What parts do I need to make a gaming computer?

best 5.1 speaker system 2012 image

manofthelo

I can't decide if I want an Intel-i7 or a AMD Phenom II processor
and if I got all of the parts needed, how would I assemble them?
Please be as detailed as possible, thanks!!

Answer
1. Whats your budget?
2. What games do you want to play?
3. Do you want the option for future upgrades?
4. Do you need peripherals if so which ones
5. Is there anything else you want to do with the computer (video editing etc)



Some general suggestions for PC's at various price points

$1500 AMD Gaming System:

CPU: AMD Phenom X3 720 â $225
Motherboard: G-B MA78G-DS3HP â $144
RAM: 4GB Kit(2x2G)DDR2 1066 Team-Xtreem Dark â $85
HDD: Seagate (make sure its 7200.12) 500GB SATA â $86
GPU: Inno3D GTX260+ â $309
Case: Thermaltake V9 â $111
PSU: Antec Earthwatts 500W â $129
Optical Drive: Pioneer 216 â $31
Monitor: BenQ E2200HD 21.5" â $238
Speakers: Logitech LS21 2.1 â $32
K/B: Microsoft Curve 2000 â $19
Mouse: Logitech MX518 â $39

Total: $1462

$1600 Bang For Buck All-Rounder System
CPU: AMD PhenomII x3 720 $250
Motherboard: Gigabyte MA78G-DS3HP $144
RAM: 2 x 2GB Kingston DDR2-1066 $105
HDD: Western Digital 640GB 16MB SATAII $99
GPU: 512MB Generic HD4870 $339
Case: Antec NSK6580 $145
PSU: With Case
Optical Drive: Pioneer 216 SATA $31
Monitor: 22" BENQ E2200HD $242
Speakers: Logitech X230 2.1 $67
K/B & Mouse: Logitech 350 $27
O/S: Vista Home Premium 64bit $183

Total: $1632


$1750 Phenom2 System:
CPU: PhenomII 940 3GHz $339
Motherboard: MA790GP-DS4H $211 (790GX/SB750)
RAM: 4GB DDR2 1066 (kingston HyperX) $119
HDD: Western Digital 640GB 16MB SATAII $97
GPU: 1GB 4890 $382
Case: Antec Designer with Earthwatts 500 PSU $165
Optical Drive: Pioneer 216BK $31
Monitor: 22" BenQ E2200HD $238
Speakers: Logitech X530 $80
K/B & Mouse: Logitech Cordless Desktop 660 $29

Total: $1688

$2000 System:
CPU: Intel E8400 S775 $207
Motherboard: Gigabyte P45-DS3 $143
RAM: 2 x 2GB G.Skill DDR2-800 $96
HDD: 2x Western Digital 640GB 16MB SATAII $194
GPU: 1GB 4890 $382
Case: Coolermaster RC-690 $95
PSU: Corsair HX-620 620W $149
Optical Drive: ASUS 20x BLT-2014 Lightscribe SATA $33
CPU HSF: Noctua NH-U12P Performance CPU Cooler $79
Monitor: 22" BenQ E2200HD $238
Speakers: Logitech G51 5.1 $200
Keyboard Logitech G15 $107
Mouse Logitech G7 $89

Total: $2012

$2500 System:
CPU: Core i7 920 $450
Motherboard: Asus P6T $369
RAM: 6GB (3 x 2GB) Kingston DDR3-1333 $149
HDD: 2 x Western Digital 640GB 16MB SATAII $194
GPU: 1GB GTX 285 $522
Case: Coolermaster RC-690 $95
PSU: Corsair HX-620 620W $146
Optical Drive: ASUS 20x BLT-2014 Lightscribe SATA $33
Monitor: 22" BenQ E2200HD $238
Speakers: Logitech G51 5.1 $200
Keyboard Logitech G15 $107
Mouse Logitech G7 $89

Total: $2592

Personally i'd go with an amd system it'll probably cost less and still give you amazing performance. If you don't feel confident in assembling computers then go a local PC shop and see if they'll put it together for you. It'll probably cost about $70 depending on where you live.

Can any German speaker out there translate this German text into English?

Q. Klassische 2.1-Lautsprecher sind nach wie vor gefragt und gehören in Zeiten von 5.1- oder 7.1-Surroundanlagen noch lange nicht zum alten Eisen. Diesen Trend verfolgt auch Soundkarten- und Lautsprecherspezialist Creative weiter und bietet ab Oktober mit dem Creative T6 Series II ein Boxenset mit zwei kabellosen Satelliten und einem leistungsstarken Subwoofer an. Auf der IFA werden die "Pure Wireless"-Lautsprecher der zweiten Generation erstmals vom 31. August bis 05. September 2012 der breiten Ãffentlichkeit in Halle 17 am Stand 109 vorgestellt. Direkter Vorgänger dürfte das Creative Zii Sound T6 sein, das noch zum gleichen Preis angeboten wird.

Die Bedienung erfolgt wahlweise per kabelgebundenem Regler oder bequem über die mitgelieferte Infrarot-Fernbedienung. Für PCs oder Notebooks ohne Bluetooth packt Creative direkt einen passenden Bluetooth-USB-Transmitter mit ins Lautsprecherpaket. Das Creative T6 Series II soll ab Oktober 2012 zu einem UVP von rund 400 Euro im Handel erscheinen.

Answer
Classic 2.1-speakers are still in demand and don't belong in times of 5.1 or 7.1 surround systems to the scrap heap. This trend also pursuies further sound card and speaker specialist Creativer and offers from October with the Creative T6 Series II a box set with two wireless satellites and a powerful subwoofer. At IFA, the "Pure Wireless" speakers of the second generation was first introduced from 31st August to 05 September 2012 to the general public in Hall 17 at Booth 109. Direct predecessor the Creative Zii Sound might be T6, which will be offered at the same price.

The operation takes place either via wired controllers or easily via the included infrared remote control. For PCs and notebooks without Bluetooth, Creative packs directly a suitable Bluetooth USB transmitter into the speaker package. The Creative T6 Series II shall appear on the market in October 2012 at an recommended retail price of about 400 Euro.

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What are the components of a speaker system?

best speaker system music image

tom267

I know you need the speakers, but what else do i need to create a wireless speaker system for a patio that gets music from an iPod or the radio. (Ex: Receiver, Remote, Amplifier, etc.)

Answer
Aside from an enclosure, the speaker(s) and a cross over you will need some form of amplification to get the signal from the receiver. Once you have sorted out the wireless component (ie. the sending and receiving) try to find either a powered speaker or source a small audio amplification kit (not too hard to build) from E-bay.
Keep in mind, you will need to provide some form of power to this unit.

Good luck

Can a Bose speaker system with Base box and speaker has amplifier?

7sunny16

I want to buy a DVD player which I can use for playing music with BOSE speaker system with Base box, which is usually used for attaching with lap tops. Is it possible? Can i play movies from DVD player on to my lap top?

Answer
Most modern laptops have a DVD drive ... why not just play directly, and output audio from the laptop to Bose?

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Does computer speakers that use a usb still use the onboard sound card?

best 3 piece speaker system image

Caleb H

I want to get the Bose® - Companion® 5 Multimedia Speaker System (3-Piece), but it uses a usb to hook it up to the computer and I want to get the Asus crosshair IV extreme when it comes out and it has a creative XFI onboard sound chip. I want to know if I go through a usb that it will still be using the sound chip.

Answer
Well,
Unfortunately, the way the Companion 5 works, it takes the raw digital signal thru your USB connection.... then its internal DAC takes over all the processing. So no, your soundcard will not be active.

Currently, I got a set of Bose Companion 5 speakers from BestBuy for about $500.
I have it hooked up to my HP Slimline HTPC: s3530f with Usb and another set of speakers thru onboard soundcard by realtek via headphone Jack...
I've always thought that ithe onboard soundcard does a decent job... as when I compare it's headphone out to its SPDIF out to my Pioneer receiver then out from receiver to Headphone out again... they are comparable in quality... It's hard to tell the difference really.

I then hooked up my new Companion 5 via USB. I have my Audioengine A2 powered speakers hooked up to the headphone out. The Audioengine A2 is a 2.0 system with a sub-out... so i have it also hooked up to my Yamaha 8:subwoofer.

I did a comparison.

I listened to the Companion 5's throroughly first ... they sound good - sorta bright, but everything sounds decent. The only thing that I noticed is that the high mids are boosted. I was surprised how clear the highs are - the highs and mids do sound pretty sharp to the ears when turned up loud.
The usb works flawlessly and things sound clear.
Then I used my sound control settings in control panel, and switched between my Audioengine setup and the Bose to compare different songs - different genres etc...

I can just say that jumping back and forth, shows the Audioengine A2's strengths, and Bose's weaknesses... Main thing: the vocals from the A2 is warm and chesty* - whereas the Bose's is synthetic and thin* - the voices have no body.. but has more sharper sounds to it. I can listen to the A2's loud - near max without any issues... but when I turn the Bose up, they hurt my ears - as the high-mids become SHRILL!@

The A2's with my Yamaha sub is better hands down. The A2's were $200. The Yamaha sub was a gift from my buddy - he didn't need it anymore.

Umm... I think I'm gonna return the Bose --- I would rather spend the $500 on something else:)

With a quality soundcard - the A2's would sound even better.
Audioengine also makes a larger A5 - as an option if you are interested.

Go ahead - I'd suggest trying them both... Both Audioengine and Bose gives a "no questions asked" 30day return policy*- try it... $500 investment is a fair bit of money [especially these days]... compare them to a speaker that is less than half the price - but you'd have to connect a sub to them - as it will be an unfair comparo without the sub. You may like the Bose more - it's possible, but really, at least compare - as only a comparison will give you a good idea on how an AUDIO product performs.

You see, even I - when listening to the Bose Companion 5 or the Bose musicMonitors by themselves at the Apple store or Best buy... all the accoustic properties are connected to the room accoustics: the environment matters. Bring both home, and the variable is taken out right away. Then you can compare all you want - with your music, at the comfort of your own home.
Also, audio is like colour. If I asked you to remember a colour, then go and pick that colour from a bunch of chips... at the hardware store, it'll be hard to be accurate- especially when the lighting is different [maybe your mood is even different -which changes your perception]. Like colour, sound is also a hard thing to memorize, and recall accurately.
So only a comparison - side by side will give you a good idea on which is "better" for you / suits your taste better. Listen to both and or another brand of interest like the Klipsch promedias... and this will help you decide if your onboard soundcard or the Asus Crosshair iv exteme would be a better bet -vs- usb audio to the Bose's internal DSP.

Hope this helps.

I Want To Use My Computer's Sound System As Main Music Source. How?

Andrea M

I have an older but excellent external sound card Extigy. I have a 3-piece Klipsch speaker system -- all in my home office. I want to buy another set of speakers, another set of Klipsch (the sound quality is excellent) - maybe a 5+1 set to be placed strategically throughout apartment with Monster cable. Will this work? What else will I need? I'm now running 1 gig RAM, do I need 2 gigs? Right now the sound is excellent but confined to my home office. I also use Real as my music player-best codecs for my system - an HP desktop with AMD Athlon 3300+ 64 processor, 160 GB hrdve. Any advice? Thanks.

Answer
The only thing I can think you might want is a remote control, there are ones available that come with software to control just about any audio program you want, just make sure it's not IR or you will not be able to use it through walls.

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Is it possible to connect HDMI and optical audio to a ps3 at the same time ?

logitech speaker system z906 best buy image

Kurt

I have a ps3 that is connected to my TV via an HDMI cable. Now I am interested in buying a Logitech Z906 surround system to connect to my ps3. Is it possible to connect them both at the same time, so that I can get the good graphics from the HDMI and the surround sound from the speakers ?

Answer
Yes it is possible.

trying to find best speakers for price?

bob12344

so i have the Logitech z506 currently and im looking to upgrade. ive been looking around and learned about the Logitech z906, but as im reading the reviews i see that its good but not great for the price.

now i want a system that has A LOT of bass but also good sound quality around the same price range of the z906 it doesn't have to be 5.1 it can be 2.1.

i would not mind building my own system and have it sound better for the same price so if thats my best option a list of things i would need to buy would be good.

i have the asus Xonar DG soundcard and would like it to sound good with the new speakers.

thank you for your input.

Answer
3.8 million * 60.7321 ~~~ hard cockkk , = puzzzayy

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Why does each number on the telephone has a different sound to it?

9.2 speaker system image

Im no ones

dial 1234567890, press talk and put it on speaker, hang up before anyone pick up. A different sound for each number, why is that?

Does it have to do anything with wavelengths?

And how am i able to call places? Through satellites? Details please

Thank ya!

Answer
Many decades ago when a person wanted to place a phone call they would pick up the phone and the operator at a "switchboard" would be on the other end of the line. (In small towns the switchboard operators usually knew the people placing calls by first name.)

Tell the operator who you want to call and they would plug patch cords that had the big 1/4" plug on the end, like headphones, and plug your phone connection into the phone connection for the person you want to call and than the operator would ring the other persons phone.

In a big city the operators were quite busy putting phone calls through. Hundreds or possibly thousands of people picking up phone receivers throughout the day and night wanting to call someone. They give the operator the number they wanted and the operator would move the patch cords so the call could go through.

But than eventually the whole phone system became computerized so it would work more efficiently. The different tone that you hear for each number tells the computer "switchboard" what number you are pushing so it moves the "switch" or phone circuit to that number, and than the next one dialed and the next and so on.

So to start off with a United States area code a first number could be 3 the computer registers that and than is waiting for the next number to be input. Imagine your phone keypad, you push 3 and in the computer system the next available numbers might be 2, 7, 1, 8, 9 so imagine the other numbers on the key pad disappearing because they don't belong to any active number. So than you push 2 and than 9,2,7,0 are possible numbers that can be dialed after that. So than you dial 7. So in the moment that it takes you to dial the area code 327 the computer system is doing all the switching and patching in nanoseconds. The most effective way to explain it would be to draw a number tree where you have 3 as the base and than 2, 7, 1, 8, 9 on seperate branches off the 3. Than the other numbers available after dialing the 2 would be branched off of it as possible numbers that can be dialed.

Here are two links with pictures to show you what old phone systems used to look like. Even today with all of our technology the phone system still works the same way. But all of the "switchboard" work that happens is controlled with computer software and is within computer systems.

Switchboard operator
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Switchboard_operator

Telephone Switchboard
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Telephone_switchboard

Even with cell phones they have to go through the same switch relays for a call to be made. But now it's even more advanced with it having to go through satellites and cell phone towers. When making a call from a cell phone to a landline that is a major feat of technology happening right there. Because as you dial the cell phone it goes through all the switch relays, goes through the cell phone tower, to a satellite, the satellite sends it to phone company computers where your call is sent through the landline system and than it rings at the persons house on the other end.

I also worked as a Traffic Flagger, directing road traffic through workzones. I have worked with many utility companies including power, phone and cable and have got to see some of the wiring and work that it takes to make all of our technology work. A buddy of mine works for a contractor of AT&T and helps repair and do upgrades to their systems near Seattle, WA. He's told me about the millions upon millions of dollars of system upgrades AT&T had to do just so people could use their new iphones and other smartphones on the internet send and receive MMS and many other things people take for granted with cell phones and don't know all the labor that makes it work.

If you watch some old shows and movies from the 1930's, 40's and 50's they occasionally have a character making a call and having to talk with the operator. One TV show in particular that I remember that showed the operator and the some of the steps to making a call was The Andy Griffith Show. They didn't show it all the time, but occasionally they would.

I don't have highspeed so I rarely use Youtube because it take FOREVER for even simple video's to load. But fortunately they show a preview picture for the search results. I have included some Youtube links of videos showing how the original switchboards worked. If you want to see a long list of more clips to watch search "Telephone Switchboard Operator" on Youtube.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=njW70pofZsg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bx-mmJDG4LE

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tnupsncpTng

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Et-Yr35d2so

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-uuNf3_FZH0

What's the best receiver for home theater?

Willie O

I have 3 Triad Inroom Bronze LCR that I use for front speakers and center speaker & 1 Triad Bronze bass speaker. I also have 2 wall mounted Paramax. I would like to know what is the best receiver to use for the best quality sound?

Answer
- Onkyo or Pioneer or Denon or Yamaha.

Some examples of different levels.

- Good low end receivers will cost around $300-$900 (crappy receivers or stereo receivers might cost less than $200 and that's when it's not on sale) and high end receivers will cost more than $1,000.
= I recommend a new low end 7.1/7.2 system, but you have to find one on sale yourself tho. (If your on a budget then just get a low end 5.1/5.2 receiver, a high end 5.1/5.2 receiver is not worth the extra money and you would be better off getting a low end 7.1/7.2 receiver, high end 7.1/7.2 or 9.1/9.2. or 11.1/11.2 .ect receiver is only ok if your rich or if it's on a massive sale).

Some good 5.1 or 5.2 channel audio/video receivers. (Overall=low end).
- Low end = Onkyo TX-SR313 or HT-RC430; Pioneer VSX-523-K; Yamaha RX-V375; Denon AVR-1312 or AVR-1513 or AVR-E200 or AVR-E300.
- High end = Onkyo TX-NR414; Pioneer VSX-823-K; Yamaha RX-V475; Denon AVR-1613 or Denon AVR-1713.

Some good 7.1 or 7.2 channel audio/video receivers. (Overall=high end).
- Low end = Onkyo HT-RC460 or TX-NR525 or TX-NR626 or TX-NR727; Pioneer VSX-1023-K or VSX-1123-K or VSX-43/73; Denon AVR-1913 or AVR-E400 or AVR-2113CI; Yamaha RX-V575 or RX-V675 or RX-V775WA.
- High end = Onkyo TX-NR818 or TX-NR1010 or TX-NR3010 or TX-NR5010; Pionerr Elite series SC-61 to 68; Denon AVR-2313CI or AVR-3313CI or AVR-4520CI.

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Hook speakers up to TV with no audio outputs?

best 2.1 speaker system for gaming image

pmac366

I am trying to hook a Logitech Z-2300 2.1 speaker system to my 26" Vizio with no audio ouputs. I am in a dorm and i have cable through the wall and i want the audio to come through the speakers but i have no idea how to do it.

I use a 360 for dvds and games so no vcr or anything. What do i need to get this setup to work?

Answer
the only thing i can think of is a VCR w/ audio outputs, you should be able to pick one up a goodwill or ?, for no more than $4-5 bucks. I'm interested to see if there is another way though.

What parts do I need for a gaming computer?

Q. I'm looking to buy a gaming computer. My money range is $0-$1200 and I want my gaming computer to play most games on max settings and those newer titles such as Battle Field 3 on normal/medium at least.I heard building your own computer is cheaper but I don't know anything about computers. Could someone please help and list good video cards, processors etc. and where to get them. Or you could just put a good pc for a reasonable price. Also can you put the links in your answers.

Answer
here you go:

Intel Core i5-2500K Sandy Bridge 3.3GHz (3.7GHz Turbo Boost) LGA 1155 95W Quad-Core Desktop Processor Intel HD Graphics 3000 BX80623I52500K - $225

GIGABYTE GA-Z68A-D3H-B3 LGA 1155 Intel Z68 HDMI SATA 6Gb/s USB 3.0 ATX Intel Motherboard - $130

G.SKILL Ripjaws Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Desktop Memory Model F3-12800CL9D-8GBRL - $47

Seagate Barracuda ST1000DM003 1TB 7200 RPM 64MB Cache SATA 6.0Gb/s 3.5" Internal Hard Drive -Bare Drive - $125

ASUS ENGTX560Ti448DC2/2DIS/1280MD5 GeForce GTX 560 Ti - 448 Cores (Fermi) 1280MB 320-bit GDDR5 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready SLI Support Video Card - $280 ($260 after rebate)

CORSAIR Enthusiast Series TX850M 850W ATX12V v2.31 / EPS12V v2.92 80 PLUS BRONZE Certified Modular High Performance Power Supply - $140 ($120 after rebate)

COOLER MASTER HAF 912 RC-912-KKN1 Black SECC/ ABS Plastic ATX Mid Tower Computer Case - $60 ($50 after rebate)

LITE-ON Internal 24x DVD-Writer 24X DVD+R 8X DVD+RW 12X DVD+R DL 24X DVD-R 6X DVD-RW 16X DVD-ROM 48X CD-R 32X CD-RW 48X CD-ROM Black SATA Model iHAS324-99 - $22

Acer S220HQLAbd Black 21.5" 5ms LED Backlight Widescreen LCD Monitor 250 cd/m2 ACM 100,000,000:1 (1000:1) - $120 (1080p monitor)

Logitech Wireless Combo MK260 920-002950 Black 8 Function Keys USB RF Wireless Standard Keyboard and Mouse - $27

Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 64-bit - OEM - $100

COOLER MASTER Hyper 212 Plus RR-B10-212P-G1 "Heatpipe Direct Contact" Long Life Sleeve 120mm CPU Cooler Compatible Intel Core i5 & Intel Core i7 - $34

ALTEC LANSING BXR1221 15 Watts RMS 2.1 Speaker System - $30

TOTAL :$1200 ($1150 after rebate), this is the best COMPLETE BUILD that I could give you for that price, it is well balanced and it already comes with an aftermarket cooler and speakers. The monitor is 1080p and with the GTX 560 ti 448 cores you could play all games on max settings on 1080p with good FPS.

The GTX 560 ti 448 cores is a DOWNGRADED GTX 570 thus it is only slightly slower than the gtx 570:

http://www.anandtech.com/bench/Product/499?vs=306

BTW, the motherboard that I have provided is SLI ready that is why I have given you the 850w Corsair PSU that is capable enough to support 2 GTX 560 ti 448 cores in SLI on a high end system with overclocking.

And since the GTX 560 ti 448 cores has the same power requirement as that of the GTX 570, then it will be our basis of how much power is needed in SLI:

Here is Guru3D's power supply recommendation:

GeForce GTX 570

On your average system the card requires you to have a 600 Watt power supply unit.

GeForce GTX 570 in 2-way SLI

A second card requires you to add another ~225 Watts. You need a 750+ Watt power supply unit if you use it in a high-end system (800+ to a KiloWatt is recommended if you plan on any overclocking).

http://www.guru3d.com/article/geforce-gtx-570-sli-review/13

So, basically, what I have given you is still upgradeable to SLI and you could still add an SSD (120 gb is good, but this is only optional). =D

Parts and prices came from newegg.com

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whats the difference between a notebook and a laptop?

best portable speaker system for laptop image

Fatima K

i want a laptop but i saw that Notebooks are cheaper. i just wanted to know whats the difference?
do they both have internet access?

Answer
Laptop is any portable computer that can be put on your lap, whereas notebook is any portable computer that can be very portable having battery as the source of power.
The term "laptop" was first introduced in the 80's, when portable computers were small enough to use atop a person's lap. As technology advanced these portables got smaller, to about the size of a notebook, hence the term "notebook PC". Both "laptops" and "notebook PCs" are variations of "portable PCs". Even a "pocket PC" is a variation of a "portable PC". It is all about marketing them and not strictly about the contents. I have seen notebook PCs with more features than desktops, so the perception of the name associated with amenities is immediately dismissed. It is no different than how we refer to our PCs today: in the early days they were actually called "microcomputer", today, they are called "PCs", short for "personal computer". Give it another decade or so and watch a new terminology emerge.

Let's look at the notebook computer first.
The Notebook Computer
A standard notebook has the following features:
1. Ultralight. Less weight is better.
2. 4 - 5 hour battery life.
3. No internal floppy drive.
4. Minimal graphics subsystem.
5. No internal DVD or CD system.
6. 12" - 14" TFT screen.
7. Low profile (thin).
8. Integrated modem and network connection.
9. Smallest possible keyboard that retains functionality.
10. Low power consumption Celeron/Centrino or Sempron style processor.


In essence a notebook computer is designed to provide mobile computing that won't break your back yet still offer all the power the mobile users requires for work and some leisure pursuits. This portability normally comes at a price. The level of minituarization involved comes at a cost and high end notebooks can prove to be quite expensive.


The Laptop Computer
Now for the laptop computer. Again look at the name. A laptop is designed to sit on your lap and you can therefore expect it to be quite large and loaded down with features and power. The
The standard laptop computer would have some ,if not all, of the following features:
1. 14" - 17" (widescreen) TFT screen.
2. Nvidia GeForce or ATI Radeon graphics subsystem.
3. Internal DVD-ROM or DVD-RW drive
4. Large full featured keyboard.
5. 3 hour+ battery life.
6. Upgradeable.
7. Integrated modem, network, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities.
8. High quality integrate audio and speaker system.
9. Low power consumption, high performance Intel Centrino style processor.
From reading the above information you'll see that the notebook is the exact opposite of the laptop. Notebooks offer reasonable power and extreme portability. Laptops are designed to be capable of replacing an entire desktop PC if necessary whilst still offering desktop performance in a mobile platform. Hopefully this article has helped clear up the differences between both classes of portable computers. As time and technology moves on the line between laptop and notebook will continue to blur but for right now it's still clearly defined and driven by the demands of the portable computer market.

How do you know if a laptop has good speakers?

Micheal Jo

I want to watch a movie without headphones on a laptop, but I hate that tin sound some have. How does someone how good the speakers are, and do they sell speakers for laptop that are portable and good?

Answer
get an aftermarket speaker system dummie

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What is a good professional amplifier for live audio?

speaker system toa image

Sinterklaa

I work at a pub running the karaoke sound system. They are using a DVD player with two mic inputs connected to a TV for display and a Pioneer VSX-516 7.1 audio receiver. They have two 18" Elite pro subwoofers and a full-range TOA pro loudspeaker with a 12" driver and dual tweeters.

At first, only the two subs were hooked up. The system sounded very muffled and had no treble whatsoever (obviously lol). I hooked up the TOA speaker and the system sounded way better.

Soon after that, the receiver would overload and turn itself off. It was working fine for 3 hours at -17dB (volume level). I knew it was due to the loudspeaker being connected, so I tried disconnecting one of the subs. It was still overloading so I disconnected the loudspeaker and left only one sub connected. It was still overloading so I unplugged the receiver for half an hour before I tried once again. The receiver was STILL overloading and it wasn't running hot at all. It was slightly warm but that's it.

I'm almost certain the person who set up this system gipped the owners by giving them the Pioneer receiver. It's a good receiver and all, but I don't think it's powerful enough to properly power both subs and the loudspeaker. They were experiencing this problem for several days now and karaoke has been canceled due to these technical difficulties.

I want to do the owners a favor and hook them up with a professional amplifier that will have more than enough jam to power both subs and the loudspeaker without overloading or shutting itself off.

What is the cheapest amplifier money can buy to power two 18" Elite subs and a 12" TOA loudspeaker? They're buying it, of course, but I want to find them the best deal possible so they can save money and so karaoke can continue to run.

Answer
First off the VSX-516 is a 100 watt, 7-channel home theater receiver. Whenever you take gear meant for home use and try to integrated it with pro gear, things always go sideways.

The other answerer stated that you want to find the actual wattage of the speakers you are running. Assuming the elite pros are from Yorkville, you could be running any number of wattage options. Also, you will want to know if the yorkvilles have a built in crossover and can they run high-pass to the TOA speakers.

I run an audio company in So. Cal and can help you find a few great options for a new amp. Feel free to call or email me and we can talk. I will find a way to make the owners very happy with you.

Gerad Clarkson
888-502-5213
gclarkson@audio-avenue.com

How can this karaoke system be improved without having to spend too much money?

Sinterklaa

The bar I work at has a karaoke system that consists of two Yorkville Elite SW800 subwoofers, one TOA 15" full-range speaker, a Pioneer VSX-516 home theater receiver and a CAVS DVD-203G karaoke DVD player.

They have two Shure C606 microphones connected to the DVD player with XLR to 1/4" cables.

The system has potential, but it sounds like absolute garbage. A lot of people complain about its quality and I agree with them because the microphones sound utterly flat and distort easily. If you turn the microphone gain too loud, it causes bad feedback.

I'm sure the microphones are okay, and the problem lies in the 1/4" connectors and no equalizer of any sort. Rather, the microphones would be better off being connected to a professional mixer with XLR inputs.

music sounds good on the system, but the biggest issue is the dynamics of the microphones and the bad feedback. Are there any components that can be purchased that will prevent feedback and allow us to aim the speakers towards the singers so the rest of the bar can hear the music clearly? Right now they're pointed to the side to keep the feedback to a minimum. The bar is fairly small and has wooden walls, if that makes any difference.

The owners don't want to spend a lot of money on a whole new system because they claim it sounds good enough as it is. They don't know much about audio and dynamics and whatnot and I'm a DJ so I can tell that the system sounds really crappy in its current state. I just want to know what components can be purchased that won't be too expensive and will solve the bad microphone quality problem once and for all.

Answer
There are multiple problems with that system.

mics are pretty low quality but if you fix the pa amp, you probably will be ok

you need to run the mics into a REAL pa amp/mixer with XLR inputs - even a cheap one will work much better - it will also have EQ for each channel - when you have subs, you need to make sure that the vocals have the lows backed WAY off, otherwise they will sound very muddy - a nice powered mixer will work great and will not be too expensive:

http://www.amazon.com/Behringer-EUROPOWER-PMP1000-500-Watt-12-Channel/dp/B00117RP6I/ref=sr_1_7?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1343924485&sr=1-7&keywords=behringer+powered+mixer

check your TOA speaker - make sure the tweeter is not blown - put your ear up to it - you should hear the highs clearly

How are the subs hooked up?? I assume you have a separate power amp for them - you should not try to connect them directly to the home theater amp - get a separate stereo power amp:

http://www.amazon.com/Behringer-EP4000-Professional-Accelerated-Technology/dp/B001U5JFNM/ref=sr_1_1?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1343924683&sr=1-1&keywords=behringer+ep4000

If you live anywhere near the state of CT, USA I can help you.

dankeifer@yahoo.com if you have other questions

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How do you build a high end home speaker cross over?

speaker system design software image

Darren

Wanting to make my own crossovers for home speakers.

Answer
When it comes to designing and constructing the highest performance passive multiway crossover networks it is ABSOLUTELY ESSENTIAL that the designer utilize the complete complex transfer function, as precisely and accurately as possible, for each of the transducers being used in the loudspeaker. Failure to do so would fall far short of what one would truly justify as âhigh endâ or high performance. Without question, the best, most effective and efficient approach is to use crossover design software to synthesize, optimize and model your crossover network designs; an excellent investment if you will be (or expect to be) heavily involved in designing and building high performance loudspeakers. Through an iterative process such software will generate a complete schematic including individual component values from which you produce the component layout for use with either point-to-point or printed circuit board construction.

In addition, in order to achieve the most accurate modeling and synthesis you need to use a loudspeaker measurement system to measure the transducers you will be using (in their enclosures where applicable and after lengthy break-in) and export the measurement data from the measurement system directly into the crossover network design software running on your computer. Though using the measurement system is the best approach to achieving an optimal crossover design it is by no means a necessity - but highly recommended nonetheless. If you choose to use the combined approach then you need to make sure that the measurement system is compatible with and/or specifically supported by the crossover design software.

When it comes to crossover design software two of the most powerful and popular packages are LEAP (Loudspeaker Enclosure Analysis Program) from LinearX Systems and SoundEasy/EasyLab from Bodzio Software Pty. Ltd. With respect to third-party professional loudspeaker measurement systems there are many from which to choose. You would need to determine which will best serve your needs and fits within your financial budget. Links to the Websites for both companies can be found in the Google Docs resource listed below.

That said, there is a third, less desirable option if youâre prepared to compromise a little by foregoing the opportunity to fully maximize your loudspeaker crossover/system optimization in an effort to reduce the your short-term costs: you can, depending on the drive units (and enclosure) that youâre using, use the Leap Crossover Design Service from Madisound Speaker Components. (Madisound is not the only company to offer such services but they are the first that comes to mind.) Again, you will find a hyperlink to relevant Madisound Webpage in the Google Docs resource below.

Randomly combining preassembled crossovers with assorted drive-units is not a recipe for success IF you are truly after a high performance (or âhigh endâ) loudspeaker. On the other hand if you purchase a complete turnkey loudspeaker kit, i.e., drivers and crossover â with or without a loudspeaker enclosure, then you have a much better possibility of constructing a reasonably high performance loudspeaker; the performance of which will depend largely on the kit design, component quality, construction and the producer of the kit. In other words, if a basic loudspeaker kit is carefully designed using the tools Iâve mentioned above then you are reasonably likely to end-up with a loudspeaker that performs well. This is a good option for a first-time (or one-time) loudspeaker construction project, however I personally find it far more enjoyable and rewarding to design optimized, high performance crossover networks for driver combinations and enclosure designs of my choosing rather than someone elseâs.

I hope you have much success with your loudspeaker design and construction endeavor.


Loudspeaker Design and Construction Resources
(See the section title âDESIGN AND MEASUREMENT - SOFTWARE AND HARDWAREâ)
http://docs.google.com/View?id=dhpmqnbb_8cqqcq2gx
 

What website to build the best speakers?

Cody Gordo

What is the best website to build home speakers, money is no object. So, don't hold back.

Answer
If money were really no object no, you would not "just buy speaker". You would instead have them custom designed, built and calibrated. If you want to build your own then you can do pretty well without spending very much at all, about $2000 to $4000 can set you up fairly well.

The Linkwitzlab "Orion" kit is one good option, http://www.linkwitzlab.com/DIY%20products.htm "The completed speakers cost around $3800, without power amplifiers". Or, you can buy the Orion 4 fully assembled starting at $14,750. http://www.linkwitzlab.com/Wood%20Artistry%20LL-home.htm For putting together a 2-ch system this speaker is a very good option.

If you are more interested in home theatre then you may want to consider the CBT-36 kit from Parts Express... http://www.parts-express.com/cbt36/ This speaker will be more dynamic than the Orion making it a better choice for home theatre.

Parts Express also has a number of more conventional kits... http://www.parts-express.com/wizards/searchResults.cfm?searchFilter=&srchExt=CAT&perPage=25&sortBy=0&layout=list&page=1&srchPrice=&srchCat=769&srchMfg=&srchPromo=&srchAttr=

If you want to design and build something on your own then you will want to seek advice from the DIY section of the AVS Forum... http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/forumdisplay.php?f=155 In order to complete your own design properly however you are going to need to invest in acoustic measurement equipment and CAD software. http://www.parts-express.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?Partnumber=390-790 and http://www.ijdata.com/

Most of the hard core commercial speaker fans are simply not familiar with what's possible in DIY nor do they understand the limitations placed on speaker manufacturers. They believe because these companies specialize in building speakers that they will be better at it than you can. If they didn't have their hands tied behind their backs this might be true. They can not research the Audio Engineering Society Journals and use any technology they like unless they pay royalty to someone. As a DIY'er building speakers for your own use in your garage you can use and combine any and all known technologies. Also, a speaker companies primary goal is financial growth, not to build the best possible speaker. In fact, the speaker companies that make the most money build some of the worst speakers. (ie...Bose) It's simply not profitable to go to the Nth degree on improving sound quality. So as a DIY'er you are free from marketability restraints and you have access to a much larger knowledge base than any single manufacturer. This doesn't mean you automatically get a better set of speakers by DIY, there are plenty of poorly designed and built DIY speakers out there but it does mean that you have virtually no limitations. You have to put fourth a lot of effort to insure good results.

mk

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Whats a good Surround Sound sytem for under $200 for ps3 and lcd tv?

klipsch speaker system quintet image

Chris d[**

i just bought a ps3 and a lcd tv.now i just need a surround sound. a have a small living room and was wondering whats a good surround sound system to buy under 200 that i can hook up my tv to and also my ps3 to enjoy blue-ray movies under great sound.

Thanks your help if much appreciated.

Answer
i recommend 3 below...let check
Klipsch Synergy Quintet III Home Theater Speaker System (Set of Five, Black)
http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FKlipsch-Synergy-Quintet-Theater-Speaker%2Fdp%2FB00009L1UX%3Fie%3DUTF8%26s%3Daht%26qid%3D1259668357%26sr%3D1-1&tag=usgm-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=9325

LG LHT854 1000-Watt DVD Disc Home Theater In a Box
http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FLG-LHT854-1000-Watt-Disc-Theater%2Fdp%2FB0018YXP5Y%3Fie%3DUTF8%26s%3Daht%26qid%3D1259668357%26sr%3D1-6&tag=usgm-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=9325

Fluance Surround Sound Home Theater 5 Speaker System AV-HTB
http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FFluance-Surround-Theater-Speaker-AV-HTB%2Fdp%2FB00064JWSG%3Fie%3DUTF8%26s%3Daht%26qid%3D1259668357%26sr%3D1-16&tag=usgm-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=9325

Anyone know anything about speakers and subs?

buzz on me

i am trying to get a sweet set up for my room. but i have no idea what companies are good, or what i need. basically i want lots of bass and like my floor to vibrate. yeah.

Answer
What you're describing is volume, not quality. Get a pair of cheap MTX speakers if you just want to "vibrate" your floor. But if you're serious about sound, get something that will produce accurate, vibrant sound like Klipsch or Polk Audio. With speakers, you truly get what you pay for. A nice system is the Klipsch Quintet System, Klipsch 10" sub, and the Yamaha 463 receiver. The package is $1300, but Best Buy has a deal that takes $300 off the package price. For $1000, its a great system.

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Is there anywhere online where I can buy replacement Logitech sound system parts?

speaker system x-530 image

jess

I have the Logitech X-530 5 speaker + woofer sound system, but the main speaker where the cords plug into my PC, the cords are all screwed up and won't work 98% of the time, so all I need to replace the one speaker and cords. Is there anywhere where I can buy JUST that without spending to get a whole new system?

Answer
email Logitech customer support they sometimes have spares that they sell.

but you will be better off going onto ebay and searching for spares/repairs on the same speakers, they might not be any now but keep checking as people usually add them.

What speakers are best for my bedroom?

jeffrey_sy

Please suggest a few speakers that offer good sound for the price and are below $100.
I am on a budget cuz my family are currently remodeling.
btw, are the satellite speakers for the Logitech X-530 70-Watt 5.1 Surround Sound Speaker System wired to the subwoofer?
i know it is a dumb question, but i just want to make sure.
thanx in advance XD
oh, plz include whether it is wired or not.
thanx ^^

Answer
For under $100 I would suggest Logitech X-540 5.1 Speaker System.Good sound & price
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000JJM8XE?ie=UTF8&tag=computer0bd-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000JJM8XE

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What is a good desktop computer speaker system?

best speaker system 2.1 image

palman18

I want to buy some new computer speakers since my old cheap speakers broke and I'm sick of using a gaming headset for music and movies. I am looking to spend around $150-200 on a good speaker system. I am a "semi-audiophile" and I appreciate good sound. I would prefer a system with a good balance of highs, mids, and lows and would rather have a good 2.1 system than a cheap surround sound system. I would prefer a system with a subwoofer, but if there are any that have good bass without one, I am open to it. I don't have a sound card on my computer, but I am open to buying one if it makes a considerable difference. Any help is appreciated.

Answer
Here are a few speaker systems that fall within your price range.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=100007679%20600010683%204017&IsNodeId=1&name=%24100%20-%20%24200&Order=RATING&Pagesize=100

In terms of bass and sound quality what speaker system is better?

Jeff Benne

Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 THX Certified Computer Speaker System
or the
Logitech Z-2300 THX-Certified 2.1 Speaker System with Subwoofer

Thanks!

Answer
The klipsch by a long shot.

Klipsch is a high-end speaker company that specializes in speakers, and speakers only.

Logitech is just a computer peripheral company that just makes a a little of everything.

A jack of all trades is the ace of none.



But in all seriousness, the Klipsch Pro Medias will outperform the Logitechs in every way. Just make sure you have a decent sound card to use with them. No speaker sounds good unless it's running on a decent sound card. Some newer PCs have decent built in sound, but the best way to go is still a sound card. Creative is the way to go there.


Good luck

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Cheapest place to go to buy a Speaker system?

best speaker system uk image

FourthLuck

hi, i'm needing to know of the cheapest place i can go to buy a decent to good speaker system, uk and preferably offline, i want it to be at least a ratio of 2.1 and a good subwoofer for my dubstep :)

Answer
pawn shop

how to hook up my laptop to a speaker system?

James

my laptop is a Sony Vaio PCG-3H1M and my speaker system is a Sony MHC-GTZ3i (http://www.sony.co.uk/product/hmi-ipod-hi-fi/mhc-gtz3i)


and i want to play video games with the output being my massive stereo:L how do i do this? what cable do i need?

Answer
I would get an aux/input cord, one aux jack and the oter end with the red and white plugin. Put the re and white into the receiver (main source) of your speakers.

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Does anyone know anything about wireless, outdoor patio speakers?

best buy outdoor wireless speaker system image

Jesse L

If i purchase a pair of outdoor, wireless, patio speakers what other devices are needed? How do they work?

Answer
Most wireless speaker systems come with everything needed unless you buy additional speakers for a existing wireless system. They work the same as many wireless devices, @ the stereo there will be a transmitter to send the signal to the speakers, built into the speakers there's receivers to "receive" the signal from the "transmitter" the signal is a high frequency matched to work with each other. Be sure to follow Mfg. recommendations on installation and placement of equipment pieces.

Where can I find an "idiots guide" to outdoor speaker installation?

Katherine

I don't even know where to start. I need to know what I need to do a full installation of an outdoor speaker stereo system. Questions I have range from: What kind of receiver do I need? How do the outdoor speakers hook up to a receiver that's inside? Do I need an outdoor volume controller? If so, how do I hook that up as well?

I really need "start from scratch" instruction guide. Please help.

Answer
Not sure where to find an Idiots Guide but can tell you what I did with outdoor speakers.
First, buy speakers that are suited for outdoor use. I mounted them under the overhang of the roof around the patio.
Lot's of choices on speakers, some are designed to look like large stones that you can place in a garden, etc.
I ran speaker wire to the inside where the audio equipment is located.
Have a Yamaha receiver that is hooked to the external speakers as well as the inside speakers, TV, VCR, etc.
The receiver has a speaker switch. You can select the speakers you want to use. It is like an A/B switch.
You can also buy wireless speakers. They will be more expensive and I am not sure how well they work.
You might go to Radio Shack and see what they carry in speakers. Have them draw out the hookups for you. I am not touting Radio Shack, any number of good stores handle audio equipment.
I would not want to invest a tremendous amount of money in exterior speakers. To many things can happen to them and you will not be able to tell the difference in sound quality outdoors, anyway.
Good luck

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Is it bad to put my computer on top of a subwoofer?

best vibrating speaker system image

Q. I've got the Logitech Z-5500 speaker system, and have a smaller-sized computer on top of the sub. Is this bad? Will it cause any sort of long-term deterioration in my computer's components? I don't have huge vibrating bass playing a lot, but sometimes watching movies I'll turn it up and it will shake things pretty good.
The sub's in a pretty thick wooden box, and my HD is probably about 10" away from the actual magnet, but I think it would probably be a good idea to get it off... So I'll put the system on a cardboard box. Would that work??

Answer
I wouldnt if I were you. Find out if its magnetically shielded. If it isn't, removing your computer from on top of it would be a very good idea. If it is, there shouldn't be too much harm in it as long as its not vibrating that much. Long term I wouldn't leave it like this though.

How much would it cost for a good sound system in a car?

Penish

I don't know much about speakers, and sound systems, but a friend of mine has amazing bass in his car. It booms so loud, your whole body vibrates. Total, how much would it cost for everything needed to do this to my car?

Answer
Depends on what you wanna do and how much your willing to spend

Imma give you a basic answer because it would take days

Wiring amp and box most important for bass system
true 4 gauge will work fine
db link amazon 30 dollars

Subs range from 40 to 1200 ish and up
Decent pair around 200-250

Amp
60- 1000s
decent amp at around 150
Ignore max ratings

Stereo deck
60-300.... with video 300-1200

Door speakers
40-300 a pair

There is just so much to cover in your question
you should start with a deck
wiring
for beginner maybe a pair of cvr kicker
150ish

2000 watt planet audio
120 ish
box 60
Wirimg 30

Decent system starts like 360 if you do it yourself
At audio shop thats like 700 installed (crazy expensive)
With headunit around 450-500

Car audio isnt cheap

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How much would it be to get a speaker system in my car?

speaker system in car image

TNT2DABTB

I got a new 2012 Chevy Cruze. I would like to puspeak speaker system in it. But I know nothing about that. How much would it be for a full package? All I know is that I would like to get two 12in kickers or 10in

Answer
Full installation anywhere from $200+, I'd say realistically $300-$500+ just for the installation. Also depends whose doing it, and where.

Can the Audiophile speaker system be installed months after purchase?

That New G

I want to buy a Ford over the summer, one with the Audiophile 8-speaker system If the Audiophile isn't installed as an available feature with the car the day I buy it, can I ask to get it installed later at the dealership?

Answer
You would probably have to talk to the dealership about that.

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how can i connect a 5.1 home theater speaker system to my computer and television?

speaker system home theatre image

Mike

how can i connect a 5.1 home theater speaker system to my computer and television?


i just got a new LCD tv for christmas which i use as a TV and Monitor, so how can i connect my 5.1 speaker system for use with TV, PC, and Video game use?

Answer
Read the following article and it will help you step by step in setting up your surround sound.

https://www.installingflats.com/Articles.asp?ID=159

Is there a home theater speaker system that sounds just as amazing as Bose but at a cheaper price?

Andrew B

I have always wanted a Bose anything because I love the quality and sound from everything they have done. I know they can be a bit spendy. If there are some home theater speakers from other well known and reliable brands that work just as well I am definitely all ears. I am just in the market of buying a really great speaker system!

Answer
Call into any real Hi-Fi store and they will show you any number of speakers which will out perform Bose for considerably less money, a few that spring instantly to mind are Bowers and Wilkins, Dali Ikon and Tannoy.

Don't buy into the 'Bose are best because they're expensive' ideal.

Bose aren't expensive, they're dear, there is a difference.

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How to I wirelessly transmit video and audio from my computer to my TV and speaker system?

speaker system wireless image

Jason

I haven't bought a TV or speakers, but I'm going to want to transmit most of the regular cable/satalite programing, movies, audio through my computer into the TV and separate speaker system. Do they make Bluetooth TV sets and Bluetooth speaker systems, and even if they did would I be able to transmit from my computer to both or just one? What other wireless options are available to me the only cord I want attached to my TV is the power and wireless reviecer and same with my stereo system. How do I do it?

Answer
A company called TERK (a division of Audiovox.com) sells audio/video transmitter/receivers. Expensive.
In a way it me less expensive to have a second satellite receiver.
http://www.audiovox.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/GenProductListCmd?type=nprev&catalogId=10001&storeId=10001&categoryId=5066&langId=-1&page=&urlString=&productId=&brand=

What is a good speaker system for my macbook pro?

Bob

Im not looking to spend money here. I prefer to wear headphones when working, but it is nice to have a speaker system too. I want a really small set, if possible even wireless. I dont need anything fancy, and under $50 will do. I just want audio to come out decent, better then my macbook speakers. Thanks

Answer
I have creative speakers, and they have a good sound and price.

http://us.store.creative.com/Creative-T12-Speakers/M/B0028N6YH0.htm

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