Logitech Z-3 2.1 Speakers

As far as the actual function of the system, there aren’t any tests that can be included in a review that would convey the sound quality of any speakers adequately. There are a multitude of testing programs for video hardware and such, but for reviews such as this you must base your decision on the opinions of several reviewers and then take your best guess. One thing that I wanted to do when testing the Z-3 was to run it through the gamut of my somewhat eclectic tastes. I will list the differing musical styles I used and my impressions of each as relayed through the Z-3.

• Norah Jones – Vocals are highlighted; music sets the mood and tempo.
  The vocals were crisp, musical portions were crisp as well with no distortion
• Rage Against the Machine – Hard rock/funk w/rap style vocals
  Vocals were again crisp, although not as crisp as others. This can be attributed to the emphasis on the music, loud music, as opposed to the vocal portions. The funky bass lines and rhythm guitar were distinguishable from each other.
• Maroon 5 – Pop/Rock, mix of vocal and musical highlights
  Less of an outright vocal style but still a lot of emphasis placed on vocals. The mixture was kept intact and no bleeding of vocals and music could be detected.
• Redman – Hip-hop pure and simple. Large emphasis placed on vocals and bass line.
  The vocals were very pronounced, as was the bass. Anyone who listens to rap knows that a multitude of different instruments/sounds are used and I could distinguish each. The bass tones were heard well and FELT. There was no distortion at low to mid levels but some at the highest settings on the woofer. Of course, the highest setting was loud and literally shook my desk.
• Rat Pack – Vocals w/background music
  Ok, I had to throw my boys in here. I am a HUGE fan of Frank, Dean and Sammy. I collect them on vinyl, CD, VHS, etc. I have always been partial to great vocalist and stylist and these guys are the greatest in my opinion. The sound was fantastic. I could almost feel as if I was at the Sands and they were doing their signature act.
• Gaming – Self explanatory
  For this category I played Tactical-Ops, UT2K3, HALO, Need for Speed Underground and Medal of Honor: Allied Assault. You like gunshots? Excuse my French, but, DAMN! I was sure someone was shooting in my room. Sounds were clear, distinct and absolutely frightening. Afraid someone is sneaking up on you? No problem. Footsteps, the biggest test, were very clear. Many times I was saved by listening for the footfalls of my enemy. I could often hear them from far away. It could have just been me, but I swear I could hear multiple enemies and distinguish between them by where I heard the footfalls. Left channel, on my left; right channel, on my right.

Conclusion
Well, I was impressed. I assumed they would be adequate, simply because they were from Logitech. I was not prepared for the quality of the system for the price ($99MSRP). If you are restricted by space, money or conscience you could do worse than the Z-3. I can wholeheartedly endorse these speakers for anyone looking for a budget sound system with great features and operation. How about a few pros and cons?

pros

• Simply attractive
• Easy to setup/install
• Good sound quality for price
• Headphone jack/large dials on remote
• Cool blue LED on remote
• Console adapter

cons

• Short cables (Logi, what were you thinking?)
• Placement of volume control on woofer
• Only 2.1, not true surround
• Slight distortion on highest setting