for small gatherings with friends and family. With a rated battery life of 6 hours, it lives up to its advertised performance. Keep in mind that actual mileage may vary based on factors like volume level.

Portability is straightforward, but due to its compact design, there’s no built-in handle or recess for a secure grip. If you plan to move it from place to place, you’ll need to carry it by hand. While this is a minor design quibble, I would have appreciated a nice grip placed somewhere for added convenience. At just over 2 pounds, it’s easy to lift, so no issues on this end.

For those who value connectivity, the Creative Stage Air V2 also features a 3.5mm jack, enhancing audio quality.

Loud Enough

Now, let’s manage expectations. As a compact soundbar, the Creative Stage Air V2 isn’t audiophile-level, but it’s a definite upgrade from stock monitor or laptop speakers. The audio output is surprisingly decent, especially considering its price point. Creative’s signature bass is evident, making it great for gaming—explosions and gunfire come through well at low to medium volumes. Pushing it beyond comfort levels, however, can lead to distortion.

When enjoying music, consider your preferences. As someone who listens to diverse genres, including K-pop tracks with nuanced bass, I find the Creative Stage Air V2 more than capable. Don’t underestimate its size—it can fill a room effectively even at medium volume levels.

Connectivity Options

The Creative Stage Air V2 has 3 main connectivity options:

• Bluetooth 5.3
• 3.5mm Audio Jack
• USB-C Port

Despite having minimal ports, the Creative Stage Air V2 provides ample options for my daily needs. I’ve never felt the need to connect additional devices simultaneously, especially since I don’t use my PC and PS5 concurrently—the singular USB-C port suffices.

However, there’s a minor caveat: the included cables (1x USB-C to USB-A and 1x 3.5mm) are somewhat short. Depending on your setup and the distance between your PC and monitors, you may need to rearrange things to achieve a perfect fit. In my case, my PC tower is located under the table, so I had to move some things around just to accommodate the Creative Stage Air V2.

While this limitation is disappointing, it’s a small concern in the grand scheme of things. Fortunately, you can always purchase longer cables if necessary.

Overall, the Creative Stage Air V2 is a fantastic option for those looking for a soundbar that has a competent feature list, good connectivity options, and reliable audio output. Most importantly, it is small and compact enough to fit into most setups without the need to rearrange or redecorate, making it a simple plug-and-play device that is hassle-free.

The Creative Stage Air V2 is a versatile and quality product that retails for the low price of PHP 3,100, and for that price range, it’s a lot of sound for an affordable price.

The Creative Stage Air V2 is available via the official Creative Philippines Shopee and Lazada stores.