Creative Labs Inspire T2900 2.1 Speaker System
The speakers on my Powerbook just weren't cutting the mustard.
Desperate for better, more sound, I set across the vast landscape that is the 2.1 computer speaker terrain. I chose 2.1 because I have a limited amount of space, and wanted as few wires as possible. I also needed small footprints for the desktop speakers, and a small to medium sized subwoofer box.
The reviews for 2.1 speakers are a mixed bag, across the board. The best reviewed sets were, by and large, the most expensive. The discounted speakers, including many that were once upper-tier, received bad to horrible reviews.
Based solely on the customer feedback at Amazon.com, I chose the Creative Labs Inspire T2900. The price was at the higher-end of my budget; but the scores of positive reviews led me to cough up the dough. It was a wise decision.
The T2900 fit all of my size criteria, my budget constraints, AND has a sharp, full sound. The "Audio Control Pod", used for managing volume and bass response, is a little bulky; but is easily velcroed to a permanent spot on my desk, next to my laptop stand. It's a short reach away from my mouse to dial in the perfect volume or subwoofer level. The desk speakers have bright highs, and have a considerable mid-range. Their silver stands are a perfect match for the Titanium Powerbooks. The subwoofer is consistent in providing deep bass, redirecting the output to give the hint of surround. It is in a solid black cabinet with reflex tubes. Give it some space for best sound.
The system is a great fit for proofing mixes in Garageband, serving as monitors for my internet radio broadcasts with Nicecast, or rock and roll playback via
The only drawback is in relaying the deep bass in R&B and hip-hop. The redirection and implied reverb cause the staccato rhythms to become a little muddy. It can be remedied by adjusting the levels in your audio player; but can be annoying if you are listening to a varied mix of musical styles. This complaint is minor in comparison to the value and overall performance of these speakers.
A recommended pick for an inexpensive, performance-driven 2.1 desktop setup. The Creative Labs Inspire T2900 is a perfect match for expanding the volume and capabilities of a notebook computer.
Specs:
- Includes 2 speakers and a subwoofer
- Auxiliary line-in and headphones jack
- Multi-feature Audio Control Pod
- Tweeter within each speaker
- Removable stands for wall mounting option
- Nominal output power: 29 watts
- Subwoofer power: 17 watts
- Satellite speaker power: 6 watts
- Frequency range: 40 Hz to 20,000 Hz
- Speaker type: Active
- Inputs: Audio line-in (stereo 3.5mm)
- Outputs: Headphone
- Audio amplifier: Integrated
- In the box: Two speaker, one subwoofer, Audio Control Pod, speaker stands and user's manual.