Creative has recently launched the Creative Stage SE, an under-monitor soundbar designed for computer and gaming consoles at an attractive price point of £70/€80. Let’s take a closer look!

Packaging content and specs

Once delivered and unboxed, you’ll find the following items in the package:

• 1 x Creative Stage SE
• 1 x USB-C to USB-A Cable
• 1 x Quick Start Leaflet
• 1 x Warranty & Compliance Information Leaflet
• 1 x IR Remote controller*
• 1 x Power adapter with interchangeable adapter plug

Specs details of the Stage SE can be found below:

Budget product, budget build

When I first got my hands on the Stage SE, it was evident that the hardware quality wasn’t on par with other under-monitor soundbars from Creative like the Katana. It feels light and plastic-y but not totally cheap. However, the choice for the finish material is reflected on the price, and Creative likely had to make some concessions on the hardware to keep it at £70/€80. 

  

That said, if you’re not actively holding the device, you likely won’t be able to tell delineate its plastic finish as the glossy top and mesh front redeems the finish with a rather classy look. I also like that Creative kept it simple with this soundbar as there are no extra bells and whistles such as RGB lighting or striking colour schemes.

What I minded more was that the Stage SE is quite chunky. While its length is relatively compact, it is quite wide and I would personally prefer a slimmer design. On the design side, this soundbar’s chunky aspect is somewhat redeemed with the integrated knob which allows for seamless controls. Holding it will power it on/off, while pressing it will toggle between Bluetooth or USB mode. You can also rotate it to adjust the volume. I’m really fond of this integrated control design while also having the option to make further adjustments with the included IR remote.

As for the overall package, it’s quite comprehensive as you’ll get everything you’ll need to start using the soundbar. 

Quality audio at a budget-friendly cost

To start using the Stage SE, you’ll need to plug it to a power source and then it’s a plug-and-play affair. It’s as easy as plugging it to a PC via USB or pairing over Bluetooth to your audio source and you’re good to go. However, I’d still have liked to have the option of using the soundbar wirelessly if it had integrated batteries. Maybe this could be a consideration for the next iteration.

While the sound isn’t as powerful as the subwoofer-equipped Katana V2X, this soundbar’s output packs quite a punch for its size. With its peak power of 48W, the output is of high quality considering its relatively small footprint. It delivers a crisp, clear and balanced soundscape thanks to the custom-tuned racetrack drivers. It’s definitely an upgrade over your laptop or phone’s built-in speakers that will serve as the audio source.

With the included remote, you can further tune the audio to be “warmer” or “brighter”. The new Tone Adjustment feature lets you shift the balance towards more bass frequencies (warmer) or high-pitched (brighter) based on your preference and use case. This makes the Stage SE quite versatile whether you’re playing a game, watching a movie or looping through your audio playlist.

Tunes to the right frequencies

While I would still prefer a slimmer profile, a more high-end build and the ability to use the soundbar wirelessly, the Creative Stage SE tunes to the right frequencies of a budget-friendly soundbar that packs a punch when it comes to the audio delivery.