Creative Technologies is shaking up its well-loved Pebble speaker line with a bold leap into the premium audio space. The new Creative Pebble Nova ditches the budget-friendly price tag of its predecessors and packs a serious punch for $280. These compact speakers aim to prove they can rival pricier competitors like Edifier while maintaining the quirky charm of the Pebble series. But will they hit the mark?

The Pebble Nova retains the iconic spherical design that has been a hallmark of the Pebble series. However, these new speakers come with several enhancements, including dual coaxial drivers that integrate a 3-inch woofer and a 1-inch tweeter. This arrangement, inspired by designs seen in high-end speaker brands, aims to deliver balanced and precise audio.

One of the key highlights of the design is the 45-degree elevation of the drivers. This angle ensures that the sound is directed toward the listener's ears, optimizing the listening experience without requiring additional stands. Creative includes optional bases to further elevate the speakers if needed, enhancing their versatility in different setups.

The RGB lighting at the base of the speakers not only serves as a visual enhancement but also provides functional feedback, with different colors indicating the connection type—Bluetooth, USB, or AUX.

The Pebble Nova offers multiple connectivity options, including Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C, and a 3.5mm AUX input. The Bluetooth capability supports the SBC codec, which is sufficient for general use but may fall short for audiophiles seeking higher fidelity.

The USB-C connection doubles as an audio input and power source, supported by a 65W USB-C PD power adapter included in the package. This setup eliminates the need to rely on a computer's USB port for power, making the speakers more adaptable for various devices, including PlayStation consoles and the Nintendo Switch.

Creative has integrated its proprietary Acoustic Engine technology into the Pebble Nova, accessible via the Creative App. Users can customize audio settings with options like Surround, Smart Volume, Bass, Dialog+, and Crystal Voice. The app also allows adjustments to RGB lighting and EQ settings, now compatible with both Windows and macOS systems.

While the Pebble Nova lacks a dedicated subwoofer, the dual-driver setup aims to deliver a well-rounded audio experience. The speakers boast a total RMS output of 50 watts and a peak power rating of 100 watts, providing substantial output for their size. Despite the absence of a subwoofer, the Pebble Nova targets users who prioritize a clean, minimalist setup without compromising on sound quality.

The Pebble Nova stands out for its compact design, making it a strong candidate for minimalist desktop setups. Creative’s emphasis on combining high-quality sound with a small footprint aligns with the needs of users who want to avoid the clutter of larger, more complex audio systems.

The inclusion of headphone and microphone jacks is a noteworthy addition, though these features will only become functional with a forthcoming firmware update, according to Creative. This delayed functionality might be a drawback for users expecting an out-of-the-box solution.

Technical Specifications:

• Speaker Configuration: 2.0 system
• Recommended Usage: Work & Study
• Color: Black
• RGB Lighting: Up to 16.8 million colors
• Drivers Configuration: 1 x 3” driver and 1 x 1” tweeter per speaker arranged in a coaxial layout with Passive Radiator per speaker
• Frequency Response: 55–20,000 Hz
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): ≥ 93 dB
• Power Output: Satellites: 2 x 25W RMS; Peak Power: 100W
• Connector Type: Bluetooth®, PD Adapter, 3.5 mm AUX-in, USB Audio (Type C)
• Bluetooth® Version: 5.3
• Wireless Codecs: SBC
• Profiles: Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP)
• Operating Frequency: 2402–2480 MHz
• Operating Range: Up to 10m / 33 ft* (*Measured in open space. Walls and structures may affect range of the device.)
• Charging Type: USB PD Input (Power Only): 65W; USB-C PD Power Adapter (included)
• Dimensions: Left Speaker: 149.2 x 150.8 x 153 mm; Right Speaker: 149.2 x 150.8 x 153 mm
• Weight: Left Speaker: 1.89 kg; Right Speaker: 1.89 kg
• Operating Temperature: 0—45°C

At nearly $280, the Pebble Nova ventures into the price range of bookshelf speakers, as this pricing positions the Pebble Nova as a premium choice within the USB-C desktop speaker market, targeting users who value aesthetics, compactness, and versatile connectivity.

The Pebble Nova is available now through Creative’s website in black, with a potential white variant hinted at in the product datasheet. You can check out their other products at Amazon too.