THX surround option comparisons?

[Nerdology]

Forgive me if this has been discussed recently despite my brief search, and point me to the appropriate thread or article.

I am currently at a stable point with regard to my computer's audio: I have a 4-channel SoundBlaster Live, and the 4.1-channel Logitech Z-560 speakers (THX-certified, 400W). The upgrade bug has been biting a bit though, and I've been tempted to get a newer sound card: of course, getting a sound card with 5.1 or more channels would ultimately translate to needing new speakers, because no way would I be content with the 4.1 system

What I have seen is a few new contenders to the relatively high-end computer speaker market (there's another thread at present for discussion of computer speakers versus home-audio speakers used with a computer; debate it there): Logitech rolled out a 5.1-channel system (the Z-680), Klipsch has had the ProMedia 5.1 for a long time, and Creative introduced its Megaworks 5.1 and now 6.1-channel systems (all of these systems are THX-certified). I imagine that each system has its advantages and disadvantages.

What I haven't seen is a review that puts all these systems head-to-head to offer a recommendation to the consumer. Admittedly, speakers are much more subjective than most other computer parts: you can line up video cards in order of frames per second in standardized benchmarks, for example.

Has anyone seen or done a comparison on these (and possibly more) speaker packages? What conclusions, if any, were reached?

 

[rugby48]

After building a home rig last year and putting the Audigy gamer in it (5.1 capable) with $49.00 speakers I finally got to the point where I wanted high end speakers. I decided to stay with a 5.1 speaker set and not 6.1 (no good reason why). I did not like the looks of the Megaworks and narrowed my choices to Klipsch PM and GMX 5.1 and the Z680's. I listened to the GMX and ruled them out rather quickly (no headphone jack and large hockey puck style controller). The Z680's have very good reviews along with users reporting fuses being blown quickly. The PM 5.1's have a known manufacturing defect (check http://www.klipsch.com user forums). Models manufactured prior to Feb 03 are at risk due to a flaw they found on a transitor board so they doubled the warranty with conditions. You have to purchase from an approved vendor or they do not honor the warranty. I listened to both the Z680's and PM 5.1's in Best Buy. I liked the sound out of the PM 5.1's much better. I took a chance and purchased from CompUSA who have them listed now at $299.00. They are both very good and sound nice. I am not an audiophile nut and I did not want to tie the PC soundsystem in with my home entertainment system. Your best bet would be to try and find a place that has both set up and see which sounds best to you. There are several reviews for both on the net: gear.ign.com, extremetech.com and some audio sites.
JimK

 

[Nanuk]

Hi there!

I would also suggest the Klipsch 5.1 PMs.

I listened to my cousins Logitech Zs and I find the PMs have a fuller and crisper sound as compared to the Logitechs.

I would suggest though that you let your ears decide and go out and try them on your own. Since your ears will be the best at gauging your own preference. Bring a CD or tape (you can't be too sure what these stores hook up to the speakers anymore), preferably something you listen to a lot so you'll be able to tell the little differences.

 

[JCK86]

The MegaWorks are outstanding...