Although it looks almost exactly like the classic Cambridge SoundWorks MegaWorks 510D, the Creative MegaWorks THX 6.1 650 is a lot different under the hood. In addition to THX certification and 6.1-channel output, the Creative system boasts a radically different ported subwoofer design, a more efficient dual–voice-coil bass driver, and a colossal 600-watt amplifier. It uses the same superb Newton MC50 satellites used in earlier models, but the system's relatively low 80-Hz crossover forces them to handle far more of the low end.

Despite these differences, the Creative 650 produces a detailed midrange, extended highs, thundering volume levels, and a tight, punchy low end much like that of the 510D (which has been our reference system for nearly a year). The Creative 650 doesn't quite match the 510D's floor-shaking ability, but it comes close and, despite a dip around 40 Hz, produces more consistent output throughout the upper- and mid-bass registers. It has a slightly brighter high end than the 510D—which is a bit trebly—but the sound of the system leaves little to be desired.

The Creative 650 is an excellent choice for listening to music, but it's even better for games and desktop theater, where its powerful bottom and prominent high end become key assets. We consider it the best 6.1-channel system we've heard and a cost-effective complement for the 6.1-channel Creative Labs Sound Blaster Audigy 2.