hey guys, I'm lookin to ditch these ancient vaio speakers I've been using for waaay too long... any recommendations? I want something for sub 150 USD. Also if possible for this price, I would like to be able to use it for other audio as well not just PC... If I can plug in like my dvd player, tv, etc, that would be awesome! I really want the logitech Z-5500... I saw it on sale at microcenter for 139.99 a while back, but unfortunately it's up to 180+ now... what do you guys think of those? does the bass sound good? (I like deep rumbling hip hop style bass!) is it worth the 200 dollars? Other recommendations would be great as well. Thanks
I'm using the Z5400s and can recommend them. Very good quality hardware, easy to set up, loads of cable with the speakers. Most importantly though the souns is great, have heavy bass and high treble is very clear. Volume/clarity is perfect until you get right near the top of the volume level. I use mine mainly for gaming, but also use them for music play back, and both are very good. Adjusting the audio level to each speaker is easy through the control panel in windows. Only thing to consider though is what sound card you have, if its a crappy stock one, chances are you'll never get very good playback results. maybe worth considering looking at your sound card before the speakers (I use an XFI Xtreme Music)which is far better than any on board sound.
I have the Gigabyte EX38-DS4 and was planning to use onboard sound for a month or so and then buying a sound card. unfortunately I cannot find the Z-5400's... on newegg or otherwise. I was thinking maybe the x-540's since they're only like 60 dollars and have excellent reviews for the price... I just wish tiger direct would put the z5500's on sale again!!!
I've been using the Z-5300's for a couple years now, they work very nicely, really good bass, good highs and pretty good clairty for a pc speaker. I sure the Z-5500's will keep you more than happy. I'm not sure where you live but here's alink for the Z-5300's, just incase your interested in them. http://www.ncixus.com/products/13448/970102-1403/Logitech/ Good luck.
I've used the Logitech Z-5500s for a couple of years and I've been extremely impressed. The bass will literally shake the house. I used it in my basement when working out and items would vibrate upstairs. I can't imagine turning the volume completely up because it's insanely loud, but still produces accurate sounds. After the volume gets to 100%, you keep turning the nob and it starts counting up as Boost 1 - Boost 10. I'll have to dig up my receipt, but I'm pretty sure I bought mine from Buy.com because it offered free shipping. I just checked and they're still offering free shipping plus a $40 mail-in rebate. http://www.buy.com/prod/logitech-z-5500-digital-pc-multimedia-home-theater-speaker-system/q/loc/111/10380059.html On a side note, I've always had this system connected to an Audigy Platinum sound card, thus my experience my differ from others depending on the sound card they're using.
I also use a Audigy Platinum sound card, there is a world of diffrence between on board audio and a good aftermarket sound card. Guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.
sweet thx everyone for the links and suggestions. I just purchased the z-5500 that I was planning on buying originally, from buy.com Guess it's not the 139.99 that I saw em for but meh, whatever. For those of you who said you have this set... Can you hook it up to other things besides your PC? I would like to have my tv and dvd player hooked up to it as well... if possible. Otherwise, maybe I'll cancel this and buy a home theater system that I can hook up my computer and everything to? They're just so much more expensive...
I've only used my speakers with my computer, but here are the available source inputs. Source Inputs: *Digital optical for DVD or CD players, PlayStation®2, Xbox®** *Digital coaxial for DVD or CD players or PC sound cards (requires coaxial cable, sold separately) *6 channel direct (3 stereo-mini connectors) for 2, 4, or 6 channel PC sound cards OR *6 channel direct (3 stereo-mini connectors) for 3 stereo analog mini audio sources, like CD and DVD players, Playstation 2, Xbox, or 2 channel PC sound cards (somedevices may require stereo mini to dual RCA adapter, sold separately) *Analog stereo-mini (on side panel of control center) for portable CD, MP3,or MiniDisc® players From what I've read, there are a lot of people that have purchased this system for their entertainment centers as opposed to a computer system. I suppose part of it will depend on what components you're connecting it to.
thanks for the details. I think I will get the Z-5500's then because my TV and DVD player both have audio out via rca cables. I'll need to buy adapters but it's still cheaper then buying a decent home theater system, and from what i've read (and you guys) these Speakers are awesome.
@redzoneOS NP, we are all here to help eachother. You will be very happy with your purchase. Happy Listening.