Product Reviews

When it comes to surround sound, 7.1 speaker sets might seem the best option. However, for most rooms seven speakers and a subwoofer is overkill. Logitech has realised this and produced its Z-5500 5.1 system, which will meet most surround-sound needs, particularly as it also includes a decoder; a lot of speakers rely on the PC for this. This means you can plug in any digital source, such as a DVD player, and let the Z-5500 output Dolby Digital or DTS sound.

The set looks gorgeous. The Control Center, which features an LCD panel and all the sound controls, stands vertically. It will sit quite happily next to the PC or even in the living room.

It also houses all the inputs, including digital optical and coaxial, and three stereo inputs for direct six-channel inputs. However, the stereo inputs can also be used for three separate inputs, such as a CD player, MP3 player and games console.

The speakers are similarly stylish

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and are just as well designed. The stands rotate so they can be wall-mounted if you want a more permanent setup. They're also quite small, so will fit into any room without dominating it. Unfortunately, all the speakers have captive cables, so it's difficult to replace or extend their reach, although the 7.62m cables should be long enough for most people.

The speakers and Control Center connect to the subwoofer, which is huge thanks to its 10" speaker. This, however, can be hidden behind a sofa or tucked away in the corner of a room.

It's quality that really counts for products such as this and we're pleased to say we had no real problems. The THX badge on the front of the device is a good starting point, as it means that these speakers have met a list of strict requirements.

Sound quality is excellent, with a good range and crisp-sounding audio. The subwoofer thumps out enough bass to shake the neighbourhood, while the satellites produce the higher tones. It's a 505W RMS system, with 188W going to the sub and 62W to each satellite, except for the 69W centre speaker.

Each of the satellites contains a small 3" aluminium phase plug driver, meaning that they're not so hot at coping with bass. Fortunately, the subwoofer balances the set out, so you notice this limitation only when the sub is turned right down.

For the price, they're quite a bargain, especially when you consider that you're buying a speaker package that will work with your PC and sit in the lounge for watching movies.