Creative's entry in this segment is the Cambridge Megaworks THX 5.1 550 speaker set, comprising five satellites, a subwoofer and a wired remote control.
Once you start looking at $900 computer speakers you realise a few home truths. Unlike the cheaper speakers there are very few bad quality sets in this price range, but there are a couple of sheer standout ones. Creative's entry in this segment is the Cambridge Megaworks THX 5.1 550 speaker set, comprising five satellites, a subwoofer and a wired remote control.
In keeping with the growing focus on the computer as a home entertainment hub, the Megaworks 550 proudly asserts its THX certification and aims itself at those who want to use their PC for DVDs and music. Unlike other sets, it lacks any sort of built in Dolby decoding, Creative instead recommending the set be paired with an Audigy level card, which supports analog output of 5.1 audio.
We gave the speakers a workout not only with the Audigy but also with the integrated 5.1 sound on a nFOrce2 motherboard. While we would not recommend running speakers of this quality using integrated audio, the nForce2 is an exception, pumping out sound of a remarkably high standard.
Sound quality in games, music and DVDs was highly impressive with the Megaworks 550, with a good frequency range and relatively good bass for a set of computer speakers. Although we wouldn't run our home theatre system with it, it's one of the finest sets of computer speakers we have experienced. It isn't quite at the same ridiculously good level as the standout Klipsch 5.1 offerings but it's pretty close and will not disappoint. The only major complaint we have about the system is the use of a wired remote, which is fine when sitting at your desk but cumbersome when you want to relax and watch a DVD.
Your average punter is not even going to consider speakers of this quality for their computer, but what better way to complement a heftily specced up system than by overdosing on the audio quality? One of the best sets of speakers out there -- with a price to match.
Issue: 137 | June, 2012