Altec Lansing ADA 305 2.1 Speakers

I actually have the "ACS495 system". It is Dell's version of the 305s.
These really are great speakers. There are so many higher priced, "better" speakers today....however, if you don't require a true 5 speaker system, this may be what you want.

Packaged with a subwoofer that does a nice job of your low end, unless it is REALLY low.... I have heard some unwanted thumping when listening to very heavy bass. However this is at high volume levels, and with the base CRANKED.

The two satellite speakers do a wonderful job of emulating surround sound. There is no hiss(probably due to a good sound card) at any level. If you want true positioned sound, these will not do it....neither will ANY other 3 unit system. There are no rear channels!

I am a music NUT!!!! And I love this system. Believe me, if I like the sound it has to be good!

Make no mistake these will not take the place of a rocking home system, no system can. The closest right now is the Klipsch ProMedia v.2-400 system(this runs about $250.00). Don't ever believe someone who says any pc sound system can out-perform home stereo. If they swear their pc system is better, it only means their home system isn't top notch.

I am pleased enough with my setup, that I require no additional stereo system in my room/office area.
What I am using - Dell Dimension 400, Win98SE, and Storm Platinum (Aureal Vortex 2) sound card.

I live on the second floor of a duplex, and I can hear my pc sound system rocking while I sit on my neighbor's porch. That is outta hand!

This is a USB(or direct plugin to your soundcard) system, controlled by either a graphical interface(only on USB) or a knob on the right satellite speaker. The speaker has a knob on top which controls main system volume, subwoofer, center channel, and surround speakers(located on top of the main satellites). Very easy to use. To control main sound, just turn it up. To control either of the other levels, their are toggle buttons(3) which are depressed to give the main volume dial control over the surround, center, and subwoofer. Basic and easy to use, thanks!!! I have seen alot of systems with more complex dials...not for me!

Speakers are "off" until sound is sensed, then they activate. Takes about 5 minutes of non-activity to turn back off. Speaker power is visible via a small green light on the right satellite. There is NO lag, signal immediately activates the speakers. I mean immediately!

If I was concerned with spending a lot of money on speakers, these might just be the ticket for you. I have heard higher priced units that sound 1/2 as good. An example? Most Cambridge Sound Works units.

I am going to stay with these until I buy a new PC. The only reason I would ever think of an upgrade is to achieve true Surround, and THX. These mimic it well, but it is not the same as having a 5 speaker unit.

You will not be disappointed with these!!!!!
~thedonga

Quick Footnote - These are not supported as true USB speakers in WIN2K. They do NOT meet the USB standard set forth in WIN2K. They will not operate to their fullest over USB, I had to output from the soundcard. I received NO help from Altec about this.....