Creative Pebble X Plus Speaker Review

The Creative Pebble X Plus system uses the latest Creative App. For our testing I installed the latest audio driver, version 3.1.11.0. I also confirmed the latest firmware was installed: Version 1.18.240523.1730. Of course, the software is not needed if the onboard tools meet your needs.

Creative’s app is one of the most intuitive control suites on the market.  You can choose a default Sound Mode from the dropdown or toggle through them using the speaker button if you are software free.

Using the software provides much more control over the speakers and provides access to Creative’s proprietary Acoustic Engine audio technologies, including Surround, Smart Volume, Bass, Dialog+, and Crystal Voice.

Playback and Recording options allow you to choose your default bit rates.

The Lighting controls offer a more robust control over your RGB options with six different lighting selections: Chasers, Aurora, Peak Meter, Glow, Wave and Cycle. You can select color and brightness as well.

I tested the Pebble X Plus speakers both by Bluetooth and connected directly to my gaming PC. The speakers were placed to the sides of my monitor and unblocked at about 3.5 feet apart. This puts the distance to the primary sound stage at about 4 feet.  The office is about 12x12 and completely closed to let the speakers work with the acoustics of the room.

I typically run a much higher-end Creative setup on my desktop based around the Sound Blaster X5 so I dug up a classic Logitech Z313 setup to compare.  The Logitech setup has a modest separate subwoofer but it was no match for the Pebble X Plus system. Even without software, sound quality was crisp if a bit thin with good bass fill.

Next, I connected an Anker USB power adapter, rated at 65W. The difference is astronomical!  This setup is more than capable of boosting the output up to 30W RMS and 60W peak, maximizing the speaker's capabilities.  Honestly, it sounds like a completely different system. The upper range is much fuller and the bass is punchier. I can’t believe they don’t sell this with the system as default!  I guess most of us have a mountain of USB power sources laying around these days?!?

Creative has been the go-to PC sound manufacturer for longer than many enthusiasts have been alive.  With the Pebble x Plus system they have upped their game again.  This system offers tremendous value for your money and looks great too.  Adding the optional USB power takes things to another level offering the full, rich soundscape we have come to expect from Creative.

While most Audiophiles will be better served saving your pennies for a Creative Sound Blaster Katana or a much more expensive solution, the Pebble X Plus speakers provide exceptional 2.1 sound without breaking your budget.

Attractive Design
Surprising Sound Quality
Software Optional
Attractive RGB Solution

USB Power Source Not Included
Software Required for Some Functionality
Cables Attached to Speakers Directly