The Best Computer Speakers

A quality computer speaker system is required to enhance the listening pleasure of those who use their computer for music, movies, or gaming. Fortunately there are many excellent computer speakers to choose from depending upon personal needs and budget. After scouring reviews at PCMag, Cnet, CrunchGear and Amazon, the following are our picks for the best computer speakers. And the best part is that each system comes in at under $200.00. 

Logitech Z623 Computer Speakers

Logitech THX-Certified Computer Speaker System Z623

Logitech has a long-standing reputation for making mid-range, quality computer speakers at an affordable price. The Logitech Z623 computer speaker system was one of PCMag’s Best of the Year products for 2010. It features a sleek, efficient design ideal for desktop listening. THX-certified, the 2.1 system offers 200 total watts of power with a 130 watt subwoofer and 2 35W satellite speakers as well as convenient inputs for multiple devices including computers, iPods, DVD players, and gaming consoles.

Pros: Sound quality is commended by reviewers at PCMag, CrunchGear, and Amazon. Clarity and power are unrivaled at this price range. Subwoofer presents a powerful bass that can be easily adjusted by the on-speaker nob. No buzzing at high volume. RCA and 3.5 mm inputs provide simple transfer between devices. THX certified.

Cons: There is no remote control, which may not be an issue if it’s being used in a desktop computer setting. Subwoofer is on the large side at 11.9 by 11.1 by 10.4 inches, so space would be a consideration. The cables aren’t removable, which means they can’t be switched out and one reviewer commented they could be a little longer. THX certified does not mean you’re going to get movie theater surround sound quality.

The LogitechZ632 computer speaker system retails for $149.99, but is currently on sale at Amazon for $136.99

Harman Kardon Soundsticks III Computer Speakers

Harman Kardon Soundsticks III: Computer Speakers

The Harman Kardon Soundsticks III may look futuristic, but actually have now become a classic, praised design in the multimedia speaker arena. They also hold a permanent exhibit at New York City’s Museum of Modern Art. The third generation system was redesigned for 2010. Features on this 2.1 sound system include 8 full-range transducers powered by a 10-watt amplifier in each speaker and 1 low-frequency, down-firing subwoofer powered by a 20-watt amplifier for bass. The system connects to 3.5 mm stereo devices such as computers and Mp3s.

Pros: The Harman Kardon Soundsticks received editor’s choice on both PCMag and Cnet for excellent sound performance and unique, aesthetic design. The frequency response range of 44Hz to 20KHz offers crisp definition for all forums: music, movies, and gaming. Power switch built in to the volume control on the subwoofer makes for energy efficiency. Satellite speakers can be angled to personal preference. You can own a piece of art and pop culture.

Cons: Missing from this system is a remote control and a headphone jack. Cables cannot be replaced. The volume control does not feature a visual display of volume level.

The Harman Kardon Soundsticks III are on sale at Amazon for $145.81 or you can buy them direct from the Harman Kardon site.

Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 Wireless Computer Speakers

Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 Wireless Computer Speakers

The Klipsch ProMedia delivers exemplary, award-winning sound quality with the uber-convenience of a wireless computer speaker system. The USB wireless transmitter can stream audio from your computer to the speaker system from up to 30 feet away. Features a 2.4 GHz wireless signal and a total wattage of 120 watts between the 2 satellite speakers and subwoofer.

Pros: No pesky wires to clutter up the space. According to the review by PCMag, this system “packs so much power you’ll rarely raise the volume beyond half-way”. Perfect sound quality for music, movies, and games. Using Apple’s Remote Application, iPhone customers can wirelessly access iTunes on their computer. Black cloth grilles are removable. It’s also THX certified.

Cons: No remote control. Power switch is inconveniently located on the subwoofer. Not 100% wireless- satellite speakers are connected via wire to the subwoofer, which cannot be switched out. The wireless signal can sometimes be interrupted.

The Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 wireless computer speakers are only available through Klipsch on their website or via Amazon for $199.99.

Cyber Acoustics CA-3602 Computer Speakers

Cyber Acoustics CA-3602 Computer Speakers

This 2.1, 3-piece speaker system from Cyber Acoustics is our budget pick for a computer speaker set-up. There aren’t many tech reviews on this model, but the user reviews are outstanding with 109 5 star reviews on Amazon and 168 5 star reviews on Wize. Cyber Acoustics has been putting out quality, affordable audio equipment since the 80s. This system includes 2 satellite speakers, a subwoofer, a separate desktop control pod for volume, power, and bass, and a cradle for your Mp3.

Pros: The price: with an MSRP of $54.99, the CA-3602 may not be the cheapest computer speaker, but it will deliver a more powerful sound than other discount speaker systems. The low-end bass sound has been rated as excellent. The desktop control is convenient and features an LED light when turned on and also contains a headphone jack. A good choice as a basic computer speaker.

Cons: Many users commented on the bass being too much, which lends to a lack of a decent mid-range sound. May not be the best choice for music listening. Speakers aren’t protected by a covering.

The Cyber Acoustics CA-3602 is currently on sale on Amazon for $37.23.

JBL Duet III Computer Speakers

JBL Duet III Computer Speakers

Tight on space? The JBL Duet III computer speakers are perfect for a small desktop setting or for your laptop. They are simple to set up and offer versatility with an AC adapter and a 3.5mm jack to plug into a Mac, Mp3, PC, or CD player. The 2 satellite speakers put out 10 watts each of power. There’s no subwoofer here, but the Duet IIIs are slightly larger than the predecessor, the Duet II, and therefore provide a bit more bass, though still not as powerful as a 2.1 system.

Pros: The design is both aesthetically pleasing and convenient for work space. Both Cnet and PCMag recommend these computer speakers for decent sound quality at modest volume levels. These would be good in a work environment. Speakers connect to each other with a standard RCA plug. The price is reasonable at the Amazon sale price of around $100.00.

Cons: Not for bass lovers or those who are looking for loads of power. There isn’t an auxiliary input to plug in a second device as most of the other computer speakers offer. The price on JBL’s website is a bit hefty at $149.95.

The JBL Duet III computer speakers are currently on sale at Amazon for $107.98.

Audioengine 2 Multi-Media Computer Speakers

Audioengine 2 Multi-Media Computer Speakers

Audioengine has successfully married compact size with superior sound and convenient features for a high quality computer speaker. Perfect for those who want a comparable subwoofer sound without the subwoofer, features on the Audioengine 2 include 2 audio inputs for both RCA and mini-jack, AC adapter, 15 watts of power per speaker with the left speaker housing power amps, Kevlar woofers and silk tweeters, and an auto-sleep power saving mode.

Pros: Compact design fits well for a computer set-up. Superior sound clarity as reviewed by Cnet, PCMag and Amazon customers who have given these computer speakers an average 4.5 star rating. Music and movies can be played at high volumes with no buzzing or distortion. Speakers are housed in hand-built wood cabinets to help amplify the bass. Versatile to use with computers, Mp3s, dvd and cd players, game consoles, and some televisions.

Cons: The price is $199.00, which some may find pricey for a 2 speaker system. The volume control is inconveniently located on the back of the speaker and doesn’t come with a remote control. PCMag thought the bass was slightly lacking compared with a subwoofer system.

The Audioengine 2 computer speakers are on sale at Amazon for $199.00.

M-Audio Studiophile AV 40 Powered Computer Speakers

M-Audio Studiophile AV 40 Powered Computer Speakers

Size does matter in the case of the M-Audio Studiophile AV 40 computer speakers. Six inches wide and a depth of 7.25, the M-Audios are larger than other computer speakers and pack a powerful punch with 20 watts per speaker, 4-inch polypropylene-coated woofers and 3/4-inch tweeters. Other features include RCA inputs on both speakers, a 3.5 mm jack, a headphone jack, and an integrated bass boost switch.

Pros: Excellent sound quality and ample low end bass levels for those who listen to music or watch movies on their computer. The editor’s review at Cnet says “they sounded bigger, delivered more bass, and played louder than the other PC speakers we had on hand”. Contain nice features like the bass boost and multiple inputs for versatility.

Cons: Though there’s no subwoofer to make room for, these speakers will still take up considerable space on your desktop. They also weigh 14 pounds each so if you’re looking for portability, say in conjunction with a laptop or switching between devices, then these are not the ones.

The M-Audio Studiophile AV 40 computer speakers are currently on sale at Amazon for $149.00.

Best Computer Speakers Under $400

The best computer speakers under $400 will fall somewhere in between bookshelf speaker quality and iPod speaker quality. They are specifically designed to boost a weak computer output without causing distortion, as well as providing a decent bit of headroom for volume overall. Good quality computer speakers often provide a good representation of the audio spectrum, especially if they are bundled with a subwoofer. Many models now can be used with other devices such as iPods and iPhones, as well as portable DVD players. While there are many models that are very expensive and aimed more at any type of source, here are some of the best computer speakers designed specifically for this type of source.

The Lifelike Bose Computer MusicMonitor Computer Speakers

Best Computer Speakers Under $400: Bose Computer MusicMonitor

The Bose Computer MusicMonitor Computer Speakers come in a set of two and provide plenty of power and control. The speakers connect directly to a computer with a provided cable and are powered with a bundled power cord. They also come with a handy remote for changing volume from across the room. The speakers are magnetically shielded to keep your devices safe from being erased by the powerful magnets within the speakers.

Users like these best computer speakers under $400, rating them four stars on Amazon. While some users note that the bass isn’t necessarily comparable to a set that includes a bundled subwoofer, many owners found the bass to be quite satisfying to their needs. While the price is high for some buyers, many users did note that there are very few speaker sets at this size and quality in this price range.

The Bose Computer MusicMonitor Computer Speakers are available at Amazon for $399.

The THX-Certified Razer Mako 2.1 Speaker System

Best Computer Speakers Under $400: Razer Mako 2.1

The Razer Mako 2.1 Speaker System boasts a THX certification, which utilizes many of THX’s technologies, like its Ground Plane and Slot Speaker designs. It’s also equipped with a ClassHD Digital Amplifier Technology that assists in lowering distortion. They are omni-directional speakers that can fill a room easily regardless of placement. The included subwoofer also provides plenty of bass for users.

Owners really appreciate the deep bass and overall sonic quality from these best computer speakers under $400, rating them four and a half stars on Amazon. While a few users have mentioned that the speakers don’t quite reach the advertised 300 watt output, they do provide plenty of volume. Users have also noted the flexibility of these speakers between different types of inputs.

The Razer Mako 2.1 Speaker System is available at Amazon for $247.

The Energy Efficient Creative Labs GigaWorks T3 2.1 Multimedia Speaker System

Best Computer Speakers Under $400: Creative Labs GigaWorks T3 2.1

The Creative Labs GigaWorks T3 2.1 Multimedia speakers are designed specifically for any type of media, such as PC, DVD, video games, and more. Its included sub provides plenty of low end, and there is a volume center that carries an aux input for an MP3 player or PC source. There is also a power saving feature that shuts itself off if not in use. A stereo to dual RCA cable is included for certain sources, and the satellite speakers can be placed wherever the room dictates.

Users appreciate the full bass response from these best computer speakers. One owner notes that the small footprint of the speakers and sub provides ample space for other activities. While another user mentions the thin mid-range response, this is merely subjective and based on the input as well as the location. Mostly, consumers said that the speaker set is perfect for a range of inputs.

The Creative Labs GigaWorks T3 2.1 Multimedia Speaker System is available for $247 at Amazon.

The Hand-Built Audioengine A2B Powered Multimedia Speaker

Best Computer Speakers Under $400: Audioengine A2B Powered

The Audioengine A2B Powered Multimedia Speaker system provides plenty of quality for a PC or other multimedia output. Designed specifically for a small room or PC setup, these best computer speakers are built with Kevlar woofers and silk tweeters. It features an auto-power saving mode that shuts off the system when not being used. The system features an RCA jack as well as a mini-jack for PC or MP3 player sources. The speakers have a bandwidth response of 65Hz – 22kHz.

Users appreciate the full spectrum sound of these best computer speakers, giving them a four star rating on Amazon. A few users have noted that the high end of these speakers is often weaker than the low end, and they’ve had to EQ their sources appropriately. Another user noted that the volume wasn’t as powerful as expected, but again, that’s completely substantial.

The Audioengine A2B Powered Multimedia Speaker is available at Amazon for $199.

The Best Wireless Speakers

The best wireless speakers on the market have been given a bad wrap for several years because of their overall instability and poor sound quality. Fast-forward to today, and users still  wireless speakers, but there are certain models that are more reliable. Basically there are two kind of cable-free setups, there are the actual wireless speaker sets, and then there are the kits that turn a wired speaker system into a cordless one. We’re going to focus on the specifically models that are  ready to go out-of-the-box. While the other kind can be handy, ultimately they require set up time and proper range to operate correctly – not to mention another set of speakers to buy.

The Hi-Fi JBL On Air Control 2.4G

Best Wireless Speakers: JBL On Air Control 2.4G

The JBL On Air Control 2.4G claims to be wireless, but it does need some wiring to get the best out of the system. However, this system is one of the few cordless speaker sets to actually produce high quality output that is comparable to a wired speaker set. The system includes speaker power cables, a cable-free receiver power cord, and a single speaker wire that runs between both speakers. Users can connect through an RCA port in the cable-free input, or with a mini jack, using the included adaptor.

Users like this system, rating it four and a half stars on Amazon. Some owners have noted that the speaker set can interfere with a WIFI network, often shutting it down. Most users also note the cable limitations. However, almost every owner notes that the sound quality is above and beyond other wireless speakers.

The JBL On Air Control 2.4G is available at Amazon for $299.

The Cordless Griffin Evolve

Best Wireless Speakers: Griffin Evolve

The Griffin Evolve can cherish its boast that it’s one of the only truly cable-free wireless speakers. Featuring an iPod dock, a line in for external sources, as well as RCA inputs, this system is very versatile. The speakers are fully movable, and yield a great sound stage. The only downsides are that the speaker batteries can’t be replaced, and the remote is quite simplistic. There is a neat stereo/mono switch that allows users to place speakers in different rooms to get more coverage.

Users really appreciate the sound quality and total cable-free approach, but the lack of replaceable batteries can often slow a party down when a charge is needed. With a four and a half star rating on Amazon, most owners really love the sound quality and the versatility. Some users have noted that the bass is a bit weaker than other systems, however.

The Griffin Evolve is available at Amazon for $350.

The Compact Rocketfish Digital

Best Wireless Speakers: Rocketfish Digital

The Rocketfish Digital feature a wireless transmitter in each speaker. Users can even hear their music when the source is in another room.  The speakers are free of unsightly antennas, and they both feature four-inch woofers and 1-1/2-inch tweeters. This set carries an 80Hz – 20kHz frequency response, and each speaker sports a volume and speaker selector switch. Users can either utilize the A/C power cord for each speaker, or use eight C batteries to keep it completely cable-free.

Users like these speakers, noting that they may not be high fidelity, but they provide plenty of volume and range to be worthwhile. While a couple users complained that the system lacks a remote, not every wireless system features one. Another user mentioned the lack of a mini jack prevents use with an iPod, but the can be resolved with a proper adaptor.

The Rocketfish Digital is available from Amazon for $99.

The Bluetooth Capable Creative Inspire S2

Best Wireless Speakers: Creative Inspire S2

The Creative Inspire S2 features Bluetooth integrated into the system for cable-free audio streaming. Its subwoofer provides a decent low end, and the Bluetooth dongle that’s bundled can be connected to a PC or MAC. While the system isn’t completely wireless, users have to connect the satellite speakers to the subwoofer, its still quite convenient if the Bluetooth is working properly.

Owners like the sound quality and the use of the dongle, but many users mention shoddy Bluetooth reception or problems with this feature. For some reason the speakers have trouble holding a connection to the dongle in certain environments, but this could be due to the presence of other electronics. Some users also noted being disappointed in the lack of an actual wireless setup.

The Creative Inspire S2 is available at Amazon for $109.

In this article I will describe how to build a high-fidelity, bass-intensive sound system for under $1000. The secret ingredient of the system is the use of tactile transducers. These transducers effectively eliminate the need for expensive woofers or subwoofers. It’s an efficient method of producing deep, high-fidelity bass for a fraction of the usual cost. Many of the ideas presented here were gleaned from the recommendations of audio enthusiasts, and the book High-Performance Audio Systems by Robert Harley.

For speakers, the first thing to do is to delegate bass and treble to separate system components. My recommendation is to acquire high-quality bookshelf speakers, to cover the treble and midrange. Then, for the bass range, we will use a tactile transducer. Transducers produce tactile sound in a frequency range of 15Hz to 800HZ. Tactile sound is perceived through bone conduction, muscles, and skin sensation. Basically, you feel tactile sound rather than hear it. Note though, that its not just about rumbling — tactile sound can be heard in high fidelity up to midrange frequencies.

The most common technique to produce tactile sound is to attach a transducer to a floor, couch or chair. This means that the sound is perceived only when sitting or standing on the vibrating object, so there’s less chance that you’ll disturb your neighbors.

It’s also a good idea to build your system with modular components. For example, instead of buying an integrated receiver/amplifier, consider getting a separate amplifier and receiver, and even a separate pre-amplifier. By using modular components, it makes it much easier to upgrade your system. You can upgrade your $200 amplifier with a $600 amplifier, when your budget permits. But from the start, all of your components should be of a reasonable quality to get a good final audio result. For example, a pair of $1000 speakers will produce very poor quality sound if you plug them into a substandard amplifier.

Also, when building any kind of audio system, it is best to use non-toxic audio components. Electronics laden with mercury and cadmium are not efficient. To find non-toxic electronics, look for products with Energy Star and RoHS compliance.

Here are the components of this system:

• Bookshelf Speakers: ($270)
• Tactile Transducer: ($150)
• Amplifier ($100)
• Stereo Receiver ($210)
• Audio Cables ($35)
• Desktop Computer (not included in price)

Here’s a summary of how to build the system:

Use an audio source (like a computer), to output to a good-quality stereo receiver. You use the receiver to power two high-quality bookshelf speakers (covering 65-21,000 Hz). That’s pretty straightforward. Now for the tactile sound sub-system. You power a tactile transducer with a separate amplifier. And you connect the amplifier to your stereo receiver’s “Sub Out” connector. The tactile system takes the place of a woofer and subwoofer, and covers the range of 15Hz to 800HZ (deep bass to lower midrange sounds). This give you a nice frequency overlap with the bookshelf speakers, so together your speakers cover the deepest bass all the way to the highest treble.

Let’s look at each element:

Audio Source: A Computer

For this example, we will be playing MP3 files on a $500 Mac Mini desktop computer. For higher fidelity you can use FLAC files (uncompressed CD-quality sound files). Macs and iPods produce reasonably good sound quality through their audio out connection (via a mini-plug). The Mac Mini uses only about 20-32 watts, making it the most energy efficient desktop computer available. It is also Energy Star 5.0 compliant, and it  is rated EPEAT Gold (a green rating for computers). To connect the Mac Mini to our stereo receiver, we use a mini-plug to RCA connector.

The Stereo Receiver

Almost all commercially available music is recorded in stereo for stereo listening, so it makes sense to play it on a system tailored for stereo reproduction. For this example, I’m using a Harman Kardon Stereo HK 3390 receiver. This is attractive stereo receiver produces great, crisp sound. At $210, it is a certainly a high-end device at a budget price. The HK 3390 receiver is aimed for stereo sound reproduction. It does support some video capabilities, but it is not intended for home theater use. The 3390 makes use of a high-current power supply for amplification. But the energy consumption is reasonable — this unit drew 30 watts of power on average, during my tests.

You can of course use almost any AV receiver want for this system, including a home theatre receiver, as long as it has subwoofer pre-output.

The Bookshelf Speakers

For this example, I will be using some PSB Alpha B1 Monitor Speakers. These are audiophile-type speakers that can be purchased inexpensively (they sell for about $260). The December 2007 issue of Stereophile gave the Budget Product of the Year to these speakers. They said “The PSB Alpha B1 is exactly the kind of product this hobby needs — one that brings the High End down to earth, makes hi-fi attainable for just about everyone, and, beyond all, reminds us how much fun this hobby should be.”

The Absolute Sound magazine rated the PSB Alpha B1 as the Best Stand-Mounted Speakers in the Winter 08/Spring 09 issue.

So they are nice sounding speakers, and they are also made of non-toxic materials (they are RoHS compliant).

Next, let’s take a look at the bass:

The Tactile Tranducer

For our bass speaker, we will be using a Clark Synthesis Tactile Transducer. Clark Synthesis makes tranducers that cover the full range of tactile sound (from 15Hz to 800HZ). We will use the $150, entry-level Clark Synthesis Silver Edition (TST239) — this will be more than enough bass for our home system. It will produce solid definition to drum hits, or shake your fillings loose if you so desire. The transducer can be installed in less than an hour. It took me about 45 minutes to bolt it to the bottom of my couch, using the parts provided with the transducer. In my test installation, I removed the fabric from the button of a couch, and bolted the transducer to a crossbeam underneath. Once installed, the entire couch functions as a bass speaker.

The Tactile Amplifier

But wait, we need to power the tactile transducer! Clark Synthesis sells a $350 customized tactile amplifier to do this, but you can actually use any amplifier that outputs at least 100 watts (check the Clark Synthesis documentation for more info).

Well, Cambridge Audio makes good amplifiers, but their entry-level models start at $330. For our budget system, we can instead use a AudioSource amplifier. This is a 2-channel 100-watt (50 watts x 2) power amplifier, which can be purchased for under $100. This amplifier is well-reviewed —  111 reviewers on Amazon gave it an average of 4 out of 5 stars.

You attach your amplifier to the tactile transducer using standard speaker cables. You then connect the amplifier  to the Sub Out connector on your receiver.

Cables

It’s a good idea to use good quality audio cables to connect everything together. Cheap cables or the “free” cables that come with your electronic devices can degrade your system’s sound.

The Finished System

After turning test system on, I found it to produce impressive sound — clear treble response and exciting, visceral bass. This system is also quite energy efficient — the entire system uses a total of about 75 watts when powered on (100 watts if you count the computer).

Make sure you spend time positioning your speakers in your room for optimal audio performance. See the book High-Performance Audio Systems for all the details on speaker positioning.

Equipment Used: A Mac Mini connected to a Harman Kardon Stereo HK 3390 receiver, a pair of PSB Alpha B1 Monitor Speakers, a Clark Synthesis Silver Edition Tactile Transducer, and a AudioSource amplifier.

Audiophiles have long been presented with an unending dilemma, pitting the need for sonic perfection against the desire to maintain a comfortable, aesthetic living environment (and happy spouse). This is usually a precarious balance, since the best-sounding speakers are often the largest and, dare we say, ugliest. While many technologies have addressed this dilemma in part, none have laid it to rest.

Flat, Flexible Loudspeakers have a shot, if indeed they perform as advertised. These speakers designed by University of Warwick spinoff company Warwick Audio Technologies are an astounding quarter of a millimeter thick. As the name designates they are also quite pliable and can be molded in or wrapped around virtually any type of surface. They are also printable and capable of being cut into various shapes. Size them, cut them and bend them into whatever space that you are working with and experience high quality audio, without any spacial imposition. Warwick has provided several such examples of just how easy they’d be to conceal in a vehicle, in the ceiling or even right on the wall disguised as a piece of artwork. These speakers could easily be the most seamless audio component ever designed.

Of course, you’re thinking: “How could something that looks like a flimsy piece of plexiglass ever sound as good as my 250-pound KEF Muons?” And you’re correct. These speakers can be micro-thin and flexible until they vanish into thin air, but they won’t be worth the raw materials used, if they don’t sound good.

Until we hear a pair of these loudspeakers or at least see some testimonials outside of those offered by company officials, it will be difficult to tell. The information that has been offered has been very general and polished. However, Warwick has claimed that the audio is both accurate and powerful. The FFL material is a laminate composed of sandwiched insulators and conductors, which with the addition of the electrical audio signal, vibrates and produces a planar wave with high directivity and precise imaging. The wave spreads evenly across a listening room or audience and doesn’t drop off sharply based on distance.  Warwick has also expounded upon the fact that FFLs are inexpensive to manufacture, meaning that they could be a viable option for basic home and car audio.

Warwick describes the speakers as efficient and low power, driven by voltage and dissipating little current into heat. Distortion is also said to be minimal. This statement offers a very promising glimpse:  “By significantly improving the electrical to audio efficiency, we have broken the conventional link between the power rating and the loudness of a speaker. The loudness of cone speakers is often linked to the electrical power consumption. This is not a relevant relationship for the FFL.” Perhaps, in addition to space, you can save a little money on the amplifier.

While the company’s claim that the speakers will serve well for public PA systems because of the ability of the sound wave to travel further and deteriorate less than conventional speakers is rather uninspiring (who really cares about the sound quality of a supermarket price check), the company has stated some perceived interest amongst manufacturers of car audio applications and others. No word as to exactly where they might show up, but “the company is currently in negotiations with a number of commercial partners and continues to welcome fresh approaches. It expects to launch its first commercial product following the next funding round later this year.” Currently, they are offering evaluation kits to audio engineers to work toward applying FFL technology.

Hopefully, the Flat, Flexible Loudspeaker design will do more than just fizzle into faded memory like so many promising ideas. If FFLs can perform up to the hype (or at least some of it) and are truly inexpensive, they could quickly take over home audio as we know it.

Best Portable iPod and MP3 Speakers

A few months ago, MetaEfficient profiled an energy efficient home speaker system for the iPod. But what if you want to bring your music with you on the go – and share it outside your headphones? You’ll need a set of portable speakers that are just as mobile as your MP3 player. Following are six of the best portable speaker systems on the market, in a range of sizes and offering a variety of features. All of them feature a self-contained power source, and some offer an iPod dock as well as a standard 3.5mm mini-jack connection.

JBL On Stage Micro

JBL On Stage Micro

The JBL On Stage Micro provides solid sound quality with a tiny footprint. It features an iPod dock in the center as well as a 3.5mm plug for connecting other inputs, plus a clever touch button system and a remote control that make track selection and volume adjustments easy. Aluminum transducers driven by neodymium magnets are paired with digital amplifiers to provide rich sound while extending battery life. Four AAA batteries provide 24 hours of play. The On Stage Micro is compatible with rechargeable NiMH and lithium cells, and it features a low battery indicator LED. Plus, the On Stage Micro speaker system comes in a range of color options to match your iPod: white, black, blue, green, and red.

The JBL On Stage Micro is available at Amazon. Prices start at $72.50, depending on color.

iHome iHM77 Portable Multimedia Speakers

iHome iHM77 Portable Multimedia Speakers

These rubberized mini speakers from iHome each measure just 2” x 2” x 2” when collapsed for transport, then pop open when in use with a clever accordion design. Vacuum bass design enhances low frequency tones, and the iHome speakers magnetically attach to one another to form a super-portable capsule. Power comes from internal lithium-ion batteries that can be recharged using the included USB cord, and a carry case and cord wrap are included with the speakers.

The iHome iHM77 Portable Multimedia Speakers are available in black, silver, and red from Amazon, starting at $46.80.

Harmon/Kardon Go + Play

Harmon/Kardon Go + Play

The Go + Play from Harmon/Kardon may not be the smallest or cheapest option for a portable speaker system, but it delivers serious sound quality thanks to its 30-watt tweeters and 30-watt Atlas woofers. Its 9” x 9.5” x 20” dimensions are substantial, but a stainless steel carry handle and battery power keep it portable. It features the universal iPod dock system that is compatible with most dockable iPods (see note below) plus a 3.5mm jack for other connections. The Go + Play comes with an AC power adapter for indoor use, and a full-featured RF remote with a 20-foot range. And although eight D batteries add bulk to the system, they provide approximately 20 hours of power.

(Note: Harmon/Kardon is planning to release an updated version of the Go + Play speaker system in spring ’09, offering enhanced compatibility with newer iPods and the iPhone.)

You can find the Harmon/Kardon Go + Play at Amazon for $216.90.

Pacific Rim Technologies Cube Travel Speakers

Pacific Rim Technologies Cube Travel Speakers

The Pacific Rim Cube speakers have been around for a while, and they’ve won fans with their minimalist design (and sub- $10 price tag). You shouldn’t expect window-rattling bass from these mini speakers, but the Cube delivers mobile sound and folds into a tidy package for transport – just 2.4” x 2.4” x 4”. The Cube features an iPod stand and a 3.5mm jack for connecting your player, plus an independent volume control. Power is provided by four AAA batteries or the included 6V DC charger. The cable management system is handy when it’s time to pack up the Cube, and the speakers are available in either black or white to match your iPod.

The Pacific Rim Technologies Cube Travel Speakers are available from Amazon for $9.99.

Altec Lansing InMotion iM11BLK

Altec Lansing InMotion iM11BLK

Altec Lansing is no stranger to iPod speakers, and the InMotion iM11BLK is a highly portable speaker system that won’t break the bank. Weighing less than a pound and measuring 8.5” x 1.4” x 4.3” when folded for transport, the InMotion system features an iPod dock/ charger, as well as a standard 3.5mm plug to accommodate other music players. MaxxBass speakers provide solid low tones without the need for a subwoofer. Four AA batteries provide over 18 hours of playback, or the speakers can be powered via the included AC plug.

The Altec Lansing InMotion iM11BLK is available from Amazon for $65.82.

Bose SoundDock Portable

Bose SoundDock Portable

Would you be willing to sacrifice compact size to literally bring your home stereo system with you wherever you go? If so, check out the Bose SoundDock Portable. This mobile variation of their popular SoundDock system features a carry handle, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, and a retractable iPod connection/charging dock (in addition to a 3.5mm plug for other devices). The SoundDock is over 12” wide and weighs over five pounds, so it’s not as compact or portable as some of its competitors, and it doesn’t come cheap – but it offers legendary Bose sound quality and an iPod-specific design. Battery life is roughly three hours at maximum volume (longer at lower levels); an AC adapter is included for battery charging and using the SoundDock at home, and a remote control gives added convenience.

You can find the Bose SoundDock Portable in black or white for $399 at Amazon, as well as a SoundDock travel bag for $40.19.

We like the “Boomtube” portable speaker system from Virgin, because, unlike other portable units we have tried, this one is designed to be durable enough to carry in your backpack for years.

The tube has an anodized aluminum housing which resists stains and scratches, but weighs in at only two pounds. The speakers are 2” aluminium cones with dual neodymium magnets. The system can be disassembled for stereo separation purposes, and then reassembled back into tube form. It runs for approximately 20 hours on 4 AA batteries. It is available for $99 from Virgin.

Coming soon is the Boomtube Ex, which is has a sub woofer-like bass tube and more than 40 watts of total system power generated from rechargeable batteries at $199.

NOTE: Virgin Electronics has been closed down. We are not sure if these speakers are available anywhere.

Home Page: Virgin Boomtube

You may have heard of subwoofers, which provide very low-level bass frequencies. Tactile transducer go beyond that range because they vibrate solid objects rather than air.

The Buttkicker uses a “suspended magnetic system” to reproduce soundwaves that are not air dependent, and can reproduce frequencies down to 5HZ (below human hearing). Variations of the Buttkicker are found in professional settings, such as movie theaters, and concert halls. The Buttkicker 2 came out recently, they cost around $250.

Clark Synthesis Tactile Transducers have a very compact transducer design, and can be placed inside (or on the bottom of) chairs, couches to produce deep bass response that is both intimate and effective. They also cost around $250, and are available here for example.

Aura Bass Shakers are another type of transducer device designed to reproduce inaudible low frequencies, designed to give an extra “punch” to your sound system. The Shaker is usually attached directly to the object to be “shaken”, such as a chair (similar to the Clark Tactile Transducer) in order to realize its effect. Bass Shakers can be used not only by themselves, but in conjunction with a traditional subwoofer setup. They cost around $45, see this retailer for example.

Here is a Tactile Transducer FAQ.

The Polk Atrium loudspeakers are rugged, weather-resistant, self-powered and portable. Many outdoor speakers are suitable only for sheltered locations. The Atrium speakers meet industry & military specs for full exposure to the elements. The speakers are constructed of stainless steel and brass components to resist rust and corrosion. The cabinets are completely sealed to enhance weatherproofing and are designed to withstand temperatures above 175 degrees by using a UV-protected polymer.

Three Atrium models are available. The Atrium 45 is the least expensive at $145, the newer Atrium 55 costs $299 per pair. The Atrium 65DSI has a dual capabilities — it can function as a single speaker or part of part of a pair, and costs $269.

Home Page: Polk Audio

Available from Amazon: Atrium 45 ($145) or the newer Atrium 55 ($299)