The ZXR-750 is the latest from VideoLogic’s range of surround speaker systems. This isn’t a significant upgrade from the ZXR-500 and ZXR-550 systems -- after all they do contain almost identical components and basic circuitry. But it is a 7.1 system.
The ZXR-750 is the latest from VideoLogic’s range of surround speaker systems. This isn’t a significant upgrade from the ZXR-500 and ZXR-550 systems -- after all they do contain almost identical components and basic circuitry. But it is a 7.1 system. That’s seven satellites -- count them, seven! Of course, to get the best from that level of surrounded-ness (that’s a real word we just made up) you will need a cutting-edge sound card that fully supports 7.1 sound. No matter, we made do with a Fortissimo 6.1; the closest we could get our hands on. The speakers do incorporate the technologies, ConnX.1 and SurFE, which basically allows any 5.1 sound source to be properly delivered to 7.1 channels. So no need to chuck out your ageing Audigy just yet.
Setup was appropriately non-complicated, despite the tangled mess that ensued. An optional set of floor stands is available, although two sets of wall mounting brackets are included.
Once again, and as expected, the VideoLogic speakers shone, despite all we threw at them. Testing everything from Mozart to Metallica, hard gaming action and intense DVD audio, these speakers didn’t let us down. The bass, once tweaked, is rich, rumbling and responsive. Mid to upper tones were suitably smooth and clear at all but the highest volumes.
Due to the dual ports, position of the subwoofer is critical. Despite best practice of sticking your sub in a corner, this one needs to sit out a little. We found that the port on the side needed some decent breathing space, or the bass sounded a little strange. Also, we discovered that pumping all your dials to ‘11’ is not in your hearing’s best interests and isn’t recommended, unless that’s your thing. A little knob twiddling never hurt anyone, so spend some time getting your bass and treble levels to a position best suited to the type of audio you are listening to. And this is probably the only draw back of this system. Those controls are located on the sub woofer, which often ends up becoming a foot rest under a desk. With more systems supplying separate control units and remotes, we hope VideoLogic sees the light and makes these standard features for future speaker systems.
Issue: 111 | April, 2010