[ChickenGod]

Hey everyone! I haven't posted for a while haha..

Well, I am looking for new speakers for my computer since my old one died.

I've been eyeing the Logitech Z-2300's, Swan M10's, M-Audio AV40's, and the HK Soundsticks II.

I really don't know what to choose. I read a lot of good reviews for the Z-2300's and the Soundsticks, but I only trust reviews from head-fi .

I listen to a lot of alternative rock and hip-hop so they need to have pretty good bass.

EDIT: Good bass as in not too bassy but still have a good thump...ha.

Thanks for reading.

-ChickenGod

 

[Alai]

Swan D1080 and buy a sub later.

 

[ChickenGod]

What sub would you recommend?

 

[blessingx]

Forget the *sticks. Even though a little light on bass (and no sub), the best $150 you're going to spend may be the M-Audio BX5a (non-deluxe) from B&H. Get the old model before it's gone (current is $300). Can add a sub later. Not sure how it stands up to the Swans though. Depending on what you mean by "good bass" any quality monitor could be a problem though.

 

[Uncle Erik]

They're not self-powered and don't come with a sub, but I got a pair of PSB Alpha B1 bookshelves for $169. Search for them at Audiogon and you'll find the dealer. They usually cost $289, so this is a steal. The dealer is good (I drove down there) and check the Stereophile review of the Alpha B1.

 

[milkweg]

I think he wants an all-in-one package now so for $150.00 or less I would go with Klipsch ProMedia 2.1. Bass is a bit bloated but from what I have read not as bad as Logitech subs.

 

[pwrusr]

Quote:

Originally Posted by milkweg /img/forum/go_quote.gif I think he wants an all-in-one package now so for $150.00 or less I would go with Klipsch ProMedia 2.1. Bass is a bit bloated but from what I have read not as bad as Logitech subs.

I'd have to agree with you on that, however I've seen lots of issues with the volume knob developing static issues after a while of use.

But for 2.1 under $150 you really can't do much better then the Klipsch 2.1's.

I would add if you're willing to splurge on spending check out blue sky's eXo speakers. they are *normally* $349 at guitar center, but I got my set for $249 at guitar center on July 4th weekend sale

You should be able to buy them online for the same or less if you look around a bit. The blue sky's blow many other systems I've heard away for accuracy and clarity.

 

[dwong]

What do you plan on doing with these speakers? If you have the desk real estate I'd go with the Swans M10s. I just bought a pair recently and would highly recommend them. I haven't heard the Klipsch 2.1's but the Swans are sexier, cheaper, and have a very rich warm sound for its price. Lacks a bit of range on the lower end bass, but it's got a punchy kick.

I've heard the Z2300's and I'd take my Swans over them unless you really need the booming sub.

 

[ph0rk]

The z2300 sub must be designed fill a huge room - stuffing the port reduces some of the low bass response and makes the sub fade into the background more.

It doesn't help the 2.5" sats with their lower midrange deficiency though.

 

[milkweg]

Quote:

Originally Posted by pwrusr /img/forum/go_quote.gif I'd have to agree with you on that, however I've seen lots of issues with the volume knob developing static issues after a while of use.

Easily fixed with tuner cleaner from RadioShack. Even my EMU 0404 USB developed static on the volume knob only after one year so cleaned it with the tuner cleaner to fix it. This is a common issue with computer gear because they cheap out on the materials used so the metals tends to corrode more easily from oxygen.

I have Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 but my favorite computer speaker setup is Energy RC-Mini and Energy 8" sub along with an old Audiolab 8000A integrated amp but that setup costs a lot more than $150.0. Energy RC-1 mini is perfect size for computer use and are very good little speakers with very detailed high end. I have the piano black finish so they look very sharp too.

 

[scaz]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Uncle Erik /img/forum/go_quote.gif They're not self-powered and don't come with a sub, but I got a pair of PSB Alpha B1 bookshelves for $169. Search for them at Audiogon and you'll find the dealer. They usually cost $289, so this is a steal. The dealer is good (I drove down there) and check the Stereophile review of the Alpha B1.

I have to agree with erik

 

[ChickenGod]

So now I have to decide between the swans and the klipsch... I want an all in one. They'll be mostly for music though.

 

[dwong]

I guess it really depends on what type of music you'll be listening to. The Swans have a beautiful midrange and have great clarity and FWIR beats the Klispch 2.1's in both of these departments. Jazz, classical, blues, and acoustic music sounds amazing, to the point where I'd rather use them over my Denon ah-d2000's on lossy tracks

The midrange really brings out something in female vocals too. I listen to a wide range of music, and it handles the modern rock stuff I listen to decently ie: The Strokes, Interpol, enough for me to be satisfied at least. Rap and generally anything boomy won't rattle your windows, but it's something you'll have to sacrifice if you go with the Swans. Movie sound quality/clarity is great too, I've watched Casino Royale a few days ago on them and voices were crystal clear, with surprisingly sufficient boom too in the action scenes.

I was in your position not too long ago and I wish I had a set of Klipch's to compare it to. IMO SQ is great on the Swans, but lacking in the lower end bass. Overall, I'm very happy with my Swans but I think you'll be satisfied with whichever speakers you choose.

 

[ChickenGod]

I listen to classical rock. The Beatles, Pink Floyd, John Lennon...

However, I still have a decent amount of hip-hop/rap songs.

I heard they were better if the subwoofer were on the desk. Should I put them on my desk?

I'm really leaning for the Swans but I really do like my bass... gr

 

[dwong]

I've put them on my desk, I've read mixed things on whether it really matters or not, but I just keep it there so my clumsy foot won't puncture the sub drivers, plus the volume knob is on them - making me think that they were designed to be on the desk.

Don't get me wrong, the bass is still enjoyable to listen to but it's the only weakness I've found in the speakers. It's not bad, just didn't wow me like the high/mid range did. Mid/upper base is still handled pretty well.