Altec Lansing FX6021 2.1 Speakers

RRP: $399 NZD
Total RMS ouput: 75 Watts
RMS power per satellite: 12.5 Watts
RMS power subwoofer: 50 Watts
Quoted frequency response: 18kHz-32Hz
Signal-To-Noise Ratio: 75dB
Satellites: Six 1" micro drivers
Sub: One 6" long-throw woofer
Output level (SPL) 105dB

The price of this system does NOT influence any of these ratings, except "value".
Ratings are based on computer 2.1 speakers ONLY.

This is an update to my review after a very hard break in, and slight adjustments to the sound.

Treble: These have by far the best treble that I have heard on ANY computer speaker to date, even beating the amazing treble produced by the Altec MX-5021. The detail the 6 micro drivers can reproduce is incredible, every last nuance of sound can be heard and instrument separation is incredible. The satellites also never saturate and stay coherent at even extreme sound levels. Only problem is the slight metallic sound produced by the aluminium drivers, but other than this, the treble is perfect. 8.5/10.

Midrange: For 1" micro drivers, the midrange is sensational. This is because each pair of drivers (out of the 6 in each satellite) are powered by an independent amplifier, making the satellites tri-amped. The two outer pairs of micro drivers are also low-passed at respectively lower frequencies to supplement overall midrange output (ie. only the inner pair play treble). Thanks to the use of identical drivers, the overall sound produced by the satellites is extremely smooth and free from any tonal change (found in most cheap 2-way computer satellite speakers) The result is midrange with great weight and dynamics. The lower mids are still not quite as good as the exceptional warm midrange produced by Altec MX-5021 satellites, but it has improved a lot since new. 7/10

Bass: This set may not have the booming bass to shake your walls like other systems such as the Logitech Z-2300, but it focuses more on quality rather than quantity. The detail and accuracy of the sub is uncanny for a computer speaker set and puts all others I have heard before to shame (except for the MX-5021) The bass extension of the 6" woofer is also impressive BUT does unfortunately miss out on the lowest of lows. When adjusted properly the sub has almost perfect integration with the satellites and NEVER overpowers them but also knows when to show itself during a loud scene in a film. The overall sound produced by the Altec FX-6021 subwoofer is truly amazing, but bass heads may be a little disappointed. 6.5/10

Imaging: The imaging of this system is also the best I have ever heard from a 2.1 computer speaker set. It features Altec Lansing's acclaimed "InConcert" technology. When watching a movie, stereo separtion is superb and every detail is pinpoint. Thanks to the use of a line-array configuration in the satellites, the dispersion is extremely wide and sound is concentrated directly towards the listener, rather than towards the ceiling and desk. This wide dispersion helps to make more places in the room good for listening and increases the surround abilities of the system. 8.5/10

Volume: This set may not have a huge amount of power-75 watts RMS, but it uses what is has very well. For most people there should be enough volume, but some may want a bit more in the bass department. 7/10

Overall Sound Quality: The overall sound of this system is awesome, I can't truly fault any part of it's sound spectrum. Second best computer speakers I have heard so far, after the Altec MX5021. 7.5/10

Looks: The satellites look amazing and the sub is understated but handsome. Very small footprint in this system for the incredible sound it reproduces. 9/10

Build Quality: Exemplary in most areas, especially the satellites where solid metal is used in the satellite bases. The sub's build however is not so good as when some places are tapped with your knuckles, a very hollow sound is made. Thankfully, the sub does not rattle or buzz at high volume. High quality, thick cables are used throughout the system and the controller has a great heavy construction. The wireless remote is quite good, but it had to be squeezed slightly when I first got the system for it to work! The AC adapter in the subwoofer is also extremely noisy and is something Altec should really look to improve in the future. 7/10

Extras: This set has many good features. The first is the headphone jack located of the right side of the wired controller. The second is the AUX input located on the left side of the controller. The wireless remote was also a nice touch and adds greatly to the functionality to the system. The second AUX jack located on the subwoofer, is also great as it uses RCA plugs which can be used to connect CD players etc, directly. Extension cables for the satellites are also included. A digital connection would be nice in a future model. 9/10

Value: I managed to get mine for a very good price, but the normal price of this system is very high as far as computer speakers go. But for the quality of construction, design, wide range of features and the sensational sound these speakers posses, this high price is justified. In this set, you definately get what you pay for! 7.5/10