Kinyo SA-680 2.1 Computer Speakers (3-Speaker, Black)

Rating:
Summary: Great sound for the price, but very limited
Review: These Kinyo speakers attracted me because they were cheap, stylish and compact. I was shocked when I heard them, as the sound quality is comparable to computer speakers systems costing 2 or 3 times the price. Amp noise is very low (relatively speaking) and vocals are almost clear. It elegantly handles the low end and very high end by rolling them both off, the effective range is about 75-11000Hz. For $25 this is really the best you can hope for. Also note that these are not panel speakers like the Monsoons, and merely have a similar shape.

Of course the low price leaves much to be desired. All the wires are captive and the cord connecting the right speaker/amp and left speaker is only 3', which barely stretches across my desk. The controls are only the power button and a volume wheel. There is no bass control for the "subwoofer", and naturally is far louder than it should be for proper listening. I don't know why all computer speaker thing emphasized midbass is the same as good sound. I recommend reducing the 120 and 250Hz band with an equalizer to counter this. Also, you're not going to get a lot of volume out of these speakers. Honestly, the loudest I can get them is maybe 75db, and so are probably unsuitable for listening away from the desk.

Considering how terrible most entry level audio solutions are, the SA-680 is a refreshing change. The sound quality is basically what Joe Average expects from computer speakers, and so the limited controls are well suited for the unmotivated user. If affordable sound quality in a 2.1 system is what you are looking for, I would recommend the unfortunately discontinued Cambridge MicroWorks. If "no price is too low" and the short captive cords fit your installation, this Kinyo setup is a good bet for 2.1 multimedia speakers.