Logitech Z-2300 Reviewed

Logitech continues to be carrying out superior work recently, expanding from the computer parts company widely recognized for mice and keyboard products in to a reliable multimedia audio brand. They provide dependable and straightforward solutions to a large niche of the gaming market, even though their overall performance isn't top class.

The 9 (MSRP) Z-2300 provides 200 watts of total RMS Power, 80 watts RMS (2 x 40 Watts) into eight ohms at 1 kHz at 10 percent THD (total harmonic distortion) for the satellites and 120 watts RMS into 8 ohms at 100Hz at 10 percent THD (total harmonic distortion) for that subwoofer. Logitech claims a signal to noise ratio of more than 100dB at 1kHz along with a frequency response of 35 Hz - 20 kHz (albeit without any +/- dB spec, which really tells the tale - the system might technically play up to 20kHz, but if you cannot hear it, it doesn't do much good). Consumers must remember that these audio specs don't often relate to real conditions; they just give a short preview of a product's capacity during stable conditions. Once you press "Play" and then the material begins making demands on the product, the actual specs usually differ.

Without having to pay to Lucasfilm, the Z-2300 actually provides a THX certificate, which goes to show that it has been able to pass a broad specs set that many other designs could pass also. However, the badge means a lot for marketing purposes, particularly in the small-speaker world of desktop audio.

The satellites, that are 6.75 inches in height, 3.5 inches in width, and six inches in depth, use 2.5 inches of refined lightweight aluminum phase plug driver which also comes with a top port. As the only driver on the satellites, this kind of phase plug driver must boost the mid and high frequencies sooner than the time when the wooer takes over. This often demonstrates harder than with dual driver designs. The subwoofer, which is 11-inch tall, 11-inch wide, and 15-inch deep, employs an 8-inch long-throw woofer, ported also.

Setup and Operation

As with nearly all Logitech products, you'll find set-up easy. The Z-2300 offers an outboard wired remote control with a System Volume knob, Subwoofer Volume knob, Power LED, headphone jack and a Power/Standby button. If your source outputs using a single stereo mini-plug (as do most computers and MP3 players), simply plug the remote's 3.5mm cable straight into your source's audio output. However, if the source output is by two stereo RCA plugs, the Logitech company provides an adapter to turn these connects to usable mini-plugs for the remote's connection. Then plug the remote's D-SUB connector into the back of the subwoofer, ensuring to line up all the pins before pushing in the plug (they can bend and break easily). Enjoin the 2 satellite speakers to the subwoofer's behind right after placing them. Lastly, connect the subwoofer into the wall.

Switch on the power switch of the subwoofer upon ensuring that the source is turned off. The Power LED on the remote device must light. Push "Play" on your source and that's it. Use the remote's volume level knob for master volume changes and its convenient subwoofer knob for bass output changes. In the event you want to turn the unit off and on over and over via the subwoofer's rear switch, then you can also choose to use the Power/ Standby button of the remote. The headphone jack of the remote is great for convenient headphone hook-up, as it mutes the main sytem automatically as it continues to supply volume control via master volume knob. Z-2300's short hardwired cables, on its satellites and remote, might be difficult in the setup procedure and might give you very few placement choices.

Sound

The Z-2300 is capable of playing loudly which is good for movies and games. The subwoofer packs a wonderful punch, although the forward-firing woofer means you may have to find a location where a leg doesn't block it or the side-firing port. The subwoofer can keep up with the rise in the subwoofer volume knob, but at times, it clips a little and distorts. All in all, the subwoofer gives quality performance, considering its price. Your remote's volume controls may be improved in general, but thinking about the prices, it is hard to debate.

The satellites give a bag of combinations. The singular driver cannot boost the frequencies's entire range well, which ends to rolled-off high ranges and ordinary midranges. Between the satellites and subwoofers, there exists an apparent sonic gap that represents a lower crossover point which the satellites cannot manage. The satellites additionally exhibited fairly directional features, meaning that since they pointed away from the hearing position, the sound degraded considerably. Keep this in your mind when drawing the equilibrium between overall sound quality, imaging and soundstaging.

High Points

- The Z-2300 can play at a high volume which is wonderful for movies and games. Considering the increase in attraction of movies by the download from the likes of Apple's iTunes and other sources like Hulu, you are likely going to require better speakers for the computer.

- Considering the size and cheap price, the subwoofer is astoundingly good.

- The Logitech Z-2300's fit and finish is very respectable when you consider the price of buying the system. The speakers possess a appealing look.

- The remote device offers a great convenient touch, with a needed headphone jack.

- The RCA connection adapter enables you to fit the gaming consoles easily.

Low Points

- In terms of musicality, the Z-2300 seems to leave audiophiles finding more, compared to the basic bookshelf speakers. Even if bookshelf speakers don't suit well on your table beside a big, old 24-inch LCD monitor, when you have audiophile needs, then you'd better retain this gear as well as pay audiophile prices.

- The remote control's short, hardwired cables and satellites provide fewer placement choices.

- The subwoofer's output might not entirely shut off, even if the volume setting is defined at the lowest, which will make it harder throughout the setup process.

- A second input is not provided by the unit, even if such input may be highly necessary.

Conclusion

At a low price, the Z-2300 gives several advantages. High quality of sound for games and movies is offered by the Logitech system as well as other significant features and desirable aesthetics. Nowadays, you need to have a good set of speakers for your computer knowing that online downloads are already very popular among myriad of users, and Logitech Z-2300 might be the best deal for you. logitech z-2300