A portable computer system with planar speakers. The planar speakers are fabricated with a coplanar array of small, low cost, durable, electromagnetic speaker elements mounted on a panel. The planar speakers can be attached to the lid of the computer system. The planar speakers can slide into a compartment in the lid of the computer system when not in use and slide out of the compartment for use with greater physical separation than that of built-in speakers. Alternatively, the planar speakers are attached to the lid via a hinge and folded against the lid when not in use. The planar speakers are folded outward extending the planar speakers beyond the lid for use with greater physical separation than that of built-in speakers. The planar speakers can be detachable from the remainder of the computer system for greater spacing and variable positioning of the planar speakers for improved stereo sound reproduction. Detached planar speakers also permit transport or storage of the planar speakers separately from the remainder of the computer system. Such planar speakers also have application in portable music reproduction devices and, in larger area form, for use in home audio systems.