Logitech Z-2300 THX-Certified 200-Watt 2.1 Speaker System Reviews

• Great hassle free 2.1 system at a great price

  
  By AAF3A2OXL7PRC on 2006-08-05
  I've had these speakers for about six weeks and I think they have a great sound. I have them hooked up to a new Alienware system with a SoundBlaster X-Fi card. I use the card for both gaming and music. The system is located in a 11' x 11' home office with the speakers located at each corner of 5' desk and the subwoofer in front of the desk.
  
  I have switched from a 5.1 system I got with my previous Alienware system. I'm in my 50's and have seen about every sound gimmick come down the pike. There are a lot of people who love 5.1 and have time to tweak them, I'm just not one of them. I've had the 5.1 system for about five years hooked to a SoundBlaster Live card. I'm pretty adept with computers, so I have kept up with the drivers, played with the balance, moved the speakers and done about everything I can to "feel" the game. I usually play Call of Duty or Far Cry type games. I also play RTS games of the C&C stripe.
  
  I must be getting old, because I'm tired of screwing around with sound systems. I'm at a point where I just want to sit down and hear some great sound without going through all of the situational adjustments (FPS game, music, RTS game, SAT TV, etc). If you just want something that has great fidelity and some oomph in the low range, this is your system.
  
  What I like:
  
  1. The sound for music is fantastic. I have eclectic tastes in music and all of it sounds great across the board with excellent fidelity. Some songs you can hear every instrument and note. It's as good as the source (mp3, wma, etc) can make it.
  
  2. The stereo effect is wonderful. It's like having a center speaker without having the clutter of a physical speaker on your desk, plus you still get a great sense of left/right effects.
  
  3. The subwoofer will rock you. I have it front of a solid wood desk and it will shake the desk at half bass. When I play COD or MOH, it's like you are on Omaha beach during an artillery barrage. It's as real as I need it. I don't need 5.1 to hear the shell whistling past me to get a great effect.
  
  4. I really like the control. It sits well on the desk next to my keyboard. Nice big dials that index the bass and volume well. There is good size off switch that is easy to hit if you need to kill the sound quickly without searching for a mute button. There is also a plug for headphones. Makes it convenient if you don't want to have to keep reaching around the back of the system. It also has a blue power light which I prefer.
  
  5. Very, very, very easy to set up. Just plug the speakers into the subwoofer and then plug the system cable into the sound card. Turn it on.
  
  6. Uses the system software for balance and treble. It will also use the software equalizer. You may ask why this is important. Half my problem with my last set of speakers is that the computer had an equalizer, the installed SoundBlaster software had an equalizer, the player had an equalizer and the speaker system had a equalizer, speaker balance. Give me a break. There were four sets of adjustments that you had to manage depending on what you were doing at the time (game, music, TV). I never knew which control was in control. My results were mixed at best. Now I just worry about the computers settings and I get great sound in any of my apps.
  
  7. I have not detected the irritating hum my last system had during quiet times or when no music was playing.
  
  8. I like the style of the speakers. Silver with black cloth covers. They seem very substantial.
  
  What I don't like:
  
  1. I may be old fashioned, but I want the option to change the length of my speaker wires. I don't know why Logitech has gone this route, but the speaker wire is permanently affixed to the back of the speaker and terminates with an RCA plug. I prefer heavy gauge speaker wire and would like the option to move the subwoofer farther away. This requires me to buy expensive RCA cable as opposed to regular speaker wire.
  
  2. The subwoofer is probably physically bigger than it should be for a small room system. There is no room for it under the desk (that's why it's in front of it:). I'm still experimenting with placement. Make no mistake, this puppy is big. It also has metal heat vanes on the back that give it additional length. If you are working with limited space, make sure you pay attention to the dimensions.
  
  3. While I like the control, it makes placing the subwoofer across the room somewhat problematic. The wire from the subwoofer to the controller is a 6' long thick proprietary cable. The system sound plug then runs from the controller to the sound card. The speakers cords run directly to the subwoofer. This system is meant for close-in.
  
  Conclusion:
  
  This is a great trouble free set of speakers with great sound. Just plug and play without a lot of fuss. I knocked off a star because of the limited flexibility imposed by the cabling scheme. That being said, I don't think you can beat the sound at this price. To be honest, I have a pretty decent ear and these are as good as any system I have listened to. I feel my money was well spent and I am most satisfied with my purchase. So if you are tired of trying to make the latest gimmick work (7.1 THX) and you just want great sound, this is your system.
  
  
  

• Where's the midrange?

  
  By A3W5CEP1BNZJFH on 2005-07-29
  I bought these speakers based on user comments on amazon.com and reviews I read on other Web sites. They replaced some older Sony 2.1 speakers I have circa 1996. At the time of this witting, I'm building a new computer and I'm vain enough to color coordinate my speakers with the rest of my components - not to mention my speakers were getting pretty old.
  
  I have to say that I'm tremendously disappointed with the sound of these speakers compared to my long-since discontinued Sony's. THE MIDRANGE IS MISSING! While the speakers do get quite loud and the lows and highs are spectacularly clear and crisp, the midrange is woefully inadequate. I attempted to compensate for this through software controls, but it doesn't really work.
  
  I do like the wired remote. It has a lengthy cord; the volume control knob is large and turns nicely; and the headphone jack is right on the front of the remote.
  
  The wires on the 2 desk speakers could be a bit longer, due to the fact that the subwoofer is rather large - much too big to hide-away under my current computer desk.
  
  I was also disappointed by the fact that there are not multiple inputs; I like to keep my Sirius on my computer desk and route it through my speakers so I can listen to it while I'm in front of the computer. I suppose I'll have to pipe it through my computer's sound card and back out to the Logitech's that way.
  
  

• Superb speakers!

  
  By A2PK64OVZA1U8Z on 2005-01-07
  My judgement may be a little skewed as I haven't upgraded my speakers for about 10 years. I originally bought these for my wife as she's just getting into mp3 music and her old speakers just didn't cut it. She didn't like the Logitechs because the subwoofer was too big and there was not a convenient place to put it. So I gave her my 10 year old speakers and took the Logitechs. Boy did I come out ahead on that deal. I couldn't believe how rich the sound was coming from these speakers, especially the subwoofer. Clear effects, vibrating base, and pure highs and mid-levels. The stand alone controller is a very nice touch, especially since you can plug your headphones into it, a major advance over having to plug them directly into the sound card. If you buy these speakers, you WILL NOT be sorry.
  
  

• If you want the skinny on these speakers read this.

  
  By A1ZOEBK91MVB3O on 2006-04-26
  First, I will have to say that I am a music engineer/producer, so when it comes to music, I know what I'm talking about. Secondly, I just bought this product and, no I don't work for Logitech, or anyone else who`s related to the company, or their distributors.
  
  Setting up:
  
  For those who are curious a bit about the speaker set up, it is very easy. The subwoofer acts as the "motherboard", so to speak. Everything hooks into it, from the back. The subwoofer is the power supply source (there's no adapter, just a standard plug, so this will save room on a power strip), and the wired remote plugs into the sub, and the computer. The satellites plug into the sub as well. If you wish to plug the speakers up something else (a videogame console, a DVD player, VCR, etc.) a RCA splitter cord is provided to hook it up. When plugging this thing up, do NOT plug it up to the electrical socket first and then connect the components. Plug it into the wall last. Additionally, there is a on/off feature on the wired remote, as well as a switch on the back of the sub. The ON LED light on the wired remote is a pretty blue color.
  
  When you set up the speakers, you should note that the satellites are very directional sensitive. That is, adjusting the angle of the speakers will have a great deal to do with the how the sound is directed towards your head, and thus the overall quality. Take the time to adjust this to the best sounding position. These speakers are decently compact. My computer is sitting on a tiny IKEA computer desk, along with other studio gear, including two rack-mounted processors. I have plenty of room for these speakers. Do NOT sit these speakers next to your head. It's a good idea to have them farther away from you than your monitor is sitting, if possible. As for the subwoofer, do the smart thing and put it on the floor. It doesn't need to be elevated no more than a foot off the ground, if that much. Also give the sub room to breathe, and for the love of common sense, don't block the side air hole, and don't direct the woofer at your computer tower.
  
  The Sound:
  
  Like I said before, I am a music producer, additionally I am a classically trained musician with 20 years experience (I'm 28). So I know what I'm talking about. Also I should note that I am using a fairly new desktop computer, an Emachines, which is about a year old. I also have a nice Sony 5.1 stereo system. These speakers kick my Sony's tail, all around. The only way it could be better is if it was a perfect surround sound system, and that would be a pain to deal with, unless you have the room and money for it.
  
  Some people have said the mids on these speakers are weak. I'm not hearing it at all. What I have noticed is that the upper highs are very strong. If you are having this problem here's simple solution. I'm using Windows Media Player 9.0. On the "rock" EQ setting just move the 16kHz level down a wee bit. If you're using another kind of media player, just turn down the EQ between 12-20kHz down by 5-10%. If you're hearing hiss out of the speakers then you might have them too close to your head to begin with (I can only hear it when I lean over next to it, and if the volume is past 60%). Otherwise, you might have a shielding problem.
  
  These speakers are quite loud. Be careful not to damage your hearing with these. I really see no point in turning the master volume past 40% and the sub past 25%.
  
  Also keep in mind that these speakers are quality. Don't play hip hop on a classical EQ setting. You should get used to switching your EQ setting (which is easy enough on Windows Media Player) for the appropriate thing you are listening to. If you're listening to talk radio, set it to "speech", and turn the woofer down to zero.
  
  The only draw back on this speaker system is that you can't turn the woofer down to perfect zero, meaning that you can't bypass it. That would be a good bonus. But turning down the EQ in the 20Hz to 50 Hz range should do the trick if you want to by pass it.
  
  For this price, these speakers are a steal. The quality of these things in my opinion are triple the price, if not more.
  
  The z2300 as well deserving of 5 stars. If you want killer sound on your computer without spending a few thousand bucks, this is the way to go. I bought these for my home studio to mix the record I'm working on, and I'm so glad I did it. It far beats spending $400 on a single studio monitor.
  
  If anyone wants so advice or semi-technical assistance as far as these speakers are concerned, I'd be more than glad to offer some advice if you wish, just email me at GSFU (at) aol (dot) com.
  
  

• Logitech Z-2300 vs Klipsch ProMeida 2.1

  
  By ATDNB9OP3PW6R on 2007-03-30
  Logitech Z-2300 and Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 are the best 2.1 systems for computers out there. I recently tested the two side by side and found Logitech has a small edge overall with the dynamic lows as its winning point. Z-2300 also beats ProMedia in design with only one wire coming to each satellite (its competitor having three or four to the control console attached to one satellite.) This being said, ProMedia also has its distinctiveness over its Logitech counterpart.
  
  CNET, my favorite review site, gives Z-2300 a wowing 9 star while throwing ProMedia a meager 7.9. I dispute this and believe a difference of 0.5 star might be more appropriate. Compared to Logitech, Klipsch is slightly better in mids and highs. ProMedia sounds a little bit more "open" and crispy. In design, the ProMeida is wall-mountable though with the optional brackets and its aesthetic limitations (see my review on Klipsch ProMedia 2.1). Both systems looks a little cheesy, but the ProMedia looks a little bit more "pro" with its "component black" color than its counterpart which unfortunately uses a silver tone over-emphasizing its plastic nature and bulkiness of the subwoofer.
  
  In conclusion, both speakers are very good (if not too good) for MP3s and choosing which one to buy is more of personal tastes than substance in sound quality. Since Logitech is 20 or some dollars cheaper, my decision may slightly leans towards Logitech...
  
  
  
• Outstanding speakers for a great price
  By A2CRE06D9L076H on 2004-10-16
  The logitech z-2300's are incredible speakers. With 200 watts total rms, they overpower all speakers in and above this price range. The 120 watt subwoofer is amazing, with thunderous and crisp bass. When the bass is turned all the way up and volume halfway, my entire desk vibrates, as well as the window blinds.
  
  The two satellite speakers provide excellent quality sound. The only other speakers I can compare them too are the pair of harmon/kardons that came with my dell. Each speaker is 40 watts, again, more than any other set of speakers in this price range.
  
  Logitech's z-2200, the 2300's predecessor, has received nothing but positive comments for its sheer power and clarity. Check cnet.com reviews and you will see that these are the best speakers available for 100 bucks.
  
  These speakers come with a volume/bass control unit and a stereo adapter if you want to hook them up to a dvd player.
  
  
  Pros:
  - Cheap
  - Outstanding sound
  - Easy to adjust volume and bass level
  
  Cons:
  - Don't look at nice as say the JBL sound sticks
  
  
  
• Klipsch v Bose v Logitech
  By A1P6FDUVNS9HF on 2007-08-14
  I blew a ridiculous amount of time listening to them in the store, reading reviews and what not and it never really helped me decide. I ended up buying all 3 and hooking them up so I could test drive them. Then returned the ones I didn't keep. Hopefully someone in the same situation I was in will benefit from my review. If you can't decide I recommend buying the ones you can't decide between and test them yourself.
  
  
  SPEAKERS:
  Klipsch Promedia 2.1, Logitech z-2300, Bose Companion 3
  
  
  BACKGROUND:
  Previous Speakers- Creative 6.1, think they were the original inspires.
  Sound Card- Creative x-fi
  Primary use- Gaming with limited music
  Volume- maybe max out around 10%. Live in multifamily complex and don't need a lease breaker to live up to its name.
  Ear quality- I'm no sound engineer so all references to quality of sound are just what MY ears heard.
  
  
  6.1 V 2.1:
  You will not find any 2.1 system that rivals even a cheap 5.1 or 6.1 set. No way around that. In downgrading you are compromising from the start. If you have the space/cash/mounting locations go with 5.1 or higher.
  
  
  SOUND QUALITY:
  The Klipsch had the best overall performance when it came to sound. Second was Bose and third was Logitech.
  
  I was not at all impressed with the Logitechs. They had a nice booming sound but no matter how much I fiddled with the EQ could I get a clean consistent sound across the board. Highs sounded watered down, Mids sounded muted and the Lows were...booming in a good way. Granted I'm sure this had a lot to do with the fact that I wasn't turning them up very loud. When I cranked them up they sounded much better but that's not the situation I needed them for. If you are throwing a block party the sound quality might be great.
  
  The Klipsch definitely had the best overall sound. It seemed to have a little trouble with definition on the highs and the extreme lows but far out did the other two with the mids and the lows. When I say trouble I mean nothing noticeable if you didn't have multiple speakers hooked up at the same time. This could once again be attributed to the fact that I'm running them at such a low volume. As far as the extreme lows, I don't think either of the other two systems even had those lows to listen too.
  
  The Bose handled the highs with crystal clarity. They do have the "tin can" effect that other reviewers have mentioned but adjustment of the EQ was able to compensate for that. The mids had to be corrected with the EQ but once setup right they were adequate, nothing to write home about, but better then the Logitech and not as good as the Klipsch. The lows thumped nicely and seemed to fit well but on extreme lows it seemed to be more of a single rumble as opposed to individual sounds.
  
  
  REAL ESTATE:
  The Bose significantly outshine the other two sets when it comes to desk real estate. The footprint of each satellite is about 2.5x2.5 inches. Headphones might take up less space. The Logitechs and the Klipsch take up about the same amount of space on the desk. Slightly larger than your average desktop speaker but not so large that you can't fit them on the desk.
  
  
  CONTROLS:
  All three sets had the same set of controls and inputs on them, namely bass, volume, and a miniplug out or two.
  
  I preferred the Bose when it came to the controls. The little wired remote puck thing works excellently and sticks to the spot you put it. The volume control consists of turning the outside of the puck and works excellently. One added feature is the top of the puck is a touch activated mute button. Useless really since the volume is so easy to adjust but nice all the same. The bass control for the Bose is located on the back of the sub near the top. The sub sits under my desk so it's easy enough to adjust by just reaching behind it from the top and turning the knob.
  
  Second would be the Logitech set. They also have a wired remote similar to the bose. Has a couple knobs on it a large (not as large as the bose puck) one for volume and smaller one for bass. They seemed to turn smoothly and work great. The one thing I didn't like about the Logitech remote was that it was very light and didn't really stay where you put it. Some double side tape or a rubber pad would easily fix that.
  
  This is one spot where the Klipsch comes in last. I read that the controller could be removed from the speaker but didn't see an easy way to do it and didn't want to muck them up since I would be returning 2 of the 3 systems. The Klipsch controls are located on the right speaker similar to your normal OEM speakers. There is a volume and bass knob. The volume knob didn't seem as smooth as the other two systems and tended to jump as opposed to smoothly increase and decrease the volume. This might just be that it's a small knob and harder to make precision changes.
  
  The power button is never a concern of mine because I leave everything on all the time but for those that it is an issue: Logitech had a power switch on the sub and "sleep" button on the remote. Both the klipsch and the bose have the power switches on the back of the sub. None of the power switches on the back of the subs are easy to get to or locate so if you can handle just putting it in sleep mode I'd recommend the Logitech.
  
  
  BUILD QUALITY:
  I don't mean the build of the actual cones but of the housings, stands, etc. I don't know enough about construction of or speaker materials to make a judgment on the cones and drivers.
  
  I think the Bose probably won in this category with the Logitech coming in second and the Klipsch bringing up the rear.
  
  Both the Bose and Logitech went together well and everything fit tight. Everything seemed to be appropriately built with acceptable tolerances in terms of stands and housings. The Logitech's satellites were mostly plastic with cloth speaker grilles metal grilles on the sub. The sub was particle board I'm assuming with a metal grille. The Bose satellites were all metal including stands and grilles. The sub was particle board I'm assuming with a metal grille. Moving the speakers around and doing whatever over the course of testing them seemed to have no side effect on the operation of these two sets. Everything on each system seemed to use a heavy enough gauged wire that I was not concerned with damaging them as I yanked them through the rats nest behind my desk.
  
  The Klipsch fell short on the build quality. They used comparable materials as the previous two, plastic satellites with cloth grilles and what I'm assuming is a particle board sub with a metal grille. The stands for the satellites were cockeyed causing the speakers to lean at some odd angles. Nothing that your average person would notice but someone in QC should have caught that. The little ps2 looking cable that connects the controller to the sub didn't fit securely or snap into the sub. Is to be expected of this style cable but on the other two systems I didn't have any concern if it connected appropriately. After initial setup of the speakers the left satellite went out on me and I had to jiggle/turn the miniplug plugged into the back of it. This is nothing new to miniplugs but I would have liked to have had the system setup for a good year before I had to start jiggling stuff. None of these matters are real deal breakers but I noticed no problems with the other two systems. It causes me to question what else might not be done as right as it should be done.
  
  One thing nice about the Klipsch is that the connections for the satellites are normal speaker wire with a miniplug on the end. Should be fairly easy to rig up your own connectors if the supplied separation distance isn't enough for your needs.
  
  
  CONCLUSION:
  If you want the best sound you can find, go with the Klipsch hands down. If size is your concern go with the Bose. Most other items noted are personal taste and opinion so you can make your judgments of off my previous information.
  
  
  WHAT'D I KEEP?:
  I kept the Bose. They look incredible, save my desk space well and at low volumes with an adjusted EQ they seem to sound good enough to do the job. I love the puck controller as well. I know many people dislike Bose but I think they have a nice product in the Companion 3's. It should probably be priced between $75 and $150 but an extra $100 spaced over an estimated 5 years of use is only $20 a year.
  
  
  
• Just OK for the money
  By A2O86TWORH85CP on 2004-12-12
  I had the Logitech Z5300 (5:1) THX speaker set and recently it decided to give up the ghost. As good as the sound from the Z5300 speakers was, I decided I really didn't need speakers behind me, so I decided to go with a 2:1 speaker system. It was the sub-woofer of the Z5300 set that had given out so, on a whim, I kept the satellite speakers.
  
  A few days ago, when this Logitech Z2300 set arrived, I anxiously set it up and was immediately disappointed. The desktop speakers were quite tinny sounding, even with my Creative Audigy 2 sound card. The sound was there, but it lacked substance and depth. Hard to describe, but it was pretty awful.
  
  I couldn't believe how "shallow" they sounded but tried to resolve myself to the lack of good sound deciding that it might be because of my decision to give up a 5:1 system.
  
  After several days, I realized I just wasn't going to be able to enjoy playing music on my computer with this Z2300 set-up. Desperate and ready to toss the Z2300s in the trash, I wondered what would happen if I replaced the two desktop speakers that came with the Z2300 with two desktop speakers I had salvaged from my old Z5300 setup.
  
  WOW! The difference was so dramatic that it brought my wife on a run from the living room. It was not a difference you had to listen closely to hear. The full rich deep sound from the older Z5300 speakers literally filled the room ... it was beautiful and fun to play music on my PC again. I found I can easily live with a 2:1 speaker setup, if the speakers are good.
  
  If you are used to really cheap speakers ... like those you might find embedded in your computer monitor or like the old $10 a pair of speakers they used to sell as part of computer sets, the Z2300 will likely sound fine, maybe even good (or good enough). But if you enjoy good music, I'd suggest you think twice about buying this set.
  
  
• Great Speakers
  By A25ACMRSA4XQ6 on 2005-02-07
  These are very good speakers. I have seen reviews which say that the components seem cheap, which I do not agree with. The wired remote is solid and sturdy. The sound is loud and the clarity is very good. I think it's good that the speaker wires are hard-wired to the satellite speakers. I don't like dealing with the connections that usually are associated with speaker sets.
  
  Here are the only negative things I have observed:
  1. Before I received them, I wondered if there was a way to mount these to the wall (ie a standard mounting screw hole), and there is not.
  2. The cables are short (6 ft built-in speaker cables and 6 ft wired remote cable). The speaker cables can be extended with use of RCA (female to female) adapters and RCA cables (neither are included). The wired remote is not extendable and must be used within 6 feet of the back of the subwoofer.
  3. The satellite speakers are tilted upward and are not adjustable.
  4. The midranges are not powerful on these speakers. This can be partially overcome by raising the sound levels of midrange frequencies in your equalizer.
  
  Despite the minor negatives, I find these to be an inexpensive, high quality, and fun to use product that I recommend to users who are thinking about purchasing a set. I use them soley for my computer, which acts as my television and stereo. I don't use any other stereo device at home.
  
  
• What is wrong with the world of computer speakers...
  By A14HYKS9FKRCLW on 2005-10-07
  What is wrong with the world of computer speakers? I live in DC, so there isn't a lot of consumer electronics stores to choose from in the area, so I went to radio shack, then grafios, then I even took the train to Bethesda, MD looking for the speakers I had heard so many good things about on a cnet.com review. None of these retailers had them, but they did offer an abundance of jbl, altec lansing, and some other unfamiliar brands in the price range of $100-200, and they all SUCKED, in my opinion. The logitech system, which I paid $130 for with shipping, offers spine-tinglingly clear sound, and it's power output makes me frustrated that I live in an apartment building. Turning up the volume less than half way easily fills my entire 1 bedroom apartment with great sounding music, and floor thumping bass. Why these speakers are not offered at every place that sells computer speakers as the standard offering in the $100-200 range, I cannot tell you, it's really a crime. Buying any other system (in the same price range, of course) is throwing away your money in my opinion.
  
  
• Crazy for around $109, but requires quality sound card
  By A2R5S28OXWCIOC on 2004-12-21
  I brought these speakers about a month ago and they were worth every penny. The subwoofer is amazing its even more powerful than than Sony's 490watt Home Theater Systems(thats saying alot beacause the z2300's sub is only 120watts!) Almost everyday in the dorm we have music battles and this system with 400w peak, is not to be messed with.
  
  At first, i thought this system was okay but not great because the sound was excellent at low levels but when turned up the bass overpowered and was too fuzzy(especially because i was using a labtop sound card.) So i brought the Creative 24 bit external sound card and i was shock at the difference the sound was. It was incredibly clear and subwoofer even more powerful but never drowning out the satellite speakers. Total price for both z2300 and Creative sound card was still under $160.
  
  From what i found out, the z2300 is only for high quality sound cards only. If you are lacking this, stick with the speakers you have and buy a sound card instead, or buy a system not so powerful like a 2.1 60watt(these were my first and they still sound excellent with a 40w subwoofer).
  
  
• Do not buy
  By ALJEQ2KQ9BXOR on 2006-12-17
  I purchased these speakers recently from Amazon. Here's why you should not make the same mistake: 1) There are no tweeters on the satellite speakers - just a small mid-range speaker. And since that is what's closest to your ears, they are the most important speakers. Sure, the bass is plenty big, but music quality is low due to the poor satellite speakers. I am seeing THX on more and more speakers, so don't let that fool you. 2) There is no weight to the wired remote - so it doesn't stay put and feels cheesy. 3) There was a continuous popping sound that came from the right satellite after a few hours of use for the unit I purchased. I did a bunch of research after returning these and settled on Klipsch Pro Media 2.1 THX. It's hard to describe how much better they are than anything I ever heard (including Bose). I never realized computer speakers could sound so good. I run the thing normally at 1/4 power and it's PLENTY loud. It has the biggest and best satellite speakers of them all. At 1/2 power the bass is blowing so much wind my leg gets cold. There's no wired remote and that's a small sacrifice for the incredible quality.
  
  
• Overrated
  By A9WO51O8NN7W on 2006-03-25
  I bought these speakers to replace my aging Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 set, and it was a mistake.
  
  There are certain things about these speakers I love such as the wired remote, smaller satellites, and better location of the headphone jack, but they fall short in the most basic aspect you want from any speaker: the audio.
  
  These speakers have no midrange. The bass is outstanding which is to be expected as the subwoofer is huge, and the highs are very crisp, and clear, but there is no midrange. This makes the audio sound hollow if you are listening to any music with a lot of midrange, ie rock and roll. They sound great for hip hop, or techno, but anything guitar heavy will suffer.
  
  I'm not an audiophile with a stereo system that costs thousands of dollars. I'm just a gamer, and music lover who isn't fooled by speakers that have a lot of bass, and power, but lack actual audio quality.
  
  I'm keeping my Klipschs.
  
  
• Great speakers...if you're deaf to midrange sound
  By AKTA4O3YJIHW8 on 2006-09-07
  I expected a lot from these speakers given their glowing reviews on almost every review site, not to mention their $150 price tag. They didn't just fall short of expectations; they're so inferior to my decade-old previous set that I'm just going to switch back.
  
  The professional reviews you may have read are right about a couple things: the high range sound is flawless and crisp, and the subwoofer is powerful enough to implode my apartment. But there is no midrange at all. Everything sounds like it's coming from the bottom of a tin can. Simply put, the satellite speakers sound as teeny as they are. Equalization doesn't cut it, the capacity to produce those sounds is just not there.
  
  The result is a cold, unfulfilling sound, kind of like what happens when you connect speakers with too long of a wire. Speaking of wires, the way these speakers are connected is aggravating. The satellite speakers are hardwired with 6-foot RCA cables which you have to plug in to the subwoofer. This basically means you MUST put the subwoofer dead center, under your desk. I don't know about anyone else's setup, but there is no room for that thing and my feet under my desk. I had to rummage through my box o' wiring and find a couple RCA extensions so I could put the subwoofer to one side. I thought at first that was what was causing the tinny sound, but when I removed the extensions as a test the result still wasn't anywhere near acceptable.
  
  These are going back. I'd advise everyone else not to bother with them.
  
  
• Decent for the money, weak in the mids, overpowing base
  By A1V1RPXQ1IB3SH on 2004-11-21
  Biggest problem: Too much base (I NEVER thought I would say that about speakers, but these do it). You can't turn the sub all the way to zero volume, and even with the base down to minimum, they still way overpower the rest of the sound. They are allright for hip-hop, or other base heavy music, but for rock or jazz, they just don't cut it.
  
  When you add in a big hole in the midrange, I'm just not so happy with these. The treble is really nice; very crisp and distinct, but that doesn't make up for the rest of the shortcomings. I'm gonna give them a day or two more, but unless something changes they are going back and I'm gonna try the Altec-Lansing THX set.
  
  
• Midtones sound a damn phone call
  By A3DDBY98AUDRBG on 2005-02-03
  I have a set of Yahama YSTMS50W 2.1 speakers.
  
  [...]
  
  I just got the z-2300 because of the rebate and they looked cool. I was thinking it was time for a change since i've had the yamaha's for almost 5 years now. The z-2300 does NOT EVEN compare to the yamaha's. The biggest weakness are the satellite speakers. They have extremely poor midbass and vocals. I put on Matrix Revolutions and Agent Smith sounds like he is talking through a phone. The highs are just as poor, but not because they are overstated and muffled, but because they do not exist. The lightning and thunder in The Matrix sounds more like someone crunching on potato chips. It just wasn't what i expected. I guess that is why you don't trust a mouse and keyboard company to make speakers. Must have thought they would compensate by throwing wattage at it and covering up the lack of clarity with more bass??? If you want a set of speakers for rap music and rap music ONLY, then these would be ok. Anything else they are not good at.
  
  
• Believe me when i say...THESE SPEAKERS ROCK!
  By A1B0R145004WB9 on 2005-04-22
  Ok, first off i've had these for just one day...got them from amazon today (in 5 days with free shipping...great packaging and great delivery) and they are incredible. I am really picky when it comes to good sound, and i looked around for about 2 months before i findally decided these were the ones to get. The design is so sleek and the THX certification really makes a difference. So here i've got something to say about each part of the system, cuz i know that a lot of you out there want a detailed user review.
  
  Sub Woofer- Oh my gosh...this sub rocks. I mean all you bass
  lovers out there will be smiling the second you
  turn it on. And for all of you who don't like bass
  to drown out the music the subwoofer control on the
  wired remote does a great job of controlling the
  level of the bass, so don't worry about getting a
  system like this cuz the bass accompanies the sound
  from the satellites very well. The bass is punchy
  very responsive and can handle anything you can
  throw at it...seriously...trust me i tested it out.
  I played NFS Underground 2 with this system and i
  can literally feel the engine roaring and the woosh
  of cars as they fly by...you will fall in love with
  this sub.
  
  Sattelites- I have two words for these speakers...sleek and
  strong. The sound is so clear even at high volumes
  and not harsh at all...i've tried every type of
  music on them from rap to classical to techno to
  rock, and they blow every other 2.1 system away!
  There are two cloth dust covers which can cover the
  sattelites if you wish and they make it look even
  better...if that's possible. These speakers are high
  quality.
  
  Wired remote- This thing is soooo cool. The volume knob slides
  so smoothly and is so accurate. So is the bass
  control it's so nice having the bass level
  control right at your finger tips.
  
  The Setup- It's so easy it's not even worth talking about. All
  you have to do is plug in the sattelites into the
  obviously color coded plugs and hook up the
  remote to your sub and computer (or game console or
  tv...that's right they send you an adapter for
  rca audio setups). Plug it in and your done.
  
  I bought these speakers with out ever having heard them b4 and then i went to a circuit city and got to hear them on display b4 mine arrived and i was so glad i bought them. I compared it to the sound of a $250 dollar system from BOSE there as well, and they blew it way with bass and clarity. Logitech is pure quality this is an awesome deal people. If you don't believe how good they could sound, go hear them for your self at some store...but trust me you won't regret buying them right now either...cuz you'll decide to later ne way...lol. But seriously they are the best deal you will get...don't think a system for that price can shake the floorboards? Trust me it thumps!
  
  
• Excellent Choice For the Price
  By A2GL70AZ8MWXI3 on 2005-02-04
  It's tax refund time, and I have some money to blow on some things that I could really live without, but would like to have nonetheless. So, I purchased these speakers to replace a set of cheaper competitor's 4.1 speakers. At the same time, I purchased the Creative Audigy 2 ZS sound card to replace my Biostar motherboard's onboard sound. I wanted something that sounded good. After reading many, many reviews, I was stuck on a decision to buy Logitech's Z-5300e or the Z-2300. I decided to go with the 2.1 setup since I would mostly be listening to music. I don't play that many games, and I definitely don't watch movies on the computer, and rarely on TV, either.
  
  The speakers arrived a day before the sound card (ordered from two different stores), so I went ahead and gave them a test drive with the onboard sound card. The loudness and deeper bass was there, and the quality was a little better. I was about to regret the speaker purchase, but decided I'd wait until I got the Sound Blaster card.
  
  The card arrived. After installation, I played the demos which shipped with the card and some MP3's. I even slipped in a DVD movie. I was impressed with everything. I couldn't believe the difference in how the speakers sound with a good sound card. It's like being in a movie theater. The bass is easily tamed, but it can most definitely shake your floors with the right music and volume.
  
  Don't forget to try out the THX demo which Logitech ships with the speakers. You can install the demo or to save hard drive space, you go directly to the CD to play the files. Lots of other samples, but you have to look for them in Program Files or on the CD. Perhaps one of the many applications Logitech gives you lists these sample music files.
  
  Now, my only regret is should I have gotten the Z-5300e 5.1 speakers for a few dollars more, but probably not since my listening agenda will be music. The PC is in a small room (sunroom) with ceramic floors, so I think the Z-2300 set is more than sufficient. They can get very, very loud. Two more speakers in the rear (and a center) probably wouldn't matter much since this is a smaller room with not much sound absorbers. I remember the rear speakers with the old 4.1 set were barely noticeable, anyway. Maybe I'll reinstall them just to listen how they sound with SoundBlaster.
  
  I'll give these five stars because of the price and the quality I heard. However, the full quality would not have been there without the SoundBlaster, or another high quality sound card. Onboard sound controllers, those built into the motherboard, don't do these speakers any justice.
  
  
• The most complete 2.1 system. Period.
  By A2H3M6JI8F2OGR on 2005-03-02
  When you first open the box you realize that this is not your ordinary computer loudspeaker system. The subwoofer is heavy but compact while the satellites are small but stylish.
  The two satellites each consist of a 2.5 inch full range driver and are driven by the system's internal amplifier, providing 40 watts of power to each satellite.
  The ported subwoofer utilizes a high excursion 8 inch woofer which is powered by 120 watts of juice.
  The overall sound is smooth with very little coloration. The bass is punchy and deep. I'm using the Z-300's as my main speaker system and I'm impressed by the quality of the sound and the output levels. When set up correctly, it becomes difficult to localize the subwoofer; which is a good thing.
  The THX certification ensures that the system can play loudly with very little distortion. The Z-300's overall footprint makes it an ideal system for apartment dwellers. Maxing out the volume control will get you evicted in no time, however.
  The wired remote control allows you to adjust the bass level and overall sound level. It also contains a power switch and a headphone output.
  I have only two caveats: I wish that the satellites accepted regular speaker wires and that the subwoofer accepted different types of inputs, not just line level signals. Or maybe I'm just asking for too much.
  I highly recommend this system.
  
  
  
• Wonderful Speaker System
  By A2OFB34AOVJDY8 on 2004-10-26
  Very easy to install, sounds great and looks good. Surprised to get such a great item for such a small price.
  
  
• Great with a Sharp Aquos HDTV
  By AEJAT12EB4P9B on 2005-12-19
  All the reviews I read were from users with PC's, but this system will hook up to most TV's as well. We have 5.1 surround in another room for a different TV, but needed something to enrich the sound from our new Sharp Aquos LCD HDTV in the family room. The Aquos has only 2 X 10 watt side speakers. We really don't need full surround in this location or a receiver or a DVD since we are using a DVR set top box and can record movies in HD. So the Z-2300 is a very inexpensive terrific sounding solution.
  The Aquos itself has RCA outputs which easily connect to the Z-2300 via RCA male to male cables [cheap at any Radio Shack, etc.} through a "Y" connector Logitech supplies in the box. The Aquos has a simulated surround sound option which sounds very good with the TV's speakers, but nothing special. Once the Z-23000 is hooked up the sound is pumped through the two Sharp speakers plus the left and right Logitech speakers and the Logitech subwoofer. What a huge difference it makes! The Z-2300's 40 watt side speakers plus the 120 watt subwoofer sound every bit as good as the high priced 5.1 system I have in another room. The lack of a center speaker is not noticable since there are now four speakers facing us. The sub is fantastic. The only thing lacking are two rear speakers, but the sound without them is so realistic I hardly miss them. The only problem is that the way the Aquos is configured. In order to select the simlated surround sound option, the TV's remote can only control the TV's speakers. The only way to control the Z-2300's speakers is through their own wired remote. But that's a small price to pay for the tremendous difference the simulated surround sound makes through the Z-2300's speakers. It's sort of embarrasing not to have sound as good as the Z-2300 when watching HDTV.
  
  
• Good speakers but not balanced
  By A3QG29UXW7HJMH on 2006-09-25
  I have had the Logitechs for about 3 months now and have already recommended them to three of my coworkers [Circuit City]. I have discovered that the speakers are very nice, especially for the price, except for one specific factor.
  
  And that one factor is the reason these speakers get 4 stars instead of 5. They just are not all that balanced. If you are listening to music with low bass, you will be fine as long as you have the bass turned down on the speakers themselves. If you are listening to bass heavy tunes, it may be necessary to turn down the bass in the equalizer as well. The subwoofer is too powerful for the equipped satellites and often overpowers the mids and highs.
  
  Right now, I am listening to Panic! At the Disco and without a towel plugging the port on the subwoofer, the lyrics are rather muddled. With a towel, the bass hits far more crisply and is muted to the point that it sounds fairly balanced.
  
  Furthermore, to put this in perspective, I just want to comment that I do in fact have 2 10" Audiobahn subwoofers in the trunk of my car, so I am not someone who refuses to listen to bass. These speakers just need it turned a bit down.
  
  Of course, the bass needs to be turned down if you want balanced speakers. If you are buying this for gaming or really, really, really like your bass, they are perfect.
  
  
• The best speaker system I own
  By A3K6GH5N1LDKVF on 2008-02-23
  
  In this review: an in depth comparison of Klipsch Pro Media 2.1 THX, Logitech Z-2300 THX, Bose Soundock, Bose Companion 3's, Bose Companion 5's and Altec Lansing t-612
  
  Thank you for taking the time to read this. I'd like to offer a review somewhat different than what you've read before. It's a long one so if you're looking for something quick, you may want to stop here. Otherwise hopefully you'll enjoy the perspective. My thanks go out to those who let us know who you are and what you do in your review, and how you use the system, it really makes a difference. It's important to know the story behind why someone is buying something and what they are looking to do, otherwise you get mismatched needs and solutions. My story begins during the first month of 2008, when I got myself into a bit of a speaker craze while searching for a sound solution for every room of my house. Three years ago I put my life's music collection in digital format on iTunes to the tune of over 5000 songs with perhaps the widest array of music than anyone else I know: Jazz, Hip-hop, R&B, trip hop, electronica, techno, country, audio books, Tony Robbins, metal, rock, dub, enigma type stuff, lounge, new-aje, world music, caribbean, Latin and on the list goes. So, when I say I've tested these speakers over a wide variety of music, you can take my word for it.
  
  My demographic: Male, business owner (custom Italian leather journals, guest books and photo albums: see epica . com ) and hip-hop dancer choreographer, 30 years old, Southern California. Creative, very into pleasing the senses.
  
  After growing up with stereo systems that catered to more bass than clarity, my initial goal was to discover what would be the most clear, best, space filling rich sound I could in each room of the house while still being incredibly aesthetically pleasing and unobtrusive at the best price. I wanted to turn up the volume and be amazed at what I heard without any distortion and I wanted to be thrilled at the lowest volumes as well. I wanted to feel like I was there, to have a music experience every time I turned something on. The best price part went out the door rather quickly.
  
  So here's what I did: Apple sells a device called an Airport Express that among other things such as being a wireless router, also allows you to stream iTunes music to it wirelessly. All you have to do is plug in a stereo mini plug to one end and an audio source to another. Give it a name like living room and it appears in iTunes. you can have several of these devices all over the house. In the past I have always hooked up big stereos or shelf systems to it for sound but now in the age of tiny computer speakers and iPod doc systems, I've realized you can connect anything to it and have taken the experience to a whole new level. There are now 4 airport expresses in the house in different rooms along with an apple TV which also features this Airtunes feature in the living room, bedroom, second bedroom, kitchen and hallway... yes the hallway.
  
  After having spent hours in the Apple Store and Best Buy listening to different sound docks and speakers with my iPhone and collection of music, I just decided to purchase and used every single unit that caught my interest with the decision that those which didn't give me everything I was looking for, I'd just return. (The manufacturers must love me.) Because what can you really tell about a speaker or sound system in a 30,000 foot warehouse with sound and people all around you? Are you kidding? Nothing. You've really got to setup these systems in your environment.
  
  It's also important that you test your purchase in different places and positions all throughout your house. You won't believe the difference in sound from having say, a SounDock in your bathroom vs. a bedroom. Move the subwoofer around, adjust the bass on it, move the speakers, be creative. you'll surprise yourself.
  
  Finally, a word about Bose. Of all the sound companies that I read reviews for, and I read about 400 before making a purchase, I have never seen such a contrasting fan base. You've got people who detest anything Bose and people who would buy it without listening to anything else. For the record I am neither of these people. I have owned Bose products in the past and enjoyed them as I have with other companies but was not biased towards or against them prior to purchase.
  
  The Systems:
  
  The Klipsch Prop-Media 2.1 speakers were my purchase. I was attracted to what I knew about the Brand, the subwoofer control on the actual satellite speaker and the $150 price point. I got them home and aesthetically I was just never really attracted to the speaker. My place has a very Asian-Zen and modern feel and these just kind of stood out in the wrong way wherever I placed them. But we're talking about sound so I looked past that. It's got a pretty large subwoofer, and the satellites where small enough to go anywhere. Klipsch does a great job with their horn tweeters and it really let's the highs soar. I tried them in my home office and bedroom for a week before I returned them. Why?
  I loved that they were THX, which means there was no hissing whatsoever and they were dead quiet when music was shut off. I was also pleased and could not believe the power. These speakers have so much gain and get so loud, that I don't think full volume would even be tolerable to the human ear. But that was the thing. They seemed to distort at the higher volumes I tend to enjoy and didn't seem to fill a room at low volumes. The subwoofer is recommended to be set at 8 o'clock (very low) and if you adjust that any higher the bass is quite over powering. The sound coming from the Klipsch speakers was not a bad or poor sound, it was great, it was ridiculously powerful but it just wasn't the best sound I had heard for music. They ultimately went back to the store, and I give them a 4 star rating, but I'd be open to trying them in again in a different setting. I think I found them to be to cumbersome as well.
  
  To their credit, RoomGroove wireless for $300, is their latest version of what I am doing with the airport express where you can link multiple room grooves up and they'll wireless send sound to each other. Points to them for finally getting something like this on the market.
  
  Logitech Z-2300 THX: WOW. I was a little biased at first because I thought, Logitech? Really? The people who shine at making wireless mice and keyboards? How can they compare to these other big sound companies? What can they possibly bring to the table? Five stars no question. Here I had nothing to go on other than the $150 price point. I brought them home and unpacked. Ok, the subwoofer with this speaker set is not for the faint of heart. It is absolutely enormous and well suited for a larger office or larger room. It's got two attractive enough (without the grills) aluminum speakers, and a similar wired remote to the Bose only this has the subwoofer control on it (fortunately) and a headphone jack. (no external auxiliary mini plug)
  
  Where to begin. This system has started off in and remains to this day in my office. At low volumes it is rich, deep, clear, and not overpowering in any respect. The music soars no matter what you're listening to. It's an absolute pleasure to sit before these speakers and I should start leaving them playing some sort of music more often because it really really sounds tremendous. And that's only the beginning.
  
  Once the staff goes home and I can crank these up, every wall in the building shakes. The other bathrooms sound as though there is an earthquake and we should evacuate the building. I know it sounds like I'm a big bass person but this is the least of my desires. The clarity, much like the companion 5's just keeps getting richer and richer as you turn the volume up. Artist's vocals scream out at you and this system is the loudest of any I have heard. Interestingly it's also the most tolerable at high volume that I have heard as well.
  
  I love the fact that it's got RCA jacks for speaker cables which allow you to easily extend them if you want them more than a few inches apart or want to place the subwoofer farther away than right at your feet. I love the power and clarity of these speakers, I love that the remote has the bass on the module and you don't have to adjust it behind the subwoofer. Five golden stars are easily awarded. Go Logitech.
  
  Altec Lansing T-612 and Bose SounDock Portable:
  Having tested the Harmon Kardon Sound Sticks, JBL On Stage, Klipsch iGroove, the Zeppelin monster, iHome, logitech pure fi and many others, these are the two I wound up bringing home.
  
  Technology is great. We give birth to new ideas which create new ways we listen to music like iPods and iTunes, and that stimulates thought to a new level and we create devices made especially just for these things like the wide array of docking stations, something we had no need for in the past, and then we give birth to new ideas again and say wouldn't it be great to have our music collection on our phone and eliminate devices, and that get's created, and one company wins out over all the others and soon that creates a new problem: cell phone interference and shielding and that gives birth to the first of a new line of products: the iPhone safe Altec T-612. The first docking station to not be affected by sound interference from cell phones.
  
  It worked well. I give it 5 stars for innovation, sound, it's own bass and treble controls on the unit that can be controlled by the remote control, size and a pretty unique look. (Which I am personally not attracted to) This purchase lasted 24 hours before it was returned. It was going to be used as a hallway speaker and so probably would not get much use out of the iPod Dock. It goes for $200 which seems reasonable. Ultimately though it did not have the fullness and richness, or spaciousness that the Bose did, and the bass cracked on several songs. This is perfect for a teen, or college person or someone who just listens to music here and threre at reasonable volumes in the kitchen or around the house.
  
  Bose SounDock Portable. FOUR HUNDRED DOLLARS, and no sale or special pricing. Certainly you have to have a unique perspective on money to purchase one of these for yourself. One now resides in my bedroom and another in the hallway so certainly I'll share mine. Are there alternatives on the market that you will be happy with? Absolutely. $400 is a lot of money to spend on a device like this. Or is it? I sell a $10,000 journal on the Epica website, I have seen $12,000 pens, $400,000 automobiles, $200 for torn up jeans (and that's just a normal brand), $12 to see a movie, $50 for a tank of gas, $4000 for a high end washer and dryer... look at the world we live in. Certainly dollar for dollar you are not paying for the product itself or the metal, cotton or components, EVER, but the value it brings to you. The features and luxuries and benefits it brings. The feeling. And that always has a price.
  
  How many times have you shopped for the best deal on something, bought it, and then later wished you had purchased the better version, or gotten the special optional features, or wish you had just splurged after the fact. How many times have you not been able to do it like when you purchase a car? I have just gotten myself used to two things. One: happiness comes from your thoughts and your ability to keep your mind and focus on things that please you, not from objects you buy, and two, the fact that if contrast has caused me to give birth to a desire for wanting something, and I think in the obtaining of it I will be more pleased in owning it than the less expensive version, I am going to buy the one that brings me the most pleasure and gives me personally, the best feeling.
  
  Need, purpose, design, size and functionality all coalesced with the SounDock and so I spent 200 more dollars after I returned the Lansing for something that would be kept in my hallway which pointed into the bathroom. But it was more discreet, it had a revolving iPod dock that I could hide from view when not using it, a remote control that let me change my playlists (that most remotes do not do), a look that was much more attractive and streamline, and a sound that was just richer and fuller.
  
  And while it pains me immensely to know that I took the two-hundred heart pounding watts of Klipsch out of my bedroom, the amazing, clear, spacious and dynamic sound of the Bose Companion 3s out of my bedroom and now have replaced those with another SounDock, portable, it certainly does create magic in the bedroom. Aside from two lamps, it is the ONLY other wire in the room. It's small, and doubles as my alarm clock. I LOVE the fact that I can wake up to any song or play list in the world. using an iPod (I am very put off by Apple's decision to not have a snooze button on iPod alarm, while it is on the iPhone, however on the iPhone you can only wake up to a ringtone! Silly) I love how it fills a room and how if you're not in the room you hear it loud and clear and would have no idea something so small is producing all that sound.
  
  I have really come to appreciate Bose. They create the best sound they can possibly engineer by pouring 100% of their profits back into research and deliver the best product they can that generally takes years to release. They think their sound sounds best flat, with no adjustment. That's what the EQ is for on the iPod or iTunes or whatever source you're using. They realize you shouldn't have to tweak all the treble and bass if the sound is just amazing to begin with. It's all about the feeling you get when you listen to it. The SounDock does not sound as good as a system like the Companion 3's or any other subwoofer driven device but you have to look at it's purpose and size.
  
  SounDock gets five stars for listening to customer requests and making their successful SounDock portable even better by adding the aux in port so I can hear music wirelessly, a great remote with lots of functionality, discreet touch volume buttons, a hideaway revolving dock door to make it look even cleaner than it already does, a great room filling sound, a battery that lasts, a slimmer design, a power cord that wraps around the transformer and an overall sound that makes you feel very good when listening to it. Try placing one of these things in your kitchen, hall, bathroom, closet or smaller room and listen to the rumble and sound. Amazing.
  
  Bose Companion 3's: When I first set these up in my office I was absolutely amazed by the quality and quantity of sound coming out of these speakers. They are gorgeous, discrete and fit the bill for big sound. I was impressed by the fact that I could turn them up to full volume, with any kind of music and here no distortion of any kind. That one fact is so rare, that made them a winner for me right there. When listening to Diana Krall, I felt as though her lips where inches from my ear as she sang only to me. These speakers really sing out.
  For some reason when I tried watching movies on them, the volume decreased significantly and so even at full blast the sound was not that loud. Over time these speakers have moved from office to bedroom to ultimately being returned to the store but not because I was dissatisfied. I kept these things in my closet for 3 weeks because I didn't want to return them, I wanted to find a use for them or somewhere to enjoy them. They went back because I didn't want 5 cords in my bedroom and a subwoofer at the foot of my bed.
  
  Like the companion 5's, I like the puck volume control (would be nice if it was wireless, wouldn't it? Especially if everything else on your desk is). It's very sensitive and feels good to touch. One gentle tap and sound is muted, another and it comes back on. It's also nice to be able to increase or decrease the bass that pours out of these units on the back of the subwoofer by virtually a full 360 degrees. I am also pleased with the RCA jacks used to connect each speaker. Initially I was put off and wondered why they did it but when I realized how EFFORTLESS (one of my favorite words) it was to extend the speaker cable, i.e. just plug in another video cable, I was thrilled. Five stars to the Companion 3s
  
  Bose Companion 5's: It's funny how when you don't know what you're missing, you don't miss it. I tell people that in my business that when you buy this $185 journal and you haven't seen the $265 version, you think you're in heaven. It's perfection. Then you see the top of the line and you just can't imagine it gets any better. The Companion 5's are nearly triple the size of the Companion 3's (Yet still rather small and attractive), look absolutely gorgeous next to my iMac, have the same puck with mute, headphones, volume up and down and auxiliary input just like the Companion 3's (which will play something at simultaneously as what you have going on your computer).
  
  BUT there are two major differences in these speakers vs anything else I have heard, ever. One is it connects to your USB port, not your stereo mini plug in port which requires 2 minutes of configuring, and two, the sound that comes out of these speakers is the most delicious, exquisite, full, wide, spacious, rich, detailed sound I have EVER heard come out of speakers in this class. Anyone I have shared them with leaves with their jaw on the floor. As I turn up the volume we just stare at the computer and say WOW. It just sucks you in. Where before I did not enjoy spending time in front of the computer for very long, I can literally spend hours in front of this one or in the room where the Companion 5's are playing. The sound is that unbelievable. The cables as of this writing are proprietary and cannot be extended, however for the `surround effect' it's not recommended that you extend them anyway.
  
  I enjoy barely audible volume levels in the morning but come nighttime, I love to crank up the sound and speakers can take it at a volume so loud you can only take it for a short period. It's as though with each increment you raise the volume, you experience a new dimension to sound. The Bose Companion 5's for this purpose get 5 stars, 10 if I could, for looks, size and for a sound like no other.
  
  Finally, don't be led astray by the Bose advertising. These speakers are marketed towards people who like to watch movies in front of their computer, something that, after spending all day in front of a computer, is the last thing I want to do. I've tried it and yes it's a great experience but if you never watch a video clip with these speakers it will still be the best investment you make for music and any other sound that comes out of them. The Bose experts will also tell you that these speakers should not be more than 24 inches apart because they are specifically engineered for you to sit right in front of them. When I heard that I also thought the sound quality would decrease if I stepped away, or perhaps it wouldn't fill a room the way I want. Not the case. Inches away or across the room, I cannot say enough about this virtual surround sound speaker.
  
  So hopefully that gives you a little more insight into what these speakers can do for you, how they can be used, what I was looking for in particular and what the actual experience was. If you made it this far, your a trooper. I hope you found the review useful and if you wanted to contact me with questions we actually sell on the Amazon site. Just do a search for Epica journal and you can write in. Thanks! - Written over three hours near Los Angeles in the company of Bose Companion 5's.
  
  
• Impressive sound for the price
  By AW1JPYRASZ4J1 on 2005-02-04
  I was amazed when I got these for $100 and hooked them up. I wasn't expecting the sound I got-especially bass from the sub. Actually, the bass is kind of boomy and not as tight as I would like, but it is impressive nonetheless for the price. Obviously, the system is not for audiophiles but if you are looking for big bass from an inexpensive system, I don't think you will disappointed. What is even more amazing is I hooked them up to a very cheap Panasonic boombox for the heck of it and got incredible sound. I was stunned at what I could hear. It didn't seem to matter what I threw at them - from Stevie Ray Vaughn to Sting to Pat Matheny and Miles Davis - it all sounded better than I expected from such a system. One word of caution - you need to love bass to enjoy these things. Delicate-it ain't. If you are looking for a speaker system for your Samuel Barber collection, these won't do the trick. But if you want a little concussion that will make your walls expand and knock a few pictures on the floor, give these a shot.
  
  
• Klipsch Pro Media sound better
  By A227TR56BWJN1Z on 2005-08-28
  I recently purchased these speakers through Amazon and while I think at $79 they are a great deal, for a little more money you can get the Klipsch Pro Media 2.1 system which sounds quite a bit better (I have both). People that have mentioned the Z-2300's sounding tinny are right on the money. Even with an Audigy 2 sound card and EQ tuning, the Logitechs just don't sound as rich and accurate as the Klipsch speakers. However if you can't afford the extra $50 dollars or so for the Pro Media 2.1's, the Z-2300's will serve you well....the Logitechs aren't bad speakers by any means, they are just ok.
  
  
• Great bang for your buck!
  By A1UINM3Q2XIHF6 on 2005-10-06
  While this is not an audiophile's dream, for $80, it's not supposed to be. It is an awesome system that absolutely pounds the lows and gives crisp highs. Those that complain about lacking mids need only to adjust their equalizers. Great system!
  
  
• Best 2.1 system for the computer.
  By A36ZYBI17FZE20 on 2006-08-05
  I've had these set of speakers for almost a year now. I've used them in both my dorm and house. Of all the computer speakers I've heard thus far, this set has the best subwoofer. The bass is actually crisper than my friend's Logitech Z-5500's. The bass is also stronger (better too) than other friend's Klipsch 4.1 system. Like many people have said before, the mids are not as apparent as other high-end systems. However, this has less to do with the speakers and more to do with the powerful sub. There are two really simple solutions for this (small) problem, turn down the bass on the controller or adjust the equalizer. High quality phase plugs in a full-ranged driver sounds better than lower quality drivers and tweeters. They sound great on my laptop with on-board sound and even better on my Audigy 2 ZS. I think the overall sound of these speakers are better than Klipsch 2.1's. The only major gripe I have with this set is the controller wiring which is short and cannot be extended. Best 2.1's for the price or otherwise.
  
  
• Good but not Great
  By AJFKRL9SW6KQR on 2006-09-27
  I received the speakers earlier today. I'm listening to them now. The bad news is that the cymbals don't sizzle. I read the other reviews about missing mid range. The mid range is there. Just not much presence on the high end. No bells. You won't hear any frets on the strings. On the other hand... these speakers could fill a stadium with music. The bass is effortless... and loud. You will spend more time turning down the volume than turning it up.
  
  
• Not worth it
  By AIJUL59PPODNW on 2007-01-23
  I spent hours and hours researching 2.1 systems on the market and was eventually convinced by Cnet's extremely high rating on this pair of speakers. I read some negative comments that it lacked midrange, but didn't think much about it....that is, until I had it sitting on my desk. The midrange problem was a serious issue. Really. There was heavy bass, but the midrange was so murky that it felt like as if my speakers were in the next room. Unless you are going to use this only for rock and gaming, I highly recommend you get Klipsch or Soundsticks II.
  
  
• Great speakers for the price
  By A1T1YSCDW0PD25 on 2004-12-03
  I'm very happy with the sound quality out of these relatively inexensive THX certified speakers. Excellent bass, mids, treble. The design is very nice as well. Highly recommended.
  
  Tip: If you are going to use speakers of this quality, be sure to have a good sound card that can output a clean and clear signal. I noticed an improvement when I went from my motherboard's onboard sound to a Turtle Beach Santa Cruz sound card. The sound was clearer with better (deeper) bass and treble.
  
  

• Logitech Cordless MX Duo 967300-0403
• Sennheiser PX 100 Collapsible Headphones
• Creative Labs Sound Blaster Audigy 2 Sound Card
• Creative Labs Sound Blaster Extigy Sound Card
• Creative Labs Sound Blaster Live! 5.1 Sound Card (70SB006003007)

• RCA Extension Cord 10 ft.
• Logitech NEW G5 Laser Mouse
• Belkin 12-Outlet Home/Office Surge Protector with Phone/Ethernet/Coaxial Protection and Extended Cord
• Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi XtremeGamer Sound Card (70SB073A00000)
• Logitech Cordless Desktop MX3200 Laser