[Abovetheair]

I'm looking to upgrade my current speaker setup (Altec Lansing ADA305's) that the right speaker has a short in it. So I've been looking to upgrade my setup, I am looking to spend under $300.
 
Speakers I've looked at:
 

[size=large] [size=small]POLK AUDIO TSi 200[/size][/size]

Swan D1080 08's
 
I think if I was to get the Polk's (Which look great IMO) I think I would need a reciever. How would I use a reciever with my computer? I'm a complete noob when it comes to wiring.
 
Also if you guys could suggest some other speakers that have a wood not plastic cabient that would be great.

 

[ccklone]

Hey Now,
 
I just upgraded my computer speakers (HK Soundsticks) to the AudioEngine A2s. Night and day since I am running a DAC between the iMac and A2s. Love the sound, good soundstage and separation, they are a very good near field speaker. There is pair for sale in the forum right now for 115 bucks + shipping. It looks like a good deal.
 
http://www.head-fi.org/forum/thread/499389/wts-audioengine-2-speakers
 
With the money you save, you can get an inexpensive DAC

 
--
Finest kind,
Chris

 

[Operandi]

A MTM configured speaker (mid, tweeter, mid) won't really do much for you nearfield in a computer enviroment so I would sugest a smaller MT (mid, tweeter) like the Tsi 100 vs. the Tsi 200. 
 
I do have my doubts about how good the Tsi series really is.  If you could make the jump to the RTi A1 that would be a much, much better speaker.
http://www.polkaudio.com/homeaudio/rtia/index.php?s=rtia1
 
Or if you can go a bit further this Dayton RS kit would be a truely high-end setup, at least on par with the Polk LSi series.
http://www.parts-express.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?Partnumber=302-967#windowcontent
 
As far as power goes a reciever would work but that includes a bunch crap you don't need (radio tunner, multiple inputs, ect.).  What you want is an intergrated amp (power amp, and preamp in one)
 
NAD and, Cambridge Audio make some nice mid range gear and you can probably find a good deal on a used amp if you look around. 
 
Another option might be the nuForce Icon, I have friend using one with his KEF iQ3s.
http://www.amazon.com/NuForce-Icon-Integrated-Desktop-Amplifier/dp/B0016EPS7E/ref=sr_1_45?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1278132601&sr=1-45
 
12 watts might not sound like enough but remember you'll be listening nearfield so you don't have fill a large room with sound.  It also doubles and pretty decent DAC and headphone amp which is a nice bonus.

 

[ford2]

 
 
Go for a full range speaker such as these::http://www.stereomojo.com/JohnBlueJB3Speakerreview/JohnBlueJB3Speakerreview.htm

 

[Kawai_man]

i have some whiplash Ions which I use as a nearfield computer speakers, they are just incredible and have great bass better than some paradigm atoms I had before.
 
http://www.cryo-parts.com/whiplash_audio_speakers.html

 

[Operandi]

Full range drivers at the prices most are willing to deal have too many compromises in my opinion.  And given the simplicity of 99% of the full range designs (no corssover) you might as well higher a cabinet maker and build you own, it would still be cheaper.

 

[cyberspyder]

Get some off of Audiogon or other speaker sites.

 

[noris83]

I second the Audioengine + cheap DAC option.