Logitech Z-2300 Reviewed

Logitech has been carrying out superior work recently, expanding from the computer parts company popularly known for mice and then keyboard products in to a dependable multimedia audio brand. While their designs don't deliver audiophile-quality performance, or characteristics of such, they do provide reliable, easy-to-use solutions for the set-it-and-forget-it users who occupy a vital part of the computer and then gaming market.

The 9 (MSRP) Z-2300 provides 200 watts of total RMS Power, 80 watts RMS (2 x 40 Watts) into 8 ohms at one kHz at 10 percent THD (total harmonic distortion) for the satellites as well as 120 watts RMS into 8 ohms at 100Hz at 10 percent THD (total harmonic distortion) for the subwoofer. In accordance with Logitech, there's a 100dB signal-noise ratio at 1 Kilohertz and also a frequency response of approximately 35- 20 Hertz; although without +/- dB specs, the unit may play up until 20 Kilohertz, though if you fail to hear it, then it is not good. Buyers should bear in mind that audio specs rarely represent real-world conditions; they just provide a brief snapshot of a product's performance under stable conditions. Once you press "Play" and then the material begins making demands on the product, the real specs usually differ.

The Z-2300 can also provide a valid THX certification, which means that it was able to get authorized by passing a couple of specs which other designs may also pass, without paying Lucasfilm. Although, the mark indicates much with regards to marketing, particularly in desktop audio's small-speaker world.

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 that also comes with a top port. As the single driver on the satellites, the phase plug driver must recreate all of the high and mid frequencies ahead of the woofer takes over. This often proves more difficult than with dual driver designs. The 11 x 11 x 15-inch (HxWxD) subwoofer utilizes an eight-inch long-throw woofer, also ported.

Setup and Operation

As with the majority of Logitech products, you'll find set-up easy. The Z-2300 provides an outboard wired remote control with a System Volume knob, Subwoofer Volume knob, Power LED, headphone jack and a Power/Standby button. If the output source is through just one stereo mini-plug, then just insert the 3.5mm cable of the remote to the source's audio output. To have the remote's connection, Logitech can offer the adapter to change the two plugs into a mini-plug, if you use two stereo RCA plugs as source outputs. Next thing to do is to plug the D-SUB connector of the remote behind the subwoofer but make it sure that you align the pins properly before pushing the plug because they can easily break. Enjoin the 2 satellite speakers to the subwoofer's behind right after placing them. Conclusively, plug it to the wall( the subwoofer).

Switch on the subwoofer's power switch right after ensuring that the source is switched of. The remote control's Power LED should blink. Press "Play" on your source and you are all set to go. The remote control's volume knob can be used to make alterations on the master volume and also the easy-to-use subwoofer knob for bass output alterations. To avoid needing to turn the unit on and off via the subwoofer's rear switch, make use of the remote's Power/Standby button instead - much simpler. The headphone jack of the remote is excellent for convenient headphone hook-up, as it mutes the main sytem automatically as it continues to provide volume control via master volume knob. The Z-2300's relatively short hardwired cables (on both the satellites and remote) may also present a challenge during set-up and can likely limit your placement options.

Sound

The Z-2300 is capable of playing loudly that is good for movies and games. The subwoofer packs a wonderful punch, although the forward-firing woofer means you might have to find a location where a leg does not block it or the side-firing port. The subwoofer can manage raises in the subwoofer volume knob, however in extreme situations, it clips somewhat and also distorts. Considering the subwooer's price, it is a good deal actually and offers good performance. The overall quality of volume controls of your remote can be much improved, but taking note of the price, it's tough to complain.

The satellites provide a bag of combinations. The single driver couldn't reproduce the entire range of frequencies completely, creating somewhat rolled-off highs plus a barely acceptable midrange. There exists a noticeable sonic gap between your satellites and subwoofer indicating a low crossover point which the satellites cannot possibly handle. Moreover, the sound decreased much as the satellites point farther away from the listening location that only demonstrates that they have ordinary directional characteristics. Remember these points when determining the balance among quality of sound, soundstaging, and imaging.

High Points

- The Z-2300 plays loud and will do your movies and games justice. Considering the rise in attraction of movies by the download from the likes of Apple's iTunes as well as other sources like Hulu, you are most likely going to need better speakers for the computer.

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

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

- The remote device provides an easy touch; with top quality headphone jack.

- It is possible to fit the gaming consoles conveniently while using RCA connection adapter.

Low Points

- When it comes to musicality, the Z-2300 appears to leave audiophiles finding more, when compared to the basic bookshelf speakers. Bookshelf speakers do not precisely fit nicely on your own desk along with a huge old 24-inch LCD monitor, but if you have audiophile needs, stick to audiophile gear and pay the audiophile prices.

- The short, hardwired cables of the remote control and particularly the satellites limit placement options.

- The subwoofer's output won't turn totally off, even at the lowest volume setting, which made for a number of hard times when attempting to set up the device.

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

Conclusion

The Z-2300 provides a good deal of benefits, considering its affordable price. The Logitech system provides great quality of sound for games and also movies, along with a package of convenient features. In a world in which downloads already control the songs business and so are speedily overtaking for DVD as the favored method to purchase and own movies, your computer needs suitable speakers as well as the Logitech Z-2300 could be just what the doctor ordered. logitech z-2300