Seeking a laptop with superior built-in sound quality

[Edward-Jones]

Hello,

I'm shopping for a new laptop in the mid-low range (lets just say under $1,000, though around $700 would be better).   [ to include 64gb/1T drive 15" screen]    A critical feature for me is better than standard laptop sound quality  (good quality a primary; a bit of extra volume would be a plus).   Research is difficult because the audio quality is not normally listed as a spec or feature or such during random (amazon, for example) shopping.   However, I found some information stating that some models of HP have superior quality audio.   (This might exclusively mean the Bang & Olufsen configuration, but I can't confirm that.)

Anyway:  Could someone help me identify HP laptop models/configurations that are in my price range and come with superior built-in audio?

TO DATE:   I have identified two HP models listed on Amazon with "Special Feature:  HD Audio"  but I can't find any confirmation, secondary source or spec sheets confirming or explaining what's special about these system's audio (neither mentions B.&Olufsen).     One of them is:  HP Pavilion Business Laptop (2024): 15-DY5073DX     The other:  HP 15 15.6" FHD AI Laptop Business Computer, Intel 14-Core Ultra 5 125H  which only gives 15t as the model.     (Links at the end of this post--if links are allowed here.)

Thank you in advance.    Input/suggestions on 15" laptops with superior built-in audio will be much appreciated.    Any first-hand feedback/confirmations, raves or rants regarding the sound quality of the two models listed above and linked below would be useful.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DK9ZB5N5/ref=twister_B0DK9ZW78Q?_encoding=UTF8&th=1

https://www.amazon.com/HP-Business-Computer-i7-1370P-Bluetooth/dp/B0D8TBQV77/ref=sr_1_27?crid=3T6NSN...

[A_Gayathri]

Hi @Edward-Jones ,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

I understand you are looking for a Windows 11 laptop under $1,000 with excellent built-in audio, several HP models can provide quality sound, especially those featuring Bang & Olufsen (B&O) audio tuning. B&O-tuned laptops generally offer richer sound and more balanced audio quality compared to standard configurations. While HP's Pavilion and Envy series often integrate this feature, verifying the audio setup before purchase is essential since B&O branding isn't consistently applied across all models in these lines.
 

For example, the HP Pavilion 15 (similar to the HP 15-dy2024nr) offers a well-balanced audio experience and often includes B&O-tuned speakers in its higher configurations. This model also aligns well with your specifications, offering a 15.6-inch display, SSD storage options, and a lightweight build, making it a solid choice if you’re balancing price with functionality. Another model, the HP 15-dy5073dx, though lacking B&O branding, has received positive reviews for its overall build and audio quality, which tends to be a step above other laptops in the same range.

Another good option is the HP Envy x360 series, which offers both solid performance and B&O audio tuning within your price range, especially if found on sale. While primarily available in convertible formats, the audio quality is often superior, delivering more volume and clarity than standard laptops, even at moderate settings.

For your specific price and sound quality requirements, check the specifications closely, and consider options in the Pavilion or Envy lines with B&O audio configurations.
 

Requesting you reach out to the HP Shopping team 

Please click on this link: HP Store Help 
HP Shopping 

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. 

[Edward-Jones]

Thank you for taking the time to respond so thoroughly.  I have scoured the various listings and many of the models you listed above come up in various ways, and did make it as finalists.   There were many challenges to my search: one you noted above:  B&O branding isn't consistently applied across all models (to which I would add, B&O can mean speakers or it might mean software.)   I found this sight/search which gave me a whole menu of existing PCs with B&O speakers—that was great, except even the cheapest was above my limit and otherwise had way sub-par specs. https://www.hp.com/au-en/shop/laptops-tablets.html?feat=bang-olufsen  Of course, that’s what you get when looking for premium features at modest prices.   Focusing on the models which came up on the list above also left me with that “inconsistency across brands” issue.    I spent some time checking candidates out on a site  loptopmedia.com; which has extensive analysis including a sound quality section—however it was sometimes hard to match it to a specific model number—for example, searching for “15-dy5073dx” didn’t work.   I did contact a few sellers, and one who answered (I think it was also for the 15-dy5073dx) said they, who were wanting to sell me the PC, couldn’t tell me its audio configuration and what made it “HD Audio”; I should contact HP.    The “HD Audio” feature which pops up on some listings is also confusing as it seems it can refer to either the internal processing of audio signals or the actual quality of the laptop’s sound.   In the end I went with an “Elitebook 660 G11” — nothing B&O, but it had several indications of good sound quality: good sound section on laptopmedia.com; was listed as “HD Audio” feature; is an “elitebook”—which is generically noted as having better sound than average; and has “poly studio tuned” speakers which HP touts.  When I first spotted this model I was hesitant because the processor was just one step up from my current; but then I found it with a better processor and still in budget.