Logitech Z-2300 Evaluation

Logitech has done a fantastic job recently, growing from the computer gadgets company known for mice and keyboards in to a go-to multimedia audio brand. While their designs do not provide audiophile-quality performance, or characteristics of such, they certainly provide reliable, easy-to-use alternatives for the set-it-and then-forget-it users that occupy a substantial part of the computer and 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 % THD (total harmonic distortion) for the satellites and 120 watts RMS into 8 ohms at 100Hz at 10 percent THD (total harmonic distortion) for your 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 to 20 Kilohertz, though if you fail to hear it, then it's not good. But customers must take note that such audio specs don't apply to actual situations; they simply serve to provide us with a short view of the performance of the product in stable conditions. In the event you push "Play" and then the material starts to make demands on the product, the real specs normally contradict.

The Z-2300 also offers THX certification, which basically means it passed a broad set of specs that numerous designs could pass anyway with out playing the politics and paying the fee to Lucasfilm. But the insignia is very important for marketing purposes, especially in the world of desktop audio.

The 6.75-inch tall, 3.5-inch wide and six-inch deep satellites employ a 2.5-inch slick aluminum phase plug driver with a port on top. As the single driver on the satellites, the phase plug driver should recreate all of the high and mid frequencies before the woofer takes over. This often proves harder than with dual driver designs. The 11-inch wide, 11-inch tall, and 15-inch deep subwoofer also engages an 8-inch long-throw ported woofer.

Setup and Operation

The setup process just isn't difficult, like all of Logitech's products. The Z-2300's remote control is outboard wired and contains a System Volume knob. In case your output source is through only one stereo mini-plug, then just insert the 3.5mm cable of your remote to the source's audio output. To achieve the remote's connection, Logitech can offer the adapter to change the two plugs into a mini-plug, if you are using two stereo RCA plugs as source outputs. Afterwards, plug the D-SUB connector of the remote to the subwoofer's back; make sure that all of the pins are lined up before pushing the plug, since they're easy to break. Enjoin the 2 satellite speakers to the subwoofer's behind after placing them. Lastly, plug the subwoofer into the wall.

Switch on the power switch of the subwoofer upon making certain the source is turned off. There must be some blinking light on the remote control's Power LED. Press "Play" on your source and you are all set. The remote control's volume knob can be used to make alterations on the master volume and the easy-to-use subwoofer knob for bass output alterations. You may also use the Power/ Standby button on the remote since it's easy to use this and also you will not have to switch the machine off and on through the subwoofer's rear switch. As the remote's headphone jack mutes the main system instantly, it is fantastic for effortless headphone hook-up, whilst it still provides volume control with the usage of the master volume knob. However, the short hardwired cables, on the remote and satellites, of Z-2300 might be challenging on the setup process and may give you limited placement options.

Sound

The Z-2300 is able to play loudly which is good for movies and games. The subwoofer consists of a good punch, even though you must find a suitable area where a leg wouldn't block it or even the side-firing port as a result of forward-firing woofer. The subwoofer are able to keep up with the rise in the subwoofer volume knob, but sometimes, it clips a little and distorts. All in all, the subwoofer presents quality performance, considering its price. Your remote's volume controls may be improved in general, but taking into consideration the prices, it can be hard to debate.

The satellites provided much more of a mixed bag. The singular driver can not increase the frequencies's entire range well, which results to rolled-off high ranges and ordinary midranges. A clear sonic gap existed between the satellites and also the subwoofer, indicating a lower crossover point that the satellites just couldn't handle. Moreover, the satellites show average directional traits, meaning as they point far from the listening area, the sound decreased drastically. When assessing the overall sound quality, sound staging and imaging, better think about these things.

High Points

- The Z-2300 can play at a high volume that is great for movies and games. You will need some good speakers for your computer if you like watching movies and playing games by downloading from on-line sites such as Apple's iTunes or Hulu.

- Taking into consideration the size of the device and its cheap price, the subwoofer is incredibly good.

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

- The remote control has a smooth touch onto it, with quality headphone jack.

- The RCA connection adapter allows for an easy fit with gaming consoles.

Low Points

- The Z-2300 will leave audiophiles looking for more regarding musicality when you compare the system to the most elementary bookshelf speakers. Even if bookshelf speakers don't suit well on your own table beside a big, old 24-inch LCD monitor, when you have audiophile needs, then you would better retain this gear as well as pay audiophile prices.

- The short, hardwired cables of the remote device and particularly the satellites reduce placement options.

- The output of the subwoofer will not totally switch off, even if the lowest setting is at its lowest, that makes it more difficult throughout the setup procedure.

- The unit doesn't provide a second input, which may be greatly helpful.

Conclusion

For the money, the Z-2300 gives a good blend of advantages. The Logitech system provides great quality of sound for games and also movies, along with a package of convenient features. In the generation of proliferate computer usage in which the music industry has been taken over by Internet downloads already, you may want to purchase suitable speakers for your own computer when you belong to this generation of computer users, and Logitech Z-2300 might just be the best unit that you are looking for. logitech z-2300