OXS Thunder Duo X Gaming Speaker System Review

The OXS Thunder Duo X could well be my perfect gaming audio product. I’ve long wanted to have a more physical surround-style setup at my PC setup, without the need to put up satellite speakers around my sub-optimally-sized room. I’ve never been convinced by virtual surround sound, and so I’ve stuck to stereo. That is, until now, with the OXS Thunder Duo X and its truly impressive wireless neck speaker, which acts as a rear surround channel. After a week of testing, including a long weekend of competitive gaming, it’s time for my review.

5.1.2 made easy

The big highlight of the OXS Thunder Duo X is the 5.1.2 channel layout. There are two speakers that sit on either side of your monitor, providing front-facing and upward-firing audio, and then there is the aforementioned wireless neck speaker that fills in the rear audio.

Getting connected is made simple thanks to the wide range of connectivity options. I connected my PC using optical, my PS5 using HDMI 2.1, and Bluetooth for my Nintendo Switch 2 in handheld mode.

Gamer-focused is a darn good thing

As I was setting things up for the first time, I must admit that I was skeptical. I’ve used premium speakers before, which have always gone for a more minimalist design, whereas the Thunder Duo X is very much gamer-oriented with its RGB lighting. However, I was soon made to shut up by just how good these speakers sound for gaming. Sure, they look gamer-focused because they clearly are gamer-focused, bringing games to life in a way that I simply haven’t experienced with a stereo setup.

The simple act of putting a physical rear channel behind the listener has a massive payoff in titles that support surround sound. In single-player games, immersion is enhanced, and in competitive titles, directionality is turned up several notches.

Adding to the positive first impressions was the OXS app. Fine-tuning EQ and channel control, as well as the RGB lighting, is made easy.

Smarter than it looks

I’ll admit that the wireless neck pillow seemed like a gimmick at first, but now I’m totally convinced that this is a game-changer. Yes, it requires charging every so often, but it’s not that much of an inconvenience and I think the experience it provides is well worth plugging in occasionally.

The main downside with the OXS Thunder Duo X is how the wireless neck pillow is clearly designed with gaming chairs in mind. It’s a bit awkward trying to pair it with a lounge chair or sofa.

The other potential downside is the price, which is definitely on the premium end of things when it comes to video game audio solutions.

Disclosure: Review sample provided by OXS.