Need some amazing 2.1 speakers

[Rizzm]

I've been using a KRK subwoofer with some KRK monitors and an audio interface, all with a MacBook Pro. I disconnect the MBP from my desk connections very frequently, going in and out of the house usually at least once a day. I'm getting frustrated with shutting off the sub and each monitor before having to disconnect the cables (to avoid making the speakers pop).

I'm now looking for a more conventional computer speaker system, but I'm afraid of losing the clarity of my huge monitors compared to the typical 2.1 PC setup.

I need a package 2.1 deal that will come closest to rivaling a system like mine. Something I can leave on all the time. No use of an interface. Something with a single on/off switch. I want convenience, clarity, AND volume now. I know that there are systems like:

- Logitech Z623
- Klipsch ProMedia
- Harmon Kardon Soundsticks
- Corsair SP 2500

Is there anything with a beefier 7"-10" subwoofer, 4-5" satellite drivers with tweeters, no stupid remote/console, or are the previous named systems, and bundles like them, the only real contenders? I like big satellite drivers so that they can properly crossover from sub to satellite. Budget is under $500. I listen to A LOT of EDM and I'm somewhat of a basshead, so a nice sub is necessary. A 2.0 system like AudioEngine will not do.

 

[thedeske]

KRKs are darn good. Suffer the inconvenience IMO

 

[Rizzm]

KRKs are darn good. Suffer the inconvenience IMO

The clarity, detail, and volume is amazing, but I'm really not feeling too bad about a downgrade. Doesn't look like anyone had other suggestions.

I'll likely pick up one of the sets I mentioned with something like an Audioquest Dragonfly.

 

[kioko91]

I have the Klipsch and can definitely recommend as a fellow EDM lover. I'm using mine with my MacBook Pro at current, however you'll still get the pop if you don't turn off the speakers or laptop before unplugging from the headphone jack.

 

[orestes1984]

If 2.1 it is, just get yourself a couple of decent floor standers and a cheap amplifier. Suffer the pop, it'll leave your KRKs where they belong as budget studio monitors If you really don't want the pop then consider investing in an amp you can connect your mac to via an Apple TV using airplay.

A toslink cable will give you outs to a decent amp from your Apple TV and the Apple TV will allow you to go completely wireless. You can pick up used high quality amps for e.g. Onkyo that are being thrown out simply because they're not the flavour of the month and don't have 8 channel support or whatever that are perfectly good for an Apple TV such as my TX-SR602, for a couple hundred bucks and its a great place to start to build a quality system with 110 real watts per channel unlike the Logitech garbage.

 

[frank4]

I'm using the Klipsch Promedia 2.1 for about 5 years, like it a lot. Minor issue is the power switch is on the lower back of the subwoofer, and they seem to have more interconnect wires than necessary.

I also like EDM and did some DJing a few years ago. What I wanted was something like the Klipsch 2.1 but on steroids! Capable of being hauled to event locations in a car and easy to set up, and clean loud sound with huge bass, but hopefully could be dialled back for home use.

I was always intrigued by the B-52 Matrix 1500 system. Unfortunately it is overkill, too heavy for a one person move, and too much power, $1300 new. Maybe some company catering to live sound and DJs has a smaller version. B-52 had a smaller Matrix 1000 system but it seems to be discontinued.

http://www.b-52pro.com/products/Matrix1500.html

 

[vmdc]

What about using a USB DAC? Would you still get the pop from disconnecting the DAC from your MacBook?

 

[velocityg4]

How about a good old fashion stereo receiver and tower speakers. You'll get great audio quality and can turn it off with a remote or button on the front. That's what I use.


Heck you can even go with an amp and preamp if you want to get serious.

 

[carewser]

I'm sure the OP has long since decided on which speakers to get but i'd just like to add the Edifier S730's to the list of suggestions since i'm pretty sure they are the most powerful computer speakers ever made at 300 watts. On top of that they claim to have a 10" sub, which is actually a 9" sub, but regardless, it's the biggest, loudest sub ever made for computer speakers and two way satellites that have 1" dome tweeters and 3" woofers. The only problem is, the S730's come with both a control pod and a little wireless remote so if he's looking to unclutter, this isn't the right system. I paid less than $500CAN for them with taxes, shipping, delivery, etc....

I've heard the Corsair's are also really good, but they're like the Edifier's in that they are also cluttery. I also own the Klipsch Promedia's and they aren't cluttery at all but they also don't play as loud as the Edifier's although they sound just as good if not better. The Logitech Z623's were my first set of high-end computer speakers and they don't clutter either, they play really loud and sound good but they don't have two-way sattelites so the highs aren't as bright or crisp.

 

[Amigaman]

Here's another vote for home stereo equipment instead of computer speakers. I bought a Harman Kardon receiver, two Paradigm mini-tower speakers, and a 10" Paradigm sub for $170 on Craigslist. Very happy with the results.