The Best Sound Systems for Simulators
There are many aspects to consider when building a simulator for top-notch immersion. One such aspect to consider is sound.
In a sim racing setup, for instance, feeling the car is one thing but also reacting to the sound that the car makes can take your simulation experience to a whole new level. And the same holds true for every simulator setup.
Therefore, considering new speakers to enhance your simulator experience might be the most straightforward addition to your rig. But with so many options for speakers available on the market, what's the best speaker solution for your sim setup?
Since every individual will have different requirements and budgets, it will consume a lot of time to find just the right pair of speakers for your sim rig. So, to do all this research for you, we've compiled a list of the best sound systems for simulators in 2025.
Whether it is for racing or a sim flight setup, these top speakers for simulators will suit every build. So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Logitech Z333 – The Best Stereo Speakers
If you want an increase in audio experience without too much expense and you're looking to enhance your sound during sim gameplay, look no further than Logitech Z333. With a total output of 80 watts (40W RMS), you'll get punchy highs and mid-sonic details, as well as low-end rumbling bass to make even the simplest simulation much more immersive.
It's a mini stereo speaker system comprising a dual satellite speaker and a separate subwoofer as an independent unit from the rest. The subwoofer contains a 5-inch driver that delivers excellent booming bass to complement the sound potential of the satellite.
The Logitech Z333 connects to any PC or console via a 3.5 mm aux jack or RCA inputs, so in terms of compatibility, it doesn't get much better than this. In addition, there's a wired volume control pod for instant sound or bass adjustment. It can be positioned right next to your sim rig for ease of access.
But like any product, it does have some drawbacks. The Z333 does not provide surround sound. The bass is strong, but at times it's too strong over the mids and highs. Additionally, somewhat trivial, the subwoofer's relatively large size makes the simulator setup difficult for those with limited space.
However, despite these minor drawbacks, the Logitech Z333 remains a solid choice for an entry-level speaker system especially when you consider its budget-friendly price tag. It's still one of the best sound systems for simulators.
Logitech Z906 – The Best Surround Sound 5.1 Speakers
If you're looking for the best surround sound system, consider the Logitech Z906. As a 5.1 surround sound setup, the Logitech z906 comes with five satellite speakers and a dedicated subwoofer for a fully 360-degree sound field—necessary for racing games or in-game missions in a flight sim. The Z906 features 1000 watts (500W RMS) output to ensure you have enough volume and headroom to significantly expand your gameplay.
The Logitech Z906 features insane versatility as well. Optical, coaxial, RCA, and 3.5 mm inputs allow connection to a PC, a console, and even a TV. It supports up to six different simultaneous connections at once, so when you have your racing rig and secondary gaming setup, there's no need to unplug and replug different wires to get everything set up. There's even a remote for volume/input/setting changes without having to leave your sim rig—something all sim racers will appreciate.
When it comes to the experience of playing in a simulator, a genuine 5.1 surround sound system—such as the Z906—makes it much more accessible to determine where those sounds are coming from. For example, if someone is shooting you in the back or a car is pulling up behind you, it'll sound like someone is REALLY shooting you in the back or that the car is closing on you. This is all thanks to the system's THX certification which, along with its ability to decode Dolby Digital and DTS soundtracks, ensures high-quality audio reproduction that brings simulations to life, making Logitech Z906 one of the top speakers for simulators.
Yet there are some caveats to note. For instance, some customers state that the system does not come with HDMI inputs. In addition, while the bass is deep and powerful, it sometimes overshadows the mids and highs which makes dialogue or subtle audio cues less prominent.
Sony HT-S40R – The Best Soundbar Integrated Surround Sound Speakers
The Sony HT-S40R 5.1 Channel Home Theater Soundbar System is a surround sound soundbar system with 600 watts of total power. It features a soundbar for the front three channels, a wired sub for the low-end thump, and rear wireless speakers to create the most optimal surround sound setup—all in an easy-to-use, space-saving design. The 5.1 setup originates from the subwoofer and extra rear speakers.
This is where Sony's thoughtful design comes into play, making the Sony HT-S40R so perfect. A usual 5.1 surround system would necessitate the speakers located all around your television to get the front three channels; with this soundbar, the soundbar itself is the front three channels all in one, meaning placement is all but easy as it's added to your simulator. Furthermore, the rear speakers are wireless, which avoids cable management disasters in and around your gaming setup. Finally, with HDMI ARC, optical, and USB inputs, there's hardly any compatibility issue with installation being a snap.
In the context of simulator setups, the HT-S40R's integrated soundbar design is particularly advantageous. The soundbar’s front speakers simulate directional audio, while the rear wireless speakers provide a true surround sound effect, making overtakes, engine roars, and environmental cues feel more lifelike. The subwoofer adds depth to low-frequency sounds, enhancing the rumble of engines and the resonance of curbs.
Despite its strengths, the HT-S40R does come with a few limitations. The soundbar attempts to create directional sound; although it's not as precise as a standard 5.1 setup with actual front speakers. While the wireless rear speakers reduce cable clutter, they still require power outlets, which might pose a challenge for smaller setups. Lastly, there are no HDMI inputs. Although an HDMI ARC output exists, this limits connection possibilities for some.
However, with the right setup, the HT-S40R is, without a doubt, one of the best sound systems for simulators.
Klipsch 7.1.2 & Denon AVR-X3700H – The Best High-End Speakers
But for those who want the ultimate in audio, the Klipsch 7.1.2 surround sound speaker system and Denon AVR-X3700H receiver are the dream pairing. This is a pro-level match for those serious sim enthusiasts who won’t settle for anything less than THE ABSOLUTE top speakers for simulators.
The Klipsch 7.1.2 system includes the following speakers: two RP-8000F floorstanding speakers, one RP-504C center channel speaker, four RP-502S surround speakers, two RP-500SA Dolby Atmos elevation speakers, and a single RP-1400SW subwoofer. The RP-8000F speaker includes dual 8" woofers and a 1" titanium tweeter with a hybrid Tractrix® horn. The power handling and decibel sensitivity frequency response of the entire system is off the charts when professionally calibrated for sound reception.
Complementing the speaker system is a 9.2 channel Denon AVR-X3700H AV Receiver at 105 watts per channel. It supports sound codecs ranging from Dolby Atmos® to DTS:X® to IMAX® Enhanced, meaning it supports the highest quality in surround sound options. It also features HDMI in and out for audio-video pass-through capabilities up to 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz.
What I find most exciting about this collection is the sheer level of detail and immersion it provides. Because you'll be surrounded by the speakers of your simulator, you'll be hearing all the engine roars, tire screeches, and ambient sounds from where they are supposed to come from. Depending on whether you have specific Atmos speakers, you'll also have the opportunity to have sound come from directly above you as well, meaning you'll have a helicopter buzzing over your head at one point or debris falling in a racing crash.
Yet there are some disadvantages. Firstly, the fact that it's a type of system made of so many separate pieces requires a lot of real estate, meaning it may not be ideal for all buyers, especially those with smaller simulator setups. Secondly, installation may be difficult for those unaware of proper Dolby Atmos speaker placement. Thirdly, the cost is extensive—from the Klipsch speakers to the Denon receiver—it's a lot for two separate products even though it's one big purchase at once.
