Impressive 2.1 Computer Speakers
Written: Jun 10 '06
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Great full-range sound quality, longevity, space-saving size
Cons: Definitely not a full-size stereo replacement, lack of surround sound (if desired)
The Bottom Line: Anyone searching for a space saving computer speaker system will be pleasantly surprised by the sound quality offered by the BA735 speakers.
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| mack-dohc's Full Review: Gateway™ Digital BA735 |
I obtained the Boston Acoustics Digital BA735 2.1 speaker system with the purchase of a Gateway PC in 2001. They were an optional upgrade, along with a digital sound card upgrade. Since I greatly enjoy listening to music on my computer, this seemed like a worthwhile purchase. Now, 5 years later, the computer is defunct - yet the BA735 set still works flawlessly.
Overview
The BA735 set consists of two satellite speakers and a powered subwoofer. The satellites consist of single 2.5" drivers that receive 3 watts each. The ported subwoofer contains a 4.5" driver rated at 6 watts. The wattage specs seem underwhelming, especially when you consider the exterior dimensions of the speakers - but looks can be deceiving. I was initially quite skeptic that these tiny speakers would muster worthy sound-quality; I was pleasantly surprised when I heard them for the first time, however. After discovering their rich sound, I was pleased that I could conserve desk space as compared to my previous, much larger, set of computer speakers.
Frequency Specifications
From the frequency specs, the subwoofer covers 50 to 200 Hz, and the satellites produce from 200 Hz to 20 kHz - seamless coverage. The sound quality seems to support this claim. Some satellite/subwoofer combos have a noticeable frequency gap, where the highest-lows or low-mids are mostly lost. This isn't the case with the BA735s - the satellites are pleasingly full-range and sound perfectly matched with the diminutive subwoofer.
Controls & Setup
Controls and setup are quite simple. The right-side satellite has the tone and volume controls, and the subwoofer, although volume-controlled with the satellites, has its own level adjustment - which is handy to fine tune the sound to your liking. The left satellite connects to the right speaker via a 1/8th inch headphone jack, and the right satellite connects to the subwoofer with a two-way purpose: to control the overall volume of the 2.1 set and to receive signal from the subwoofer amplifier. The subwoofer handles the computer's (or other audio device) audio output and handles the power input as well.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is superb. The satellites are crisp and surprisingly full-bodied for 2.5" speakers - they deliver detailed and rich sound. The subwoofer is astoundingly strong for its size, and is somehow capable of creating (relatively) booming, room-filling bass - shattering the low expectations of such a small, low-powered driver, just don’t expect it to hit the lows (or non-distorted volumes) of larger, more powerful subwoofers. Even at low volumes you can have full-range punchy sound - a vast improvement over typical, subwoofer-lacking 2-speaker computer sets. Don't get me wrong, this probably wouldn't pass as 'audiophile' quality to anyone, but for their size and price, such expectations aren't realistic. For anyone who desires high-quality, full-range sound, these speakers shine - especially if desk space is at a premium.
Version Info
If anyone is still looking to purchase these speakers today, it should be noted that there are different versions of the BA735 - a digital-only input set and a USB input version. I have the digital set, and using the speakers with a non-digital output (such as the headphone output on an MP3 or CD player) requires a converter cord. I am not aware of the input options offered on the USB version. The subwoofer notes the model number.
Complaints
Like other reviewers, my primary complaint of the BA735 set is the design of the satellite stands. The speaker stands only elevate the satellites about 1.5 to 2 inches - yet they also serve to tilt the speakers so they point up to the listener. Unfortunately, the speakers do not permanently affix to the stands - making them susceptible to falling off. This hasn't been a major problem, but if you bump one of the satellites, you'll need to make sure it is positioned correctly on its stand. Of course, you don't have to use the stands if you would rather avoid the issue.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
mack-dohc
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Reviews written: 9
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