Good value computer speakers
Written: Jan 09 '02
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Product Rating:
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Pros: CHEAP, high output, good construction & features
Cons: Only partial soundstage reproduction
The Bottom Line: If you're looking for the best computer speakers for $50, look no further. While the Pulse 424's aren't excellent, they certainly perform up to par for the low-mid price range.
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| compuwhiz's Full Review: Labtec Pulse 424 |
If you're like me, you probably want something better than the $10 boxy computer speakers that came with your system. When searching for amplified computer speakers, there are many many different brands and models to choose from, with prices ranging from about $15 - $700+. Cheap speakers ($25 or less) will be sufficient for system sounds, basic games, and low-volume music, but not much more than that.
If you are looking for powerful bass, a lot of volume, and a reasonably low price, these speakers from Labtec are about the best you will get. (Note: Logitech is now marketing the Labtec line of speakers, so look for the new Z-340 speakers which are essentially the same style and price as the labtec's.)
However, if you demand surround sound (4.1 or greater sound) or have a soundblaster Live!, you may want to lay down a little more cash for the Z-540 speakers which satisfy this requirement. (Or, you could just buy two of the Pulse 424's and have a 4.2 system!) If you are looking for live concert performance and quality in a pair of computer speakers, check out the Creative Soundworks, Logitech Z-560's, Klipsch Promedias (2.1, 4.1, or 5.1), MidiLand speakers, Boston Acoustics BA4800, or the Videologic Scirocco Crossfires(very pricey but very good & accurate)
Anyway, on to the Labtec Pulse 424 speakers. The box comes with 2 black satellites with 2.5" drivers w/ bass port and a black 8 inch cube for the subwoofer. The right satellite has three wires permanently attached, one to the line-out of your soundcard or music device, one big cord to the subwoofer, and one 6" cord permanently attached to the left satellite. It also houses a volume control, power switch, and headphone jack for convenience. The subwoofer features an 8" "pressure driver" which enhances low-range bass sounds, and has an integrated AC transformer so you don't have to deal with a "wall-wart" or "soap-on-a-rope" external transformer.
Setup is easy enough for anyone, and the included sheet will provide help if you need it. The satellites are fairly light, about 7-8 oz., so they might get bumped around on a crowded desk. Also, these speakers only come in black, so make sure they will match your decorating scheme... :) I recommend placing the subwoofer on the floor, near a wall or corner, and with the "pressure driver" facing the wall. If you don't want to feel the bass as much, move the sub away from the wall. If the volume of the bass is too high, the built-in knob on the subwoofer will allow you to turn it down significantly (but not completely off). The sub was even able to play a 35hz test tone (the min. rated hz for the system). I was sort of disappointed with the high-end response on these speakers, as the treble is not well-defined. However, it is easy to adjust to the sound of these speakers and the high bass more than makes up for the lack of treble. Also, you may be able to adjust your sound card to emphasize the treble if necessary.
Overall, Labtec has come a long way since their original line of computer speakers. The Pulse 424's are a great addition to your multimedia equipment, and can be used with any audio device with a 1/8" minijack. You won't be disappointed.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
compuwhiz
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Member: Jeremy Gillow
Location: Raleigh, NC, USA
Reviews written: 21
Trusted by: 3 members
About Me:
System administrator and computer information systems graduate student.
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