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geekhack Community => Other Geeky Stuff => Topic started by: EverythingIBM on Sun, 09 October 2011, 19:23:46

Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: EverythingIBM on Sun, 09 October 2011, 19:23:46: So what kind of typical desktop speakers do some geekhackers enjoy?

For my main computer I have a pair of Creative Inspire T3030s.
(http://www.englishforum.ch/attachments/sale-wanted/30753d1313053440-sale-creative-inspire-speakers-subwoofer-t3030-creative_inspiret3030.jpg)

The treble is as good as it gets for bass-oriented modern speakers (over the years I've become more accustomed to it). However, the unique aspect of these is the "messy bass". If you crank the bass up to the max, it can really leak out a lot of bass. This is perfect for experimenting on my music when I want to determine if I have enough bass, or if it's too much.
Very fun. I don't consider it a negative aspect of these speakers at all. It's what makes them fun!

I got them for $60 on sale like five years ago.

For my old computer I use a pair of Creative SBS20s.
(http://reviews.cnet.com/sc/125663-2-200-0.gif)

These are the ultimate when it comes to treble. They are the most "open" speakers I've ever heard... because of this, they really suffer for bass. But they bring out the essence of acoustic instruments.

One complaint of these was the slight "noise" due to any lack of a filter. I'm glad they never put a filter on; it would remove some of the [good] frequencies that you want. And to be honest, the fuzzing isn't very noticeable unless you amplify them to volumes that start to cause pain in the inner ear...
I play all of my old games on these; other speakers just don't sound right. That, and I'm so used to them.

They were like $20 from futureshop a VERY long time ago. Cheap, but perfect. Every dollar was worth it on these.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: iindigo on Sun, 09 October 2011, 20:31:40: I used to have a set of Klipsch ProMedia 2.1's that I really liked. They sounded great and were actually balanced enough to not need any EQ adjustments whatsoever.

Unfortunately, after ~4 years of use something broke in the sub and now the whole set is useless :(
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: enoy21 on Sun, 09 October 2011, 21:48:22: I've read some awesome things about those Klipsch's sound quality. I've also heard some horror stories about the control unit having a very flimsy connector that tends to break easily. If I'm not mistaken , I think they sell a kit to replace it if it breaks for a pretty decent price.

I actually am still considering these as an upgrade to my crap Altec Lansings. I don't have room or positions for a full 5.1 so I'm currently running them as a 3.1 with only Center , and front L/R and sub. It gets the job done for gaming but not much else.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Quarzac on Sun, 09 October 2011, 22:01:08: I bought a set of Logitech R-10s a year and a half or so ago for $15 from a local computer store. At the time, I thought it was a sweet deal, $15 for a set of speakers, and it was! They're great speakers for treble. They're pretty lacking when it comes to bass, but I kinda figured they would be. I plan to upgrade at some point, but I don't really know what I want to get. I was thinking 5.1, but I don't want to run all the wires.

[ATTACH=CONFIG]28263[/ATTACH]
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: whiskerBox on Sun, 09 October 2011, 22:48:32: I want
[ATTACH=CONFIG]28265[/ATTACH]

I have :(
[ATTACH=CONFIG]28266[/ATTACH]

I wish that I could just blare my computer speakers all the time but my GF would kill me so I mainly use these
[ATTACH=CONFIG]28267[/ATTACH]
Nixon Master Blaster
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: EverythingIBM on Mon, 10 October 2011, 00:17:24: Quote from: whiskerBox;428132
I want
(Attachment) 28265[/ATTACH]

I have :(
(Attachment) 28266[/ATTACH]

I wish that I could just blare my computer speakers all the time but my GF would kill me so I mainly use these
(Attachment) 28267[/ATTACH]

You need a new gf, jk jk jk.

I don't care much about music being blared; it does become an issue when I compose. But I'm usually by myself when I do! As my audio workstation isn't portable. Well the software is... but my synths certainly aren't.

Quote from: Quarzac;428120
I bought a set of Logitech R-10s a year and a half or so ago for $15 from a local computer store. At the time, I thought it was a sweet deal, $15 for a set of speakers, and it was! They're great speakers for treble. They're pretty lacking when it comes to bass, but I kinda figured they would be. I plan to upgrade at some point, but I don't really know what I want to get. I was thinking 5.1, but I don't want to run all the wires.

(Attachment) 28263[/ATTACH]

Yeah, sometimes the cheapest speakers can sound the best.
--> it's worthy to note that speakers with bass often lose clarity in treble... and vice versa.

But I already have a system set up for certain music to be played on certain speakers.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: AvenZerg on Wed, 12 October 2011, 14:10:07: I have these simple speakers which (to my surprise) are actually pretty good.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]28482[/ATTACH]

but wouldn't it be cooler tho if i had this chair and give my guests one heck of a show lol..
[ATTACH=CONFIG]28483[/ATTACH]
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Lanx on Wed, 12 October 2011, 14:51:28: [ATTACH=CONFIG]28489[/ATTACH]
i have this.
don't know why the phone is being displayed lol
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Quarzac on Wed, 12 October 2011, 19:30:39: I just bought a set of Logitech X-530s. I had heard they were pretty good speakers, they're dirt cheap nowadays, and I wanted to upgrade to 5.1, so hopefully it'll be awesome.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]28502[/ATTACH]
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Lanx on Thu, 13 October 2011, 06:17:32: those 530's are nice, i got that for my fiance', she doesn't have a need for the rear speakers anymore so i stowed them away, still sound nice on music.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Quarzac on Thu, 13 October 2011, 16:24:56: Yeah, I got them today, and just finished setting them up. The treble quality is very, very close to just as good as the R-10s, and the bass is far, far better.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Daniel Beaver on Thu, 13 October 2011, 17:29:13: I used Klipsch ProMedia 2.1's for many years, until they finally blew out. Their reputation is well-deserved.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: jnsjr on Thu, 13 October 2011, 17:47:41: I have a set of the Klipsch ProMedia 2.1. I used them for the academic year last year, boxed them over the summer, and started using them again the first week of September. After less than 1 year of actual use, there are already two problems. They are a pretty bassy set, and I am forced to use headphones alot of the time. The headphone port on the right speaker is broken, and when I plug my headphones in, the speakers are no longer silent. There is very audible bleed, almost to the point where someone outside my room might not even realize I was wearing headphones. In addition, the volume of the satellite speakers seems to be decreasing as time goes on. :tsk: This is incredibly annoying. I'll agree with both points made here, the quality control is subpar, but while they work, they are a great bargain for the price and sound great.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Lanx on Thu, 13 October 2011, 17:59:51: Quote from: Quarzac;430430
Yeah, I got them today, and just finished setting them up. The treble quality is very, very close to just as good as the R-10s, and the bass is far, far better.
a lot of wires to deal with lol as i'm sure you're prolly experiencing now, especially the rear speakers, wow so much cable. To deal with this i wall mounted the l/r and center speakers and wound up and put the excess in a cheap tupperware container... if you were wondering what to do about your new snakepit of wires.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Quarzac on Fri, 14 October 2011, 20:37:33: Quote from: Lanx;430516
a lot of wires to deal with lol as i'm sure you're prolly experiencing now, especially the rear speakers, wow so much cable. To deal with this i wall mounted the l/r and center speakers and wound up and put the excess in a cheap tupperware container... if you were wondering what to do about your new snakepit of wires.
I actually don't have too much excess, but I can't wall mount anything because my computer desk is against a window, and the other wires don't reach the back wall while following the perimeter of the room. It's not much of a snake pit though, since they're run along the edge of the room.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Lanx on Sat, 15 October 2011, 01:31:53: that's cool, too bad everything is connected to the sub, my new soundbar i got from panasonic has a wireless subwoofer, it's awesome... i put it at the top of my closet and play dead island with it, i hope my upstairs neighbor has nightmares.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Exoverture on Sun, 16 October 2011, 16:19:53: (http://www.m-audio.com/images/global/product_pics/big/studiophile_av40_v2008.jpg)

M-Audio AV40s.

Went through the whole Logicrap line of speakers, they all suck.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Malphas on Sun, 16 October 2011, 16:23:08: Do they have to look so ugly? Anyone know of a good set of stereo speaks (not 2:1's) that are a bit better aesthetically and moderately priced?
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Rafen on Sun, 16 October 2011, 16:50:37: Quote from: Quarzac;429826
I just bought a set of Logitech X-530s. I had heard they were pretty good speakers, they're dirt cheap nowadays, and I wanted to upgrade to 5.1, so hopefully it'll be awesome.
(Attachment) 28502[/ATTACH]
I have the same speakers and I love em. :nod:
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Quarzac on Sun, 16 October 2011, 17:58:23: Quote from: Lanx;431549
that's cool, too bad everything is connected to the sub, my new soundbar i got from panasonic has a wireless subwoofer, it's awesome... i put it at the top of my closet and play dead island with it, i hope my upstairs neighbor has nightmares.
My ideal speakers would be wireless 5.1s for less than $100. But I don't think that'll ever happen.

Quote from: Rafen;432458
I have the same speakers and I love em. :nod:
I've been using them for a couple days. A little bit of EQ tweaking to bring out the treble a bit, and they're fantastic. I don't do enough that utilizes the rear speakers though. And they're not quite as loud as I would like when they are in use.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Exoverture on Sun, 16 October 2011, 18:19:01: Quote from: Malphas;432450
Do they have to look so ugly? Anyone know of a good set of stereo speaks (not 2:1's) that are a bit better aesthetically and moderately priced?

If you live in the states, or willing to pay customs otherwise, the best by far on an aesthetic/performance ratio are Swan speakers:

(http://www.theaudioinsider.com/images/d1080mkii08_main.gif)
(http://www.theaudioinsider.com/images/m10_main.gif)
(http://www.theaudioinsider.com/images/m200mkii_main.gif)

http://www.theaudioinsider.com/index.php?loudspeakers=swan-active-desktop-sound&cPath=21_24 (http://www.theaudioinsider.com/index.php?loudspeakers=swan-active-desktop-sound&cPath=21_24)
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Quarzac on Sun, 16 October 2011, 19:36:07: Quote from: ripster;432513
If you live in the states the Mackie HR824/PrimaAcoustic Recoil Stabilizers have the worst price/aesthetic ratio. That's why they are what I use.
(Attachment) 28796[/ATTACH]
I don't get it. Are they ugly and expensive, or pretty and cheap?
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Quarzac on Sun, 16 October 2011, 19:55:29: Quote from: ripster;432522
They are low in the WAF.
I didn't understand, but then I googled it. The second link is a wikipedia article. There's a wikipedia article on the WAF.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Quarzac on Sun, 16 October 2011, 20:58:40: It's ok. Now I could post a TIL on Reddit if I used Reddit very often.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: BarryGordon on Sun, 16 October 2011, 23:01:01: Ripster, May I ask how you plug your speakers in? I have a pair of Mackie MR5's and I used to plug them through an Mbox 2 Interface but it freezes my computer for some reason so I'm looking for an alternative solution.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: BababooeyHTJ on Mon, 17 October 2011, 21:13:59: Quote from: Exoverture;432449
Show Image
(http://www.m-audio.com/images/global/product_pics/big/studiophile_av40_v2008.jpg)

M-Audio AV40s.

Went through the whole Logicrap line of speakers, they all suck.

I have the same speakers, they sound great. I love them.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: nathanscribe on Tue, 18 October 2011, 01:58:59: KRK RP 5 (aka Rokit 5). Terrible name, decent speakers for the money. I could do with something like those Recoils though I keep forgetting to buy some...

I used to have a pair of M-Audio but compared to the KRKs it was like listening with a sock over each ear. They were cheap.

SOS review, 8/04 (http://www.soundonsound.com/sos/aug04/articles/krkrokit.htm)

[ATTACH=CONFIG]28902[/ATTACH]
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: pitashen on Tue, 18 October 2011, 12:04:49: Quote from: Malphas;432450
Do they have to look so ugly? Anyone know of a good set of stereo speaks (not 2:1's) that are a bit better aesthetically and moderately priced?

Altho aesthetic is something rather subjective, but unfortunately, real good sounding speakers don't usually look slick (but then I have learned to appreciate the humble look of those studio monitors). If you want the best of both worlds (sound and look), it could mean you better have your pockets pretty deep and filled up with cash.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: nraymond on Tue, 18 October 2011, 15:48:20: After going through a lot of computer speakers over the years, my current favorite (but not only) set is the Roland MA-15D (http://www.rolandus.com/products/productdetails.php?ProductId=746) combined with an Energy ESW-8 (http://www.energy-speakers.com/na-en/products/esw-8-overview/) subwoofer. I'm very keen on the flexibility of this setup - the MA-15D speakers have a subwoofer out integrated into them, which you don't have to use if you don't want to. The subwoofer is a standard sub that could be used in a home theater setup. The speakers have a 192Khz/24-bit DAC built into them, and have seperate volume controls for the analog and digital inputs (digital can be either coaxial or optical), so you can mix an analog and digital source in the speakers themselves with separate volume knobs right on the speakers. Headphone jack on the speakers can drive a wide range of headphones as well.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: arplod on Tue, 18 October 2011, 16:09:35: Quote from: BarryGordon;432589
Ripster, May I ask how you plug your speakers in? I have a pair of Mackie MR5's and I used to plug them through an Mbox 2 Interface but it freezes my computer for some reason so I'm looking for an alternative solution.

Use any soundcard - even a USB one - unless you need to run balanced, in which case invest in another pro audio interface. I like RME as they're incredibly versatile, but I would assume that >$700 is too rich for most. At the MBox level, I'd suggest something like the entry-level Focusrite Saffire.

I'm quite partial to the Creative Gigaworks T40 II's as a 'true desktop' speaker. All things considered, they throw out a decent sound.

My own usualy choice is the recently-superceded Genelec 8020A which I've got up on the wall. I downsized from an 8040A, which turned out to be massively mismatched to my relatively poky home office.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Supergleep on Sat, 22 October 2011, 13:35:28: Second vote for the Klipsch ProMedia 2.1's. Mine have been going strong for 8 years now with no problems whatever. I paid $200 for them way back when, I saw them in Worst Buy the other day for $139 (!) Amazing speakers for the money.

If these ever die, I will be looking at a good pair of powered studio monitors as a replacement.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Cthulhu on Mon, 24 October 2011, 11:04:51: Got a pair of Nubert nuPro A-20s, prices as ***** but i love them.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: phillip on Mon, 24 October 2011, 13:16:23: (http://i.imgur.com/cPudw.jpg)

i don't have a good picture of the sub available :/
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: suprsmo on Tue, 25 October 2011, 17:31:21: I've just got a pair of AudioEngine 2's. Hot lil speakers for their driver size and foot print!
http://www.pccasegear.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=571&products_id=12299
Fit very very tidily on my tiny desk too!
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: TheProfosist on Sat, 29 October 2011, 04:21:46: Currently running M-Audio BX5a's because I got them for a great deal through a pawn shop on ebay. The speakers sound great but their missing a bit of the low end and the rear facing woofer port is not help as there is a window behind my desk and no w ay to get around it. I output to them using a Edirol FA-66 which is what I would recommended if you want 24bit/192khz. Price, Sound Quality, and Build Quality are both at the highest.

I would like to pick up a KRK Rokit 5 G2 as from what I heard (literally) they cant be beat for the price.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Fobbah on Mon, 31 October 2011, 01:27:47: Quote from: AvenZerg;429597
I have these simple speakers which (to my surprise) are actually pretty good.
(Attachment) 28482[/ATTACH]

but wouldn't it be cooler tho if i had this chair and give my guests one heck of a show lol..
(Attachment) 28483[/ATTACH]

I was actually going to drop in this thread and +1 my old Z4s. Sure they're not too powerful, but for the price range they really had the best sound for cheap desk speakers < $100 that i'd heard. Shame that logitech doesn't seem to make them anymore, I tried to buy another set for a friend and couldn't find them. Got him Z230s i think, which were more powerful but sounded terrible by comparison - and the stereo mini input jack gave me a moderate shock when i touched it!!! (grounding problem? hmmm.... not good.)

Seems to me their quality has gone downhill - but i guess these are just bog cheap speakers anyway so you get what you pay for.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: talis on Mon, 31 October 2011, 18:10:17: Quote from: nathanscribe;433410
KRK RP 5 (aka Rokit 5). Terrible name, decent speakers for the money. I could do with something like those Recoils though I keep forgetting to buy some...

I used to have a pair of M-Audio but compared to the KRKs it was like listening with a sock over each ear. They were cheap.

SOS review, 8/04 (http://www.soundonsound.com/sos/aug04/articles/krkrokit.htm)

(Attachment) 28902[/ATTACH]

That reviews for the first generation RP5's, the G2s are as good or a little better. I have a pair of the RP5G2s and am glad I picked them up. They definately aren't pro-studio quality, but they blow pretty much anything else in that price range away. The front porting is a big plus when you're using them on a computer desk to IMO, definately worth the investment.

Even accounting for crappy room acoustics, I managed to get them almost dead flat with no more then about +/- 3dB in any band.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: TOZZIL on Tue, 01 November 2011, 11:26:04: I got a Teufel Concept c200.
Nice little thing with build-in usb soundcard. Got them for christmas for 179€s .
Regards
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: jpm804 on Tue, 01 November 2011, 13:22:14: Swan M-10, nice mini 2.1 setup. Excuse the logitech keyboard, its an old pic. =P

(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc467/jpm804/Computer/IMG_2155.jpg)
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Chalky White on Sat, 12 November 2011, 00:10:06: I own a pair of the Cakewalk MA-15D's and they sound stellar...digital optical input, sub out...all for $150
IMO the best powered monitors under $200

(http://i.imgur.com/0s1V2.jpg)

http://www.roland.com/products/en/MA-15D/ (http://www.roland.com/products/en/MA-15D/)
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: ktkr on Sat, 12 November 2011, 14:10:55: I have a pair of GENELEC 8030A with matching 7050B subwoofer. I've owned my share of so-called "computer speakers" and cheaper monitors ($200~$400 a pair) such as ESI and KRK, but these are worlds apart in terms of sound, build quality and looks (this is very subjective though). Well, these do cost more than my high-end computer, not counting displays or keyboards.

(http://images.gittigidiyor.com/3877/GENELEC-8030A-HEMDE-BU-FIYATA-KACIRMA__38771148_0.jpg)
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: himynameisbunny on Mon, 14 November 2011, 09:17:02: Quote from: Chalky White;450405
I own a pair of the Cakewalk MA-15D's and they sound stellar...digital optical input, sub out...all for $150
IMO the best powered monitors under $200

http://www.roland.com/products/en/MA-15D/

Oh dear.

I've been looking for monitors and a DAC seperately. Look on ebay, somebody is selling a pair just 10 minutes drive from my place.

Looks like I'm out of pocket $189 lol

Sent from my VegaComb using Tapatalk
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: whiskerBox on Mon, 14 November 2011, 12:21:33: This thread has turned into a powered monitor showoff!
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: popol on Mon, 14 November 2011, 13:27:58: http://www.m-audio.fr/products/fr_fr/MAudioAV30.html 130 euros
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: nathanscribe on Mon, 14 November 2011, 15:47:54: Quote from: talis;442938
They definately aren't pro-studio quality, but they blow pretty much anything else in that price range away.

I think most professional studio monitors would cost several times the RP5s, so it's not much of a competition - but for home use they're pretty good, I agree. I've got terrible acoustics here but at normal seated distance I think I'm hearing things just fine, and I'll probably try some non-ported design for my next pair. AE22 maybe. Meanwhile, a pair of isolation pads will help I think.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: himynameisbunny on Mon, 14 November 2011, 20:40:49: Well well well. I've got the MA-15Ds hooked up in front of me now, playing Foo Fighters' "Wasting Light".

It's only playing through my phone, so it's not exactly the ideal way to be listening to it. But I've gotta say, I'm pretty impressed. It feels like the sound is coming out of my screen! (i.e. I'm actually inside what I'm doing on the PC)

Glad I got these instead of jumping for the Audioengines on PCCG and then having to fork out for an external DAC too!

It is very detailed. There is too much bass though and it's a bit boomy, so I've turned that down a tad. The only thing I don't like about these speakers is the imperfections it shows up.

Wasting Light, if any of you have been following the Fighters, was recorded on tape. So it had some imperfections. The one that keeps showing up is some distortion on the bass drum.

I thought it was just my car speakers but I've since listened to it with my Shure SRH440s and these and it shows up both. Maybe I should check out the vinyl rip and see if it happens there too.

Other than that, I think a very worthy (and lucky) purchase.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: BiNiaRiS on Tue, 15 November 2011, 11:13:31: I just use a set of Klipsch Promedia 2.1s for my desktop. They've been more than enough for music listening. Most of the time I have headphones on anyways.

Sent from my EVO
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: TheProfosist on Tue, 15 November 2011, 16:34:23: Quote from: ripster;451899
But you need overpriced pieces of foam to be Recording.org/AVSforum worthy.

I will say Keyb_gr ended up being right about mounting my monitors higher.
Arnt you supposed to have them at a height where the tweeter is at ear level?
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: czarek on Wed, 16 November 2011, 06:21:10: I've got those long time ago:
(http://www.bose.com/assets/images/shop_online/companion2/companion2_si_lg.jpg)
I'd really want to upgrade them at some point but I'm just so happy with their sound I can't find any reason to do so.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: TheProfosist on Wed, 16 November 2011, 11:06:20: Quote from: ripster;453285
Not necessarily. But I got 5 degree downfiring PrimaAcoustic Stabilizers just to be safe.
(Attachment) 32208[/ATTACH] (Attachment) 32209[/ATTACH]

http://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2011/01/14/the-sounds-of-skyrim.aspx
maybe when I get a nicer set of speakers ill look into those. Ill I have is a set of M-Audio BX5a's that I only have them because I got them for $80 including shipping.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: TheSoulhunter on Wed, 16 November 2011, 11:17:13: Nubert nuPro A-20 (http://www.nubert.de/index.php?action=product&id=932&category=78)

(http://www.nubert.de/images/products/nupro/nupro_a-20_weiss.jpg)
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: enoy21 on Thu, 17 November 2011, 20:49:54: Quote from: Supergleep;436808
Second vote for the Klipsch ProMedia 2.1's. Mine have been going strong for 8 years now with no problems whatever. I paid $200 for them way back when, I saw them in Worst Buy the other day for $139 (!) Amazing speakers for the money.

If these ever die, I will be looking at a good pair of powered studio monitors as a replacement.

I just went from :

http://www.amazon.com/Altec-Lansing-Speakers-6-Speaker-Silver/dp/B00007FS3M/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top for the past 5-6 years as Christmas presents to The Pro Media's.

Best buy has them on Sale right now for $119.
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/searchpage.jsp;jsessionid=7587F9060BF01989BF6818CC9E144B01.bbolsp-app02-12?_dyncharset=ISO-8859-1&_dynSessConf=8052550271876494841&id=pcat17071&type=page&st=Klipsch+pro+media&sc=Global&cp=1&nrp=15&sp=&qp=&list=n&iht=y&usc=All+Categories&ks=960

I saw today that these speakers are exclusive to Klipsh Direct and Best Buy.

I have to say , at first I was a bit underwhelmed when I hooked them to my Motherboard's Onboard Audio. (M4A79XTD Evo). Then I changed the sampling rate sown to 48k and started playing with the EQ and .... WOW.

I set the eq to a baseline of Rock as it sounded the best of the presets then started tweaking from there, really just a couple of hz ranges up a little. These things sound incredible with the Bass set to about 30% and all windows software volume levels set to 100%. I sampled many of my favorite songs from Transiberian Orchestra Christmas in Serijevo to Garth Brooks to A Perfect Circle to DJ Tiesto and Daft punk then Staind. Threw in some old Snoop and Outkast for good measure and all of them sounded great. Battlefield 3 is up for the next test tonight.

At this price and this sound quality I almost want to buy a second set just to have for the future when these wear out.

Now I want to get a dedicated sound card for them but I don't want to spend more than say $75.... Anyone got any suggestions ?
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: D-EJ915 on Sun, 20 November 2011, 22:51:01: Switched from my JBL E30s to some KRK Rokit 8s in grey that I got for $400 for the set. Sound quite a bit better although I am going to pick up a preamplifier to run them full range.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: TheProfosist on Sun, 20 November 2011, 23:34:20: Quote from: D-EJ915;456526
Switched from my JBL E30s to some KRK Rokit 8s in grey that I got for $400 for the set. Sound quite a bit better although I am going to pick up a preamplifier to run them full range.
Sounds cheap to me I would go for a deal like that.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: D-EJ915 on Tue, 22 November 2011, 21:12:13: They just had them on hellomusic.com for $400 for a set. I got mine from GC though so I have the grey ones not the black ones.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: TheProfosist on Tue, 22 November 2011, 21:27:56: Quote from: D-EJ915;457950
They just had them on hellomusic.com for $400 for a set. I got mine from GC though so I have the grey ones not the black ones.
Well I will have to look into the ROKIT 8s instead of the 5s then because their not that much more.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: eugenius on Fri, 25 November 2011, 16:21:58: Like:
XTZ MH800 DSP - peerless widebander + downfiring bass driver, integrated digital amplification and Dirac room correction
http://www.xtz.se/uk/products/dsp-speakers/mh-800-dsp

Super deal on m-audio dsm monitors (dsm1, dsm3):
http://www.audiomidi.com/Products/mma_dsm1-pr/
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: heliar on Sat, 26 November 2011, 07:45:50: got a pair of focal cms40, it is heavy considering its size, it is double shot.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Daniel Beaver on Mon, 28 November 2011, 08:50:13: FYI, Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 speakers are on sale today at bestbuy's website (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/searchpage.jsp;jsessionid=7587F9060BF01989BF6818CC9E144B01.bbolsp-app02-12?_dyncharset=ISO-8859-1&_dynSessConf=8052550271876494841&id=pcat17071&type=page&st=Klipsch+pro+media&sc=Global&cp=1&nrp=15&sp=&qp=&list=n&iht=y&usc=All+Categories&ks=960), with free shipping. They don't ship to Puerto Rico, though, so screw them.
Title: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: WinstonSmith on Mon, 05 December 2011, 13:52:21: I'm using Swans M10 speakers, I like them...they get the job done.
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: eugenius on Sat, 22 September 2012, 01:54:39: I second the T40-II and add the Logitech Z10 if you want USB speakers and don't listen loud.
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: TheProfosist on Sat, 22 September 2012, 02:06:59: I have a set of BX5a's much prefer the comparable KRK Rokit 5 v2s as the have better bass response if your looking for something really nice though the next set that im looking at are the Adam A3x's possibly with their paired sub but currently thats out of my price range.
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: snooze2looze on Sat, 22 September 2012, 12:50:16: AudioEngine 2's! Great little speakers.
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: m00nshake on Sat, 22 September 2012, 17:34:02: The Logitech 530's seem to be sold out everywhere except resellers on Amazon. I might have to pick some up.
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Malphas on Sun, 23 September 2012, 02:15:07: I have some really horrible old beige Harmon Kardons at the moment.
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: dirge on Sun, 23 September 2012, 02:21:33: Get some bookshelf speakers and small amp. Quality for the same cash is great.
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: vyshane on Mon, 08 October 2012, 21:29:08: Currently using a pair of AktiMate Mini+ (http://www.aktimate.com.au/mini+.html) bookshelf speakers.
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: sloppie on Tue, 09 October 2012, 01:34:33: (http://www.logitech.com/assets/31975/4/logitech-speaker-system-z623.png)

Logitech Z623!
Best $100 I've ever spent on any piece of technology. Bass is full and loud. The sound quality is just top notch.
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: swagpiratex on Tue, 09 October 2012, 12:01:24: Planning on hooking up my receiver to my PC via optical out, currently running a pair of Infinity Primus P153's with plans to add a good subwoofer down the line.

Those swans look sick.
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: bavman on Thu, 11 October 2012, 02:15:54: I used to have a klipsch promedia 2.1 system which was awesome, but when I recently upgraded to some infinity p142 speakers and a polk bass it made a pretty big difference.

I feel the bass is a little much. Its a psw505 and it really shakes the walls of my apartment, my roommates and next doors neighbors are a little mad though, I've had a visit at 2 in the morning from them.
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8329/8076286768_7f61b646bb_z.jpg)
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8186/8076286946_215a2c9113_z.jpg)
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: TheProfosist on Thu, 11 October 2012, 03:43:54: You could turn it down i assume?
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: tillertow on Thu, 11 October 2012, 05:22:55: I have my studio speakers, which i love.

But the z523 (white) from Logitech, which i use at home, looks and sounds great.
They're cheap and compact too.

A lot of reviews put them down, stating the bass is off....i find it full and loud though
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Seltox on Fri, 19 October 2012, 04:56:35: I use Corsair SP-2500's.

Really really great considering the price. I'd love a proper pair of bookshelf speakers, but i'm just a uni student :P

(http://www.corsair.com/en/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/s/p/sp2500_viewa_1.png)
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: noisyturtle on Sat, 20 October 2012, 22:52:28: I have a pair of Soundscience Rokus that I got mostly because they are small and low, which make them able to fit upon my crappy and small IKEA desk. They actually turned out to be some of the best desktop speakers I've owned, replacing my 9 year old Klipsch 2.1's. They are really on par with the clarity and build quality of the Klip's, and the sub generates a ton of bass(gotta keep it at 25% because of that.)
[attachimg=1]
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Dabboo on Wed, 24 October 2012, 19:46:29: Quote from: sloppie on Tue, 09 October 2012, 01:34:33
Show Image
(http://www.logitech.com/assets/31975/4/logitech-speaker-system-z623.png)

Logitech Z623!
Best $100 I've ever spent on any piece of technology. Bass is full and loud. The sound quality is just top notch.

I also have these but was reluctant to post as these are commonly referred to as overpriced and not that good sounding however I disagree. These speakers are extremely good and excellently loud. I typically have them turned up 1/5 of the way and it's enough to fill my decent sized room.

I recommend these but if I had the money right now, I'd definitely want to try the AudioEngine A2s or the A5s
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: nraymond on Tue, 20 November 2012, 21:51:18: Quote from: Chalky White on Sat, 12 November 2011, 00:10:06
I own a pair of the Cakewalk MA-15D's and they sound stellar...digital optical input, sub out...all for $150
IMO the best powered monitors under $200

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/0s1V2.jpg)

http://www.roland.com/products/en/MA-15D/ (http://www.roland.com/products/en/MA-15D/)

I second this recommendation. I bought a pair of these back before they were Cakewalk branded - they used to be sold under the Edirol brand. I particularly bought them for their sub out capability, and I paired them with an Energy ESW-8 subwoofer. Very happy with them on my PC.

On my Mac, I recently purchased a used pair of KEF C1 speakers and will be driving them with a Topping TP21 class T amp. It will be interesting to compare the speaker setups side-by-side.
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: alaricljs on Tue, 20 November 2012, 22:20:41: The similarities to these (https://www.google.com/search?q=Behringer+Speaker+MS40) Behringer MS40's is intriguing. The Behringers appear to be more readily available and cheaper... wonder how much difference there is in the drivers and amp.
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: nraymond on Tue, 20 November 2012, 22:37:47: Quote from: alaricljs on Tue, 20 November 2012, 22:20:41
The similarities to these (https://www.google.com/search?q=Behringer+Speaker+MS40) Behringer MS40's is intriguing. The Behringers appear to be more readily available and cheaper... wonder how much difference there is in the drivers and amp.

I've long noticed the similarities between the Berhinger M40 and the Edirol/Cakewalk MA-15D speakers, and wondered... I'd guess they must have the same OEM. The MA-15D have the sub out though, which is what won me over.
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: VesperSAINT on Sun, 25 November 2012, 18:50:31: This thread makes it almost shameful for me to say that I'm currently very satisfied with my Logitech Z2300 that I've been using for a good 2-3 years :\ Saw the Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 which is on sale for $100 right now. Supposedly it's the equivalent to the Logitech Z2300's.
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: bace on Thu, 29 November 2012, 16:08:22: Quote from: VesperSAINT on Sun, 25 November 2012, 18:50:31
This thread makes it almost shameful for me to say that I'm currently very satisfied with my Logitech Z2300 that I've been using for a good 2-3 years :\ Saw the Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 which is on sale for $100 right now. Supposedly it's the equivalent to the Logitech Z2300's.

I'm in the same boat as you. I've been using the logitech Z5300 for more than 5 years now and its still going strong. I will probably upgrade it soon now that I've upgraded all my other computer peripherals.
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: mars-bar-man on Thu, 29 November 2012, 16:13:01: Set of Creative T20's for me, absolutely love them!
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: vun on Thu, 29 November 2012, 16:16:15: I've had
(http://images-eu.amazon.com/images/P/B000068NQH.02.LZZZZZZZ.jpg)
hooked up to my PC as speakers for... 5 years maybe?
I'll probably be laughed at by audio enthusiasts, but I like them and have no problem with the sound quality. Probably because I haven't tried anything better yet, but I'm too busy spending money on mice and keyboards to upgrade my audio.
As a side-effect of using them I now think that all PC speakers look small and puny.
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: VesperSAINT on Thu, 29 November 2012, 16:19:07: Quote from: bace on Thu, 29 November 2012, 16:08:22
I'm in the same boat as you. I've been using the logitech Z5300 for more than 5 years now and its still going strong. I will probably upgrade it soon now that I've upgraded all my other computer peripherals.

:D I'll probably end up keeping mine and just buying myself a nice headset with emulated 7.1. Not a fan of all those extra cords going around the room for surround sound, and I'm too broke to get the wireless ones :(
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: csm725 on Fri, 30 November 2012, 09:58:25: I love my M-Audio AV40s.
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: swagpiratex on Fri, 30 November 2012, 10:04:03: I copped a pair of the Infinity Primus after reading the guide from OCN, and man am I glad I listened to Simca.

@ $100 / pair right now they're great. I've got them linked up to a Sony Receiver, which is attached to my PC via optical out.

Sent from my HTC Sensation
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: Kabuks on Fri, 30 November 2012, 10:11:25: When I'm not using my headset I use Logitech Z506 speakers.
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: bace on Fri, 30 November 2012, 15:31:10: Quote from: VesperSAINT on Thu, 29 November 2012, 16:19:07
Quote from: bace on Thu, 29 November 2012, 16:08:22
I'm in the same boat as you. I've been using the logitech Z5300 for more than 5 years now and its still going strong. I will probably upgrade it soon now that I've upgraded all my other computer peripherals.

:D I'll probably end up keeping mine and just buying myself a nice headset with emulated 7.1. Not a fan of all those extra cords going around the room for surround sound, and I'm too broke to get the wireless ones :(

I have all 5 of the speakers on my desk :D I have an AKG Q701 that I use at night which has a great sound stage. Awesome for movies and gaming.
Title: Re: Desktop speakers you like?
Post by: TheShining on Sun, 02 December 2012, 16:21:11: Audioengine.