[RichardT]

I've come across numerous speakers that have great ratings, such as the M-Audio Studiophile AV 40, Klipsch ProMedia 2.1, Harman Kardon Soundsticks III 2.1, and Creative GigaWorks T40 Series II 2.0 to name a few, but I just can't single one out. For overall sound quality, what would be my best choice?

 

[PurpleAngel]

  I've come across numerous speakers that have great ratings, such as the M-Audio Studiophile AV 40, Klipsch ProMedia 2.1, Harman Kardon Soundsticks III 2.1, and Creative GigaWorks T40 Series II 2.0 to name a few, but I just can't single one out. For overall sound quality, what would be my best choice?

 
You've listed both 2.0 and 2.1 setups, so I guess your 50/50 on getting a sub-woofer?
 
Sometimes Bestbuy has the Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 on sale for $99.
You should be able to find a used ProMedia 2.1 for under $99, on eBay.

 

[DrFunk001]

I was in the same predicament last year and I ended up getting a used pair of audioengine a2 off ebay. Could not be happier. If you want new, I would go with the Klipsh, they were my second choice.

 

[dizzyorange]

If you like the thump of a subwoofer, you can't go wrong with Klipsch ProMedia 2.1s.  One of the all time classics.
 
An alternative is the Klipsch iFi - better satellites and better subwoofer than the ProMedia's, but a complete commercial failure.  And so they sell for <$100 now despite having an MRSP of $400.  But they sound terrific, and boot a neat little remote too.
 
A used pair of Audioengine A2s or even A2+s will be great for a 2.0 set up.