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Looking for good quality computer speakers

Sdahe

Sdahe

macrumors 68000
Original poster
Hello,

I just finish my new office at home and I'm looking for a great set of speakers for my iMac. I work all day in my office and really enjoy having a very nice sound when listening to my music. What would you recommend?
 
This website has many reviews - http://www.audiostream.com/category/desktop-component-reviews. The Audioengine line has been praised elsewhere, too.
 
Sdahe said:
Those Audioengine are too big.. I'm looking for something smaller like the Bose Companion model but I don't want to buy Bose... I think they are overpriced
Click to expand...

You probably only saw the Audioengine A5. The A2 are alot smaller. I have a set of A2s (white ones) along with their 8 inch sub and its an amazing set up. I highly recommend it.

I used to have the Klipsch pro media 2.1 but I had the older version. The older pro media 2.1 were way better in quality and sound than the newest batch that has been released the last few years. My new Audioengine set up sounds a lot cleaner than my Klipsch ever did.
 
What I like about the Bose Companion 20 is how compact they are but I think its a lot of money... I think I'll try those Audioengine A2.
 
Are the Bose Companion 20 that good?.... They go for $249 vs the Audioengine A2 ($199)
 
Depends how much you want to spend you could spend up to £20,000

The best brands around for speakers are B&O & Bose

I have a set of B&O speakers they cost me a lot of money but its money well spent because the sound amazing when you have them on and you don't need them on that loud either.
 
pommie82 said:
The best brands around for speakers are B&O & Bose
Click to expand...

LOL. You could hardly be more wrong.

OP, I definitely recommend something with a subwoofer, especially if you're going to be listening to anything more than classical and vocal music.

Here are three of the some of the most highly regarded and popular 2.1 packages under $200 (you didn't say a budget):

Klipsch ProMedia
Harman Kardon Soundsticks III
Logitech Z623
 
As an Amazon Associate, MacRumors earns a commission from qualifying purchases made through links in this post.
Rizzn
I definitely recommend something with a subwoofer,QUOTE]
Click to expand...
BeoLab 4
Impressive sound in a surprising shape

BeoLab 4 proves that excellent sound and acoustic performance is superbly compatible with a compact and intriguing cabinet. In addition to its compact size and shape, BeoLab 4 produces a sound quality that will add to any audio experience. It is perfect as a speaker in a traditional stereo setup - especially Beosound 4, or in a link-room setup. It can also be featured in a smaller surround-sound setup, or as a competent computer speaker due to its dedicated PC mode. BeoLab 4 is the first BeoLab loudspeaker to have a dedicated computer mode that optimises the sound for integration with your computer setup.

There is always a place for style
With three identical curved surfaces coming together at a round base, BeoLab 4 resembles a pyramid. Each side is covered with a durable fabric that comes in a wide range of colour choices, allowing you to customise the BeoLab 4 to suit your décor. A flexible and universal loudspeaker solution, BeoLab 4 can easily sit on a shelf, table or in a bookcase. The elegant shape means BeoLab 4 speakers looks good anywhere, even when hung tastefully from the ceiling.

A trinity of technologies
Despite its modest size, the pyramid-shaped BeoLab 4 is a true hi-fi loudspeaker, with the amplifier built into the loudspeaker unit and a range of Bang & Olufsen proprietary acoustic technologies ensuring the best performance

The ICEpower amplifier unit is a patented Bang & Olufsen solution, allowing for an ultra-compact design, high power output, and cool operation. Adaptive Bass Linearisation offers superior bass performance from small loudspeaker cabinets. A switch with three bass settings, known as Adaptive Bass Control, ensures that BeoLab 4 always performs optimally, whether placed in a corner, against a wall, or on floor stands. BeoLab 4 has a tonal balance and sound pressure you will not find in other speakers of the same size.


Specifications
DESIGNER
David Lewis

DIMENSIONS W x H x D/ WEIGHT
21.5 x 20 x 20.5 cm/1.7 kg

MATERIAL(S)
Cabinet: Composite material
Cover: Fabric

COLOUR(S)
Black, dark grey or white

POWER CONSUMPTION
Typical: 6 W;
Networked standby: 0.5 W

POWER AMPLIFIER, BASS
35 W, Class D, ICEpower

POWER AMPLIFIER, TWEETER
30 W, Class D, ICEpower

EFFECTIVE FREQUENCEY RANGE**
55-33,300 Hz

SENSITIVITY*
88 dB SPL re 125 mVrms re 1m

CABINET PRINCIPLE
Bass reflex

CABINET VOLUME
1.55 litres

BASS DRIVER
102 mm/4" concave diaphragm

HIGH FREQENCEY DRIVERLE
19mm/¾" coated fabric dome

FEATURE(S)
Adaptive Bass Linearisation (ABL)
Room adaptation
Input sensitivity switch
Thermal protection

CONNECTION(S)
1 x Power Link
1 x Line/PC (mini-jack)

Shows you know nothing about B&O speakers Rizzn
Click to expand...
 
Do you want 2.1 or 5.1? Do you want wired or wireless (via bluetooth, airplay, or wifi)?


Go to www.newegg.com and look through the computer speakers. You will the various options, read the reviews, and check the prices.
 
I'm not sure of your budget, but look at the Bowers & Wilkins MM-1 computer speakers. I have them and they are superb speakers for a computer setup. IMO, if all you need them for is some music, then you will not need 5.1 or a subwoofer. These do a great job.

BW_1.jpg


BTW, this is not my setup... Just an image off the Internet. 😉
 
Rizzn said:
Okay? How does this prove me wrong?

Also, how does this help the OP since I'm almost positive he doesn't want $1000 computer speakers.
Click to expand...

Actually, we don't know the OP's budget. Maybe $1K is well within the limits of their Computer Audio budget. Maybe the OP wants an external DAC. Maybe the OP would be willing to consider headphones. Maybe the OP wants...

Well, you get the picture. Until we know more from the OP, we are all just speculating.

Oh, and you do NOT need a subwoofer for music. If you feel that way, you have been listening to poorly designed speakers. There is a reason why music is considered two-channel... left and right... no mention of a subwoofer.
 
Hammie said:
Actually, we don't know the OP's budget. Maybe $1K is well within the limits of their Computer Audio budget. Maybe the OP wants an external DAC. Maybe the OP would be willing to consider headphones. Maybe the OP wants...

Well, you get the picture. Until we know more from the OP, we are all just speculating.

Oh, and you do NOT need a subwoofer for music. If you feel that way, you have been listening to poorly designed speakers. There is a reason why music is considered two-channel... left and right... no mention of a subwoofer.
Click to expand...

1) I said I'm almost positive OP didn't want $1k speakers knowing that he never stated a budget because...

2) OP said that Bose was overpriced. What do you think he's going to say about ludicrously overpriced speakers?

3) No, music doesn't require a subwoofer. Though sound obeys the rules of physics, not "poor design." It's a simple fact that larger woofers can make lower frequencies and I think OP should have a full range setup.

4) Please show me the definition of music that says anything about 2 channels exclusively.
 
Rizzn said:
1) I said I'm almost positive OP didn't want $1k speakers knowing that he never stated a budget because...

2) OP said that Bose was overpriced. What do you think he's going to say about ludicrously overpriced speakers?

3) No, music doesn't require a subwoofer. Though sound obeys the rules of physics, not "poor design." It's a simple fact that larger woofers can make lower frequencies and I think OP should have a full range setup.

4) Please show me the definition of music that says anything about 2 channels exclusively.
Click to expand...

I don't completely disagree that the OP may not want to spend $1K, but a true budget never was disclosed. That is all I was saying.

I also say that Bose is overpriced, but not because of the actual retail price but the quality versus price. If a speaker is well built and performs well, then a higher price may be justified. IMO, Bose is a crap speaker.

Here is where many people get caught up in the hype of larger is better. Larger subwoofers do not always equate to accurate bass, which is more in line to what I was inferring. You may get lower frequencies, but at normal listening levels, these frequencies are rarely ever heard (or felt). I have seen the 10 and 12 inch JL Audio subs outperform various brands of 15 and 18 inch ones. You also need to take into consideration room size. The volume of a room will affect the bass (and all frequencies for that matter).

There is no actual definition of how many channels music should be. However, most music sold (and recorded) is two channel. DVD-Audio, SACD, and Blu-ray Audio with multi-channel tracks are the minority. I have a number of multi-channel pieces, including FLAC and DSD files, but 99% of all my music is two-channel.

We can go on about how the electronics can affect the quality of the music -- DACs, amplifiers, processors... where in the chain should they be located, how much amplifier power is needed, will different cables make the sound change, and on and on...

I know we are way off topic and I apologize to the OP. I hope we can agree that there are many opinions and options that can and should be looked at in the world of sound, whether music, movies, or other.
 
Team Timm said:
I know you said this isn't your imagine, but how would that keyboard be connected?! Bluetooth 10 key? Or did he just unplug and hide for picture reasons? Ahh.
Click to expand...

I'm not even sure it is a real keyboard if you look closely. Looks way two dimensional. There is no wireless keyboard option from Apple with the number pad, so it is either a knock-off, or a fake one just for the picture.

Here are two more. The first has the wires hidden under the desk. The second has the wires exposed.

p1000209g.jpg


20100904173430240.jpg
 
Rizzn said:
LOL. You could hardly be more wrong.

OP, I definitely recommend something with a subwoofer, especially if you're going to be listening to anything more than classical and vocal music.

Here are three of the some of the most highly regarded and popular 2.1 packages under $200 (you didn't say a budget):

Klipsch ProMedia
Harman Kardon Soundsticks III
Logitech Z623
Click to expand...

Thanks... yeah

----------
pommie82 said:
BeoLab 4
Impressive sound in a surprising shape

BeoLab 4 proves that excellent sound and acoustic performance is superbly compatible with a compact and intriguing cabinet. In addition to its compact size and shape, BeoLab 4 produces a sound quality that will add to any audio experience. It is perfect as a speaker in a traditional stereo setup - especially Beosound 4, or in a link-room setup. It can also be featured in a smaller surround-sound setup, or as a competent computer speaker due to its dedicated PC mode. BeoLab 4 is the first BeoLab loudspeaker to have a dedicated computer mode that optimises the sound for integration with your computer setup.

There is always a place for style
With three identical curved surfaces coming together at a round base, BeoLab 4 resembles a pyramid. Each side is covered with a durable fabric that comes in a wide range of colour choices, allowing you to customise the BeoLab 4 to suit your décor. A flexible and universal loudspeaker solution, BeoLab 4 can easily sit on a shelf, table or in a bookcase. The elegant shape means BeoLab 4 speakers looks good anywhere, even when hung tastefully from the ceiling.

A trinity of technologies
Despite its modest size, the pyramid-shaped BeoLab 4 is a true hi-fi loudspeaker, with the amplifier built into the loudspeaker unit and a range of Bang & Olufsen proprietary acoustic technologies ensuring the best performance

The ICEpower amplifier unit is a patented Bang & Olufsen solution, allowing for an ultra-compact design, high power output, and cool operation. Adaptive Bass Linearisation offers superior bass performance from small loudspeaker cabinets. A switch with three bass settings, known as Adaptive Bass Control, ensures that BeoLab 4 always performs optimally, whether placed in a corner, against a wall, or on floor stands. BeoLab 4 has a tonal balance and sound pressure you will not find in other speakers of the same size.


Specifications
DESIGNER
David Lewis

DIMENSIONS W x H x D/ WEIGHT
21.5 x 20 x 20.5 cm/1.7 kg

MATERIAL(S)
Cabinet: Composite material
Cover: Fabric

COLOUR(S)
Black, dark grey or white

POWER CONSUMPTION
Typical: 6 W;
Networked standby: 0.5 W

POWER AMPLIFIER, BASS
35 W, Class D, ICEpower

POWER AMPLIFIER, TWEETER
30 W, Class D, ICEpower

EFFECTIVE FREQUENCEY RANGE**
55-33,300 Hz

SENSITIVITY*
88 dB SPL re 125 mVrms re 1m

CABINET PRINCIPLE
Bass reflex

CABINET VOLUME
1.55 litres

BASS DRIVER
102 mm/4" concave diaphragm

HIGH FREQENCEY DRIVERLE
19mm/¾" coated fabric dome

FEATURE(S)
Adaptive Bass Linearisation (ABL)
Room adaptation
Input sensitivity switch
Thermal protection

CONNECTION(S)
1 x Power Link
1 x Line/PC (mini-jack)

Shows you know nothing about B&O speakers Rizzn
Click to expand...

$999 at the apple store... 😱.. extremely out of my budget.. but thanks!

----------

Well.... thinking well about my budget. I can say it's from $150 to $300. Yeah, that's my budget.
 
As an Amazon Associate, MacRumors earns a commission from qualifying purchases made through links in this post.
Sdahe said:
Thanks... yeah

----------



$999 at the apple store... 😱.. extremely out of my budget.. but thanks!

----------

Well.... thinking well about my budget. I can say it's from $150 to $300. Yeah, that's my budget.
Click to expand...

Look at Orb Audio. I think they are around $300. I know it's the top of your price range, but something to consider.
 
Swan m200 mkii

http://www.theaudioinsider.com/prod...udspeaker-system&cPath=21_24&products_id=184&

I picked up a pair of these used for $120. I am extremely happy with them. Very serious well balanced response for classical and jazz and popular music. I fell no need for a sub with these. I also have an audioengine DAC which makes a huge difference and really smooths out the overall sound. Music is a big part of my life and these speakers and DAC satisfy my ears in a major way.
 
The Audioengine S2 doesn't have a subwoofer... How is the bass on those speakers?
 
I have A2's and the amount of bass for the size of the speakers is really awesome. I listen to a lot of hip hop and I couldn't be more happy with these guys. I have the white ones. Really nice packaging and really nice quality speakers, connectors and wires.
 
Sdahe said:
Are the Bose Companion 20 that good?.... They go for $249 vs the Audioengine A2 ($199)
Click to expand...
In in a word, yes. After trying and returning others, I brought a pair home fully expecting to return them, but they blew me away. Even outside on our deck. Ended up getting two more sets for wedding gifts. We use ours in the dining room and kitchen, using an Airport Express to stream iTunes from iPad and iPhone. I did not compare to Audioengine though.
 
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