What's a good set of 5.1-channel computer speakers?

Question

Until recently, I've been using a set of Logitech Z-5300e speakers to listen to the auditory outputs of my computing pastimes. They've been wholly acceptable, though not great; the ultimate motive for searching for something new is that the left front channel on the amplifier no longer works, giving loud popping noises instead of beautiful music.

What, then, is the community's favorite choice? Factors I'm looking for:

• 5.1 channels. I occasionally watch movies, and I think having a lot of speakers makes me a cool guy.
• Decent-to-good audio quality. This is not an audiophile setup, I have very nice speakers in the other room for when I want to listen to serious music.
• "Computer speakers" form factor. This probably means relatively small physical size.
• Either S/PDIF over TOSLINK or USB for the multi-channel input. This is going to be plugged in to - and frequently unplugged from - a MacBook Pro.
• Priced lower than "buying an amp and a set of nice bookshelf speakers and a subwoofer from JBL or B&W".

Answer 1

I suggest reconsidering the 5.1. They're a pain to set up, you end up with wires running everywhere, and really, I haven't heard anything I've liked in sub-$300 5.1 setups.

I'm not too familiar with the category of computer speakers these days, but from what I've gathered over the past year or so, a couple names have really jumped out:

• Audioengine A2/A5
• Swans M200

The Audioengine A2 fits your "computer speakers" form factor the best, but I really don't know what your space constraints are.

For what it's worth, I am a fan of the receiver+bookshelves setup - you can skip the sub. Doing so will allow you to bypass the DAC on the computer, which is a bit of a limiting factor with regards to sound quality, and if you buy used, your price can very well be sub-$300.

I think the best summary I can give:

• If this is a bedroom setup, go with the computer speakers - they'll be more than enough.
• If this is a bigger room you want to fill with sound, go with receiver+bookshelves.

Answer 2

I'm a big fan of Altec Lansing, Logitech.

• Altec Lansing - USB FX5051
• Logitech - Z5500 Digital

My housemate has the Z5500 set, and they're just awesomely good. I couldn't fault them, and will probably end up buying somethign similar for my next gaming rig.

That said, I also have owned Altecs in the past, and have been nothing but delighted. I think either of these two brands would be a good choice, regardless of the product.

Technically speaking, there is no real reason to go for 5.1. Sure, it may sound kinda cool, but as you probably know, your sources (videos and games, etc) must support it - first and foremost. Secondly, humans only have two ears - this is why 2.1 setups are so common on computers, and good quality headphones will easily produce as high a quality a sound as their equivalents in 2.1 and 5.1 setups.

Answer 3

Since I posted this, I came across the Samson StudioDock 4i, which is not 5.1-channel but in fact 2.0-channel, and it does the digital audio thing in a totally sweet manner. I'd love to see comments if anybody has experience with Samson.

Answer 4

Creative Labs Inspire T6100 5.1 Channel Computer Speaker System.

Components

• 4x Satellite
• 1x Center
• 1x Subwoofer

Maximum Sound Pressure Level (SPL) 80 dB