There is a new category of computer user out there that I am discovering.  I have been well aware of the uber geek that accepts nothing more than maxing out their credit cards on the top of the line peripherals and equipment, and I have been versed in the practices of the novice as well.  New to me is what has been defined as "the normal person." Until recently, I haven't been lucky enough to meet many of these, but today I have... and they wanted a set of speakers for their computer that wouldn't break the bank but didn't sound like they were listening to music through a jar of peanut butter either. So, you are normal... or you know someone who is and they need speakers for their computer.  What do you get? Eagle thinks they have the answer. Read More...

Ok, so my days of wandering through Microcenter's Apple area pondering whether to buy a NEW Mac Mini are over.  It was a short lived dream... or nightmare; I haven't figured that out yet.  Apple almost had me until Shuttle announced its XS35 at Computex this year.  Read More...

There is nothing better than getting that heart pounding high quality sound from your PC audio equipment when you are deep in the trenches fragging it out, racing to the finish line, going the green, or just trying to shake the walls with your mp3 collection. Logitech surprised me with their budget Z-640's and now they want to try to do it again with their Z-5300's.

This set is second in command for the top ranks in the Logitech line of speakers. Surpassed only by the z-680's these speakers, the Z-5300's, boast some great features like 280 watts, THX certification, a wired remote, and some how manages to pack them all into a $199.99 price tag; I can easily say that I am impressed so far, and I haven't even opened the box yet! Read More...

While PC system manufacturers have routinely included speakers as part of the package, the quality and reliability of the provided audio units has been spotty at best. Those who desire a more robust, fulfilling sound and those of us in the DIY sector feel the need to upgrade those components. Your choice of acoustical accessory will depend on your needs, your space restrictions, and your wallet.

The audiophile among us may opt for the full blown 7.1, studio quality Klipsch or even the ever popular 5.1 surround sound from a variety of vendors. Others, like me, are bound by our particular work arrangements to no more than the 2.1 arena. For the uninitiated, the designation of 2.1, 5.1, 7.1 etc. describes the number of speakers and their respective types. The first number corresponds to the number of satellite, i.e. smaller, speakers in the setup. The number after the period refers to the woofer or bass unit. This is the largest of the speakers and provides that resounding thump that rattles your teeth and awakens the neighbors from their slumber. Read More...

Altec Lansing offers a wide range (both in price and configuration) of computer speakers for the consumer market. Here we will take an in depth look at their 251 Gaming Theater, It is a 6-piece; 5.1 speaker set which consists of a subwoofer, front and rear speakers, and a center speaker. The computer and gaming markets are crowded with plenty of 5 and 6 piece sets like this mainly due to the growing popularity in PC gaming and the constantly falling prices of computers. Lets find out how the Altec Lansing 251's hold up in this growing industry.

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Introduction
Those of us who enjoy the heart pounding action of tactical games have lately been engulfed in the search for that perfect set of speakers. Speakers that will leave you quivering in anticipation to hear the dredging of feet approaching behind you; while you conceal yourself in the darkness grasping your MP5 Navy, HE grenade and Black Hawk ready for action. Read More...