Affordable non-hideous speakers

[JTToft]

I've recently started using my MBP in clamshell mode with an external display, and the MBP's internal speakers aren't really optimal for that, so I'm looking for a pair of fairly cheap but decent external speakers. Sound bar and pill type speakers are welcome, too.

Must not be a 2.1 configuration. The smaller the better. Preferably $30-$50 range, and certainly not above $60. Extra points for USB input rather than 3.5 mm, but that's not a requirement.

I'm not very demanding when it comes to sound quality, but it must be tolerable. They're just for casual usage, and I won't be using them very much for music - I have headphones and a proper stereo for that.

Suggestions welcome!

 

[mauka]

Dell USB Computer Soundbar AC511

Dell USB Computer Soundbar AC511

I tested one on my Mac Mini at home, audio and power are both USB and volume controls on keyboard work very well. Clips on to many newer Dell monitors or could be attached with Velcro of double sided tape.

I went with something higher priced, but this was a contender.

 

[JTToft]

Dell USB Computer Soundbar AC511

I tested one on my Mac Mini at home, audio and power are both USB and volume controls on keyboard work very well. Clips on to many newer Dell monitors or could be attached with Velcro of double sided tape.

- Thanks. I actually had one of those for a few days (it's compatible with my U2515H monitor), but had to return it due to excessive noise both on its own speaker and via its headphone jack. Quite annoying.
It had pretty good sound quality and was easy to use, so it's too bad.

 

[dyt1983]

Have you looked at the JBL Pebbles? They're fairly decent sounding, the look is going to be subjective, and they're USB. They're also not exactly small, so the size vs. sound tradeoff point is something only you can decide.

 

[JTToft]

Have you looked at the JBL Pebbles?

- I hadn't, no. But I certainly have now. They seem pretty good actually and get good reviews, too.
While not exactly small, as you mentioned, they are smaller than the Logitech Z200 I've been eyeing, so that's nice.

At $58 in my market they are a bit on the pricey side for what I had in mind, but it's definitely worth considering. Thanks.

 

[marioman38]

I'll recommend the pebbles as well. Picked up a pair a few weeks ago to hook up to my Powemac G5 for editing videos from 8mm to DVDs. They're not the best speakers ever, but for the price they are pretty darn good. I have black. But the silver color is currently $35 on Amazon.

 

[westrock2000]

Picture of JBL Pebbles