When it comes to sound quality, the NZXT Relay speakers deliver a surprisingly mature stereo separation for a compact 2.0 setup. I found that the woofer and tweeter arrangement gives a clearer presentation than your typical all-in-one PC speakers. While they won’t rattle the walls or shake the floor, they do a solid job for casual gaming and streaming on YouTube.
That said, you’re not going to get deep bass extension here. Physics is a thing, and compact speakers like these can only do so much. If you’re a basshead or someone who craves that low-end thump, you might want to consider adding a subwoofer later on, as they have a dedicated output for that purpose.
The compact cabinets are a big win for anyone working with limited desk space. I appreciate how they fit neatly beside my monitor without encroaching on my mouse area. This design consideration is especially important in a shallow desk setup, where every inch counts.
While they have a gaming brand attached to them, the overall aesthetic is clean and minimalistic, which I think makes them suitable for both work and play. I can easily see these blending into a professional workspace just as well as a gaming battlestation.
Setting up the Relay speakers was a breeze. With wired inputs for RCA and 3.5mm, I had no trouble connecting my PC and phone without a tangled mess of cables. Plus, the Bluetooth feature is a great touch for quick phone playback, making it easy to switch between devices without the hassle of swapping cables.
However, if you’re thinking about using these with a turntable, keep in mind that it’s not as plug-and-play as you might hope. Unless your turntable has a built-in preamp, you’ll need to add one to get the best sound. This is a point that’s easy to overlook but crucial for vinyl lovers.
04Connectivity & Features
The Relay speakers shine in their connectivity options, offering both wired and wireless inputs. I love that I can keep my PC hardwired for gaming while my phone stays connected via Bluetooth for casual listening. This kind of versatility makes them ideal for a desk that serves multiple purposes throughout the day.
For my day-to-day activities, the Relay speakers have proven to be a reliable companion. Whether I’m gaming, watching videos, or just listening to music, they deliver a consistent performance that fits my casual lifestyle. I’ve found myself appreciating the clarity during intense gaming sessions where sound cues can make a difference.
However, if you’re primarily a music-first listener, you might find them a bit lacking in neutrality compared to some competitors. The sound profile leans slightly towards a warmer tone, which can be great for gaming but may not satisfy purists looking for a more balanced audio experience.
06Upgrade Path / Who It's For
The Relay speakers are designed for those who want a compact, versatile audio solution for a desk that serves multiple functions. If your setup handles work during the day and gaming at night, these speakers are perfect for that dual-use scenario. The ability to connect multiple devices without constantly swapping cables is a real game-changer.
That said, if you’re a pure audiophile or someone who prioritizes music quality above all else, you might want to consider options like the Edifier MR4 or Audioengine A2+. Those models offer a more neutral sound profile and can make a stronger case for value in a strictly music-focused setup. Ultimately, it comes down to how you plan to use them; the Relay shines in a mixed-use environment but has its limitations for dedicated music lovers.
