Bookshelf speaker recommendation

[ch1nkster]

Hi guys I'm looking for a new pair of bookshelf speakers for my computer and I'm deciding between either the Swans M-200 or the AV123 x-ls speakers. I really want to get the Swans since they have the internal amp but several recent reviews on Newegg seem to point out quality issues with the speakers after a few weeks of use (seems to be the internal amp crapping out). Then there are the x-ls speakers from AV123. From my basic research these seem to be a step up from the swans but then again they require an amp. One amp I see mentioned a lot is the T-amp as seen on the thinkgeek website. Now the total price for the x-ls speakers is $226 shipped plus the $40 for the T-amp (not to mention costs for extra cables to connect that to my comp). Or I can spend around $200 shipped for the Swans (and also get an AV-710 soundcard too for an extra $30). If I spend more for the x-ls' would I get much better sound for the price? If I get the swans are build quality and the integrity of the internal amp issues?

 

[terrymx]

Sorry I can't tell you about the swans m200. I have used the X-LS with T-amp.

My guess is it is possible that the X-LS can sound better if in the future you're going to get a better amp, since from what I know the Swans is generally more of a "nearfield" speaker comparing to the X-LS. Although because it has 87db for sensitivity, you will get it sounding much better with something that delivers more wattage. I reccomend the Trends T-10 tamp, athough it also deliver 5w/channel@8ohms (clean power), the Trends does drive the speakers a little better and sound a world better than the Sonic T-amp (and some other more expensive amps). That will set you back another $110.

As for the swans, I bought the $110 M10 2.1 set up. I'm hoping to see if it sound any good.

All this will be down to how much you'll like the sound of each speakers though.

 

[Sarchi]

I'm using an old pair of B&W 201's with the T amp on my desktop. The 201's are 90dB and 4 Ohms, and the amp can drive them "ok", more than enough for a desktop (listening in nearfield) but still not with authority. If you go for the x-ls, I'd suggest looking for an older Rotel or NAD amp, 20 or 30 wpc. Craigslist is your friend.