A universal host-powered multimedia speaker system derives its power from a host multimedia computer system chassis, rather than from a conventional dedicated speaker system power supply. The speaker system includes a pair of amplifiers with differential connections for receiving the audio signal and with differential output connections to the speaker to provide it with differential amplification. Differential input amplification amplifies the difference between the signals applied to the amplifiers and thereby rejects the common-mode noise, which including ground circuit electrical noise. Differential output amplification refers to a pair of amplifiers that generate output signals that are 180 degrees out of phase with each other. The differential output amplification provides rejection of power supply electrical noise components. This differential input/differential output host computer-powered speaker system provides low noise, high quality audio playback for multimedia speaker systems deriving power from the host multi-media computer system.