Yamaha TSS-1 Dolby Digital / DTS 5.1 Surround Speakers

Conclusion

Yamaha's TSS-1 system targets the upper midrange computer speaker buyer looking for a budget system.  Intending to bring DTS decoding to a sub $300 system, they are stacking up against the surround sound gaming systems more and more prevalent these days.  Some features were unique while others were absent.  The sonic quality of the system, combined with its features, leads to a value estimate and general impression.

The system is designed to bridge the gap between computer based home theatre and computer gaming by offering a number of connectivity options.  For DVD playback, a variety of digital inputs and decoding schemes are available.  At the same time, analog connections can be made and independently selected for 4 point gaming playback.  The flexibility of the system is a strong point - it will work on the desktop or with a smaller entertainment system if there is a desire to move away from the computer.

Beyond the input selection, there is a limited control interface for the system.  Other than system volume, only the relative levels of the surround, center, and subwoofer channel can be adjusted.  Any other adjustments must be made prior to the signal reaching the speaker system.  In addition, there is no remote control as seen in other comparably priced systems—the system design requires the unit to be in arms reach, and most likely on the desktop.

Acoustically, the system is somewhat lacking.  The washed out bass is the most plaguing sonic problem.  The unit tries for lots of bass energy, though lacks the clarity necessary to accentuate the program; instead, the room is filled with sub undertones that are unwanted.  The stereo digital input was also surprisingly disappointing in its response, to the extent that it's not very feasible to use for a listening environment.

The sub/satellite design common to computer systems has issues again in this system.  Neither the satellites nor sub can handle lower mid frequencies extremely well, getting left behind in the program material somewhat.  While steps were made to increase the quality of the input options with DTS, the acoustics aren't necessarily there to support the decision.

For individuals looking to run the system exclusively as a surround sound playback system, the system stands as an economical option.  Sacrifices have been made in sonic quality and features to get the price down, but the DTS and Dolby Digital compatibility is there.  For normal music playback, the analog interface to the system should be used over its stereo digital input.

For gamers, the system is not going to have the bass response necessary to keep explosions well pronounced.  The washed out bass will overpower the soundfield.  The surround sound capability is nice for the occasional movie in addition to operating in a four point gaming mode.  However, the acoustics of the system will be worse than in a system dedicated more specifically to gaming, and the volume levels will be lower than such a system as well.

Overall, the system is a basic surround sound option.  It has a lot of connectivity options and also the DTS capability in addition to the more common Dolby Digital, but beyond that, the features end.  Acoustically, sacrifices have been made to keep the price down, which are evident.  In addition, the power in the system is conservative, and will not shake the room.

For an estimated price of around $200, the system has prioritized its features poorly.  Concentrating on compatibility (both connections and decoder options) instead of focusing on acoustics has detracted from all of the features of the system.  Without having a solid base with good speakers, all of the features in the world won't make the system better.  Short of needing a lower priced DTS speaker system, the system can't compete with others that focus more on acoustics.