Product Description

Built-in laptop speakers are pretty underwhelming and that's just a fact of life. Sure, they're good for a beep here and ping there, but if you've ever tried to share your favorite song, watch a movie, or make a multimedia presentation using your laptop speakers, you know exactly what is meant.Introducing the Altec Lansing XT1 system. In addition to its thin, innovative design with removable stands, the XT1 delivers superb sound and surprisingly deep bass thanks to four full-range neodymium micro drivers and bass enhancement technology.And just like your laptop, the XT1 knows how to travel light. Because it's USB-powered, there's no need for a power supply and no batteries to forget. Plug it into your USB port, press play, and you'll be listening to the best portable sound you've ever heard from a laptop. Pack it up in its deluxe carrying case, and you're ready for your next trip. ... Read more

Product Description

Stereo Foldable Behind-The-Neck Headset with Microphone Altec Lansing PC interactive headsets offer superb sound and rugged reliability. Whether you use them for PC interactive gaming, Internet voice chats, or speech recognition, these comfortable headsets provide crystal-clear sound. You can even use them with your telephone (adapter required). With stereo and mono options, we offer the right headset for your needs. Best of all, they’re comfortable and lightweight enough to wear every day. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Everyone loves Apple's portable iPod digital music player, and taking music with you on the road can be a life saver. But you probably don't always feel like putting your headphones on, especially once your back at your hotel room--or if you're organizing the garage or simply making dinner. Altec Lansing has created a headphones-free portable listening alternative: the inMotion powered speaker system, the first portable audio system designed expressly for use with iPods.

With its compact design, ultra-low battery power consumption, powerful class-D amplifier, patented MaxxBass technology, and even a built-in iPod dock, inMotion gives you performance you'd never have thought possible from a portable audio system. inMotion features four full-range, custom-designed neodymium micro drivers (two per speaker) for clear audio output. Using principles borrowed from the professional audio world, inMotion also delivers incredible, natural-sounding bass at frequencies far below those normally possible from small speakers.

No bigger than a trade paperback book, inMotion turns your iPod into a platform for convenient, headphone-free listening any time, any place. Its sound quality rivals that of systems many times its size. Sleek in design like the iPod itself, the inMotion system matches the iPod color scheme and features a built-in docking bay located between its speakers.

When docked inMotion's iPod bay, your music player can perform all the same data transfer and synchronization functions possible via Apple's standard, free-standing iPod dock. inMotion even takes advantage of iPod's alarm feature to create a fully-functioning alarm clock that plays wake-up music of your choice--perfect for travel or dormitory use.

Other convenient features include a minijack .125-inch headphone jack for private listening; an auxiliary stereo minijack input for hookup with other audio devices such as portable CD players, laptops, older iPods, and other MP3 players (an interconnect for this purpose is included), and built-in, flush-mounted power and volume controls.

The secret to inMotion's strikingly deep bass is a combination of specially designed neodymium micro drivers and MaxxBass technology. Founded on the principle of the "missing fundamental," MaxxBass generates a specific set of harmonics in response to bass input; the brain then interprets these harmonics as the intended bass sound. The technique is used in commercial audio systems for restaurants, high-end retail environments, clubs, and other venues where exceptional fidelity is essential, but where large speakers or subwoofers are impractical.

inMotion's Class D amplification provides maximum sound with minimum power consumption. Smaller, cooler, and more efficient than other amplifiers, inMotion's onboard amp can support up to 24 hours of continuous playback on just four AA batteries (not included). For desktop or other indoor use, inMotion also includes an AC power supply that recharges the iPod anytime it sits in the inMotion docking bay.

What's in the Box
inMotion sound system, a .125-inch minijack-to-minijack stereo analog audio interconnect, a protective case, 10 GB/15 GB iPod docking spacer, a docking connector travel cover, an iPod-charging AC power adapter, a user's manual, a quick-connect card, and warranty information. ... Read more

Features

• Dual 1-inch neodymium micro drivers per speaker deliver big sound in a small format
• MaxxBass technology creates a sense of rich, deep bass without the need for a subwoofer
• Lightweight and compact; includes AC power adapter and charges your iPod while docked
• Efficient, class-D amplifier offers up to 24 hours of continuous playback with 4 AA batteries (not included)

Reviews (35)

Pretty good product overall
Are you the frequent traveller who likes setting up a small stereo in your hotel room, and not relegate yourself to uncomfortable headphones???

With all the speakers out there, I would have to say that, with regards to the iPod, this pair of speakers is the best!

1. Portability

---- The speakers fold up real nicely and are VERY easy to pack in your carry-on..... I've often had trouble placing speakers in my bags, but these ones fold into a flat surface, which makes it very easy to stick into any little crevice

2. Loudness

---- Some small speakers never quite get loud enough --- while these speakers aren't like a THX sound auditorium, they do produce a pretty loud beat! You'll be putting the volume down more often then turning it up

3. Clarity

---- Like I said, this isn't the perfect clarity, but for the price, the speakers really get the job done....... Very clear and they sound great -- I highly recommend putting your iPod on VOCAL BOOSTER for great sound on this speaker set

4. iPod connection

---- Its so cool how the iPod connects to this thing.... Unless you have the 1/2nd generation iPod (which also works with this system), then the simply put your iPod into the dock and connect no other wires! it plays from there....... unless you use AA batteries, then you will have to plug the AC adapter into the speakers, which is fine, because then the iPod will charge as it sits in the dock

isn't that awesome! you can finally listen to your iPod continuously without having to worry that it'll run outta battery power

so overall, this is a device that you can't live without if you're an iPod lover

great sound, great portability, and great charging

BUY YOURS NOW!!!!

Almost Perfect.
I'm pretty happy with these speakers. Beautiful design, good price. I travel a lot for work; I also have a cabin in the country. This device is perfect for both situations. The adage "Less is more" has never been truer.
Five improvements/problems need to be addressed, however:

1. Needs an equalizer, however crude. It could be a multitrack, it could just be a bass vs. treble dial. You will notice a popping of the (otherwise very good) speakers when the production of music you're playing is "punchy" or puts the bass/bottom up-front. It's not acceptable to have to lower the volume of the speakers to get rid of said popping.
2. The speakers need to be designed to handle more bass/bottom. See item #1 above.
3. Would it kill Altec Lansing to add an LED/LCD counter to the volume control so you know where you are on the volume scale? I don't think so.
4. The DC (AA battery) function must be able to connect to the engaged iPod, so that the AA batteries can power the speakers AND iPod, when the iPod is low on charge.
5. If item #4 above isn't workable, Altec Lansing must find battery alternatives, like a 3v battery (such as is used to power 35mm cameras) that can do the job.

I am glad I bought these speakers. I am very happy with them, I really enjoy them, and I would recommend them to anybody. Cheers, Marit

Portability makes these a "must-have"
After weighing all the options for small speaker options for the iPod, I decided on this system. Why?
1) SIZE: Yes, other systems that are slightly bigger probably have better sound, but with the folding feature and carry bag that comes with this system, it's unbeatable.
2) PORTABILITY: Closely linked with size, but with other key factors: Battery use and lack of parts. It uses 4 AA batteries and if you don't take along the power cord, it's one small piece when folded. That's it. You're gone.
3) EASE OF USE: With the built in iPod dock that lets you charge while listening, it is just too easy. But that's not all! You can connect to your PC via the system's base and do all the normal functions. But wait, there's more! Since the iPod is docked it leaves the headphone jack open. If you happen to have the iTrip (or other FM transmitter), you can use this jack and transmit to other speaker options using FM. This is useful in situations where others might want to share your collection (e.g. the beach). Then you and others can listen.
4) THE COOL FACTOR: I'm not sure how to put a price on this one, but I paid $109 and the cool factor is probably worth $75 of that. It just looks cool, and since it is clearly made for the iPod, gawkers know it's probably the latest thing.
Since it's so easy and sounds so good, I've taken to moving the speakers to wherever I am in the house instead of having the home PC play through the home speakers throughout the whole house. We're not talking earth shattering sound here, but for one/two room or office use - these are excellent.

good sound could be great, plus one problem
i am replacing my cambridge speakers with this little compact unit. the inmotion sounds adequate for its size but if you're a bass junkie like me you have to have more bass. just to experiment i plugged the jack from the (cambridge) sub into the headphone jack of the ipod and voila, nice tight bass, controlled by the ipod volume, and speaker volume controlled by the inmotion panel. if you have a small sub already,you're set, otherwise add the price of a computer size sub to use with this set. i set the ipod to "treble boost" since i have the sub hooked up. the sound is wonderfully rich and you won't complain because you have highs and lows, perfect for the office!
just remember when travelling around with it, you're back to so so sound, but for something this size, it's great.

here is the downside i've found so far. plugging into the back dock, the ipod says "do not disconnect" and the ipod never mounts.
i'm using a windows machine configured to work with mac ipods
and the ipod works when plugged directly with the computer but
via the inmotion it just doesn't work. hoping to get help on this. even if i can't get it to work that way i'll still keep the "inmotion".

Great ones here
I bought these speakers thinking "oh, i'll have these for fun" but these speakers sound really good. this isn't a long review. but the iPod charges whenyou have it plugged in. I havn't tried it with batteries yet. but this is a very good product! ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Amp up the audio from your digital audio player or gaming console with the 3-piece Altec Lansing FX6021 speaker system. Using Altec Lansing's proprietary InConcert technology, sound is directed straight ahead and to the sides, not up and down as you'll find with other 3-piece speaker systems. The FX6021 has two ultra-slim satellites with a flat profile that feature a total of twelve 1-inch neodymium micro drivers, with each pair of micro drivers powered by its own discrete amplifier. Rattle the room with low frequency bass from a 6.5-inch ported subwoofer set in a low-resonance wooden cabinet. The satellite speakers offer 12.5 watts of power apiece while the subwoofer pumps out 50 watts--for a 75-watt total.

Altec LansingÕs InConcert uses three separate amplifiers to power a total of 12 high-performance, full-range micro drivers. A frequency filtering system beams intense, concentrated audio straight out. You'll get sound that is pure, clean, and uncluttered by reflections from the ceiling or floor. Whether youÕre sitting in front of the speakers or several feet away, youÕll hear every nuance of sound with virtually no volume drop off.

The FX6021 comes with wireless remote and a wired control pod, both of which can control bass, treble and master volume. With the auxiliary input jack, you can connect to two different audio sources (such as your PC and an MP3 jukebox) at the same time. It also features a headphone jack for private listening.

What's in the Box
This package contains 2 satellites (with bases), 1 subwoofer, wired controller, wireless remote, 3.5mm audio cable, and printed manual. ... Read more

Features

• Wireless Remote and Control Pod
• Power and Volume Bass, Treble and Standby
• Headphone Jack
• 105 db SPL
• 75 Watts RMS Total System Power

Reviews (6)

Astounding for the Price
I bought these speakers because I wanted something to hang on the wall and be invisible in my living room. In my family room I have a stereo system that costs nearly $5000. I was astounded at how close the sound of these amplified speakers comes to my high end system, at least in the all important midrange and treble.

The mid range and the treble (produced by the sattelites) is nearly world class. Sweet and clear, very musical and non fatiguing but with pleny of detail. For speakers hanging on the wall they image very well too. I would guess you would need to spend 5-10X the price of these to get performance to match this.

Since for your $200 you are getting both speakers and an amplifier (!!), you just need to hook them up to a decent CD, MP3 player or DVD player and have a very nice system for only around $300. Or make your computer really sing by using these instead of whatever junk it shipped with.

As others have mentioned the woofer on this system is only adequate. Keep in mind you can adjust the bass by moving it toward or away from walls and corners. If it sounds boomy, move it away from the wall (extension cables for the speakers are included so you can move them pretty far away from the woofer). The bass is OK and does have a "one-note" quality to it, but for $200 for amplified speakers, are you kidding - the overall sound from these is amazing, even at several times the price.

The speaker connections to the woofer are proprietary so you cannot upgrade the woofer. I hope Altec Lansing considers selling the sattelites with a more worthy woofer or selling the sattelites separately to pair with a woofer of your choice. The sattelites are really something speacial - I would say revolutionary at this price point - and deserve to be marketed in as many ways possible.

If your definition of good sound is overexaggerated, teeth jarring bass, you should probably look elsewhere. If you are looking for clear, sweet, balanced, accurate music, pair these with a $100 CD player and you have a system that rivals some costing several thousand dollars. Very highly recommended.

a few hitches in an otherwise sonically astounding system
Advice for previous reviewer:
If you get a rattling in the sub, the troubleshooting guidebook says one of the screws is probably loose on the back --- just tighten it up.

For everyone:
You can plug three different sound sources into this unit easily --- dvd/ps2 rca stereo input, computer single line input, and an auxillary input on the control pod for your tape player/mp3 player/ etc.

There is some static in the gaps of music (which I have come to expect from speakers at the volume I use them). Other than that, the sound is loud - crisp and undistorted even at ear shattering volumes.

Electronic/percussion/r&b/beat driven --- astounding.
Ambient -- gets me high.
Piano -- sounds right in front of you save for slight static in the gaps.
Rock/Pop/Jazz -- clear, all instruments are easily differentiated.
Spoken -- no distortion, some static.
Strings -- powerfully intense, some static in the gaps.

Note -- these speakers are very responsive to your software equalizer and to the control pod's bass/treble levels. What sounds good for one CD won't sound as good on the next. For someone like myself that listens to music from dawn til' dusk and back again, I love getting the feel for each instrument in a mix and trying to adjust the levels accordingly. For others, it might be a deterrence.

PS - REMOTE CONTROL!

cool looking and cool sounding
I am very happy with the sound and the looks of the system. The remote control can come in very handy. You can also fine tune the system using both the remote and the wired controls. I have listened to many different types of music on this system and find that it performs very well across the board. Combine the looks with the sound and you have a very nice computer sound system.

Very big BOOOM!
Sound is too "boomy", it is not sound quality item. If you need it LOUD and dirty, it is Ok, if you need it PRECISE it is not it exactly. For $200 you can get pro studio monitors. The bass response may be cleaner, but the satellites sonically quite good. I listen to the symphonic, classical music mostly and it reproduces it with quality. I would like to see more even and flat friquency respronce.

is it really worh it?
last year, i was using the altec lansing 641... until the bass stopped working on it. the company has been very supportive and gave me the new fx-6021.
the satellites sounds excellent... and the bass is "acceptable".

but recently... my bass started rattling... there must be some loose items in there... the noise can't be really be noticed unless it exceeds approximately 2/5 of its full capability...
once the speakrs and placed lying sideways... i found the rattling noice reduced.

the design of the satellites are awesome... while the bass looks somewhat dull... i would have to say that this speaker system is a bit overpriced for the kind of quality you get from these speakers

over all, i like this system.. it's just that rattling noise.. it's so annoying~ (i've never read of other cases of rattling for this item from other reviews) ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The 3-piece Altec Lansing MX5021 delivers full, accurate, THX-certified sound, whether it be a sophisticated cello suite or intense PC game action. Two midrange drivers in each satellite produce extremely responsive sound, while the horn-loaded tweeter offers extra-wide dispersion of those crystal-clear highs. With its auxiliary input jack, you can connect to two different audio sources (such as a CD player and an MP3 jukebox) simultaneously. It has 90 watts of total power (50 watts from the subwoofer and 20 watts from each satellite).

This set also features a control pod for fingertip management on your desktop of bass, treble, and master volume as well as a wireless remote control, a headphone jack for private listening, easy-to-connect color-coded cables, and shielded satellites for use near video monitors.

What's in the Box
Altec Lansing MX5021 package contains 1 subwoofer, 2 satellites, wired controller, wireless remote, 2 speaker wires, console gaming Y adapter, and 3.5 mm stereo audio cable. ... Read more

Features

• 3-piece speaker system for PCs, gaming consoles, portable DVD players, and more
• THX-certified cinema-quality sound
• 1 subwoofer (50 watts) and 2 satellites (20 watts each)
• Control pod for adjusting volume, bass, and treble on your desktop
• Headphone jack

Reviews (8)

Dude, get these!
Ok, I never thought I would write this about computer speakers.. If you dont have a woop (...) set of computer speakers, then buy these.. if you have to wonder if you do.. then you dont. If you have these Altecs you will understand that... Now down to the details, amazon.com got these to me ASAP and for free.. thanks amazon. Next, let me tell you that my first pair came from circuit city but i paid about fifty clams more:( but i have now purchased 5 yes 5 more pair from amazon. I gave them to a few emplyees as a gift. and another pair for my home computer. Dont sit too close to these and crank them as hard as they will go. They can play clean and undistorted to a higher level than your ears can bear. I first opened them, disappointed to see MADE IN CHINA after about 3 minutes of listening I have changed my opinion of MADE IN CHINA. Stop reading this and buy a pair. (...) gosh my ears are ringing..

Start ripping at higher bit rates...
Just got these speakers from Amazon and I have to say, "Wow!" I'm a music lover/stereophile who is picky about sound quality. These speakers replaced an aging set of Altec Lansing ACS53 speakers from the mid 90's. I used to be a snob, doubting that a set of computer speakers could measure up to the sound I got out of my high-end home system. Boy, was I wrong. I base this review on how it sounds with music, everything from classical, piano, vocals to rap and techno. I didn't try it with movies or games... they're not my thing on my computer.

The difference between the old and the new speakers is night and day. The highs and the mids are crystal clear without harshness, buzziness or coloration. The lows are powerful, punchy and tight, not boomy or muddled. Amazing 2.1 sound quality. Not nearly up to par with the high end rig that I have in the living room. But for a small fraction of the price, to even be mentioned in the same sentence is truly amazing. Plus, I can enjoy them while working on my computer instead of having to take time out to enjoy the home rig.

I was debating between these and the the Klipsch ProMedia GMX A-2.1. Though I can't comment about the Klipsch speakers, I have to say that, if you value music, for the price you can't go wrong with these Altec Lansings. Great for the computer/music lover or iPod user.

Three warnings:
1. The satellites are tippy and may fall forward if not secured.
2. You will want to start ripping songs at higher bit rates. Lower bit rates won't do them justice. You'll be able to hear the difference. Crappy recordings will sound like crap. High quality will sound like high quality.
3. Your neighbors will hate you from all the loud music coming from your place.

Good luck and enjoy.

Altec Lansing still the best
Before buying these speakers I read just about every review on every speaker on Amazon. You have to be very skeptical about reviews because some are shills (from the competing manufacturers). My first set of Altec Lansing speakers for my home stereo system I bought 14 years ago with 15" subwoofers. I haven't purchased a pair of Altec Lansing since so I wasn't sure if they retained their standard of perfection. But I can see that my worries were unfounded. The sound is absolutely crisp and as clear as you'll get for computer speakers. I listen to everything from classical to hard rock to Ottmar Leibert (except rap, which I refuse to de-genius myself by doing) and the sound quality is consistent. I was considering Klipsch speakers, but after hearing them at the store there was no doubt that Altec Lansing was the clear winner for my ear.

Very nice!
My search for quality computer speakers for my Mac seems to be over! These guys decently handle anything I throw at them, from Rock to Jazz, Hip-Hop to New Age. With the equalizer in iTunes (or your jukebox program of choice), I can tweak the sound even more beyond the included control box if I want to achieve truly ear-pleasing results. There's some hiss, of course, but it is not really noticeable when playing music and the control pod allows you to easily turn off the speakers when you desire absolute silence.

The speakers look fantastic and the control pod is really well designed. Of note is that these speakers are WALL MOUNTABLE (not noted in the specs above), and come with the brackets to do so, in addition to some standard screw threads on back that look like they can be used with your own backets or stands if you so desire :)

Before buying these speakers, I have a pair of Harman-Kardon SoundSticks, which sounded great but failed far too quickly. I then bought some JBL Creature II's, but was dissatisfied with the amount of hissing they produced and the overall sound quality. I'd been looking at all of Klipsch's speakers before buying these, but I was simply not happy with value for the money or their lack of design.

For the money, these speakers struck a great compromise between all the features I was looking for. Perhaps the best news for me was that the speaker connections use standard speaker wire (bare wire, no connectors), which allows for custom placement if you wish.

About the only complaint I have is that there's no Mute button; you have to turn the speakers off temporarily instead. Also, not really a complaint, but the Auxiliary input on the control pod mixes any audio input with the sound from the computer input, rather than cutting off the computer sound.

Husband loved them
I bought these for my husband to go with his new Sony media center computer and we love them! We record our favorite TV programs to replay and watch. The THX feature makes it sound like we are in a theater. We also don't have to turn the volume way up (although you can) to get big sound. Plus the high gloss finish looks beautiful. ... Read more

Features

• Side-Firing Dipole Surround technology
• Dual Mode Selector 6-Channel Surround Mode and2/4 Channel Mode
• Multiple Input Options
• 80 Watts RMS Total Coninueous Power
• Shielded satellites

Product Description

Altec Lansing (VS2120) 2 piece Satellite PC Speake ... Read more

Features

• High-quality stereo specially engineered drivers housed in a ported enclosure deliver a full spectrum of pure, distinct sound
• Distinctive styling looks great next to your flat panel monitor or anywhere in your home
• Easy setup--you're up and running in seconds
• Built-in controls include power on/off, volume, and tone
• Headphone jack for private listening

Product Description

When it comes to awesome performance in a compact design, few speaker systems compare to the VS4121. Youâve got to hear it to believe it. ... Read more

Features

• Serious Power
• Deep Bass subwoofer
• Crisp high end specially engineered micro drivers
• Exceptional Sound Dispersion from down-firing midrange driver
• Low-Profile Design

Product Description

Enhanced, Portable SoundFor MP3, CD, And Other Portable Audio Players You've got a CD player, an MP3 player, and a portable DVD player, but until now you were the only one listening. Introducing the Altec Lansing inMotion iM4 portable audio system. This tiny, portable, battery-operated stereo system lets you share the sounds at home, at the beach, on the go... where ever. A highly efficient Class D amplifier powers four full-range micro drivers to deliver a full spectrum of pure, distinct sound, while the revolutionary MaxxBass™ technology allows listeners to enjoy deep bass without lugging around a subwoofer. Place your small portable audio device on the rubberized base, plug in the retractable audio cable, and fire up your system. It' s great sound that everyone can enjoy. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Altec Lansing IM4 or IM2?
A very good audio system, but sounds exactly the same as the previous IM2 which you can have for half the price.
I have been all my life in HI-FI, and honestly believe I can easily distinguish the characteristic sound of any of these kind of systems. Nevertheless, to me, IM2 and IM4 really sound exactly the same. So, before buying an IM4, give a try to IM2s or (if you believe me) just look for IM2s'offers at Amzon or elsewhere (they are still very popular systems).

As said above, you will find IM2s for HALF the price of IM4s.
... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Altec Lansing's 6-piece VS3151 offers exceptional 5.1-channel audio for your home theater system at an affordable price. It incorporates Altec Lansing's advanced Powered Audio technology that eliminates the need for an external amplifier, making it the perfect fit for PCs, gaming systems, portable CD player, and MP3 jukeboxes. You can also use it to pump out earth-shattering sound effects from DVDs played through a 5.1-channel compatible home theater receiver or PC sound card.

The VS3151's six speakers produce vivid and panoramic sound. The center channel reproduces lifelike dialogue while four satellites ensure you hear even the most subtle detail. It features four desktop satellites, full-range center speaker, and a 5.25-inch subwoofer. Packing a Sound Pressure Level (SPL) rating of 103 dB, the VS3151 includes a dual-mode (6-channel surround or 2/4 channel stereo) selector, and a convenient control pod that also includes a headphone jack.

What's in the Box
This package contains 5 satellite speakers, 1 subwoofer, control pod, and printed user guide and quick connect card. ... Read more

Features

• Impressive power thrusts you into the gaming and movie experience!
• Use the 6-Channel Surround Mode with a 6-channel sound card to thrill your senses with the vivid, panoramic experience of true surround sound
• Use the 2/4 Channel Mode to enjoy immersive six-speaker sound from any source ¿ CD players, MP3 players, or your standard 2 or 4-channel sound card
• Built-in RCA inputs for your TV or video gaming system
• 50 Watts total system power

Product Description

Altec Lansing (MX5021WHT) 2.1 White Speaker System ... Read more

Features

• THX certified, enjoy cinema-quality sound
• Wireless remote and wired control pod
• Connect two different audio sources with auxiliary input jack
• Headphone jack for private listening
• 90 watts of total power

Product Description

Altec Lansing (MX502) 2pc Spk Sys w/Maxx Bass-Ster ... Read more

Features

• MaxxBass technology creates deep bass without a subwoofer
• 12 watts RMS total continuous power
• Dual inputs allow connection to a second audio player
• Headphone jack for private listening
• Color-coded cables for easy installation

Product Description

Whether you use them for PC interactive gaming, Internet voice chats, or speech recognition, these comfortable headsets provide crystal-clear sound. ... Read more

Features

• SRS 3-D audio technology brings games alive
• High performance 40mm neodymium drivers
• Closed ear cup design maximizes audio quality
• Noise-rejecting microphone keeps your voice crisp and clear
• Included in-line multi-function controller

Amazon.com Product Description

Altec Lansing's 4100 4-channel sound system provides superb audio performance with a minimum of wasted space. Each super-thin satellite contains two neodymium micro drivers for excellent high-frequency response. Dual 5.25-inch woofers are housed in a solid wood cabinet for deep, powerful base without coloring.

The 4100 system pushes 70 watts RMS for constant, excellent sound that won't leave you wanting at high volume. Dual mode selector lets you switch between 4-channel Game mode and Music+ mode for audio tailored to your listening needs. ... Read more

Features

• Compact 4-channel speaker system with subwoofer
• 140 watts total, 70 watts RMS power
• Dual-mode selector optimizes speakers for games or music
• Frequency response of 30 Hz to 20 kHz
• Connects to any audio device with a standard headphone jack

Reviews (36)

Tim Robertson MyMac.com Review
My first impression upon seeing the 2100 series speaker from Altec Lansing was "sweet!" Yes, I like the look of these speakers, but looks are but one of the many important factors into making your decision on what speakers to buy.

Sounds quality, I hope, is the number one factor. In that regard, the 2100's sound great. While not as loud as the ... Monsoon PlanarMedia 9 speakers, they do have about the same clarity of sound. That is to say, very good in both audio reproduction and imaging.

The 2100 series are a three-piece speaker system, consisting of two satellite speakers, and one powered sub-woofer. Like most other computer speaker systems, this one also has a remote control (wired) that has a Mute button, as well as two volume controls. Nice, but what I especially enjoyed was the metal stand the remote control rests on. This may seem a small thing, but not after you have had to deal with the remotes on most other computer speakers, which usually lay on the desk. The remote stand shows forethought on Altec Lansing's part.

The satellite speakers are very small, half the size of the Monsoon speakers reviewed a few weeks ago. If you have a cluttered desk, and a pair of large flat-panel speakers would have a hard time finding a home on your desk, take a look at these. Each speaker is set into a metal stand, making them harder to accidentally move. Even with the metal stand, the speakers are still tiny.

They say good things come in small packages. This is proven true here, as I was really impressed with the sound quality of the two desktop speakers. The sub-woofer is equally great sounding, but is anything but small.

The sub-woofer sports not one, but two 4" speakers, which do a respectable job of reproducing low base sounds. The sub is made from sturdy, well-crafted wood. They are also ported, meaning better bass response.

Obviously, ... speakers are not going to rival a home entertainment system in pure volume, clarity or base, but the sound level the average computer user will listen to the 2100's at will not be disappointed.

Specs:
Power: 35W RMS ‹ 50 WATTS total peek power. (Look for distortion when pushing anything close to their peek.)
Front Speakers: 5.5W/Channel at 4 ohms.
Subwoofer: 17.5W at 4 ohms.

Overall impression: I like these speakers! If I were doing a head-to-head comparison with the aforementioned Monsoon's, I would have to give the Monsoon speakers a slight edge in sound quality. In workmanship, the winner would be the Altec Lansing 2100.

A good value speaker that sounds more expensive than they are. A true audiophile will want to look elsewhere, and spend more money. For the average computer user who wants better sound than the built-in speakers on your computer, these will make you smile.

MacMice Rating: 4 out of 5

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Tim Robertson

Not Designed With Me In Mind
So, first, let me get this out of the way: These speakers sound great. The bass is powerful and punchy while the small and very attractive speakers deliver a crisp high end. Mid-range does suffer a bit in larger spaces, but probably only to the very discerning listener. I replaced my clunky Yamaha YST-MS50 system with this one and, as far as the sound goes, I find the 2100's to be very comparable.

OK, so why give it 2 stars? Well, it has everything to do with the design of these things. Altec Lansing has successfully taken a potentially great product and ruined it with terrible controls. The remote, in my opinion, is completely useless. It features a power button and two volume buttons. Now, assuming you have the speakers plugged into the same outlet strip as your computer, most users will shut the speaker system down with the computer system. This makes sense to me. The problem is that whenever you bring power back to the system, you must manually turn on the power button on the remote and re-adjust the volume to a normal level. The default for this system is for it to be OFF and at VERY low volume. The only workaround to this is to keep the speakers powered on all the time. But this, to me, makes very little sense. When I turn my computer on, I expect to hear sound. Well, you don't with the 2100's.

My second gripe has to do with the fact that this system has no headphone jack. This is a major inconvenience when using the computer late at night.

My third gripe has to do with the fact that you have no idea what volume you are listening to. The remote, as I said, features two volume buttons but with no visual display telling you where you are at. This just goes against my natural tendency to want to know what volume I am listening to relative to the system's capabilities.

My last gripe has to do with the design of the speakers. I have no complaint with the subwoofer as it is very slim, compact, and well protected. However, the satellites have fully exposed speaker cones that are barely protected by only a thin vertical strip of metal. I had to move these speakers well above ear-level in order to keep them away from the stray hands of my young child.

So, overall, the system is great sounding, attractive, and completely user-unfriendly. Just not enough, in my opinion.....

amazing speakers....
Buy this and u will love it......no more words.

GREAT SPEAKERS
These speakers work amazingly if you know a fair amount about a computer if you are to use them with a computer. Get the newest drivers for your computer, use windows media player (or any player with an equalizer). Have your system volume level all the way up, and control the sound with the remote included with the speakers. Turn the treble way up, and you can decide how you like the bass, whether loud and deep, or low and quieter. Make sure you put the subwoofer in a place next to a wall, corner, or any solid object to help reflect the sound back towards you. Xbox utilizes these speakers quite effectively also.

Good Speakers
These speakers are definetly the best speakers for under $100 and maybe even better than many that are over $100. The only thing is if you are using windows media player you will have to make some equilizer adjusments but after that they sound great, with nice deep bass and good treble ... Read more

Product Description

Altec Lansing (XA3051) 5.1 Gaming Speakers ... Read more

Features

• 6-Speaker Dolby SurroundPro Logic
• Deep-Bass, Ported Subwoofer
• Dual Mode Selector, 6 speaker surround mode or Stero Mode
• Full-Function Wired Digital Controller
• Connects to TV, video gaming system, DVD player and VCR

Features

• 6-piece speaker system delivers rich surround sound to movies, games, or music
• Long-throw subwoofer in ported wooden cabinet provides deep, powerful bass
• Dual mode selector with 6-channel surround mode and 2/4 channel mode
• Feature-loaded control pod manages power and volume
• 50 watts total power (5 watts x 4, plus 10-watt center speaker and 20-watt subwoofer)

Amazon.com Product Description

Whether you're listening to music, playing games or watching movies, the Altec Lansing 2.1-channel VS2121 system will bring your entertainment to life--without hogging space or breaking your budget. The system produces 6 watts per channel for each of its 2 satellite speakers with an impressive 16 watts channeled to the subwoofer.

Even the subwoofer is compact, with a 4-inch woofer and ported (bass-reflex) enclosure. As such, it won't produce deep bass: at a deep but not earth-shaking 40 Hz, its output is 10 dB quieter than it is at, say, 150 Hz (the "mid-bass" region). But it should provide the satellite speakers with a greater sense of musical fullness and body than they'd have otherwise.

Altec Lansing's SFX (Sound Field Xpander) Technology widens the stereo image for a bigger sound at the touch of a button (does not work when using headphones). Plus, the speakers' flat-panel design and metallic look make them ideal companions to your flat-panel monitor.

Arrange the satellite speakers to suit your listening tastes--anywhere from right next to your monitor to as far apart as the speaker cords allow. Use the key hole on the back of each speaker to mount them on the wall. For optimum sound, place the speakers at or slightly above ear level.

All stereo-encoded information is heard through the satellite speakers, which are magnetically shielded for distortion-free placement near your TV or monitor. The subwoofer contains no stereo imaging, as its sound is non-directional. As a result, the subwoofer doesn't have to be placed in any particular relationship to the satellites. However, placing the subwoofer on the floor close to a wall or room corner should provide better bass efficiency and optimum sound.

The subwoofer is not magnetically shielded, so be sure to keep it at least 2 feet from TVs, computer monitors, computer hard drives, or any other magnetic media (e.g. floppy disks, Zip disks, computer or audio tapes, etc.).

What's in the Box
Two speakers, 1 subwoofer, a user's manual, a quick-connect card (may be located on internal box flaps), and warranty/registration information. ... Read more

Features

• Compact 2.1 PC speaker system with stereo speakers and a powered, front-firing, long-throw 4-inch subwoofer in a ported, wooden cabinet
• SFX (Sound Field Xpander) Technology widens the stereo image at the touch of a button
• 6 watts x 2, plus 16 watts for the subwoofer; built-in controls include power on/off, volume, and the SFX switch
• Wall-mountable speakers broaden placement options; stereo headphone jack affords private listening
• Shielded satellites for distortion-free use near video monitors or TVs