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In its first attempt to produce a high-end speaker set for PCs, Logitech pushes THX-certified surround sound below the $200 price point with its new Z-560 4.1 system.

I cranked up a preproduction version of the Z-560, and the speakers sounded great with DVDs, CDs, and MP3s. The $199 Logitech system's performance was dramatic, shaking the room with a commanding subwoofer and enveloping the listening area in powerful sound. To my ears, the Z-560 speakers almost matched the audio quality of the more-expensive THX surround systems, such as the Klipsch ProMedia 4.1 System. This is an impressive feat, indeed, for a speaker system that costs about one-third less. The system did perform inconsistently at low volume.

The Z-560's four-satellite-speaker configuration does a good job of reproducing surround effects in movies and 3D games. The included M3D feature adds surround effects to stereo audio tracks, as well. Overall, I didn't have the feeling I was listening to sound from small satellite speakers.

Logitech's Z-560 setup also showed impressive attention to detail. Screw-in terminal connectors permit you to hook up the four satellites with any speaker wire you choose, and the well-designed mounting brackets can be rotated for use as stands or as wall mounts.

A headphone jack is included on the system control pod. But beware: Any reasonable headphone volume will generate neighbor-deafening sound if you simply unplug your headphones without dialing the sound down.

Want great sound to go with the movies or games you play on your PC? Logitech's Z-560 system is an excellent choice.

SUMMARY

Logitech Z-560 Crisp, powerful, and affordable surround-sound speaker set. List: $199

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