• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join free Log in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

good quality speakers for a new computer

fenwickbacker

fenwickbacker

Jun 12, 2004
354
96
New Orleans
#1
I'm looking at buying a new Apple and would like to get good quality external speakers for it, and not break the bank.

My old system has a harmonkarden w/ subwoofer - they were nothing special but seemed to get the job done, but that was 5-6 years ago.

Anyone have some suggestions? I'm assuming I'd need a system w/ a subwoofer, as I'd like to not skimp on the bass sound. After all, that's the best part right?

I've seen listings by Klipsch, JBL (creature speakers), and HarmonKarden. Many start around $100 - with others upwards of $250+.

Thanks.
 
#2
I don't know of any computer speakers but its always worth considering running it through the aux bit of your hifi

Maybe im missing something but i have never really bought into the idea of specific computer speakers, i just route my PC through my home stereo.
 
#3
I see your point DaveT.

I don't have a hifi stereo system, however. I just use my computer as my stereo, since 99% of what I'm doing is off of CD, or now iTunes/iPod.

So I guess it's not really about computer speakers, but more about speakers I can hook-up to my computer to play CD's, iTunes, etc. I'd like something powerful, bass-y enough, but compact. Long term I'd like to hook my computer up to a "home audio" type speaker configuration, where I can pump music to other rooms in the house, and outside, from my computer.
 
#4
I use M-Audio powered monitors that I actually bought at the Apple Store for $150. There's no subwoofer, but what you get is accurate sound with tight and present bass. If you want super chest-thumping sub-bass, then a subwoofer is probably in order. But every time I listen to these little monitors, I am impressed. Good recordings sound fabulous through them and bad recording are exposed through them as well. I like listening through regular stereos, but I'm always amazed when I listen through monitors.

PS, Eden is coming out with some monitors that will supposedly deliver some good bass response. Computer speakers made by a bass amp company! What more could you want?

Edit: here's the link [Invalid or Expired Link Removed]
 
#5
Thanks for the info telekaster - I checked the link. The nice thing about the monitors is not having to stick a subwoofer on the floor under the desk. While it may give a great bass tone, it's somewhat in the way.

The JBL Creature speakers look cool and have gotten some decent reviews.
 
#7
bigbeefdog said:
I've had the Klipsch Pro Media 2.1 for about three years now. Can be had for a little over $100.

Liked 'em enough to buy a second set for the second PC.
Click to expand...

yeah I've heard great things about the Klipsch 2.1 speakers. From what I've read, the older ones sound better than the new "modern/spacey" looking ones. If I was to use the speakers for casual listening I'd look hard at the Klipsch. If you want to dabble in recording too and/or want to do any critical listening, I think the best monitors you can afford would be ideal. The $150 M-Audio speakers I linked are outstanding for the price. I have very little desire to upgrade to better ones. Unless you have a acoustically perfect environment to listen in, then I'm not sure how much good a really high-end set of monitors would do you.

Edit:
the "good" ones: [Invalid or Expired Link Removed]
the "spacey"-looking ones: [Invalid or Expired Link Removed]

upcoming Eden monitors (how cool are these?!?!) [Invalid or Expired Link Removed]
 
#8
telekaster said:
yeah I've heard great things about the Klipsch 2.1 speakers. From what I've read, the older ones sound better than the new "modern/spacey" looking ones.
Click to expand...

I definitely have the "good" ones, as you called them. Don't know anything about the newer version (although your link refers to those as "currently unavailable" - ??? Maybe they're back to the "good ones"?).

Bonus: There's a headphone jack on one speaker. So if I sit down at the 'puter for any "critical" listening, mixing, etc., they double as a very nice headphone amp for my Senn HD 580's.
 
#9
bigbeefdog said:
I definitely have the "good" ones, as you called them. Don't know anything about the newer version (although your link refers to those as "currently unavailable" - ??? Maybe they're back to the "good ones"?).

Bonus: There's a headphone jack on one speaker. So if I sit down at the 'puter for any "critical" listening, mixing, etc., they double as a very nice headphone amp for my Senn HD 580's.
Click to expand...

I was shopping for speakers quite some time ago, so maybe Klipsch really is back to the "good ones".

As for the headphone output - that's a great point. Either set of speakers listed above has a headphone output. Now the decision is to go with some of the best 2.1 speakers out there (the Klipsch) for an all-around great stereo sound, or to go with some monitors which would most probably be more accurate, but will also probably lack the kind of low-end response that a good subwoofer can deliver.
 
#10
Thanks for the input y'all. I may see if my existing harmon/karden's will work on the new computer for a bit. That way I can shop around and actually "listen" to these options at local stores (if I can find them).

The majority of the time I'd be using the new speakers for listening to music, but I plan on doing some garageband recording.
 

Latest posts

Top Bottom
Back