It has a host of features that set it apart from a lot of thebest computer speakers.
The Creative Katana SE is not a radical departure from the soundbar design.
There are also two passive radiators on the back that give this soundbar its outsized bass response.
And, lastly RGB lighting lines the bottom of the grill for a bit of color.
Of course, you have to set that up through the app.
Theres also no subwoofer out, so youre limited to the admittedly ample bass response that the unit provides.
When it comes to actually using the Creative Katana SE, setup and use is very easy.
Theres a remote that does that as well.
Downloading the Creative app offers even more control (more on that later).
The sound quality, while not audiophile quality, is quite good.
The most impressive part is the bass response.
Thanks to those two passive radiators on the back, the rumble is there.
While not on par with an actual subwoofer, the low-end is quite substantial.
In essence, the sound quality is good for the price but its not a game changing soundbar.
The soundstage is decently wide for a soundbar and the sound imaging is fairly precise.
But, youre still experiencing a stereo image at the end of the day.
What does add to the sound, however, are those upward-firing tweeters.
The best way to describe the experience is that the audio sounds taller.
However, youre still getting a stereo image.
That is, unless you want your voice to sound like its coming through a rotary phone circa 1998.
Regarding the Creative app, its fairly intuitive to navigate though there is a little bit of menu diving.
This does mean you also have to download an app for your phone to set it up.
And, thats just the tip of the iceberg of whats available via the Creative app.
Creative Katana SE: Specs
Should you buy the Creative Katana SE?
And, it has a very attractive price tag.
I also used it to watch some streaming video and listen to music.
I looked at other aspects beyond performance, of course.
I played with its customizable features including the different modes, spatial audio, and RGB lighting.
Read more about how we test
First reviewed November 2023
