External Laptop Speakers/ Amplifiers

[joko]

i used to have a small set of speakers, which i used for my laptop whenever the sound of a movie etc was a bit low etc and it would amplify the sound.
they broke and and i have since bought 2 more sets of mini speakers - however neither of them actually amplify the sound, they just recreate the same level as the laptop does.
i hadnt really thought about it and just bought speakers.

what should i be looking out for when i buy more?
amplifier speakers? or is there another term that would help?

thanks

[Buenchico]

Amplified speakers require a power source. Your first consideration should be as to where that power is going to come from. If you only use your laptop as a substitute for a desktop (i.e. it never leaves your desk) you can use speakers which are powered by a mains adapter. Otherwise what you should be looking for are 'USB powered speakers' (or a similar description), so that you can take them anywhere (but, of course, with the loss of a free USB socket on the laptop).

I've just tried a Google Shopping search for 'USB powered speakers' and a similar search on Amazon. Both produced loads of possibilities (although the Amazon search seemed to produce the lowest prices).

[snags]

Also consider Bluetooth speakers. I recently bought one of these for watching movies/listening to music via desktop/laptop/tablet/smartphone... not cheap but stunning sound (see the reviews in the below link) with plenty of volume:

http://www.johnlewis.com/bose-soundlink-mini-wireless-mobile-speaker-silver/p515184

[joko]

great thanks all

[T&S]

I'd recommend Bose Companion speakers for your computer. Pricey, but good.