Thursday, 7 May 2009
Computer Speakers
I just plugged these babies in, it was really easy. Just opened the box, plugged the USB cable in, and turned my computer on. You might have to restart your computer if it doesn't immediately recognize the speakers. There was no popping noise like some of the other reviewers experienced. I guess they were just unlucky. They sound pretty good, especially compared to the crappy Altec Lansing speaker built into my HP laptop. Even with every volume control turned all the way up, I could barely here the audio on movies and music which is why I wanted laptop speakers. And I wanted plug and play speakers powered through a USB cord rather than an AC Adapter. And I didn't want to pay over $20. The S150 speakers met all of these criteria. They're great! Logitech S150 USB Speakers with Digital Sound
I generally place a lot of stock in the customer reviews, as for the most part I have found the majority of the ratings to be accurate indicators of product quality. Accordingly, I purchased the Logitech S150 USB powered speakers based on relatively strong reviews. The first pair that I received rattled terribly and I thought that I just got a bad pair and ordered a second set. The second set is slightly better than the first, but the right control speaker to both sets rattle, sometimes excessively. The speakers will play adequately at low volumes, but if turned up to even a moderate level to overcome normal background noise, the right speaker will rattle, at least two for two for me. My recommendation is to purchase a different speaker. However there are some positive aspects to these speakers - they are attractive, small and the sound quality is not too bad, if the right speakers did not rattle, the S150 USB speakers would certainly rate at least a 4 based on the price.
Update, Fix: The source of the rattle is the three control buttons at the base of the speaker, to eliminate the rattle, place a piece of 3M magic tape over the buttons,cut slightly larger than the width and length of the buttons, just make sure there is enough tape to keep the buttons from vibrating in the speaker housing. The tape is elastic and permits the buttons to function, and if done carefully, doesn't detract from the speaker's appearance. The sound is now quite good,even at loud volumes.
I ordered these from Newegg, and the speakers I received did not have the goofy volume knob on the side. The digital USB speakers should have buttons on the front that directly control the Windows volume bar.
Here is my review from Newegg:
Pros: These USB speakers have crystal clear sound with no buzz or hum. The volume is plenty loud for normal use. They are perfect for listening to music while I work. The stereo effect and ability to produce faint sounds are excellent. No bulky, power strip hogging adapter is needed. The speakers turn on and off with the computer. The USB drivers installed automatically (Windows XP). I cannot believe these speakers are so inexpensive.
Cons: The shipping cost almost as much as the speakers. There is not much bass, but there is more than I expected with small speakers. Music still sounds very good. The bass is certainly better than earphones.
Other Thoughts: I was hesitant to go with USB, but I am very happy I did. I wanted to be able to use these in a bedroom, I wanted zero noise with the computer off, and I did not want to have to remember to turn the speaker power off. Each speaker is 6.5"H x 2.75"W x 2.25"D. The USB cord is about 4' and is about the same length as my keyboard and mouse. I like the power light that reads "DIGITAL". The buttons on the front directly control the Windows volume bar with a mute button in the middle. If the volume level is too loud, you can double click the Windows volume icon and reduce the volume input of the "Wave" device.
I bought these based on reviews and price, and they're perfect. I wanted USB hookups and no bulky AC adapter. These are a great size, very streamlined and have a great sound. They're perfect for listening to music in my small apartment, but probably wouldn't be good for a a huge party to play music in a huge house. My apartment is probably like 600 sq. feet and I can hear it in the whole apartment when I have it on the highest setting. Seriously, for $12 you can't go wrong. Highly recommend!
I am very impressed by these speakers. At first I was concerned about their cheap price and small size. I was also worried that they would be underpowered because they are USB powered. The price was low. so what the heck. The box says they are Vista compatible. They work great on my Mac too. Had a problem using them with a new Linux Netbook though. Good bass and mids. In fact, I haven't ever heard good base from speakers this small before. I give them 2 thumbs up and 4 stars. I'd give them 5 stars if they worked with Ubuntu Linux.
Purchased these for a replacement to a monitor I had with built in speakers. I use the Outlook calendar feature extensively to keep me on track for meetings and need the sound feature to keep me moving along. These speakers were just the right size for my cluttered desk, price was very affordable and the sound quality is adequate for my need. I would recommend purchasing these to anyone interested.'
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