Logitech Z-2300 Reviewed

Logitech has been doing excellent work recently, expanding from a computer parts company popularly known for mice and keyboard products into a reliable multimedia audio brand. While their designs don't deliver audiophile-quality performance, or perhaps the characteristics of such, they certainly provide reliable, easy-to-use solutions for the set-it-and-forget-it users that occupy a vital part of the computer and gaming industry.

The Z-2300, sold at 9, has got the following specifications: 200 watts of overall RMS Power, 80 watts RMS into 8 ohms at 1 kilohertz at 10% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) for the satellites, 120 watts RMS in 8 ohms at 100 Hertz at 10% THD for the subwoofer. According to Logitech, there's a 100dB signal-noise ratio at 1 Kilohertz and also a frequency response of about 35- 20 Hertz; although without +/- dB specs, the unit may play up to 20 Kilohertz, though if you fail to hear it, then its not good. Buyers should keep in mind that audio specifications rarely represent real-world conditions; they just provide a brief snapshot of a product's performance under stable conditions. Once you press "Play" and the material begins making demands on the product, the actual specs usually differ.

The Z-2300 also offers THX certification, that mainly means it passed an over-all set of specs that many designs could pass anyway without playing the politics and paying the charge to Lucasfilm. However, the badge means a great deal for marketing purposes, particularly in the small-speaker realm 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 the top. Ahead of the woofer taking over, the phase plug driver ought to raise and multiply the mid and high frequencies, being the sole driver on the satellites. Compared to dual driver designs, this appears to be harder. The 11-inch wide, 11-inch tall, and 15-inch deep subwoofer additionally engages an 8-inch long-throw ported woofer.

Setup and Operation

Just like the other products of Logitech, the setup procedure is straightforward. The Z-2300 provides an outboard wired remote control which includes a System Volume knob, Subwoofer Volume knob, Power LED, headphone jack plus a Power/Standby button. If your output source is through only one stereo mini-plug, then just insert the 3.5mm cable of the remote to the source's audio output. To achieve the remote's connection, Logitech provides the adapter to change the two plugs into a mini-plug, if you are using two stereo RCA plugs as source outputs. Next task to do is to plug the D-SUB connector of the remote behind the subwoofer but make it sure that you align the pins appropriately before pushing the plug because these can easily break. Connect the 2 satellite speakers to the subwoofer's back right after putting them. Lastly, connect the subwoofer to the wall.

Turn on the power switch of the subwoofer upon ensuring that the source is turned off. The remote control's Power LED should blink. Press "Play" on your source and you are all set to go. Make use of the volume knob of the remote control to alter the volume and the subwoofer knob to alter the bass output. 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 remote's headphone jack is terrific for easy headphone hook-up, automatically muting the main system while providing volume control through the master volume knob (the subwoofer volume knob is disabled). However, the short hardwired cables, on the remote and satellites, of Z-2300 might be challenging on the setup process and may even give you limited placement options.

Sound

The Z-2300 is capable of playing loudly that is good for movies and games. The subwoofer is a pretty good package, albeit the forward-firing woofer would mean that you willhave to search for a place where a leg will not block it and 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 cost. The overall excellence of the remote's volume controls may be improved, but when considering the price, it's tough to argue.

The satellites give a mixed bag option. The single driver can't reproduce the frequencies' whole range sufficiently, resulting to some rolled-off high ranges as well as an average midrange. There exists a noticeable sonic gap between your satellites and subwoofer indicating a low crossover point which the satellites can't possibly handle. Additionally, the satellites show average directional traits, meaning as they point far from the listening area, the sound decreased drastically. When assessing the general sound quality, sound staging and imaging, better think about these things.

High Points

- The Z-2300 is best for movies and games as it can play quite loudly. You will have to buy high-quality speakers for your computer, since online downloads such as Apple's iTunes and Hulu are very popular nowadays.

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

- Logitech's Z-2300's seems rather decent in size and appearance as compared to its cost. The speakers possess a appealing look.

- The remote control provides an easy touch; with high quality headphone jack.

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

Low Points

- With regards to musicality, the Z-2300 appears to leave audiophiles finding more, compared to the basic bookshelf speakers. Bookshelf speakers do not precisely fit nicely on your own desk together with a big old 24-inch LCD monitor, but if you've got audiophile needs, stay with audiophile gear and pay the audiophile prices.

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

- The subwoofer's output may not totally shut off, even if the volume setting is defined at the lowest, which can make it harder during the setup process.

- The unit does not offer a second input, which would be greatly helpful.

Conclusion

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