inexpensive quality computer speakers?

Okay, I've had enough of listening to music through my crappy little harman/kardon PC speakers; I need to actually hear some bass so I can learn covers I'm gonna be playing. I just want a half-decent 2.1 system, no screwing around with placing five little speakers on stands in the middle of the floor for me, thanks... So, any recommendations? I remember my freshman-year roommate had these Monsoon flat-panels that sounded great, and when he cranked it, it was damn loud all the way at the other end of the hall...I believe those were a little pricey however. I'm poor and unemployed, so I can't afford much more than about fifty bucks. Ebay is a definite possibility however. So tell me what you use and why it rocks (or doesn't)!

 

Wow guys, fast replies, I like it!

I'll look into the Altecs, I believe I've heard good things about that brand from others too. Gaming isn't my thing (and when I do it, sound quality isn't my concern), but listening to music definitely is...might consider playing my bass through it occasionally too, but prerecorded music is my main purpose with this system.

That's a good suggestion, but it assumes I have a hifi stereo Sadly, my (subless) stereo is crappy too; certainly better than my PC speakers, but still weak and thin compared to most 2.1s I've heard.

And now the reason I returned to this thread so fast: I found a really cheap 2.1 rig made by Monsoon, model number MH-500. Has anyone ever used these? I know Monsoon is a good name, but do these speakers live up to the name? Why so cheap?

 

Wow, there are a LOT of Altec 2.1 systems... know any specific models that are good?? I see a lot of ATP3 rigs for cheap (but $20 shipping ), and an alluring 345 that's actually only a few miles away from me.

Important question: when a model is advertised as intended for gaming, is it going to be significantly different from a similarly-powered system intended for music or general use? Different voicing, or some such thing? Blah, too many choices.

 

bump...more suggestions?