Klipsch ProMedia 2.1

Conclusion

After spending time listening to the ProMedia 2.1 speaker system, it is clear that it is what computer audio should have been for so many years; now, the system is an incredible option for its market. A number of strong points lead to the system's position as king of the hill for 2.1 speaker systems, all of which tie back into excellent sound quality.

Klipsch had a precedent for the design of their new system in its older brother, the v.2-400. The two way satellite plus sub design had excelled in bringing a new level of power to the gaming arena. By holding true to this design, and even tweaking it slightly more in the crossover point between sats and sub, they setup a strong system.

The power was there, and it was obvious that people wanted it. With the production of the smaller system, it was important to scale the pieces evenly to preserve the excellent quality seen before. The relative acoustic balance of the system excelled through this challenge, producing an incredibly full sound that is very musical. Treble and highs are very present, though lack the distortion seen in other systems.

The features included in the system also evidenced Klipsch's research and acknowledgement of user response. The headphone jack makes the system extremely flexible for listening environments that may have different needs. The auxiliary input jack serves to add incredible flexibility to the system. The only thing that seemed to be missing was a convenient power switch, or even just a standby mode that could be switched from the control pod.

With a retail price of $179.99, this system represents an investment in quality. Within its market, the system is at the top price rung, though its sonic quality easily justifies the jump in price. The difference is akin to buying a portable tape player versus a portable CD player: larger bandwidth in the frequency response, better power, and cleaner sound versus a moderate price increase.

For users who enjoy listening to music while they work and maybe the occasional game or movie, but do not need an extensive 4.1 solution, the ProMedia 2.1 system is an amazing option to have in the market. It will have the power and the quality to satisfy what most users could want from a computer speaker system.

The investment in the speakers could be improved by also choosing to supplement its wiring with larger speaker wire. This will only let the system work better, as the amplifier can then concentrate on driving the speaker, instead of just trying to push current through the smaller wires. Information on how to do this, as well as other interesting discussions regarding the ProMedia line can be found in the forums on Klipsch's website, www.klipsch.com. The opportunity to get feedback from technicians as well as other users is a powerful example of collaboration. Plus, the user input from the forum works its way into future products.

For those considering the system, try to find one and demo it. And then ask what it is a speaker system should sound like. Hopefully the answer will be pleasing. Just be careful to not get carried away with the power on the system, because it will keep up with its volume knob, though the ears may not.

For its excellent commitment to sound quality and over all impressive performance, the Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 is awarded the AnandTech gold medal.