[asodamiac]

Looking into a sound system right now. 2.1 should be more than enough. I don't game but I do listen to music all the time. I'm sure I won't be TOO critical, but I would love a rich, clean sound at decent price too! Any suggestions?

[plugh]

Altec Lansing MX5021

They do them in white too, and they sound great.

[slpdLoad]

I'll add these to the list of options to consider: Amazon.com: JBL Creature II 3-Piece Powered Speaker System: Electronics

[asodamiac]

Thanks guys.

Still looking for more options. While some people like the systems mentioned above, lots of people have gripes about them too. In any case, I can't be asking for too much since I'm on a budget, but I'd be willing to dish out a a few pretty pennies for great sound.

[lowdaksport]

anything from altec or klipsche(sp) is great. There are a couple budget logitech systems that are ok but very affordable.

[tooki]

Then I'd skip a 2.1 system (i.e. small satellites and a small woofer) and go for a stereo (2.0) system comprised of bookshelf-size full-range speakers.

A good way to get those is to look for so-called "studio monitors". You can get them for as little as about $100 (for one), though I'd recommend something in the $200-500 range.

You won't get the thumping (but dirty) bass of even a cheap 2.1 system's sub, but you'll get much more balanced sound for music enjoyment.

(Of course, if you're willing to spend more money, you can eat your cake and have it, too, by buying a 2.1 system that uses full-range speakers and a sub. But you won't find that in any computer store, you'll need to look for such a thing as a set of studio monitors.)

Another attractive alternative is to connect your Mac to a stereo with a proper receiver. If you have a Mac with digital output, you can even preserve top sound quality by going all-digital to the receiver.

tooki

[asodamiac]

That was some great advice tooki!

The stereo route seems like a cool idea, but it seems almost like a side hobby! I'm really looking for something a bit more compact. I don't normally play my music too loud, but I just want something that sounds clean. I have an old Altec Lansing ATP3 2.1 "hand-me-down" system that doesn't sound too bad but the bass no longer works (which makes the sound... sound really bad).

So anything that matches the sound of the Altec Lansing ATP3 (or slightly better) would be great.

tooki, for the M-audio system that you linked, will I need a new sound card? I own a 4th generation 15" powerbook.

[asodamiac]

BTW, the M-Audio LX4's are looking REAL nice right now. I might have to throw down an extra $100 bucks or so for these. So far all of the reviews have been stunning.

However, some do point out that the knobs and power switch if located on the back of the subwoofer. Since the subwoofer has to be under my desktop, this will become very inconvenient. Is there some kind of remote/receiver setup that I can add to the LX4 system?

Thanks.

Edit: Hmm, will I be need some kind of adaptors as well? I'm pretty sure my powerbook only has a 1/8" audio port or whatever you call it. I'm new to the speaker world

[spice003]

they are cheaper at B&H, i'm prob gonna pick those up, i'm looking the same kind of system. not too big but sounding good.

[asodamiac]

Spice, have you looked on Amazon? A lot cheaper there and they also offer free shipping!