Showing posts with label desktop speakers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label desktop speakers. Show all posts

12/28/2011

3PC Subwoofer Speaker System Review

3PC Subwoofer Speaker System
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I purchased 2 sets of these speakers.I have very eclectic taste in music, and the music sounds great whether it is hip hop, classical, jazz, classic rock, alternative, etc.I listen to both MP3's and CD's.I use both Winamp and Windows Media Player.With these speaks you can clearly tell the difference between a low bit rate and a high bit rate MP3.I have listen to a number of speakers, including 4 different brands I have owned through the years.These are better than the Cambridge Soundworks 2.1 system they replaced, and the Cambridge Soundworks system was pretty darn good.I gave serious consideration to a couple of Bose products, but I believe these are superior as well as far less costly.One important note: sound quality on PC speakers is highly correlated to the quality of your sound card; I won't use motherboard audio.Even the best sound system cannot compensate for an inferior sound card.

Click Here to see more reviews about: 3PC Subwoofer Speaker System

Product Description:
3pc Subwoofer Speaker System The Studio Series, Cyber Acoustics' new CA-3080, is a great and affordable 3-piece flat panel subwoofer system with convenient desktop volume control. For those with limited desktop space this is a great solution. It features space saving design with flat panel style satellites, convenient desktop volume control, cloth grill cover, floor style tower sub woofer and acoustic balanced wood cabine

Buy Now

Want to read more honest consumer review about 3PC Subwoofer Speaker System now ?

12/27/2011

Creative Labs GigaWorks T20 2.0 Multimedia Speaker System with BasXPort Technology Review

Creative Labs GigaWorks T20 2.0 Multimedia Speaker System with BasXPort Technology
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Creative's GigaWorks T20 2.0 speakers are efficient, well designed and powerful. While they are a toss up with the Klipsh Promedia 2.0 set, they have enough going for them to make a case. Klipsch ProMedia Ultra 2.0 PC Speaker System- BlackUltimately, I would recommend test driving both. I like the Creative T20's overall performance and design.

Pros
+ Nice looks and high quality cables
+ Extra cable
+ Nice adapter for RCA inputs (TV, receiver, etc.)
+ Decent low-end range and base with above average mid-range
+ Nice more sturdy housing with good controls

Cons:
- Only average high-range sound
- Bass XPorts on top will collect dust
- Creative reputation is not stellar
- Cost is near the Klipsch Promedia set

Creative Gigaworks T20 have nice power with 28 watts and active speaker amplification. The cone drivers and tweeters are excellent, and the Bass Xport delivers nice thump. The bass is clearly not subwoofer equivalent, but nice for a 2.0 set. The sound is rich and clear and can be adjusted via the front knobs. Separate bass and treble knobs allow control if you know how to use them.

These speakers also simply look good. Each speaker is about 9" tall by 3" wide, allowing you to fit them easily around any workstation.

The bass ports on top require you to clean out the holes to avoid dust build-up. And Creative's reputation is also a concern, though I have had no problems myself with these. Still, Klipsch is not immune to reputation concerns either.

If you need real low-end depth, a subwoofer that comes in a 2.1 set is probably the minimum that will satisfy you. Likewise, if you are a gamer or an audio sound editor, you really should be looking at 5.1 sets.

For all other users looking for good quality in a smaller simpler set, this is worth a look. If you are a fan of Klipsh, compare these to the Promedias and make up your own mind. Enjoy.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Creative Labs GigaWorks T20 2.0 Multimedia Speaker System with BasXPort Technology

Product Description:
Item #: J67650. The GigaWorks T20 stereo PC/MP3 speaker system packs a serious punch. The true two-way speakers contain an expressive tweeter and a high performance midrange driver made from high-tech woven glass fiber. High quality, component-style controls and up-front access to the headphone output and MP3 player input make the T20 a great choice for demanding gaming and music enthusiasts. Product Description: Creative GigaWorks T20 - PC multimedia speakers
Product Type: PC multimedia speakers
Localization: English, French
System Components: 2 speakers
Speaker Type: Active
Nominal Output Power (Total): 28 Watt
Response Bandwidth: 40 - 20000 Hz
Input Impedance: 4 Ohm
Audio Amplifier: Integrated
Connectivity Technology: Wired
Speaker System Details: 2 x right/left channel speaker - 14 Watt - 40 - 20000 Hz - 4 Ohm
Manufacturer Warranty: 1 year warranty
Customers also search for: Discount Creative GigaWorks T20 - PC Multimedia Speakers, Buy Creative GigaWorks T20 - PC Multimedia Speakers, Wholesale Creative GigaWorks T20 - PC Multimedia Speakers, 0054651135055, 51MF1545AA011, Multimedia Speakers

Buy Now

Want to read more honest consumer review about Creative Labs GigaWorks T20 2.0 Multimedia Speaker System with BasXPort Technology now ?

12/26/2011

2-WAY Stereo Speaker System Review

2-WAY Stereo Speaker System
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I own 4 sets of these MS16 powered speakers. To me, they sound better than their big brother the MS40. I use the MS16's for: Laptop, Notebook, CD and DVD players, and Keyboards. I will sometimes use these over my Phonic 740 set up to accompany my drumming practice. (Unless it's a Jam session, and then bigger is always better)
If you are just looking for some small powered speakers for you room or a small space, look into the Eagle Tech ET-AR302-BK's at $20.00; the sound is great, and they are about 1/3 the size and cost of the MS16's.
I would buy more MS16's if needed, but would not buy another MS40 set. The problem with speakers, is like any other piece of audio equipment; it's up to the individuals preference and ear.
Oh, by the way, I just bought another EagleTech set just to have them on hand.

Click Here to see more reviews about: 2-WAY Stereo Speaker System

Product Description:
The MS-16 is a compact 2-way stereo speaker for the home studio or multimedia applications and instrument or vocal monitoring.Two high-power amplifiers drive the 4woofers and the high-resolution tweeters.The front mounted volume controls and individual bass/treble controls make accurate sound adjustments a breeze.

Buy Now

Want to read more honest consumer review about 2-WAY Stereo Speaker System now ?

10/17/2011

Altec Lansing VS2320 2.0 Powered Speaker System Review

Altec Lansing VS2320 2.0 Powered Speaker System
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
These speakers sound great especially for such a reasonable price.I purchased these to have at work so I could listen to my iPod.With the previous portable speakers I had there was a hissing sound in the background and the sound quality was average.With these Altec Lansing speakers the difference was very noticeable - no hiss, great full sound.These speakers were hooked up when I went to Target so I was able to listen to them before I purchased them.After buying them I compared them to the harmon kardon speakers that came with my computer, these Altec Lansing speakers blow those away.

I also listened to 2 other models by Altec Lansing - the VS2321 model was only $20 more and included a subwoofer, the next model up was about $80 again with a subwoofer - both had fantastic sound and I would highly recommend them.Because I was buying these for work I didn't want to spend too much so the VS2320 model works great, for home I would consider bumping up to one of the other models to get that additional boost of sound from the subwoofer.Altec Lansing delivers great full sound for an unbeatable price.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Altec Lansing VS2320 2.0 Powered Speaker System

Product Description:

Product Name: VS2320 Speaker System
Marketing Information:
The VS2320 two-piece system delivers high quality sound and is easy to set up. Its incredibly convenient design puts controls, a headphone jack, and an MP3 player jack right on your desktop.Product Type: 2.0 Speaker System
Technical Information

Speakers Details: 2 x Speaker
System Power: 2.5W RMS per Speaker
System Power: 5W RMS Total Continuous Power
Controls: On/Off Switch
Controls: Tone
Controls: Volume
Interfaces/Ports

Interfaces/Ports: 1 x Headphone Jack
Interfaces/Ports: 1 x 3.5mm Mini-phone stereo
Physical Characteristics

Dimensions: 9" Height x 3.9" Width x 3.5" Depth

Buy NowGet 3% OFF

Want to read more honest consumer review about Altec Lansing VS2320 2.0 Powered Speaker System now ?

10/14/2011

GE 2.0 Multimedia Speaker 98912 Review

GE 2.0 Multimedia Speaker 98912
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I purchased this set for my laptop, an older Gateway that was made for business not multimedia, so the sound system was not that great. Now I watch Netflix movies from across my bedroom on my laptop and these are sufficient for me to enjoy the movie. Bass is non existent. But the sound quality for the price is acceptable to me.

Click Here to see more reviews about: GE 2.0 Multimedia Speaker 98912

Product Description:
GE 2.0 Multimedia Speaker 98912.

Buy Now

Want to read more honest consumer review about GE 2.0 Multimedia Speaker 98912 now ?

10/06/2011

Audioengine A5 Powered Multimedia Speaker System (Black) Review

Audioengine A5 Powered Multimedia Speaker System
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
These really do deliver remarkably clean, powerful sound for their size, and they also do well at lower volumes. There's no shortage of gushing reviews for these on the web, so I'll just add a few tidbits of possible additional interest to prospective buyers:

- Each speaker is satisfyingly heavy, and the entire bottom surface is covered by a solid rubber pad to help keep the speaker in place when you're driving them hard.

- The speaker enclosures are silky smooth (no sharp edges or seams anywhere) and feel thick and well made. Overall fit and finish is lovely to behold. You can't help but believe that these will last for a long time.

- The large speakers are exposed (as pictured), but they're made of kevlar, so they look tough and feel tough, and you won't think twice about the lack of a speaker grille.

- The volume control is on the lower-right corner of the left speaker. It's a knurled dial the size of a standard button, and it turns with a nice, smooth resistance for a feeling of scratch-free precision. Ideally, I'd like to see the volume knob on the top of the speaker for easier access, and I'd rather it extended outward a bit further (it's a bit shallow). But tastes will differ depending upon speaker placement.

- The LED power light is on the lower-left of corner of the left speaker. It's a muted, cool blue that looks great when the lights are off. Not too bright to be a nuisance. The kind of blue light that you know is there but almost seems to disappear into the blackness.

- The power on/off switch is on the middle back of the left speaker, near the outside edge, so you can easily wrap your fingers behind the speaker and feel for the switch to turn it off. Not as easy as I'd like it to be, but not a big hassle. Still, if you like to turn your devices off when not in use, you'll want to place them in a way that allows you easy access to the left side of the left speaker.

- The USB port on the top is for charging only, not for audio pass-through from your iPod, but the makers helpfully provide several short lengths of audio cable suitable for connecting your iPod or other device.

- The secondary audio input jack on the back is analog, not digital, so you won't be able to take advantage of the digital audio-out option of an AirPort Express, for example, but the analog connection sounds fine.

- There's no remote control. Here the speakers suffer in comparison with some similarly priced systems that appeal to iPod users, but clearly the decision was made to divert the cost of that feature into creating the best possible sound at this price point.

- When driving these speakers hard for extended periods, the back of the left speaker (containing the power supply) gets very hot. Very hot. Seriously--you could fry an egg back there, so you'll want to ensure proper ventilation if you plan to rock out a lot. My only concern here is that the hottest area is the area surrounding the AC jack into which I plug my AirPort Express. Can the AirPort Express take the heat? Well, it has so far.

- The bass response is great on these, but if you want even more, you can always hook up a subwoofer, because a subwoofer jack is provided. What more could you ask?

Click Here to see more reviews about: Audioengine A5 Powered Multimedia Speaker System (Black)

Product Description:
Audioengine 5 is a full-size speaker system in a bookshelf-sized package. Internal power amps eliminate the need to connect the Audioengine 5 to a bulky stereo receiver or power amplifier. And with built-in subwoofer ports, the Audioengine 5 adds incredible low-end bass without the need for an external subwoofer.Audioengine

Buy NowGet 7% OFF

Want to read more honest consumer review about Audioengine A5 Powered Multimedia Speaker System (Black) now ?

10/04/2011

Altec Lansing VS2421 2.1 Music and Gaming Stereo Speaker System with Microphone (Black) Review

Altec Lansing VS2421 2.1 Music and Gaming Stereo Speaker System with Microphone
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I'm an audiophile, I listen critically to every nuance of music and enjoy faithful reproduction of it.That said, I'm quite surprised that these speakers actually create a decent image in a nearfield setup.Voices are palpable and details are presented nicely.

I've certainly heard worse for 10 times the price, that's for sure.The sub is rich and full and easily overpowers the satellites.It's not overly boomy, maybe a little 'wooly' but nice.Just keep it turned down to a third or fourth on the sub's volume control.

I'm thinking with some break-in the sats may dig a little deeper and the whole system will integrate a little better.My only criticism at this point is there is a bit of a mid-bass dip... or a hole between the midrange and deep bass... And again, I'm hoping this fills in as the speakers move more freely after more use.

I'm very impressed with this little system at any volume. It gets plenty loud for my office and you can really rock out if you want to... And it sounds good at low volume too!I'd suggest a simple placement, with satellites left and right of the monitor and do whatever you have room to do with the sub.

This system comes with a volume control that includes main volume, treble control, and a microphone in one easy-to-use unit.The main volume knob is nice and big with a light so it's easy to find and adjust quickly if the phone rings.

I haven't tried the microphone yet but my system did not come with the microphone cable (nor did it come with any instructions).You'll need a male-to-male headphone-type cable to connect the main controller and mic to the PC.

Great system for the price, highly recommended.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Altec Lansing VS2421 2.1 Music and Gaming Stereo Speaker System with Microphone (Black)

Product Description:
SPEAKERS, 3-PIECE MUSIC & GAMING W/

Buy Now

Want to read more honest consumer review about Altec Lansing VS2421 2.1 Music and Gaming Stereo Speaker System with Microphone (Black) now ?

9/26/2011

Logitech X-240 2.1 Speakers (Black) Review

Logitech X-240 2.1 Speakers
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Odd... well, one would think a product released later with a higher model number would be better. Apparently, that rule does not apply here. Sneaky marketing?

I also own the X-230 and I was very impressed with it, considering they're 2.1 speakers. The X-230 actually feels like surround sound. However, I can't say the same about the X-240's. The X-240 just sounds like what one would usually expect from 2.1 speakers.

The X-230 has two drivers in each speaker (total of four), whereas this new version, X-240, only contains one; that may be why it sounds more flat.

The X-240 sounds like I'm just listening from a regular jukebox. It doesn't sound terrible, but it just doesn't have that rich dynamic feel and sounds a bit muffled.

The X-230 bass is pretty overpowering even at the lowest setting; maybe because of those complaints, Logitech decided to make the X-240 rely more on treble and tried to go for clarity. Unfortunately, the result ended up sounding more flat. I guess Logitech tried to cut back costs by using only one driver for each speaker. Bad idea.

Speaking of cheap... honestly, the dock is very cheap. Basically, you slide it out -- and it doesn't even come out that far -- where you place one of the plastic "adapters" (included for the iPod, Zune, etc...).I tried to set it up, so I could place the iPod sync cable and place my iPod Classic, but that was a mess. The cable would not hold in place firmly at all; and without connecting to it, there wouldn't be anything secure to hold the mp3 player. The "dock" (if you can even call it that) is just unreliable and worthless for me. There's really no weight to the "dock", so it would easily knock over. It is basically a HUGE volume remote. The volume control is also on the side of the dock, and the dial, again, feels cheap. The speaker dial for the X-230 is located nicely on the speaker and the design/feel is so much better.

Bad ergonomics: The X-230 cradle (huge remote) is also hard wired together to the subwoofer, so that makes it very difficult setting it up on the desk.

Everything--ergonomics, design, sound--the previous model, X-230, wins against the X-240. I was looking forward for the added "dock" feature, but that is truly a gimmick. It was definitely an afterthought.

I own many Logitech products, and I've been impressed with most of them, but this one was disappointing. The sound difference is quite significant. If you have a choice between the two, I would definitely go for the X-230, even if it costs a little extra. No question.

If you absolutely can't stand bass, then the X-240 may be for you--but you will also be sacrificing a more dynamic surround sound because of less speaker drivers.

In the end, these are just "Okay" speakers.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Logitech X-240 2.1 Speakers (Black)

Product Description:
The stow-away MP3 cradle makes the Logitech X-240 speakers more than just a great speaker system for your computer. Connect your digital audio player with the included auxiliary cable, or use your own USB/power cable to sync, charge and play digital music from your iPod, Zune, PDA or mobile phone. Dynamic, real-time bass equalization maximizes bass response from the down-firing subwoofer while high-excursion drivers provide rich sound from the slim, stylish satellites.

Buy Now

Want to buy Logitech X-240 2.1 Speakers (Black) at other amazon sites? Click the corresponding icon below:



buy it at amazon.combuy it at amazon.co.ukbuy it at amazon.cabuy it at amazon.debuy it at amazon.fr

9/19/2011

Audioengine 2 - PC multimedia speakers - 30 Watt (total) - 2-way - satin black Review

Audioengine 2 - PC multimedia speakers - 30 Watt - 2-way - satin black
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I got the A2 for use as a portable studio monitor when recording music with my laptop. As such, I think its form factor is unmatched: I don't know of any other 4"W x 6"H powered full-range (2.0) speaker of this quality.

I appreciate the stated frequency response figure, which is offered with plus/minus 2dB tolerance -- unlike other iPod or computer speakers. The cabinet is made from MDF (medium density fiberboard), a material used in many of the most well-regarded audiophile speakers. The Kevlar woofer and quality binding posts also inspire confidence. A protective grille and front-mounted volume control might have been handy, but that's a matter of preference. I got the white (A2W) model which is understated and attractive.

I'm comparing the A2 with the larger (5.5"W x 8.5"H) M-Audio Studiophile DX4 speaker, which is intended for home music studios. The DX4 is actually a little less expensive, but too bulky for portable use. The DX4 comes with individual frequency response measurements which in my case indicated close pair-matching and equally flat response to that of the A2. Anyone who has built speakers knows, however, that on-axis frequency response measurements don't tell the whole story. I did not compare the A2 with larger or more expensive speakers, and my emphasis is on use as a monitor for mixing music.

Dynamics. The A2's little 3" woofer is surprisingly dynamic: turn up the volume control and you can feel the air pumping in front of the cone and the slot. The speaker sounds balanced at both low and high volumes. A speaker this size is of course only for near-field individual listening. It is not for watching movies from across the room. The DX4's 4.5" woofer has more than twice the surface area and is capable of higher sound pressure levels.

Imaging. Probably a consequence of the well-damped MDF enclosure, the A2 images nicely. Instruments do not seem to come from the speakers but from the space between them. The DX4 had better depth and openness however. I think these characteristics are partially due to the DX4's low-frequency extension and high-frequency dispersion.

Frequency balance. The A2 delivers more bass than you would expect from a 3" woofer. Of course, there is nothing below 60Hz. The mid and upper bass are a little pronounced. (The effect is worse when resting directly on a desktop, so try raising them on stands.) This makes a grand piano sound more like an upright. The DX4 manages to go deeper and sound less boxy. The A2's midrange is smooth and natural sounding. The A2's treble character is quite different from the DX4's. The DX4 is a little hyped without being harsh: grunge guitar has more of an edge and cymbals have a more pronounced decay, yet high-hats sound similar to the A2.

Mixing/Mastering. The DX4 has better bass extension and treble clarity and lets you hear individual instruments more easily, so is well-suited to mixing. On the other hand, the DX4's perceived treble "zing" may in some cases lead a recording engineer to produce dull-sounding mixes. The A2 is probably more representative of small consumer playbacks systems (bookshelf speakers and car speakers), yet is less colored and more dynamic than similar-sized powered speakers. Therefore it offers a useful comparison for balancing mixes and for assessing the final mix. Its small size and smooth midrange make it suitable for portable monitoring.

Incidentally, the A2 has both RCA and 1/8" stereo inputs which are combined if both are in use, whereas the DX4 does not do this as advertised. I was also pleased with their customer service, which was responsive to emails and phone calls.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Audioengine 2 - PC multimedia speakers - 30 Watt (total) - 2-way - satin black

Product Description:
Creating powered multimedia speakers to follow the Audioengine 5 was a challenge, but we feel we've managed to duplicate the signature sound of the Audioengine 5's in a much smaller package perfectly suited for your desktop or a smaller space in your home or office. The Audioengine 2 is a great introduction to high-quality audio and the perfect upgrade for your computer or iPod.

Buy Now

Want to buy Audioengine 2 - PC multimedia speakers - 30 Watt (total) - 2-way - satin black at other amazon sites? Click the corresponding icon below:



buy it at amazon.combuy it at amazon.co.ukbuy it at amazon.cabuy it at amazon.debuy it at amazon.fr

9/18/2011

Creative Inspire T3100 2.1 Speakers Review

Creative Inspire T3100 2.1 Speakers
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I'm accustomed to computer speakers that produce sound as dull as dishwater, so the first time that I listened to the Inspire T3100 speaker system was an unexpected wakeup call. The sound is VERY lively, and the treble, in particular, is both strong and smooth -- guitar notes come alive (Clapton, Doobie Brothers), saxophone wails (Dave Brubeck's "Take Five" is especially nice), and I notice little details and backbeats in the music that I'd never picked out before.

I was concerned that the subwoofer on an inexpensive system like this might be too "boomy," but not at all -- the sound was very natural. There's a knob on the back to adjust subwoofer output, but I set it in the middle and felt no need to fiddle with it. If you like really big, thumping base, other system probably would provide more.

Volume is easily sufficient to fill a typical small office or spare bedroom. The subwoofer is a bit smaller than a shoebox standing on end. The satellite speakers have bases large enough so they won't tip over too easily. The right speaker has a power/volume rotary switch on one side that feels smooth and substantial, with a blue LED power light in the front and a headphone jack on the other side. The transformer is inside the sub, so there's no annoying power "brick." The components have a substantial look and feel, not flimsy.

My only comment regarding sound quality is that in music with a lot of base and treble, the vocals don't always burst forth with the same enthusiasm. This is more true of male vocalists -- the higher-pitched ladies (early Dionne Warwick, for example) come through just fine. But this can be easily fixed using the equalizer controls in ITunes -- the "enhance vocals" preset actually works very well. There are no tone controls on the speakers, but the electronic equalizer is probably a more effective and accurate device.

My reference speakers for these were a 10-year-old pair of Altec Lansing ACS40, which were not bad speakers at the time (and, of course, can still be found on E-Bay!). The Altecs still produce a smooth, pleasant sound -- but VERY dull and muted compared to the Creative system.

Frankly, I bought this new system not expecting much. Another set of old speakers had given up the ghost, and I wanted to get something that would be slightly better than the usual $10 replacement pair. But these are a LOT better than I expected (and I'm the kind of person who is more likely to be disappointed than impressed by the stuff I buy). So I can recommend these without reservation.

Oops, here comes "Take Five" again on the shuffle play -- gotta go. There's some drum work in the middle that's coming through really nicely - lively with just the right amount of reverb. Definitely not to be wasted on bad speakers.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Creative Inspire T3100 2.1 Speakers

Product Description:
Experience high-fidelity audio with the Creative Inspire T3100. This two-way designed speaker system features a tweeter and mid-range driver that delivers HiFi quality sound onto your desktop. Listen in greater details from cymbals, triangles or acoustic guitar, all with better warmth and character thats designed to give you a live experience thats close to reality. Enhanced with the powered wood subwoofer at 17Watts RMS and youll begin to feel every fibre of your music.

Buy Now

Want to buy Creative Inspire T3100 2.1 Speakers at other amazon sites? Click the corresponding icon below:



buy it at amazon.combuy it at amazon.co.ukbuy it at amazon.cabuy it at amazon.debuy it at amazon.fr

9/01/2011

Insignia 2.1 Computer Speaker System NS-PCS21 Review

Insignia 2.1 Computer Speaker System NS-PCS21
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I got a great deal on these speakers, just under twenty bucks at BestBuy Canada for use with my MacBook Pro along with a 24" widescreen monitor. At this price point, I was preparing to be underwhelmed and, to be honest, I was not very pleased with my first impressions of the sound quality. It sounded rather flat with dull highs and muddy bass.

Then I remembered (duh) that the MacBook Pro has an equalizer for both iTunes and iDVD (accessed through the "Window" menu of these applications). Once I selected a preset equalizer setting (for example, "Jazz") the sound quality from the speakers improved substantially! I further custom tweaked the iTunes equalizer using some reference acoustic and vocal jazz tracks and was able to make these speakers produce a pretty nice midrange and clear highs. Moreover, it is actually able to do some halfway decent stereo imaging right on my desktop. (I suspect that it uses a class D switching amplifier chip which are pretty detailed, accurate and have linear frequency response).

There is a slight break-in period and treble and upper mids do get smoother after a few hours. Top end treble does roll off, so don't expect audiophile-like bell shaped treble decays from cymbals - remember these are computer speakers! When the sub's volume is set correctly the bass response is pretty decent. It sounds integrated and goes as low as about 90Hz, which is fine for jazz, classical and most kinds of rock - but not, perhaps, good enough for bass heavy Hip-Hop. That said, the bass is considerably better with the subwoofer placed on the floor, as opposed to on the desk.

With the Equalizer properly set, I was actually wowed by the sound from some of my well recorded jazz CD's, for example Patricia Barber's "Fortnight in France", which includes vocals, piano, acoustic and bass guitars and kick-drums.

DVD Movies with good sound tracks also sound great, but I expect these speakers probably won't do well for gaming or with action movies which have a lot of thunderous explosions.

So, to be clear, these speakers are NOT suited for loud, head-banging music. If you push the volume beyond medium levels it will start to distort! And don't expect thunderous bass either. If you want a speaker that need to do that, look elsewhere or move up to the Insignia 2.1 Computer Speaker System NS-PCS41 4 Piece With Subwoofer.

All in all I am very pleased with my purchase. For those of you considering buying this model, please note the following caveats:

- Your sound source needs to be of good quality! For example, these speakers sound much better with my MacBook Pro than with my Acer Netbook.

- Make sure you tweak the sound through an equalizer. (iTunes and iDVD on the MacBook Pro have an equalizer).

- Position your speakers correctly according to the instructions. There should be no obstructions in front of the satellite speakers. The subwoofer is best placed on the floor.

- Definitely use a power strip that has power conditioner to plug in the power adapter. It will considerably reduce noise and make these speakers sound clearer and make more subtle details audible.

- Don't crank up these speakers too loud. They are not meant for room filling sound, just for your desk!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Insignia 2.1 Computer Speaker System NS-PCS21



Buy Now

Want to buy Insignia 2.1 Computer Speaker System NS-PCS21 at other amazon sites? Click the corresponding icon below:



buy it at amazon.combuy it at amazon.co.ukbuy it at amazon.cabuy it at amazon.debuy it at amazon.fr